A week-long film festival on the life of Mahatma Gandhi got underway at the Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) in Rono Hills on Saturday.
The festival is being organized to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary celebration of the ‘Father of the Nation’ Mahatma Gandhi.
Addressing the inaugural function, Rajiv Gandhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof Saket Kushwaha spoke on Gandhi’s ideals of fighting for a cause in a united and non-violent way.
Prof Kushwaha called upon the present generation to fulfil the dreams of the Mahatma of a free and self-reliant India.
University registrar, Dr NT Rikam said the best way of paying homage to the Mahatma would be to emulate his ideals.
Prof Rikam also emphasized on the importance of film festivals as an effective medium to spread Gandhi’s message of peace, non-violence, love, forgiveness, moderate lifestyle and deep mutual respect for fellow human beings and animals.
RGU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitava Mitra described Gandhi as the champion of non-violence and social reforms.
The teachings of Gandhi are still relevant in the present world at both micro and macro levels, he said.
Dr Vaishali, the first lady of the university, also paid her tribute to the Mahatma during the inaugural ceremony.
She recalled how films on Gandhi used to be screened on a regular basis to popularize his teachings in the earlier days and said the same is very much required at all times.
The weeklong film festival, which would conclude on October 2, is showcasing films supported by the Films Division of India, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
One can also visit the university’s website to watch the films that are being screened at the festival.
