America has its roots in India of Mahatma Gandhi: Obama

Lalit K Jha

Washington, Oct 2 (PTI) As the world celebrates
International Day of non-violence, US President Barack Obama
Thursday said America has its "roots in the India of Mahatma
Gandhi."

"His teachings and ideals, shared with Martin Luther King
Jr. on his 1959 pilgrimage to India, transformed American
society through our civil rights movement," Obama said on the
occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Americans
owe enormous gratitude to Gandhi, he said.

"The America of Thursday has its roots in the India of
Mahatma Gandhi and the nonviolent social action movement for
Indian independence which he led," Obama said in a statement.

On behalf of the American people, Obama said he wants to
express appreciation for the life and lessons of Mahatma
Gandhi on the anniversary of his birth. "This is an important
moment to reflect on his message of non-violence, which
continues to inspire people and political movements across the
globe," he said.

"We join the people of India in celebrating this great
soul who lived a life dedicated to the cause of advancing
justice, showing tolerance to all, and creating change through
non-violent resistance," Obama said.

As the world remembers the Mahatma on his birthday, Obama
said: "We must renew our commitment to live his ideals and to
celebrate the dignity of all human beings. (MORE) PTI