‘Youth seeking direction can draw clarity from Gandhian thoughts’

Lucknow: The ideas of Mahatma Gandhi will remain relevant not only for India but for the world, author and historian Purushottam Agarwal said at a programme on the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Rafi Ahmed Kidwai in Lucknow on Tuesday. The event was organised by the Lucknow Cultural Society. Agarwal said, "Gandhi not only led the national movement but also shaped new approaches to politics and ethics. Gandhi's critique of industrialisation anticipated present concerns such as pollution, environmental damage and climate change." He added that Gandhi also warned about the growing power of the modern state, a concern that continues to hold relevance. A photo gallery displaying images of freedom fighters linked to Kidwai was organised at the All-India Kaifi Azmi Akademy. The exhibition featured archival material from the independence movement. Former minister and MLA Farid Mahfooz Kidwai spoke about Kidwai's organisational role and political work. Historian Hafeez Kidwai spoke about the continuing relevance of Mahatma Gandhi while reflecting on the values shaping the present generation. He said Gandhi's principles of truth, non-violence, social harmony, and ethical public life remain a moral compass at a time marked by rapid change and social strain. Kidwai noted that young people searching for directions can still draw clarity from Gandhian thoughts.