During a visit to Delhi, the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, attended the opening of a noteworthy exhibition that highlights writings and ideas of Leo Tolstoy and Mahatma Gandhi. The event took place as part of the city’s renowned international book fair, a gathering that draws readers, scholars, and diplomats from across the region and beyond. The moment underscored a shared interest in literary heritage and philosophical ideals that have shaped public life for generations. [Source: DEA News]
In addressing the attendees at the ceremony, Lavrov expressed genuine pleasure at welcoming everyone to an exhibit that honors two towering figures who, though separated by vast distances, converged on questions of humanity, justice, and moral leadership. He emphasized that Tolstoy and Gandhi stood as symbols of spiritual authority and a common worldview rooted in the dignity of every person, the rejection of domination, and the belief in the equality of all peoples. The speaker noted how the values they championed—nonviolence, social equity, and refraining from coercive power—continue to resonate in global dialogues about peace and human rights.
The Russian diplomat highlighted a broader partnership between Russia and India, describing it as grounded in a shared commitment to fostering a more just and democratic, polycentric world order. He argued that today’s international arena benefits from resisting neo-colonial practices that seek to override sovereignty. In his view, legitimate collaborations should respect cultural and civic diversity while upholding the right of each nation to determine its own path without coercion or punitive measures. The remarks reinforced the idea that mutual respect and constructive dialogue are essential for addressing common challenges in a rapidly changing world.
Historical notes add depth to the exhibition’s spotlight: Tolstoy and Gandhi maintained a correspondence that illuminated a cross-cultural exchange of ideas, even though they never met in person. Gandhi himself, in his autobiographical writings, acknowledged the influence of Tolstoy on his own thinking about ethics, leadership, and the responsibilities of individuals within society. This interwoven legacy underscores how literature and philosophy can travel across borders, inspiring movements and personal reflections alike.
The event follows other major cultural showcases organized in the city, including plans for a substantial exhibition marking the 350th anniversary of a renowned Russian ballet, announced for St. Petersburg. Such programs illustrate Delhi’s role as a forum where literature, art, and diplomacy intersect, inviting visitors to explore historic connections and contemporary dialogues that shape the cultural and political landscape of the region.