Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti and International Senior Citizens’ Day were observed under the auspices of Suttur JSS Educational Institutions. Seen in the picture are Dr. P. S. Fatima, Registrar of Mandya University of Agricultural Sciences; Dr. B. N. Gyanesh, Head of KVK; heads of the institution, senior citizens and staff members.
Suttur, October 2, 2026: Gandhi Jayanti, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti and the International Day of Older Persons were meaningfully observed under the auspices of Suttur JSS Educational Institutions, on October 2, 2026.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. P. S. Fatima, Registrar, Mandya University of Agricultural Sciences, said that Mahatma Gandhi dedicated his entire life to securing India’s independence through the powerful principles of truth and non-violence. Through historic movements such as the Dandi March, Non-Cooperation Movement and Quit India Movement, he united the people of the country in the struggle for freedom.
She said that simple living and high thinking formed the essence of Gandhiji’s philosophy. By wearing khadi, he also spread the message of self-reliance and encouraged people to support indigenous products and values.
Referring to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, Dr. Fatima said that although his childhood was filled with hardships, he remained steadfast in his honesty, simplicity and patriotism. He dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation and provided effective leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War.
She recalled that India was facing a severe food shortage during that period, and Shastri appealed to the people to voluntarily skip one meal as part of the national effort to overcome the crisis and safeguard the country’s self-respect. His famous slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” continues to remind the nation of the invaluable contributions of soldiers and farmers, she said.
Speaking about the International Day of Older Persons, observed on October 1, Dr. Fatima said the occasion provides an opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions of senior citizens and to discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with an ageing global population. She stressed that the present generation has a responsibility to safeguard the rights, dignity and healthcare needs of senior citizens.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. B. N. Gnanesh said that today’s youth should imbibe Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of simplicity, harmony and peaceful coexistence. Gandhiji’s principles, he said, continue to inspire citizens to stand up for freedom, rights, education and equality, and to fight against corruption and exploitation.
He described Lal Bahadur Shastri as an honest and highly capable leader known for his humility, tolerance, inner strength and determination. Shastri understood the aspirations of ordinary people and was a visionary who guided the nation towards progress. He added that Lal Bahadur Shastri was deeply influenced by the political philosophy and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi.
Dr. Gyanesh also expressed concern over the decline of the joint family system, which, he observed, has contributed to an increase in the number of old-age homes. He advised the younger generation to cultivate the values of togetherness, mutual respect and caring for elders within the family.
Shri M. G. Basavanna, Headmaster of JSS High School, delivered the introductory remarks and welcomed the gathering. Students of the school rendered the invocation. Smt. H. V. Divya compered the programme, while Shri Shamraj proposed the vote of thanks.
The heads of the institution, senior citizens, staff members and students were present at the programme.