"Conversation between Sree Narayana Gurudev, Mahatma Gandhi showed new direction to our freedom movement": PM Modi
Addressing the centenary celebration at the Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, PM Modi said, 'This premises is becoming a witness to remembering an unprecedented incident in the history of our country; a historic incident which not only showed a new direction to our freedom movement but also gave a solid meaning to the goal of independence and the dream of an independent India. 100 years ago, the meeting between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi is inspiring and relevant even today.'
The Prime Minister said that even after a century, that meeting continues to serve as a source of energy for social harmony and for our collective goals towards a developed India.
'The ideals of Shri Narayan Guru are a great treasure for all of humanity. Those who work with the resolve to serve the nation and society, Shri Narayan Guru is like a guiding light for them,' he said.
'India's speciality is that whenever our country gets entangled in the whirlpool of difficulties, some great personality is born in some corner of the country to show a new direction to society,' the PM said, while adding that some of them work for the spiritual upliftment of society, while others accelerate social reforms in the social sphere.
Highlighting India's leadership in global events, PM Modi said, 'Recently, we celebrated World Yoga Day. This time, the theme of Yoga Day was-- One Earth, One Health, meaning one planet, one health! Even before this, India had initiated efforts like One World One Health for global well-being. Today, India is leading global movements like One Sun, One World, One Grid in the direction of sustainable development. In 2023, when India led the G20 Summit, the theme was-- One Earth, One Family, One Future.'
'The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or the world is one family, is intertwined with these efforts,' he added
PM Narendra Modi and other dignitaries performed 'guru smarna' at the centenary celebration of the historic conversation between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhi.
Organised by Sree Narayana Dharma Sanghom Trust, the celebration will bring together spiritual leaders and other members to reflect upon and commemorate the visionary dialogue that continues to shape India's social and moral fabric. It stands as a powerful tribute to the shared vision of social justice, unity, and spiritual harmony championed by both Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi.
The historic conversation took place at Sivagiri Mutt on 12 March 1925 during Mahatma Gandhi's visit and centred around Vaikom Satyagraha, religious conversions, non-violence, abolition of untouchability, attainment of salvation, and the uplift of the downtrodden, among others. (ANI)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
25 minutes ago
- Time of India
If Mahatma Gandhi wasn't India's first choice for banknotes then how did he become Rupee's forever face?
Walk into any shop in India, hand over a crumpled banknote, and you'll see a familiar face smiling back, bespectacled, serene, and instantly recognisable. Mahatma Gandhi doesn't just appear on our currency; he has become a quiet constant in our daily exchanges, silently passing through millions of hands each day. But the story of how he ended up there is far from straightforward. In fact, in the first flush of independence, Gandhi's portrait was rejected for Indian notes. Independence Day 2025 Before Trump, British used tariffs to kill Indian textile Bank of Azad Hind: When Netaji gave India its own currency Swadeshi 2.0: India is no longer just a market, it's a maker Midnight on 14 August 1947 brought independence, but not yet a new currency. For a brief period, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continued issuing colonial notes bearing King George VI. Behind closed doors, discussions began on what a truly Indian banknote should look like. The early idea was simple, replace the King's portrait with that of the Father of the Nation. Designs were prepared with Gandhi's image. Then came a surprising turn. As the RBI recounts, the 'final analysis' shifted towards a non-personal symbol, the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. It was felt this emblem, drawn from India's ancient heritage, better captured the idea of a modern republic. So, in 1949, the new Re. 1 note appeared with the Lion Capital watermark, and Gandhi's portrait was shelved. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo In the following decades, Indian notes became miniature showcases of the country's identity and ambitions. Tigers, deer, and peacocks symbolised natural heritage. The Konark Wheel, Brihadeeswara Temple, and Hirakud Dam spoke of cultural pride and industrial progress. The Aryabhatta satellite hinted at a future in science and space. Currency in the 1950s and 60s was not about a single leader, it was about the nation as a whole. Gandhi's First Appearance (1969) It wasn't until Gandhi's birth centenary in 1969 that he made his first official appearance on a banknote. This commemorative design showed him seated, with Sevagram Ashram in the background, a gentle nod to his life of simplicity and service. The issue was special and short-lived, not yet a permanent feature of Indian currency. Live Events The real turning point came in 1987. The Rajiv Gandhi government reintroduced the Rs 500 denomination, and for the first time on a regular note, Gandhi's portrait appeared on its obverse. Still, he wasn't on every note. That came in 1996, when the RBI launched the Mahatma Gandhi Series, redesigned notes with improved security features and, for the first time, Gandhi's smiling face on all denominations. In 2016, the 'New Series' kept Gandhi firmly in place while refreshing colours, sizes, and themes. From Rs 10 to Rs 2,000, he had become inseparable from the rupee. Other Faces, Other Ideas Over the years, there have been calls to share this space. Some have suggested Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, or even religious figures like Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. In 2016, the government clarified that a high-level committee had decided 'there is no need to change Mahatma Gandhi's photo on the currency notes.' Others have been honoured in different ways, Dr B. R. Ambedkar, for instance, was commemorated with special Rs 125 and Rs 10 coins. In 2022, a proposal from the Aam Aadmi Party to add Lakshmi and Ganesha sparked debate, with supporters citing prosperity and detractors warning against politicising or communalising currency design. The Inescapable Mahatma For all the discussion, Gandhi remains unshaken on our notes. