Journalist and author Faruk Mehedy received the Mahatma Gandhi Goodwill Award on Sunday for his contributions to promoting Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence, peace and communal harmony.
The award was presented at a ceremony organised by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Liberation War Museum in Dhaka to mark the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, according to a press release.
Mehedy, a business journalist, has worked to promote Gandhi’s ideals through his association with Gandhi Ashram Trust and his documentary Shantir Agradoot (Pioneer of Peace), which explores the life and work of the Indian independence leader.
“Receiving an award is always a source of joy,” Mehedy said, describing the recognition as one of the most memorable moments of his life.
He said he had sought to follow Gandhi’s principles throughout his journalism career while contributing to efforts to spread the message of non-violence and secular values.
Water Resources Minister Shaheed Uddin Chowdhury Anee, speaking as chief guest, called for greater harmony and goodwill in Bangladesh amid rising public expectations following the student-people’s uprising.
“Mahatma Gandhi was a pioneer of peace and harmony. His ideals continue to inspire us,” he said.
“We must build a new Bangladesh together, bringing everyone on board.”
Mahbub Uddin Khokon, who attended as a special guest, proposed developing a tourism circuit around Gandhi Ashram in Sonaimuri, Noakhali, while expanding efforts to promote Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence.
Khokon said he regarded himself as a guardian of the ashram as a representative of the area.
Indian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pavan Kumar Badhe said peace, empathy and harmony were essential to building a humane society, particularly amid growing division and conflict.
He said Gandhi’s life and work continued to demonstrate the enduring importance of those values.
Born on 2 October, Gandhi remains a symbol of non-violent resistance. His birthday is observed globally as the United Nations’ International Day of Non-Violence.
The event highlighted the continuing relevance of his philosophy and sought to reinforce efforts to promote mutual respect across religious and ethnic communities.
Gandhi Ashram Trust Board of Trustees Chairman Jiban Kanai Das, a retired major, chaired the programme.
ABM Hamidul Mezbah presented a paper, while Gandhi Ashram Trust CEO and Director Raha Nabakumar moderated the discussion.
