On the occasion of World Philosophy Day, New Acropolis Strasbourg organised a tribute for Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, under the patronage of the Embassy of India.

The evening began with a classical Indian dance performance of Bharatanatyam, accompanied by musicians and reciters. This was followed by a talk on Gandhi’s principles of non-violence, and its impact on future social movements as well as its relevance today.  The importance of a strong inner moral force, to face adversity in order to practice non-violence was also discussed. In this context, the need for Philosophy to encourage and promote education which aims to bring out the best in every human being, which allows one to know oneself in order to better direct oneself, was also emphasised. To conclude the celebrations, a Mandala that had begun during a session exploring teachings from the Tibetan tradition, was completed, and served as a reminder that it is not so much the results that are important, as is the spirit with which we work. This offering, symbolising the importance of detaching ourself from our work, while acting with our full consciousness and heart, was then placed at the feet of the statue of Gandhi at Place de l’Étoile.