Her Highness Sayyida Susan Al Said

Sister Gopi Patel, International Speaker & Medidator

and Keynote speaker for this evening

Excellencies,

Ambassador and Diplomats

Sister B.K. Gayatri and esteemed members from Raja Yoga Centre for Self-Development,

Shri Kiran Asher, Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Awardee

Distinguished Guests ,

Ladies & Gentlemen,

A very good evening and warm welcome to you all.

It is a privilege to join you all today as we commemorate the United Nations International Day of Non-Violence and the Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, organized by Embassy of India, Muscat, in association with Rajyoga centre for Self Development. Thank you for your gracious presence celebrating the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.

First and foremost, I would like to place on record my sincere gratitude to our esteemed keynote speaker Sister Gopi Patel from UK, for gracing this occasion. We look forward to your thoughtful and inspiring reflections on the timeless values of Mahatma Gandhi.

It is a matter of great pride for India that The United Nations observes this day on 2nd October, recognising Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring contribution to the philosophy of non-violence and peaceful conflict resolution.

Gandhi’s life’s work was guided by a steadfast commitment to non-violence and peaceful struggle against injustice. Gandhi’s method of resistance, characterized by non-violent protest, became a powerful tool for challenging injustice everywhere. Gandhi’s approach inspired leaders worldwide, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

• The relevance of Gandhi’s teachings is especially evident today. At a time when societies face conflicts, divisions and uncertainties, the values of dialogue, understanding, compassion and respect for human dignity offer a path towards lasting peace.

• Gandhiji’s approach of resolving conflicts through dialogue aligns closely with the values upheld by Oman, a nation renowned across the globe as an oasis of moderation, dialogue, and quiet diplomacy. The Sultanate’s foreign policy is characterized by a commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of peaceful negotiation over conflict. The values that Gandhiji championed find a natural echo in the foreign policy and ethos of Oman.

• We are proud that that the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019 was awarded posthumously to late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos of Oman. This prestigious honor recognized late His Majesty’s exceptional contributions to social, economic, and political transformation in the region through non-violent means. This historic award honored His Majesty’s unparalleled leadership, his commitment to promoting peace and non-violence across the Gulf region, and his enduring role in strengthening the bond of friendship between India and Oman.

• Under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Oman continues to uphold this distinguished legacy of harmony, neutrality, and international goodwill.

• Gandhi taught us that “we must be the change we wish to see in the world”. This encourages us to act with empathy, to uphold our principles, and to engage in constructive dialogue.

• We are particularly pleased to mark this occasion in association with the Rajayoga Center for Self Development, as the Rajyoga principles teach us, true strength lies in humility, compassion, and self-discipline. The emphasis on self-awareness, inner peace and positive transformation resonates deeply with Gandhiji’s philosophy that meaningful change in society begins with transformation within ourselves.

• I extend my sincere appreciation to the Rajayoga Center for Self Development for partnering with the Embassy in commemorating this important occasion, and to everyone who has joined us today.

• Also my heartfelt thanks to each one of you for your performance, prepared for this evening including performance by Mr. Haitham Mohammed Rafi, Mr. Yoursuf Al Foori and students from Indian Schools in oman. Your graceful presentation and meaningful contribution added great warmth and significance to the evening.

• Let us honor Mahatma Gandhi not only by remembering his remarkable achievements but also by striving to embody his principles in our own lives.

• May the light of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, combined with our collective spiritual effort, guide us toward a more compassionate, harmonious world.

Thank you.