Fighting AIDS, the Gandhian way

NEW DELHI: Inspired by Bollywood character Munnabhai, a group of Gandhians here have launched a campaign against HIV/AIDS by urging people in a 'Gandhian style' to keep themselves away from illicit relationship.

Activists of the 'Universal Peace Foundation' are distributing 'Gandhigiri' pamphlets, which contains the messages of Mahatma Gandhi on values like being trustworthy in relationships and on the institution of wedding.

The pamphlet urges people to take a pledge that they will keep away from illicit relationships before or after marriage and will be faithful to their partner throughout their life.

It also contains passages from sacred texts of various religions like Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism, Zorastrianism and Ba'ahai.

The campaign was designed under the guidance of eminent jurist L M Singhvi, who died on Saturday.

"We are trying to reach out to the masses using the Mahatma's teachings to fight against HIV/AIDS," David McLackLand, a Britisher associated with the campaign, told.

MacLackland, also a consultant with a charitable trust 'Inter-religious and International Federation for World Peace', said they chose the principles of the Mahatma because his ideals have an universal appeal.

Gandhiji also spoke on length about the need for adhering to family values, he added.