Auckland, NZ – October 2, 2025
The Consulate General of India (CGI), Auckland, led by Consul General Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, will host a special Gandhi Jayanti Celebration on Thursday, 2nd October 2025 at its Queen Street premises.

This community observance will bring together dignitaries, organisations, and friends of India to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, whose values of truth, non-violence, and service to humanity remain profoundly relevant in the modern world.

Why Gandhi Ji Still Matters Today

Every year, on 2 October, people across the world reflect on Gandhi Ji’s message of justice, equality, and peace. Though times have changed, the core issues Gandhi Ji spoke about—polarisation, inequality, and ethical leadership—continue to resonate today.

  • Polarisation and public anger: Gandhi’s discipline of civility and listening offers a counter to hostility and division.
  • Misinformation and truth decay: Gandhi’s lifelong insistence on truth offers a model for resisting quick takes and shallow narratives.
  • Inequality and injustice: Gandhi’s call for trusteeship remains a reminder of the responsibility of those with power to act for the common good.
  • Climate stress and overconsumption: Gandhi’s advocacy for moderation and mindful resource use connects with today’s push for sustainability.
  • Civic fatigue: Gandhi’s vision of responsibility makes service, volunteering, and active citizenship central rather than optional.

For New Zealand, a country that values fairness, service, and community spirit, Gandhi Ji’s legacy provides both a mirror and a guide. His discipline—whether in cleaning a shared space, supporting a neighbour, or resolving conflict—offers tangible ways to live out his message.

Programme Schedule – CGI Auckland Gandhi Jayanti Celebration

  • 5:00 PM – Arrival of Guests
  • 5:30 PM – Programme Starts (MC announcements)
  • 5:30 – 5:40 PM – Flower Offering (Vaishnavo Jano song)
  • 5:40 – 5:50 PM – Video on Mahatma Gandhi
  • 5:50 – 6:00 PM – Speech by High Commissioner
  • 6:00 – 6:10 PM – Remarks by Consul General
  • 6:10 – 6:20 PM – Relevance of Gandhian Philosophy
  • 6:20 – 6:30 PM – Gandhi and the Modern World
  • 6:30 – 6:40 PM – Contribution of Gandhi to India
  • 6:40 – 7:00 PM – Musical Performance by Basant Madhur
  • 7:00 PM – Conclusion, Group Photo, and Refreshments

Event Details

  • Date: Thursday, 2nd October 2025
  • Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM (guests requested to arrive by 5:15 PM)
  • Venue: Consulate General of India, Level 14, 151 SAP Tower, Queen Street, Auckland 1010
  • Highlights: Keynote speeches, video reflections, musical performance by Basant Madhur
  • Parking: Not available
  • RSVP: Email events.cgiauckland@gmail.com (limited seating, early confirmation encouraged)

A Moment of Reflection

The CGI Auckland celebration is not just a ceremonial tribute—it is an invitation to reflect on how Gandhi Ji’s ideas can be lived out in daily life. Whether in India or Aotearoa New Zealand, his call to truth, non-violence, and service reminds us of our shared responsibility to build communities based on compassion and justice.