Mysore: People belonging to different religious traditions came together in the historic town of Srirangapatna on January 30 to mark the martyrdom day of Mahatma Gandhi, observed internationally as World Peace Day. The interfaith programme became a powerful public expression of unity, harmony, and shared commitment to peace, bringing together members of the Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities.
The observance featured a peace rally covering nearly one kilometre, starting from the Municipal Office and culminating at the historic location where Mahatma Gandhi addressed the public during his visit in 1927. Participants walked together holding portraits of Gandhiji, paying homage to his life, sacrifice, and timeless message of truth and non-violence.
At the end of the rally, the gathering observed a three-minute silence in solemn prayer to honour the Father of the Nation. This was followed by reflections from religious leaders, who highlighted the relevance of Gandhi’s philosophy of ahimsa in a world increasingly marked by conflict and intolerance. Speakers underlined that non-violence remains the only genuine path to peace, justice, and social transformation.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. John Sagaya Pushparaj, Secretary for Ecumenism of the Diocese of Mysore, recalled that January 30 is globally recognized as World Peace Day. He emphasized that peace must first take root within individuals and societies, and cannot be achieved through violence or hatred. Quoting the biblical saying, “Those who take the sword will die by the sword,” he noted that Gandhi’s ahimsa marga continues to serve as a moral compass for humanity even today.
Fr. Pushparaj further warned that terrorism and violent ideologies only deepen divisions and sow lasting hatred. Calling for greater interreligious understanding, he urged people of all faiths to recognize one another as brothers and sisters, united as children of the one God, and to reflect this belief in everyday life.
Participants also voiced concern over the deteriorating condition of the historic site in Srirangapatna associated with Gandhi’s 1927 address. They appealed to the authorities to preserve and protect the location as an important symbol of India’s peace heritage. The active involvement of the Christian community was particularly noted, with Fr. John Sagaya Pushparaj and Mr. Antharaj, a parish council member of Ganjam Parish, representing the community and strengthening the interfaith spirit of the event.
The programme concluded with a renewed collective resolve to uphold and live out Gandhi’s ideals of non-violence, dialogue, fraternity, and peaceful coexistence in contemporary society.