Mahatma Gandhi International Centre inaugurated in Matale by Sri Lankan President

The President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena on 22 November 2015 inaugurated the Mahatma Gandhi International Centre (MGIC) inaugurated in Matale. The Indian High Commissioner YK Sinha was also present at the inauguration ceremony.

The center was inaugurated as a tribute to the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi to humanity and the continuing relevance of his principles and philosophy to mankind.

Main highlights of the MGIC

• The centre was built at a cost of over 4 crore rupees
• The Centre consists of an auditorium, library, meditation centre and a conference hall.
• It was funded under the Indian government's Development Cooperation Partnership with Sri Lanka.
• The Urban Development Authority of Sri Lankan government was the consultant for the project.
• It will provide a platform to reinforce the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and promote harmony among different communities
• It will enrich the lives of people through meditation and yoga and can also be used as a resource centre for cultural activities
• It will also help the youth to enhance their knowledge in various fields through seminars, workshops and conferences.

Background

The MGIC was built at the request of the Mahatma Gandhi Sabha at Matale which was opened by a local group of citizens following Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Matale in 1927. In 1947 Sri Lankan government gave the society land and a small building was constructed in 1952. The society functions on the principles and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi.

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