Mahatma Gandhi Photographic Exhibition, Kandy, 2-4 October 2007

This year the United Nations Organization has unanimously adopted a resolution that Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, 2nd October, would be commemorated as the "International Day of Peace and Non-Violence".

As part of the commemoration in Sri Lanka, the High Commission of India is holding a photographic exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi at Queen's Hotel, Kandy, from 2nd to 4th October 2007. In keeping with the Mahatma's precepts and teachings, a simple inauguration ceremony consisting of the traditional lighting of the oil lamp by religious leaders and singing of a few of Gandhiji's favourite hymns was held at 10:00 A.M. yesterday., The religious leaders who graced the occasion were Ven. Udugama Buddharakkithabhidhana Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Asgiriya Chapter; Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anunayaka Thero of the Malwatta Chapter; Swami Sarvarupananda of Ramakrishna Mission, Colombo; Rt. Rev. Dr. Vianney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy; Moulavi Kuwaildeen and Moulavi Salahudeen of Kandy; Asgiri Maha Parivenadhipathi Ven Narampanawe Ananda Thero; and, Diyawadana Nilame, Mr. Nilanga Dela Bandara.

Over 300 photographs and replicas of Gandhiji's personal belongings, like slippers, watch, charkha, etc., are on display.

The exhibition has evoked tremendous response particularly amongst the youth and school children.

Dated 03rd October, 2007