The longstanding connection between Mahatma Gandhi and Sri Lanka was highlighted at the inauguration of the special exhibition “WE THE PEOPLE – The Global Journey of Non-Violent Movements after Gandhi,” held at the National Gandhi Museum, Rajghat, in New Delhi, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, with the participation of the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, Mahishini Colonne.

Participating as a Guest of Honour at the invitation of the National Gandhi Museum, the High Commissioner recalled Gandhi’s historic visit to Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, in 1927, during which he travelled across the island and interacted with its people, including students. She reflected on the lasting influence of Gandhi’s philosophy in Sri Lanka and how his ideals were translated into grassroots action.

The exhibition also featured the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement, founded by the late Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne. Drawing on Gandhian principles of non-violence, self-reliance, service and community empowerment, the movement developed Shramadana (the sharing of labour) into a community development initiative across Sri Lanka.

The High Commissioner highlighted the significance of Sarvodaya’s inclusion in the exhibition, noting that Sri Lanka had not merely adopted Gandhian ideals but had developed its own approach to putting them into practice through community participation.

Organised to mark Gandhi’s birth anniversary and the International Day of Non-Violence, the exhibition showcased movements from around the world inspired by the principles of non-violent action.

The exhibition will remain open to visitors at the National Gandhi Museum until January 2027.

High Commission of Sri Lanka
New Delhi

09 October 2026