PRESS RELEASE: Walking Together - Unity in Times of Division
Organized by Hindus for Human Rights and The UK Indian Muslim Council
(London, January 28, 2024) – In a powerful display of interfaith unity, Hindus for Human Rights (HfHR) UK and the Indian Muslim Council UK (UK-IMC) are uniting for a Peace Walk. Directions for the event are below!
This event symbolically connects the inspiring yet distinct legacies of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi, who both championed Indian independence and stood as beacons for freedom and solidarity. Dr. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s constitution, was dedicated to dismantling oppression rooted in caste and class, while Gandhi's legacy is indelibly linked to the philosophy of nonviolent resistance.
This collaborative effort between HfHR-UK and UK-IMC, along with their supporters, is an endeavor to affirm the enduring teachings of these two iconic figures, and an expression of Hindu-Muslim unity and solidarity. The Peace Walk, scheduled in London on January 30, is deliberately aligned with India’s Martyrs' Day, adding a profound significance to this gathering of solidarity and remembrance.
Indian Martyrs' Day, or Shaheed Diwas, is a profound observance in India, commemorating the sacrifices of those who have given their lives in the fight for the country's freedom. This day holds a special significance as it marks the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, a global icon of non-violence and peace. It is a day of national reverence, symbolized by poignant ceremonies at the Raj Ghat memorial which marks the spot of Gandhi’s cremation in New Delhi. On this day, marked by a two-minute silence at 11 am across India, the nation pauses to reflect on the values of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring struggle for justice.
“UKIMC is deeply concerned about the violence and divisions ripping our beloved India and our UK diaspora community apart. We invite you all to walk with us towards unity and peace among us all, “states UKIMC’s Umair Khan.
Rajiv Sinha of Hindus for Human Rights UK states, "This walk, aligning with Indian Martyrs' Day, is a powerful expression of our commitment to the principles of secularism and unity amidst the challenges of our times. The “New India” being built by the ruling Hindu nationalist BJP led by Narendra Modi is causing rupture between Hindus and Muslims in India and throughout the diaspora. Our peace walk together says: we are inseparable. We are one.
The recent ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, presided over by Prime Minister Modi, poses a critical challenge to the secular democratic fabric of India, a legacy deeply rooted in the visions of B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi.
The walk is inspired by the legacies of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi, and symbolizes a united stand against division and strife. It is an invitation to all who believe in the ideals of diversity, peaceful coexistence, and harmonious activism.
Members of the press are invited to cover this momentous walk and be part of a narrative that champions unity in diversity.
DIRECTIONS: Please arrive on time so we can all walk together in this celebration of Hindu-Muslim unity. We start by honoring Dr. Ambedkar’s impactful legacy, then journey through Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings. This event is a tribute to unity and collaborative activism in our communities. The Ambedkar statue is located in the Atrium Gallery of LSE’s Old Building. Enter through the main reception on Houghton Street.
For more information, please contact:
rajiv@hindusforhumanrights.org (UK)
david@hindusforhumanrights.org (USA)
Jaseem PP, National coordinator, UK-IMC
jaseempp@gmail.com
