Remarks by Mr. R.K. Bhatia, High Commissioner of India at the ‘Images of Truth’ Puppet Theatre performance, Johannesburg (October 2, 2007) (August 15, 2007) Hon’ble Justice Albie Sachs, Justice of the Constitutional Court, Hon’ble Councillor Prema Naidoo, and Ladies & Gentlemen, It is wonderful to see that our invitation has evoked such an encouraging response. Your presence in large numbers today reflects the recognition of the importance of our event, the special venue chosen for it and, above all, its timing. Let me explain. 2.  ‘Images of Truth’ is one of the most popular productions of the Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust, India. The inclusion of this event in our weeks-long programme entitled “Shared Histories – Celebrating India in South Africa” was a conscious decision. As you will see shortly, the puppet performance presents the life and ideology of Mahatma Gandhi through a series of episodes starting with his experiences at Pietermaritzburg and all the way through India’s freedom struggle. It presents the universal nature and message of the Mahatma. 3.  I should hardly need to pinpoint the historic importance of the Constitution Hill in the history of South Africa. The transformation of a notorious chamber of subjugation and torture into a revered temple of justice mirrors the emergence of a new South Africa. By permitting us to hold this event at the Constitution Hill, the authorities concerned have done us a singular honour. 4.  Above all, the timing of this event is extraordinary. It is not only the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, but it is also the very first time when October 2 is being celebrated as the ‘International Day of Non-Violence’. And therein lies a story. 5.  Flowing from the International Conference on ‘Peace, Non-Violence and Empowerment : Gandhian Philosophy in the 21st Century’, hosted by the Indian National Congress in New Delhi in January this year, a decision emerged to approach the United Nations to consider declaring October 2 as the ‘International Day of Non-Violence.’ On June 15 this year, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution to this effect. This resolution highlights the holistic nature and the continued relevance of Gandhiji’s message for our times. 6.  As we celebrate this special day in a befitting manner here today, it is worth noting that Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) is representing India for the observance of the first ‘International Day of Non-Violence’ at the UN. She will be among a few dignitaries who will address the UN General Assembly whereafter she will participate in a special Roundtable which will have, among other participants, two distinguished South Africans i.e. Mr. Ahmad Kathrada and Ms. Ela Gandhi. 7.  I should add that in India October 2 is being commemorated this year as the ‘National Day of Dedication’. A special public function was organized in Delhi where, in the presence of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, participants took a pledge to re-dedicate themselves to Gandhiji’s eternal message. 8.  With Mahatma Gandhi in mind, we can aptly assert that South Africa and India are linked together through the bonds of shared ideas, ideals and icons. Who could improve on the Mahatma’s description of himself – “Born in India and made in South Africa”? 9.  In the end, let me recall how Smt. Sonia Gandhi presented her perspectives on the Gandhian philosophy during her lecture at the University of Cape Town on August 23. Addressing the question of his relevance today, she pointed out that, instead of diminishing in relevance, Mahatma Gandhi had actually become all the more pertinent in the 21st century. Unveiling her central thesis, she observed: “The real issue is whether we have the courage and strength of mind to follow in his footsteps, whether we are prepared to live our lives by what he preached and more importantly, practiced”. She called Gandhi “the ultimate touchstone of moral authority”. We all need to remember and reflect on these sound remarks. 10.  I greatly appreciate the opportunity to address you. Thank you very much for your attention.