“Seven Years of Spreading the Message of Mahtma Gandhi: Truth, Nonviolence, and Love
Prepared By Gandhi Memorial Society of Central Ohio March 27, 2025
Accomplishment Report of the Gandhi Memorial Society (2017-2024)
“Seven Years of Spreading the Message of Mahtma Gandhi: Truth, Nonviolence, and Love
Purpose of this Report:
This report highlights key achievements in fundraising presentations, outreach efforts, and raising awareness. It also demonstrates to members, donors, and supporters that GMS can advance its goals with their support.
Name of the Organization: Gandhi Memorial Society (GMS)
Mission Statement: The GANDHI MEMORIAL SOCIETY (GMS) was established on December 17, 2017, to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth, nonviolence, and love to the world. In so doing, the GMS also wants to illuminate the lives of other leaders like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, and others who followed in Mahatma Gandhi’s footsteps.
The purpose of the GMS is implemented by Various Activities Such As:
1. Raising awareness of the importance of truth, nonviolence, and love in day-to-day social life to promote higher values of life.
2. Exhibition and sale of books and other materials promoting the principles of Truth, Nonviolence, and Love, as exemplified by the lives of Mahatma Gandhi, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, and others.
3. Celebrating and commemorating events in the lives of Mahatma Gandhi. 4. Screening movies on the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
5. Publicizing these activities through regular and social media, such as the Website, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
The GMS is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit charitable organization approved by the IRS. Report Title: Accomplishment Report 2017-2024
Date of Reporting: March 2025
Organization’s Contact Information: Manubhai Bhatt – Chairman of the Trustee Board, and Sheetal Parikh – President
Executive Summary
The GANDHI MEMORIAL SOCIETY (GMS) was established
on December 17, 2017, to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s
message of truth, nonviolence, and love to the world. In
so doing, the GMS also wants to illuminate the lives of
other leaders like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson
Mandela, and others who followed in Mahatma Gandhi’s
footsteps.
Mission, Vision, and Values
• Mission: To spread Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth, nonviolence, and love to the world.
• Vision: A world where the principles of truth, nonviolence, and love are integral to daily life.
• Core Values: Truth, nonviolence, love, peace, equality, and social justice. These principles guide the organization’s work and inspire its activities.
Accomplishments and Impact
The programs and events organized by GMS have significantly impacted the spread of Mahatma Gandhi’s message, especially among students and younger people. These initiatives have fostered a deeper understanding of the principles of truth, nonviolence, and love.
Key Achievements of the Gandhi Memorial Society of Central Ohio (GMS): GMS has arranged many activities and events to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s messages on truth, love, peace, equality, and nonviolence. Some of the major ones are listed below.
1. Exhibition of Books and Posters – January 29, 2018:
This event, held at the Columbus Metropolitan Library in downtown Columbus, showcased a variety of books and posters highlighting Mahatma Gandhi’s principles.
2. Exhibition of Books and Posters – May 26, 2018:
This event was held to observe Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary, emphasizing his enduring legacy.
3. Free Screening of the Movie “Gandhi” – October 4, 2018:
The Drexel Theater on Broad Street in Columbus, OH, hosted a free public screening of the film Gandhi, which attracted a large audience.
4. Free Screening of the Movie “A Force More Powerful”:
This screening further promoted the principles of nonviolence and social change.
5. 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Celebration – September 2019: A grand celebration marking the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi The award winning titles in the 150th anniversary essay competition were:
• Is it important that students learn about the principles and life of Gandhi today? • Can living by Gandhi’s principles help solve world problems today?
• Can Gandhi’s principles of love and nonviolent civil disobedience be used to eliminate school violence?
6. Postmark Canceling – October 2, 2019:
The U.S. Postal Service revealed a commemorative stamp for
Mahatma Gandhi, with a special postmark indicating the first
day of issue.
