Vandals targeted the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi in London’s Tavistock Square this week, just days before Gandhi Jayanti celebrations kick off on October 2. The attack happened on Monday, sparking outrage from the Indian community and beyond.
The bronze statue shows Gandhi in a peaceful seated meditation pose, but offenders covered its plinth with offensive anti-India graffiti. The High Commission of India in London called the vandalism “shameful” and slammed it as a direct assault on Gandhi’s core principles of peace and non-violence. In a strong statement, they said: “This isn’t just mindless damage—it’s a violent strike against non-violence, right before the International Day of Non-Violence, and it insults the Mahatma’s enduring legacy.”
Indian officials quickly reported the incident to local authorities and sent a team to the site to help restore the statue. The Metropolitan Police and Camden Council are now leading the investigation into the Mahatma Gandhi statue vandalism in London.
This isn’t the first time the spot has honored global peace efforts. Unveiled in 1968 by sculptor Fredda Brilliant with backing from the India League, the monument marks Gandhi’s time as a student at University College London. Its simple inscription reads: “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869–1948.” Over the years, Tavistock Square has become London’s beloved “peace park,” dotted with meaningful memorials. These include a cherry tree for Hiroshima bombing victims, a field maple for the United Nations’ 1986 International Year of Peace, and a 1995 granite tribute to conscientious objectors.
Every October 2, the square draws crowds for Gandhi Jayanti events, where people lay flowers and sing Gandhi’s favorite bhajans. The United Nations recognizes the date as the International Day of Non-Violence, making this vandalism especially upsetting as it hits right at the heart of the site’s peaceful vibe.
The incident has upset not just Indian expats but anyone who cherishes Tavistock Square as a symbol of harmony and remembrance. As the probe continues, many hope the statue returns to its dignified state soon, ready for the upcoming tributes.
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