The Gandhian Society (USA) hosted a Meet and Greet gathering on Monday, May 26, at Royal Albert’s Palace in Edison, New Jersey, in celebration of Smt. Rajashree Birla, the Chairperson of the Birla Group. The event also served as the official unveiling of the Society’s latest endeavor — the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, which is set to be established in Central New Jersey.
This well-attended occasion drew members of the local community, public officials, and various dignitaries, all of whom expressed their collective support for upholding and promoting the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. With the launch of the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, the Gandhian Society aims to establish a dedicated space for community engagement, focusing on education, open dialogue, and programs rooted in Gandhian principles like non-violence, justice, and social unity.
The evening program featured a variety of cultural performances that showcased the talents of local artists. These artistic presentations emphasized values of peace and unity, reflecting the overarching themes of the event. These performances not only entertained but also underscored the philosophical foundations of the new initiative.
Among the prominent individuals who addressed the gathering were Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac, and Consul Ms. Pragnya Singh. Each of them took the opportunity to speak about the ongoing importance and relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings in the current global climate.
Mayor Sam Joshi highlighted the power of Gandhian ideals to inspire social cohesion and moral clarity. He underscored how communities such as Edison, with its rich cultural diversity, can greatly benefit from the application of these time-tested values. Mayor John McCormac echoed these sentiments, noting how Gandhi’s philosophy continues to offer guidance in the quest for justice and human dignity. Meanwhile, Consul Ms. Pragnya Singh offered reflections from a diplomatic perspective, emphasizing the role of Gandhian thought in fostering international cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote speech delivered by Smt. Rajashree Birla. In her address, she delved into the significance of living a life guided by peace, empathy, and service to others. She commended the Gandhian Society for its dedicated efforts in preserving Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy through grassroots initiatives and public engagement. “Peace and compassion are the cornerstones of a meaningful life,” she said. “The Gandhian Society has shown commendable commitment in promoting these values across generations.”
Smt. Birla also acknowledged the enduring relevance of Gandhian philosophy and emphasized how the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center could become a beacon for positive change. She highlighted the role of compassion in leadership and the transformative power of service, especially in today’s often polarized world. Her message resonated with many in the audience who view Gandhi’s teachings as a guiding light in both personal and societal contexts.
The Gandhian Society used the occasion to elaborate on its broader vision for the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center. According to the organization, the center will serve as a multifaceted space where individuals of all ages can come together to explore the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. The Society plans to offer a range of activities designed to engage young people, support cultural exchange, and nurture a sense of civic duty among participants.
Among the planned activities are educational workshops, community dialogues, interfaith seminars, and youth leadership programs. The goal is to create an inclusive environment where people from all walks of life can find inspiration in Gandhi’s teachings. “This center will not just be a tribute to Gandhi’s memory,” a Society spokesperson said, “but a living, breathing effort to carry forward his mission of peace and social justice.”
Throughout the evening, there was a recurring theme of gratitude. The Gandhian Society expressed sincere appreciation to Smt. Rajashree Birla for her presence and words of encouragement. The Society also extended thanks to the dignitaries who participated, the volunteers who helped organize the event, the performers who contributed their talents, and all attendees who came out to support the initiative.
“This event marks a beginning,” said one of the organizers. “It is not the end goal but the first step in what we envision as a lasting movement for peace, understanding, and community engagement.” The organization emphasized that the launch of the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center is only the start of an ongoing commitment to building a more harmonious society, inspired by the timeless wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi.
Attendees left the event with a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation for Gandhi’s legacy. Many expressed optimism about the impact the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center could have on future generations. With the successful unveiling of the initiative, the Gandhian Society has laid the foundation for a community-driven platform that aims to keep the spirit of Gandhi alive in the hearts and minds of people throughout New Jersey and beyond.
In summary, the Meet and Greet event held in honor of Smt. Rajashree Birla not only celebrated her contributions and presence but also heralded the beginning of a transformative project. The Eternal Gandhi Peace Center aspires to be more than a physical location — it aims to serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, educational growth, and the promotion of values that transcend cultural and political boundaries. Through sustained community involvement, the Gandhian Society hopes to ensure that Gandhi’s vision of a more just, peaceful world continues to inspire future generations.
The evening left a lasting impression on those in attendance, many of whom felt personally connected to the mission. As one community leader noted, “Gandhi’s message is timeless. By creating this center, we are ensuring that his voice of peace will continue to guide us through the challenges of the present and the future.”