Millions of people across the world remembered Nelson Mandela, the most revered global statesman, who would have turned 104 years old on Monday.
The United Nations in 2009 designated July 18 as International Nelson Mandela Day to celebrate his birthday and also to commemorate the fight against racism and apartheid.
To honor Mandela and his selfless contribution to humanity, South Africans from all walks of life are dedicating 67 minutes of their time to volunteer for good causes.
Born in the village of Mvezo in Eastern Cape province, Mandela spent 27 years in prison for opposing the apartheid regime.
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He became South Africa’s first democratically elected president in 1994.
Despite having been incarcerated for many years, he did not exercise bitterness, rancor or revenge against his tormentors. Instead, he chose reconciliation and forgiveness to unite all racial groups in South Africa. His leadership approach and ability to bring everyone together won him global admiration and the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize.
Also known as the ‘Gandhi of South Africa’, Mandela shared a special bond with India. He was a strong follower of Gandhi’s teachings. In fact, after his release from prison, India conferred him with its highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna. The Indian government also awarded him with the International Gandhi Peace Price in 2001 for his peacemaking efforts.
