Revival of the Mahatma Gandhi Centre

After a lapse of several years caused by the Covid Pandemic and the Economic Collapse in Sri Lanka, the Mahatma Gandhi Centre is being revived. During the period the Centre was closed, two Presidents – Dr Mohamed Saleem and Mr. W.B.A. Jayasekera passed away. They were instrumental in conducting medical camps specially in the North and East Provinces.

They had had active support of four Senior Committee Members of the Swarajya Foundation, Maj. Gen. Kamal Fernando , Hon. U.B. Wijekoon , Prof. Sirinanda and Col. Faiz ur Rahuman who have since then also passed away.

Patron of the Mahatma Gandhi Centre inaugurated in 2006, Mr Navin Gooneratne, called for the revival of the activities which can benefit the country, while strengthening ties between India and Sri Lanka with many programs planned for the future.

The Chief Guest at the Commemoration of the Mahatma Gandhi Day on Tuesday (Jan. 30) held at the Light of Asia Centre in Pelawatte was the Director of the Indian Cultural Centre, Prof . (Dr) Ankuran Dutta , who was enthusiastic in planning the future programs with the target of celebrating the hundredth year of the Mahatma’s visit to Sri Lanka which will be in 2027.

After observing silence as a mark of respect to those departed , a lamp was lit by the Chief Guest in honour of Gandhi.

The Author and respected senior lawyer Mr A.P. Kanapathypilai was nominated as the new President supported by three Vice Presidents – former Governor of the Northern Province – Retd. Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri , CEO of Ashok Leyland – Mr Umesh Gautham and former Mayor of Colombo – Mr Omar Kamil . The Secretary General unanimously elected was former Governor of the Central and Uva Provinces, Mr Maithri Gooneratne P.C. with Mr Dian Abeyewardene as Assistant Secretary and Mr. Shantha Athulathmudali as Treasurer.

A seven-member Working Committee with leading personalities in several fields were also nominated and agreed to carryout the many programs to be implemented from this year.

Mr Maithri Gooneratne made opening address on Gandhi’s philosophy that is relevant in today’s world in confusion and conflict. Prof. ( Dr ) Ankuran Dutta responded followed by a rendition of a song that was part of the routine on all occasions in Mahatma Gandhi’s events . The event came to a close with the celebration of the Birthday of the Chief Guest .