Lucknow, January 22 : On the occasion of the first death anniversary of Dr. Jagdish Gandhi, the founder of City Montessori School and an inspiration to future generations, a large gathering of people paid heartfelt tributes at a memorial event held at the CMS Kanpur Road auditorium. Attendees not only remembered Dr. Jagdish Gandhi with deep admiration but also drew inspiration from his life and philosophy. On this occasion, CMS Founder-Director and renowned educationist Dr. Bharti Gandhi unveiled a grand statue of Dr. Jagdish Gandhi at the CMS Kanpur Road Campus premises, dedicating his everlasting memories and inspirational personality to the public. The presence of representatives from various religions further enhanced the sense of religious harmony. Prominent religious figures present included Achyut Prapannacharya Shri Arvind Shastri and Pt. Hari Prasad Mishra from Hinduism, Shri Firangi Mahli and Maulana Sufiyan from Islam, Shri H.S. Jaggi from Sikhism, Father Jason Joseph from Christianity, Shri Sheel Ratan Bhante from Buddhism, Sister B.K. Radha Behan from the Brahmakumaris, and Ms. B. Mohajir from the Bahá’í faith. They unanimously described Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s philosophy as a source of inspiration for all.While unveiling the statue, Dr. Bharti Gandhi said that Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s entire life was dedicated to the bright future of coming generations. Though he may not be physically present with us today, his ideals and unwavering commitment to education continue to illuminate countless lives. Besides, Dr. Bharti Gandhi planted a sapling to pray for societal peace and prosperity and released white doves as a symbol of spreading the message of peace across the world.
The tribute ceremony witnessed the participation of thousands of CMS teachers, parents, and staff members, along with a large number of distinguished citizens, who paid homage to the departed soul through collective prayers. A key highlight of the event was the release of a book titled “Education for World Peace – Dr. Jagdish Gandhi”, based on his life. Authored by Shri Ajay Srivastava, the book was launched by CMS Foundress Dr. Bharti Gandhi. In this book, Shri Ajay Srivastava has beautifully and uniquely chronicled the extraordinary life of Dr. Jagdish Gandhi in simple and eloquent language. The tribute ceremony commenced with a traditional havan (ritualistic prayer), followed by an interfaith prayer and world unity prayer at the CMS Kanpur Road Auditorium. CMS music teachers paid a heartfelt tribute by performing Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s favorite songs and hymns.
On this occasion, Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s daughter and CMS Manager, Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, prayed for the peace of his soul and said, “Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s extraordinary life serves as an inspiration for all of us, and every CMS student, teacher, parent, and staff member is wholeheartedly dedicated to carrying forward his invaluable legacy.” His daughters, Dr. Sunita Gandhi and Dr. Nita Gandhi, along with his grandson Roshan Gandhi and other family members, also paid their tributes during the event.