East-West Times…Information you desire

With the active support of University’s Intercultural Centre of Peace, Gandhi Memorial Society organized the dawn to dusk flow of Events to commemorate the Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi for the benefit of all.

On the occasion Swami Vishwayogi Vishwamjee Maharaj was the guest of honor, he is visiting US to spread his message of world peace and universal brotherhood.

The morning ceremony commenced with the garlanding of Mahatma Gandhi statue by Swamiji. Children, University students, faculty and many people participated in the ceremony.

Dr. Tom Serwatka, Chief of the staff of UNF President John Delaney released the Book on Mahatma Gandhi written by Dr. H. K. Gandhi on the occasion.

Swamiji delivered a discourse on Mahatma Gandhi’s message of Truth, Non-violence and uniting the world by spreading peace.

Light refreshment to the delight of attendees was served. The evening ceremony started with Violin recital of Mahatma Gandhi’s famous song ‘Vaishnav Jan To…’ by Garima Gupta. Ramesh Vashi, Chairman of Gandhi Memorial Society spoke about Mahatma Gandhi’s way of attaining peace and non-violence by ‘Satyagraha’. He quoted several examples from the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Kalindi Narayan sang the song ‘Vaishnav Jan To …’.

A skit was then beautifully presented by small kids. It was titled ‘Anekta main Ekta’ (Unity in Diversity).
All the participants and on lookers were served with light refreshment, which was enjoyed by every one present.

On Saturday, October 4th, Gandhi Memorial Society organized ‘Be The Change’, National Day of Service, in collaboration with SAALT (South Asian Americans Leading Together) at UNF. This community service was in the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. This annual event inspires and fosters civic engagement through volunteerism and community service.

Event started with registration and welcome message by Ashok Bazaz. Keynote speaker, Dr. Tom Serwatka, Vice President of UNF, then spoke at length about ‘Solidarity in Service’. Everyone got influenced by his speech. Volunteering was done at UNF by cleaning, weeding and beautification of the campus. Lot of High School students and adults participated selflessly in this unique event. After the event, volunteers were served with packed lunch.

Mahatma Gandhi statue was dedicated to University of North Florida on October 2nd, 2006 by Gandhi Memorial Society to facilitate the development of this Esteemed University as an Institute of Inspiration besides Education.