On January 30th, 2024, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in partnership with the India-Taipei Association, hosted a special screening of the film Gandhi at the SPOT Huashan Cinema. The event marked the 76th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s passing and highlighted the shared values of freedom and human rights between Taiwan and India. Both parties expressed hope for deeper dialogue and cooperation in the future.
NHRC Chairperson Chen Chu spoke passionately about Gandhi’s legacy, emphasizing his commitment to non-violent resistance and civil disobedience during the struggle against British colonial rule. She noted that the people of Taiwan, in their pursuit of democracy, freedom, and human rights, have drawn inspiration from Gandhi’s peaceful methods of resistance, which helped guide Taiwan through its own democratic transformation from authoritarianism. Chairperson Chen hopes the screening will promote greater human rights education in Taiwan, deepening understanding of both Gandhi's global impact and India’s rich cultural heritage.
Manharsinh Yadav, Director General of the India-Taipei Association, shared a personal connection to Gandhi, hailing from the same region as the iconic leader. He noted that Gandhi’s writings, which he frequently engages with in his mother tongue, have profoundly influenced his life and continue to inspire leaders around the world, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. Director General Yadav expressed hope that the screening would similarly inspire the people of Taiwan.
The screening also marked the first official collaboration between the NHRC and the India-Taipei Association, drawing an audience of over 130 attendees, including diplomats, media representatives, and members of the Indian community in Taiwan. Notable attendees included NHRC Vice Chairperson Tsai Chung-yi, Commissioners Wang Yu-ling and Tien Chiu-chin, along with Control Yuan Members Fan Sun-lu and Shih Chin-fang.