PIB webinar focuses on 'Ideologies & Philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi

GUWAHATI: As a part of the ongoing 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Press Information Bureau, Guwahati organised a webinar on 'Ideologies and Philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi' on Tuesday. The purpose for holding this webinar was to deliberate upon Gandhi's thoughts and philosophies, and decoding his ideas in today's time. The webinar was attended by over 30 participants including journalists and officials of PIB and ROB, North East Zone.

Taking part in the Webinar, Hembhai, Gandhian and founder of 'Shanti Sadhana Ashram' remarked that the whole world is realising the importance of Gandhian philosophy and his principles of truth, love and nonviolence particularly when it is going through a tough time. He provided a reflective discussion on the Gandhi's ideology of equality; and said that there is a need for equal distribution of opportunities and resources for development.

He said, "Gandhiji's thoughts and principles guide us on many aspects like truth, peace and non-violence etc. We can contribute in nation-building by learning from Gandhi's philosophy," he said.

Referring to the book — 'Unto This Last' and how its reading brought about an instantaneous and practical transformation in the life of Mahatma Gandhi, he stated, "This book made him understand that the good of the individual is contained in the good of all."

Prof. Joya Chakraborty, Head of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, Tezpur University spoke on 'Communicating Khadi: Gandhi and his symbolism'. She said that in the present times there is a need to decode Gandhi's ideas and principles, adding that "Gandhi extensively used symbolism in his entire life and Khadi is a great example of that. He promoted the use of Khadi as a symbol of self-sufficiency."

Talking about the communication strategies adopted by Mahatma Gandhi, Prof. Chakraborty said that Gandhi was a great communicator who used journalism to disseminate his ideas. She added that Gandhi always sought the overall development and not only the development of urban areas. "He used to speak about self-sustenance and growth of rural economy," she said adding that "following the Gandhian ideology, the government is also taking initiatives like the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' for the growth and development of the country as a whole.

Deputy Director, PIB, Guwahati, Pallab Chakraborty delivered the closing remark in webinar. Media and Communication Officer Gopajit Das gave the welcome address and Field Exhibition Officer, ROB, Guwahati, Hiramani Das moderated the webinar.

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