In a historic and symbolic gesture, December 6 has been officially proclaimed as a Day of Remembrance for Mahatma Gandhi in the US state of Nebraska. The day commemorates the principles of non-violence, tolerance, and justice championed by the iconic Indian leader. Marking the occasion, a bust of Gandhi was unveiled in the Nebraska State Capitol building, an event of great cultural and historical significance.
A historic unveiling
The bust of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen on Friday in the Governor’s Office within the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln. This installation marks a first for Gandhi’s likeness to be housed in a State Capitol among the nine states under the jurisdiction of the Indian Consulate in Seattle.
The event, attended by several dignitaries and community leaders, underscored the enduring relevance of Gandhi’s values. Among those present were Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, former Senator Ben Nelson, celebrated football figure Tom Osborne, and Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta. The unveiling ceremony was enriched by the presence of prominent members of the Indian-American community, making it a day of unity and cultural appreciation.
Official proclamation
In a special gesture, Governor Pillen issued an official proclamation declaring December 6 as a Day of Remembrance for Mahatma Gandhi across Nebraska. The proclamation lauded Gandhi as a global symbol of peace, non-violence, and justice, whose unwavering commitment to truth and human dignity has inspired individuals and movements worldwide.
The installation of the bust, a gift from the Indian government through the newly established Consulate in Seattle, was described as a vision of enduring partnership between India and Nebraska. The statue is intended to serve as a beacon of Gandhi’s legacy, fostering cultural understanding and promoting unity among Nebraska’s diverse communities.
Honouring gandhi’s legacy
The proclamation highlighted Gandhi’s contribution to humanity, reflecting on the values of Ahimsa (Non-Violence) and Satyagraha (Truth Force), which remain profoundly relevant in addressing modern challenges. December 6 was described as a day to honour Gandhi’s teachings and inspire citizens to strive for a more just and peaceful society.
The collaboration between the Consulate General of India in Seattle and the Nebraska Governor’s Office was instrumental in determining the location of the statue. The Governor’s Office within the Capitol was chosen as a fitting venue to honour Gandhi’s global legacy.
Speeches and celebrations
During the unveiling ceremony, speakers emphasised Gandhi’s teachings of non-violence and truth as essential tools for resolving contemporary conflicts and promoting social harmony. Governor Pillen, in his address, highlighted the importance of Gandhi’s philosophy in fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.
Consul General Prakash Gupta expressed gratitude for the warm collaboration and the recognition of Gandhi’s legacy in Nebraska, reflecting the strong ties between India and the United States.
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Broader cultural impact
The installation of Gandhi’s bust in Nebraska follows another significant event earlier this year, when a similar statue was unveiled at the base of the Space Needle in Seattle Centre on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2. Both unveilings underscore the growing recognition of Gandhi’s philosophy in the United States and its relevance to fostering international peace and cooperation.
The Indian Consulate in Seattle, inaugurated in November 2023, has played a pivotal role in such cultural initiatives. Its jurisdiction spans nine states in the US Pacific Northwest, including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Alaska. The consulate’s efforts aim to strengthen India-US relations through cultural exchange and collaboration.
A day of reflection
December 6 now stands as a day for Nebraskans to reflect on Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings and embrace his timeless message of non-violence, tolerance, and justice. The bust in the Capitol serves as a powerful reminder of the universal values he championed, inspiring generations to build a world rooted in peace and mutual respect.
As Nebraska honours Gandhi’s legacy, it sets an example of how diverse communities can unite in celebrating a shared commitment to humanity’s greater good.
