Patna: A state function was held at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on Wednesday to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The event was attended by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Bihar Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav, both Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with senior political leaders and officials. Together, they paid floral tributes to Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, whose message of truth and non-violence continues to inspire India.
The programme began with the national anthem and was followed by devotional hymns connected to Gandhi’s life and ideals. Leaders and guests laid garlands at Gandhi’s statue, standing together in respect even as light rain continued to fall across the city. The drizzle did not dampen the spirit of the ceremony, which was held as part of the government’s annual Gandhi Jayanti observance.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said Gandhi’s ideas were still relevant today. “His teachings inspire us to walk on the path of truth and non-violence. If we follow his message, it will create an atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood in society,” he said. Governor Arif Mohammad Khan added that only Gandhi’s values could guide the nation towards real progress, stressing that the principles of non-violence and truth must always be remembered.
Along with political leaders, children from several schools in Patna played an important role in the event. They presented colourful cultural performances based on Gandhi’s thoughts and values. Their songs, dances and short plays reflected Gandhi’s vision for peace, equality and cleanliness. The performances added liveliness to the otherwise rainy morning and reminded the audience that Gandhi’s message is still alive in the younger generation.
The function concluded with a call to follow Gandhi’s ideals in daily life. For many who attended, the programme was not only a tribute but also a reminder that Gandhi’s dream of unity and progress must be carried forward.
