November 6, 2024 – The World March for Peace and Nonviolence arrives in Mumbai this week, marking a significant milestone in its mission to promote peace, unity, and nonviolence. With a comprehensive agenda of meetings, discussions, and public engagements, the Mumbai leg of the march is set to involve students, faculty, dignitaries, NGOs, and members of the Humanist Movement in a series of events focused on building a collaborative vision for a peaceful future.

By Rukaiya Joshi

Day 1: Reception at Mumbai Airport
On Wednesday, November 6, the World March team will be welcomed at Mumbai Airport at 4:30 PM. The reception will include a gathering of local dignitaries, NGOs, and collaborators, as well as prominent members of the Humanist Movement. The welcome event aims to foster connections between the marchers and local peace advocates, setting the tone for a meaningful and collaborative exchange.

Day 2: Events at Valia College and University of Mumbai. Students of 30+ colleges have been taking learning and activities of WWW&V under NSS.
Over 600 students and 50+ guests including the Great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, Mr Tushar Gandhi, principals and professors of colleges will participate in the mega event on Thursday, November 7, the World March team will kick off their day at Valia College at 8:30 AM, where they will meet with the college principal and trustees, guests. After a short meet-and-greet, participants will enjoy a light snack before moving into the auditorium for a special program running from 9:00 to 10:00 AM.
Where Rafael, Tushar Gandhi, students and professors will talk on making this world without wars and violence.
It will be followed by a Peace March of 1.5 km where students will walk with posters on peace and non-violence made by them
The team will lead a Peace March from 10:15 to 11:00 AM, culminating in the creation of a human peace symbol (☮️) – a powerful visual demonstration of unity and commitment to nonviolence at Bhavan’s College.

This symbolic gesture will be accompanied by an oath of peace, a rendition of the Indian national anthem, and the formal dispersal of participants.

After the program will conclude, some guest will leave for lunch with Rafael, providing time to connect and discuss shared visions for peace.

Afternoon Session at University of Mumbai:
Post lunch, the team will visit the Psychology Department’s Mahatma Gandhi Peace Center at the Kalina Campus of the University of Mumbai. Dr. Vivek, Head of the Psychology Department and Chairperson of the Centre for Peace at the University of Mumbai, has organized a 3:00 PM meeting to facilitate a meaningful dialogue with the World March team. This session will explore opportunities for future collaboration between the University and the World March initiative.

The meeting, scheduled for about an hour and a half, will focus on sharing insights, discussing peace-centered initiatives, and identifying ways in which the World March’s message of nonviolence can be supported and expanded within the academic community.

Note on Logistics and Food Arrangements
Both Valia College and the University of Mumbai have extended their hospitality by arranging refreshments for the World March team. As a large crowd is expected to be on the roads for Chhath Pooja celebrations, organizers have accounted for extra travel time between events to ensure smooth transitions throughout the day.

About the World March for Peace and Nonviolence
The World March for Peace and Nonviolence is a global initiative uniting individuals and organizations from around the world in a collective stand against violence and war. Through organized marches, discussions, and partnerships, the initiative works to build a worldwide community dedicated to nonviolence, social justice, and unity. Mumbai’s participation in the World March underscores the city’s commitment to these values, creating an inspiring example of local-global collaboration in action.

As the team leaves Mumbai on Thursday evening, the spirit of their mission will remain with the city, resonating in the hearts and minds of those who have been touched by their message.