GUATEMALA (TIP): In a landmark event symbolizing the enduring values of peace, non-violence, and India-Guatemala friendship, the Hon’ble Vice President of the Republic of Guatemala, Dr. Karin Herrera, and the Ambassador of India to Guatemala, H.E. Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, jointly unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Embassy premises today. The solemn and graceful ceremony was attended by around 200 distinguished guests, including Ambassadors and diplomats, senior government officials, dignitaries from various institutions, members of the Indian diaspora, and friends of India.

The programme commenced with the national anthems of India and Guatemala, followed by the formal unveiling of the bust. Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra welcomed the guests and highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless relevance in today’s world, emphasizing that Gandhi’s ideals continue to resonate globally and inspire movements for justice, peace, and human dignity. In her remarks, Vice President Dr. Karin Herrera expressed admiration for Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy, underlining his influence on world leaders and his message of non-violence as particularly relevant to today’s interconnected yet divided world. The cultural segment of the programme featured soulful renditions of songs dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and performances by local artists and members of the Indian community, creating a deeply reflective and festive atmosphere. The event concluded with light refreshments and interaction among attendees.

This bust is one of four recently received from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, New Delhi, as part of India’s continued effort to promote the universal values embodied by Mahatma Gandhi. The other three busts were handed over to the Association of Don Bosco to be installed at their institutions across the Alta Verapaz region. With the addition of these four, Guatemala now hosts seven busts of Mahatma Gandhi in various prominent locations. The first Gandhi bust in Guatemala was installed in Tecpan. The second bust at the prestigious premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was jointly unveiled by Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, and the Guatemalan Foreign Minister in January 2023. The third was installed at the Municipality of Livingston and unveiled in December 2023 by Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra and Hon’ble Mayor Mr. Daniel Esaú Pinto Peña to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Guatemala.  One the three busts handed over to Association of Don Bosco was unveiled on 23 June 2025 in Raxruha. Other two will be unveiled shortly.

The unveiling of this seventh Gandhi bust at the chancery premises today holds special significance. Positioned at the heart of India’s diplomatic presence in Guatemala, this installation stands as a permanent reminder of India’s moral and spiritual contribution to the world and serves as a source of inspiration for all visitors. Globally, busts and statues of Mahatma Gandhi have been placed in over 100 countries, including in front of parliaments, universities, and city squares. Each of these installations reinforces India’s commitment to the values of peace, non-violence, dialogue, and democratic coexistence. The presence of Gandhi’s likeness at the Indian Embassy in Guatemala is not only a tribute to the Mahatma’s philosophy but also a symbol of the deepening bilateral partnership between India and Guatemala.

The event concluded with renewed commitment from both nations to uphold Gandhian values in international cooperation, people-to-people ties, and efforts to build a more peaceful and sustainable world.