On the occasion of Gandhi’s birth anniversary on October 2, Netherlands is hosting numerous celebratory functions as a tribute to the man who stayed firmly rooted to the cause of non-violent movement and led India to its independence from the British Raj. The Indian embassy has launched a unique campaign- ‘ Follow the Mahatma which has garnered a lot of support from several prominent institutions, organizations and individuals advocating non-violence.

Netherlands is hosting its first ever  'Gandhi March' which will be held starting from the Peace Palace to the Grote Kerk in the Hague. People of all nationalities are expected to join the march which is the first such large-scale event in the country.

The campaign has also roped in schools to spread the message of non-violence, tolerance and peace to schoolchildren in the Netherlands. People across the country have been invited to participate in the special social media campaign and mark the day with themes relating to non-violence and Gandhi.

As cycling is considered an integral part of Dutch culture, the Gandhi Memorial trust of India has sent a bicycle personally used by Gandhi as a special gesture. It will be displayed for the public at the Grote Kerk in the Hague. Indian author Pramod Kapoor will launch his new book in Dutch titled Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography on the occasion.

The Netherlands stands by Gandhi's views and beliefs on truth, non-violence and peace as is evident by the number of streets named after him and his statues in a few cities in the country.