In a gesture of friendship and solidarity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in the historic city of Hiroshima, Japan. The occasion, which took place during the G7 Summit, carried a profound message of peace and non-violence that resonated globally.
The choice of Hiroshima as the location for the bust holds significant symbolism. It serves as a reminder of the devastating nuclear attack that the city endured on August 6, 1945, resulting in the loss of countless lives and leaving a lasting impact on the world. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that even today, the mere mention of Hiroshima evokes fear and serves as a powerful reminder of the horrors of war.
The 42-inch tall bronze bust, sculpted by renowned artist Ram Vanji Sutar, stands adjacent to the Motoyasu River, near the iconic A-Bomb Dome—a site visited by thousands daily. This placement emphasizes the alignment of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles with the city’s commitment to peace. Gandhi dedicated his life to promoting peace and non-violence, and his ideals continue to inspire leaders and citizens across the globe.
The unveiling ceremony was a moment of deep significance and reflection. Prime Minister Modi paid floral tributes to Gandhi, expressing gratitude to the mayor of Hiroshima and the Japanese government for the opportunity to install the bust. He noted that the bust would carry forward the idea of non-violence, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of peace.
The gesture was met with warmth and appreciation from the Japanese government and the people of Hiroshima. The bust serves as a lasting symbol of friendship and goodwill between India and Japan, strengthening the bond between the two nations. It conveys a message of harmony and unity, reaffirming the shared commitment to peace and the pursuit of a better world.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also engaged in bilateral talks with his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The discussions focused on synergizing efforts under the G7 and G20 presidencies to address global challenges. This collaboration reflects the commitment of both nations to work together towards a more secure and sustainable future.
As the bust of Mahatma Gandhi stands tall in Hiroshima, it stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring generations to come. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of Gandhian ideals and the universal quest for peace. The symbolism embedded in this gesture will continue to reverberate globally, reminding the world of the importance of harmony, non-violence, and the pursuit of a more peaceful and compassionate future for all.