Arun Gandhi to speak on nonviolence Feb. 9 as part of Auburn University’s Year of India

The Auburn University Office of International Programs, or OIP, will host Arun Gandhi, grandson of the legendary Mohandas Gandhi, for a public lecture titled "Lessons Learned From My Grandfather: Nonviolence in a Violent World," on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. in Foy Hall Auditorium as part of OIP’s Year of India.

The Auburn University Indian Music Ensemble will provide a special performance as part of the event and a reception will follow in the lobby.

Born in South Africa in 1934, Gandhi experienced enormous prejudice due to the color of his skin. At the young age of 10, he became a victim of racial violence and in turn became angry, bitter and violent himself.

To spare him the fate of growing up in that environment, his parents took him to live with his grandfather in India. It made an impression; the young Gandhi learned the rudiments of the philosophy of nonviolence and how to peacefully navigate relationships. Concerned with terrorism, violence and anger in the world, Gandhi speaks on his grandfather’s philosophies as well as how to quell and mitigate unrest.

"When we invited Dr. Gandhi to speak on campus as part of the Year of India, we knew his topic would resonate with our community," said Andrew Gillespie, assistant provost for international programs. "But as worldwide events unfolded we realized just how important his message of hope and peace in the face of turmoil and conflict truly is."

The Year of India includes events throughout the 2015-2016 academic year highlighting the people, cultures and history of India. At Auburn, India is the second most common country of origin among international students. Upcoming events hosted by OIP in conjunction with the Indian Student Association include Republic Day, Cricket on Cater and Holi and the Festival of Colors. For more information about the Year of India and the Office of International Programs, go to www.auburn.edu/international.