Former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s 27th Death Anniversary was observed at a solemn event organized by the Rajiv Gandhi Awards Committee, Kuwait on May 21, 2018. Members of the Indian community participated along with speakers from the Hindu, Christian and Muslim community symbolizing communal harmony.
Inaugurating the event, the traditional lamp was jointly lit by Ms. Apsara Sashidaran and Bhargavi Ganesan.
Rajiv Gandhi Awards Committee Chairman, Markos Williams in his welcome address quoted Rahul Gandhi the President of the Indian National Congress and son of Rajiv Gandhi who said,” My father taught me that hate is a prison for those who carry it. Today, on his death anniversary, I thank him for teaching me to love and respect all beings, the most valuable gifts a father can give a son. Rajiv Gandhi, those of us that love you, hold you forever in our hearts”.
Speaking on the occasion, Kanneth Sharafuddeen former head of the Kuwait Kerala Muslim Cultural Center and a well known Indian community social worker said that Rajiv Gandhi defined Modern India. He added that Rajiv Gandhi ushered in the technology revolution by replacing typewriters in India with computers.
K.E. Subramaniam said “As a nation we are today reaping the benefits of the technological development set in motion by Rajiv Gandhi, especially the Technology Missions which embraced Telecommunications, Immunization, Literacy, Drinking Water and Oilseeds”.
Prominent Christian social worker and pastor Rev.Sekhar Bonthapuri who administers fellowship meetings for the weaker sections of the Indian community declared, “ It’s a blessing to remember the righteous. Rajiv Gandhi was indeed a righteous man who changed the very polity of the nation.”
Ms Aparna Sashidaran administered the Anti-Terrorism pledge which calls for working towards the emotional oneness and harmony of all the people of India regardless of caste, creed, religion or language.
At the conclusion of the event, all present paid floral tributes to the departed Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
A dinner was hosted for all participants by the Rajiv Gandhi Awards Committee.