During a recent climate protest event organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust in Dhaka, Khalidi emphasized the impact of people power in global climate protests. He noted that both Gandhi and Bangabandhu initiated non-violent movements against oppressive powers, facing violent opponents in the process. Gandhi's indirect impact post-1947 led to severe violence in India, while Bangabandhu's non-violent protests were met with brutal force by the Pakistani army. The resistance that both our heroes faced took on different forms, but ultimately they emerged victorious. Khalidi points out that the influence of pioneering leaders such as Gandhi and Bangabandhu can be seen in the ongoing climate protests organized by young activists worldwide. The recent #ShutdownDC protest brought thousands to the US capital, disrupting traffic without resorting to violence. Khalidi emphasizes the urgent need to address the devastating impact of climate change on the planet and its inhabitants, noting that this issue is more destructive than all the wars in human history combined. The protesters are calling for action to combat the extreme effects of climate change and create a fair and safe society, echoing the work of Gandhi and Bangabandhu in their lifetimes. Khalidi and historian Dr. Muntasir Mamun spoke at a seminar organized by the Gandhi Ashram Trust to commemorate the 150th and 100th birth anniversaries of the founding fathers of India and Bangladesh. The event, held at the National Museum in Shahbagh, was also attended by Agriculture Minister Dr. Mohammed Abdur Razzaque, former fisheries and livestock minister Narayon Chandra Chanda, Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das, and Gandhi Ashram Trust’s Chairman Swadesh Roy. Razzaque discussed Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's impact on contemporary issues during the event. Photo: Mostafigur Rahman stated that religion had a significant impact on politics during the era of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu, but both leaders never advocated for politics based on religion. The agriculture minister emphasized that Bangabandhu understood early on that religion should not be intertwined with politics. Gandhi also condemned religious extremists who exploited religion for their own agenda, referring to them as enemies of the people. The minister recounted how the Awami Muslim League was established after separating from the Muslim League and eventually removed the term "Muslim" from its name. Razzaque, a member of the Awami League's presidium, stated that at the time, the Muslim League was seen as equivalent to religion. Speaking out against the Muslim League was seen as speaking out against religion. He mentioned that Bangabandhu took steps against the Muslim League. The minister also emphasized that Gandhi's words and strategy remain relevant today. He pointed out that Gandhi successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of nonviolence and non-cooperation movements in his struggle against the powerful British forces. Nonviolent resistance relies on participation and inspiration, making it more effective, according to High Commissioner Riva Das. She emphasized Mahatma Gandhi's belief that strength comes from righteousness, power comes from truth, and victory comes from moral courage. She pointed out that history shows violence only leads to more violence and hatred. Das also mentioned Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr as examples of successful leaders who achieved change through nonviolence. She encouraged everyone to apply the ideals of Gandhi and Bangabandhu in their daily lives, not just during specific events. Narayon Chandra Chanda, a former minister and member of parliament, emphasized the importance of the youth of Bangladesh embracing the spirit of the Liberation War as they pursue development, in order to honor Bangabandhu and the freedom fighters by creating a diverse nation. Speaking at an event to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Narayon highlighted the unwavering commitment of both leaders to nonviolent resistance and the pursuit of people's rights, even in their personal lives. Despite facing corruption allegations, Bangabandhu's integrity remained unquestionable, as he never compromised on his principles. Professor Muntasir Mamun, a history professor at Dhaka University, spoke at an event organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. In his speech, Professor Mamun highlighted Gandhi's religious piety and his separation of politics from religion. He also mentioned the upcoming publication of intelligence reports on Bangabandhu, stating that there is no evidence to suggest that he used religion in politics. Professor Mamun criticized the Awami League and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for incorporating religion into their policies after Bangabandhu's death. Journalist Swadesh Roy encouraged the youth to follow the example set by two great leaders in order to address global issues. The seminar was moderated by Raha Naba Kumar, Director of the Trust. Khalidi highlighted how both Gandhi and Bangabandhu used their networking skills, love for people, and personal sacrifices to inspire the masses in leading their countries' fight for freedom. He emphasized that the impact of these leaders goes beyond their lifetimes and their stories are still relevant in addressing current problems and injustices worldwide. Khalidi also pointed out that the most significant climate offenders are the wealthy and powerful individuals. The primary culprits are the advanced economies, highly industrialized societies, capable of causing rapid destruction multiple times over, according to Khalidi. Both Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman stood up against the powerful in their lifetimes, teaching the world how to confront and defeat them. It is believed they continue to do so in the afterlife. Toufique Imrose Khalidi, the Editor-in-Chief of bdnews24.com, spoke at a discussion event organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum on Thursday to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. A British think tank reported that Bangladeshi households are spending nearly Tk 158 billion each year on repairing damages caused by climate change and taking preventive measures. Khalidi mentioned that this amount is significantly higher than the funding provided by international donors and the government of Bangladesh, forcing rural families to redirect their resources towards combating the impacts of climate change. This situation is leading families to borrow from informal sources at high-interest rates, causing them to fall further into poverty. That information comes from the International Institute for Environment and Development. Khalidi stated that both Gandhi and Bangabandhu would have spoken up to help these families, even though they are no longer here. They still influence the world today. For example, Bangabandhu's leadership from afar garnered international support despite opposition from powerful nations during the Bangladesh liberation war in 1971.