Malkangiri , 4th Oct 2025: The district-level Gandhi Jayanti celebration was held at the old Collector’s office in Malkangiri. The event was presided over by Additional District Collector Bedabar Pradhan. The chief guest on the occasion was Additional District Collector Somanath Pradhan, while Deputy Collector Ashmi A. L. attended as the guest of honour.
The day began at 5 a.m. with the rendition of Ram Dhun, organized by the District Information and Public Relations Department. At 9 a.m., the guests paid floral tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi located within the premises of the old Collector’s office and remembered his contributions.
Students from Parivartan Shishu Gruha (children’s home), meritorious students from various schools, and members of self-help groups (SHGs) — especially women — participated in the floral tribute ceremony.
A multi-faith prayer session was held, with Dr. Saroj Das representing Hinduism, Lalu Tushar Pani representing Christianity, and K. Desi Raju Achari representing Buddhism. They all spoke on the values of brotherhood, non-violence, and human welfare.
Speakers highlighted how Mahatma Gandhi adopted the path of non-violence to break the chains of slavery imposed by the British on Indian society. He constantly fought against injustice and stood firmly for truth and non-violence. His principles continue to serve as guidance and inspiration across the world.
The guests further emphasized that everyone can follow Gandhi’s ideals through small acts — such as keeping their homes, schools, and offices clean, or helping the poor — in their everyday life. They encouraged students to be inspired by Gandhi’s principles of non-violence, truth, and peace.
District Information and Public Relations Officer Pramila Majhi delivered the welcome speech and conducted the event proceedings. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, essay and speech competitions were previously held among high school students. The winners were awarded certificates and prizes by the dignitaries.
The event was successfully organized with the support of Harekrushna Kirtania and Ranjan Mohanty.