Natraj Youth Cultural Organization (NYCO) has been a trailblazer in commemorating Gandhi Jayanti in
the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) since 2010. Beginning in 2017, NYCO joined forces with the Consulate
General of India, Toronto, to honour Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, with their commitment to
community enrichment through the arts as a constant hallmark.
The UN General Assembly, through a resolution in 2007, designated October 2 as the International Day
of Non-Violence to coincide with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.
In 2019, NYCO expanded its celebration to encompass Vishnu Mandir, amplifying the utilization of Peace
Park, which houses an imposing statue of Gandhi.
Since 2010, NYCO has actively participated in the India Day Parade, garnering acclaim for their latest
float spotlighting women empowerment and millet farming. Notably, NYCO received the honour of
designing the float for the Bhagwat Geeta Mahotsav Shobha Yatra in Toronto for the second time,
marking a resounding success.
The celebration of Gandhi Jayanti took place on October 1, 2023, at Vishnu Mandir from 11:30 a.m. to
1:00 p.m., commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s 154th birth anniversary.
Live singing of Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye by Harkant Patel. At the event, the audience observed
respectful recitation of both the Canadian and Indian National Anthem and Prayers from Vishnu Mandir
Kids.
“This event will enrich our youth’s minds, helping them teach the high morals taught by Mahatma
Gandhiji,” announced Chintan Bhavsar, NYCO Founder and president, in her opening remarks.
“It provides a platform to instill Gandhi’s moral values in the youth and reflect on his profound influence
on India’s struggle for independence and his philosophy of non-violence,” expressed Mr. Siddhartha
Nath, Consul General of India, Toronto.
Globally recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence, October 2 coincides with Mahatma
Gandhi’s birthday. This day is a testament to honouring Gandhi’s enduring legacy and his unwavering
belief in the transformative power of truth and non-violence.
The event is a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, a towering figure of the twentieth century whose life and
teachings have left an indelible mark on the world. Gandhi’s emphasis on karma, non-violence, and truth
is a timeless source of inspiration, fostering honesty, humility, and love while transcending caste, creed,
religion, and nationality barriers.
“Celebrating the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and his principles of non-violence and truth
continue to inspire us all,” reflects Tushar Unadkat, an Advisory Board Member of NYCO. He adds, “Let
us strive to be the change we want to see in the world.”
Chintan Bhavsar endorses Tushar Unadkat for his significant contributions to their organization, lauding
his expertise in the not-for-profit sector. She underscores Tushar’s capacity to promote collaboration
and enhance productivity during board meetings, expressing gratitude for his unwavering commitment
to NYCO’s mission.
NYCO presented a live demonstration of Peti Chakra (Box Spinning Wheel) by Mr. Ramesh Chandra
Trivedi (Management of Kochrab Ashram), Mr. Anand Bhadiyadra.
NYCO extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Consul General of India, Toronto – Mr. Siddhartha Nath,
Mr. Ramesh Chandra Trivedi (Management of Kochrab Ashram), NYCO’s dedicated board members,
devoted volunteers, generous sponsors, Vishnu Mandir, and the ever-supportive-audience-for-their
steadfast support. The event culminates with the timeless words of Mahatma Gandhi, “HARI OM.”
Media supporters:
Mr. Lalit Soni (Gujarat News Line), Mr. Shilpesh Parikh (Gujarat Abroad), Mr. Nilesh Tailor (Swadesh),
Mr. Lalitbhai Thaker (Gujarat Weekly), Mr. Amit Bhatt (Gujarat Express), Neelam Panditpautra (Radio
Muskaan), Global Governance news, India, Pragnesh Patel ( Gujarat No Rankar), Hitesh Jagad ( Dhwani
Community Newspaper ), Tushar Unadkat ( Mukta Advertising )
NYCO thanks Dr. Doobay for hosting the event at the Vishnu Mandir.
Special Acknowledgements
NYCO Board of Directors: Chintan Bhavsar, Ketan Gandhi, N V Sonderva, Praful Bhavsar
Advisory Committee: Asha Aditi Rupareliya, Dr. Mafatbhai Patel and Tushar Unadkat
Executive Committee: Dhruv Bhavsar (Website), Maharshi Bhavsar, Nisarg Lakhmani
Hetav Bhavsar (Photography)