7. Speech Essay Contest – April 25, 2021:
A speech contest for children aged 6-25 on “Mahatma Gandhi—His life and what I have learned from it” was held. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held virtually, with Consulate General Shri Jaiswal attending. Details on the support from the India Consulate will be added.
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8. Honoring Dr. Rajmohan Gandhi – September 8, 2022: In collaboration with The Ohio State University, GMS hosted Dr.
Rajmohan Gandhi (Grandson of Mahatma Gandhi), who shared
insights and personal stories about Mahatma Gandhi.
9. 152nd Mahatma Gandhi Birth Anniversary Celebration –
October 2, 2021:
A celebration to honor Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.
10. Essay Contest 2019:
Held in the Dublin School System, this contest encouraged students to reflect on Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings.
11. Bhajan Sandhya – December 8, 2023:
A musical evening that promoted positivity and cultural values.
12. Bhajan Sandhya – October 2, 2024:
Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti, the Birthday of
Mahatma Gandhi, with inspirational talks and
bhajans.
13. Bhajan Sandhya – February 2, 2025:
An event featuring bhajans and a fancy dress
competition for children, celebrating India’s
journey to becoming a republic.
Supporter Acknowledgements
GMS deeply appreciates the tremendous support from donors, supporters, and volunteers. It is only with their support, GMS could carry out its mission.
The Gandhi Memorial Society (GMS) extends its heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters, donors, and volunteers. Your unwavering commitment and generosity have been instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of spreading Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth, nonviolence, and love. We want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate your contributions:
1. Individual Donors: Your financial contributions, whether large or small, have provided the essential resources needed to organize events.
2. Businesses: We sincerely thank our corporate sponsors for their support. Your partnerships have enabled us to host large-scale events, such as Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary celebration and the commemorative stamp unveiling. Your
involvement supports our mission and demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility.
3. Volunteers: Our dedicated volunteers are the backbone of GMS. Your time, energy, and skills have been invaluable in organizing events, managing logistics, and engaging with the community. Your passion for Mahatma Gandhi’s principles shines through in everything you do, and we are incredibly thankful for your efforts.
4. Community Partners: Collaborations with local businesses, schools, and other organizations have enriched our programs and expanded our reach.
5. Event Sponsors: Special thanks to those who have sponsored specific events, such as the Bhajan Sandhya evenings and the speech essay contests.
6. Board Members and Advisors: Our board members and advisors’ guidance and leadership have been instrumental in shaping our vision and strategy. Your expertise and dedication ensure that GMS remains true to its mission and continues to grow.
Your support has been the cornerstone of our achievements over the past seven years. Together, we have made significant strides in promoting Mahatma Gandhi’s message and creating a more peaceful and just society. We look forward to your continued involvement as we embark on new initiatives and further our mission.
Future Programs
• Showing the movie Gandhi.
• A new play by Satyapriya – the life, beliefs, and messages of a famous spiritual and political leader.
Call to Action
GMS values the support of its donors, supporters, and communities for upcoming events. Your involvement is essential to advancing our mission and creating a lasting impact. The Gandhi Memorial Society (GMS) has made progress in promoting truth, nonviolence, and love, but we need your continued support. Here are the ways to get involved:
• Attend Our Events: Join our screenings, lectures, and cultural events to show solidarity with our cause.
• Volunteer Your Time: Help organize events, manage outreach programs, and assist with administrative tasks.
• Donate: Financial contributions sustain our activities and expand our reach. Donations can be made through our website or at our events.
• Spread the Word: Share our mission and activities with friends, family, and social networks.
• Follow us on social media.
• Become a member: Join GMS to stay informed about our latest initiatives and receive exclusive updates.
• Businesses: Partner with us as a corporate sponsor for valuable support and visibility within the community.
• Educational Outreach: Incorporate Mahatma Gandhi’s principles into school curricula.
• Collaborate with Us: Partner with organizations sharing similar values to amplify our impact. • Share Your Ideas: Provide input for new programs, events, or initiatives that align with our mission.