“The earth, the air, the land and the water are not an inheritance from our forefathers but on loan from our children.” These words of Mahatma Gandhi echo even today. We stand before the Mahatma Gandhi Bust. It is a symbol of peace and understanding in Trier.
The Mahatma Gandhi Bust was unveiled on December 13, 2018. It marked Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. The Auguste-Viktoria-Gymnasium is one of Trier’s oldest schools. The bust stands proudly before its historic monastery building.
India’s Ambassador to Germany, Mrs. Mukta D. Tomar, and Trier’s Lord Mayor, Mr. Wolfram Leibe, revealed the bust. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations gifted it to Trier. The Mahatma Gandhi Bust represents a close cooperation with India.
The Auguste-Viktoria School partners with a school in India. This bust strengthens those links. The school is committed to these connections.
Look closely at the Mahatma Gandhi Bust. Notice the inscription. “There is no way to peace, because peace is the way”. These words encapsulate Gandhi’s philosophy. Ram Sutar, an Indian sculptor born in 1925, created this bust.
Former Lord Mayor Klaus Jensen spoke at the unveiling. He noted Gandhi’s seven social sins. These sins still resonate today. Wealth without work. Knowledge without character. Business without morality. Science without humanity.
The school orchestra played Gandhi’s favorite bhajan. It is called ‘Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram’. Students presented their ‘India Project’. It showed their understanding of India.
The Mahatma Gandhi Bust inspires many people. It encourages them to emulate Gandhi’s values. These values include non-violence and helpfulness. The bust serves as a reminder. We must direct responsibility to ourselves. Only then can we direct this appeal to others.
The Mahatma Gandhi Bust embodies values. These include respect, intercultural dialogue and mutual listening. They create a basis for non-violent coexistence. They also preserve human dignity.
Consider Gandhi’s teaching. The earth is borrowed from our children. We must hand it over as it was handed to us. Sustainable living and appreciation for resources are key.
Take a moment to reflect. The Mahatma Gandhi Bust stands as a beacon. It shines for peace and understanding. It is a gift. It inspires us to live by Gandhi’s principles. Let us remember his wisdom. Let us strive for a better world.