Russian President Putin laid a wreath at Rajghat to Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to India. He signed the visitor's book, giving global importance to Gandhi's principles of peace, equality, and humanity.
New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived at Rajghat on the second day of his India visit, where he paid tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and bowed to his vision of a peaceful world. During this, Putin signed the visitor's book and, through his comments, highlighted the significance of Gandhi's ideas on a global stage. This event in New Delhi was a key part of his official visit.
Putin's Presence at Rajghat
Upon reaching Rajghat, Putin laid flowers at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial and stood in silence for some time. Senior members of the Russian delegation were also present with him. The event was conducted entirely according to formal protocol. Putin's gesture reflects respect for India and an appreciation for Gandhi's philosophy of world peace.
Putin's Comments in the Visitor's Book
During his visit to Rajghat, Putin penned his thoughts in the visitor's book, describing Gandhi as a remarkable personality among the Founders of Modern India. Putin wrote that Mahatma Gandhi was a great philosopher and humanist, whose contribution to establishing peace in the world has been extremely significant. Gandhi's ideas about freedom, goodness, and humanity are still considered relevant today.
He further wrote that Gandhi had envisioned the creation of a more just world, free from dictatorship and dominance. According to Putin, Gandhi's letter to Leo Tolstoy offers a clear glimpse of a future world based on equality, cooperation, and mutual respect. These are the same principles that India and Russia are striving to promote together on the international stage today.
Mention of Gandhi's Ideas
Putin's remarks specifically mentioned that Gandhi's philosophy was not limited to India but inspired global thought. He emphasized the continued necessity of Gandhi's principles of non-violence, equality, and humanity in modern times. This statement by Putin also highlights the ideological proximity between the two countries, especially at a time when the world is navigating numerous geopolitical challenges.
Formal Welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Following the Rajghat event, Putin received a formal welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Droupadi Murmu received him, and the three armed forces accorded him a Guard of Honour. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and senior officials from the defense sector were present at this ceremony held in the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex. The ceremonial welcome symbolized the deep relations between the two countries.
