Kollam, Kerala: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, today addressed a large public gathering here, marking the 100th anniversary of the historic meeting between Mahatma Gandhi and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Mutt.
Speaking at the centenary commemoration organized by Sivagiri Mutt and associated bodies at Asramam Maidan, Rahul Gandhi described the encounter between the two iconic figures as a profound moment of shared wisdom. He imagined their meeting in a simple setting, devoid of wealth or grandeur, where the only possible discussion could have revolved around truth and non-violence.
“What is strange is how easy it is to understand what they discussed even after 100 years,” Gandhi said. He contrasted the humility of “giants” like Gandhi and Narayana Guru with the arrogance often displayed by smaller minds. Drawing parallels to contemporary challenges, he linked their teachings directly to India’s Constitution, which he views not merely as a post-Independence document but as a repository of ancient Indian wisdom.
Gandhi recounted a story from Narayana Guru’s biography about mangoes stolen from an ashram. When disciples called the police and violence loomed against the thief, Narayana Guru refused to return until non-violence prevailed, emphasizing understanding and forgiveness over punishment. “The Constitution echoes this—love and respect the weak, do not crush those weaker than you, and embrace forgiveness,” he noted.
He lamented that today’s politics and international relations are “running towards darkness” and away from knowledge. “There is no attempt to understand the other person; you just bomb and kill, or attack those you disagree with,” Gandhi observed, criticizing the rise of violence and hatred.
Invoking Narayana Guru’s prayer to lead from darkness to light, he urged the audience to truly follow the saint’s path rather than superficial gestures like offering flowers at statues. “Are you ready to be kind to those who hate you? To forgive, be humble, and listen to others’ pain?”
Gandhi distinguished between force and power, pointing out that the British Empire had force but no true power, while Mahatma Gandhi, armed only with truth, prevailed. Similarly, Narayana Guru, without wealth or might, became Kerala’s most influential figure whose legacy endures a century later.
“The message from both giants is clear: nothing is gained from violence and hatred—only something is lost,” he concluded. “India’s spirit is rooted in truth and non-violence.”
The event featured religious leaders including Swami Satchidananda, Panakkad Munavvar Ali Thangal, Swami Subhangananda, and Bishop Coorilose, alongside Congress and UDF figures. Gandhi thanked the organizers for facilitating this reflection on enduring values amid modern challenges.
