Mysore/Mysuru: Senior Gandhian Saroja Tulasidas has lamented that India, which expressed overwhelming gratitude and enormous respect over decades for Mahatma Gandhi after it  became independent, is slowly forgetting the great man, affectionately called as ‘Father of Nation’ for getting freedom for our country from the British, eschewing violence.

She was speaking after inaugurating ‘Sadbhava – A National Movement’ organised by Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) at Kiru Rangamandira, Kalamandira premises in city, recently.

“Of late, the present generation is forgetting the massive people’s movement Mahatma Gandhi envisaged to free India from British rule and his achievements. Functions should be organised in schools and colleges to create awareness among students about Gandhiji’s life of struggle and achievements. India was overwhelmed with gratitude to Gandhiji soon after we gained our independence from the British for it was he who directed India’s freedom movement highlighting the importance of non-violence to achieve our goal. We are now witnessing turmoil in our society,” she regretted.

Continuing, she said that inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, other Gandhians (who followed Gandhiji’s ideals) started several organisations in the name of Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi at several places across the country including villages and competed to name roads and circles after Mahatma Gandhi.

“The entire country resonated the name of Gandhi for several decades. But now, people are forgetting the rich legacy of Mahatma Gandhi,” she added and explained how Yashodhara Dasappa and H.C. Dasappa couple, apart from being in active politics, also were engaged in social service and narrated an incident where they purchased 82 acres of land at Arasikere for setting up Goshalas, teachers training centres and employment  training centre for oppressed women and                           schools for girls education.

Actor Prakash Raj, who also spoke at the function, said that the clashes that are taking place in the country in the name of caste and religion must be stopped.

P.G.R. Sindhia, former Minister and State Chief Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, praised the organisers of Sadbhava for re-establishing the ideals of Gandhiji under the leadership of veteran theatre activist Prasanna.

Prasanna delivered the inaugural address. Singer Shalom Sannutha sang Sadbhava songs apart from playing guitar. National Vice-President of IPTA Balan was also present. IPTA artistes staged the play ‘Paapigondu Pappi,’ directed by Prasanna.