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, 'Gandhi was inevitable… we may ignore him at our own risk.' On the rupee, his presence is more than decoration, it's a reminder of the values he championed: truth, non-violence, and unity in diversity. Every time we pass a note across a counter, we're not just exchanging money. We're handing over a piece of history, one that almost didn't have Gandhi's face, but now, perhaps fittingly, cannot be imagined without it.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
an hour ago
- Business Standard
India-US ties rooted in shared values, have weathered challenges: MEA
India and the United States (US) share a comprehensive strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and strong people-to-people ties, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. During the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: 'This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges, as we had said earlier, and we remain focused on the substantive agenda that the two countries have committed to, and we hope that the relationship will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests.' #WATCH | Delhi | On the India–U.S. partnership, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "The United States and India share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered… — ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 The statement comes amid rising tensions between the two nations, with the US imposing 50 per cent tariffs on Indian imports, including a 25 per cent penalty for Russian oil purchases. The levy could be reduced if India and the US reach a trade agreement, with the sixth round of negotiations scheduled for later this month. Tariff concerns linked to Russia-Ukraine conflict US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned on Wednesday that Washington may further increase the 25 per cent additional tariff rate on India if US President Donald Trump's upcoming meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska fails to make progress on Ukraine. Trump has accused India of funding Russia's war effort through purchases of discounted Russian crude. Defence cooperation remains a key pillar On defence ties, Jaiswal said the India-US defence partnership remains an important pillar of bilateral relations, underpinned by foundational defence agreements and strengthened across all domains. 'We are expecting a US Defence Policy Team to be in Delhi in mid-August. The 21st edition of the joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' is also expected to take place later this month in Alaska. Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 intersessional meeting at the working level towards the end of this month,' Jaiswal said.
India.com
an hour ago
- India.com
Happy Independence Day 2025: Date, History, Significance, And Everything You Need To Know
Independence Day is one of the most important national holidays in India, celebrated every year to commemorate the country's freedom from British rule. It is a day of pride, patriotism, and reflection on the struggles that shaped the nation. This year, Independence Day 2025 promises celebrations filled with unity, joy, and gratitude. Independence Day 2025 Date Independence Day is celebrated on 15th August every year. In 2025, it will fall on a Friday, making it a perfect long weekend for families and communities to come together and honor the nation. History of Independence Day India gained independence from British colonial rule on 15th August 1947 after decades of struggle, non-violent movements, and sacrifices by countless freedom fighters. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and many others played pivotal roles in achieving this historic milestone. On this day, India officially became a sovereign nation, marking the end of nearly 200 years of British rule. (Also Read: 4 Breathtaking Getaways Near Delhi To Celebrate Long Weekend For Independence Day 2025) Significance of Independence Day Independence Day is not just a holiday—it is a celebration of freedom, unity, and national pride. It reminds citizens of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and the importance of protecting the rights and liberties of every individual. The day also inspires citizens, especially the youth, to contribute positively to the nation's growth and uphold the values of democracy. How Independence Day Is Celebrated in India Flag Hoisting Ceremonies: The Prime Minister hoists the national flag at Red Fort, Delhi, followed by speeches and cultural programs. Patriotic Parades and Cultural Events: Schools, colleges, and local communities organize parades, dances, and patriotic performances. Tri-Colour Decorations: Homes, offices, and public spaces are decorated with the Indian tricolour to reflect national pride. Saluting Freedom Fighters: Many people visit monuments and memorials to pay homage to the heroes of India's freedom struggle. Independence Day 2025: How You Can Celebrate Attend local flag hoisting events or cultural programs. Share patriotic messages, quotes, and wishes with friends and family. Explore historical sites and museums to learn more about India's freedom movement. Display the national flag at your home or workplace to honor the occasion. (Also Read: Independence Day 2025: 4 Inspiring Books Every Student Should Read To Understand India's Freedom Struggle And Patriotism) Independence Day 2025 is more than a celebration—it's a reminder of India's journey, resilience, and the values that make it a democratic nation. By remembering our history and embracing our freedom, we can ensure that the spirit of independence continues to inspire generations to come.
