Published: 12:20 AM, 12 October 2026
Gandhi's ideals offer moral compass amid global conflicts: Badhe
Acting Indian High Commissioner Pawankumar Badhe underscored the enduring significance of Gandhi's philosophy in promoting peace, justice and human welfare in Dhaka on Sunday. -Collected
Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violence, truth, ethical leadership and environmental responsibility remain profoundly relevant in addressing contemporary global challenges, including geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, climate change and social inequalities, Acting Indian High Commissioner Pawankumar Badhe has said.
Speaking at the Liberation War Museum in Dhaka on Sunday, marking the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the International Day of Non-Violence, Badhe underscored the enduring significance of Gandhi's philosophy in promoting peace, justice and human welfare.
"His life reminds us that moral courage can be more powerful than physical force," Badhe said, highlighting Gandhi's belief that human progress should be measured not merely by economic growth but also by compassion, justice and service to the most vulnerable.
Identifying three key principles of Gandhi's philosophy as particularly relevant to the contemporary world, the acting high commissioner emphasised the discipline of non-violence, the primacy of truth, and restraint and responsibility towards nature.
On non-violence, Badhe said Gandhi never regarded it as a sign of weakness. Instead, he described it as "the weapon of the strong," requiring greater courage to stand firm without hatred than to resort to violence.
In an era increasingly marked by polarisation and confrontation, Gandhi's philosophy offers an important lesson in maintaining humanity amid disagreement, he observed. The United Nations' recognition of Gandhi's birth anniversary as the International Day of Non-Violence reflects the global significance of this principle, he added.
Turning to the importance of truth, Badhe recalled Gandhi's autobiography, The Story of My Experiments with Truth, noting that honesty and integrity are indispensable to public life.
"At a time when a falsehood can circle the globe before the truth has dressed," he said, Gandhi's insistence on integrity in speech, politics and online communication remains essential rather than outdated.
Badhe also highlighted Gandhi's philosophy of environmental stewardship, particularly his warning against excessive consumption and greed.
Recalling Gandhi's observation that the Earth provides enough for everyone's needs but not everyone's greed, he pointed to South Asia's growing vulnerability to climate change, including rising sea levels, floods and cyclones.
These challenges transcend national boundaries and demand greater regional cooperation, he said, adding that Gandhi's emphasis on simple living, local self-reliance and the responsible use of shared resources offers valuable guidance for both Bangladesh and India.
The acting high commissioner also reflected on Gandhi's close intellectual ties with Bengal, particularly his relationship with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, whose legacy is cherished in both Bangladesh and India.
Describing their relationship as one of mutual respect and friendly disagreement, Badhe noted that Tagore gave Gandhi the title "Mahatma." Their exchanges, he said, demonstrate how differences of opinion can enrich intellectual engagement rather than undermine mutual respect.
He suggested that this relationship offers a valuable model for Bangladesh and India, as well as for the wider South Asian region, where constructive dialogue and respect for differing perspectives are essential to lasting cooperation.
Highlighting the longstanding connections between Bangladesh and India, Badhe said the two countries share a common history, cultural heritage, river systems and aspirations for the future.
Their bilateral relationship encompasses trade, connectivity, energy, education, healthcare and people-to-people exchanges, he noted.
Gandhi's commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and shared well-being, he added, can help guide efforts to strengthen these ties and advance regional stability.
"Strong India-Bangladesh relations can contribute to regional peace, prosperity and people-to-people understanding," Badhe said.
His remarks placed Gandhi's legacy within the context of contemporary international relations, underscoring the continuing relevance of non-violence, truth and mutual understanding in building a more peaceful and equitable world.
