Mahatma Gandhi's statue unveiled in London

The unveiling of the statue marked the 100 years since Gandhi returned to India from South Africa.

The 9-foot bronze statue was unveiled by Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

British Prime Minister David Cameron, Gandhi's grandson Gopalkrishna Gandhi and Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan were present at the event.

Posting pictures of the event, Jaitley tweeted: "Unveiling the statue of Gandhiji in the Parliament Square in the presence of Prime Minister of United Kingdom."

David Cameron said the statue is a 'magnificent tribute to one of the most of the towering figures in the history of world politics'.

"This statue celebrates the incredibly special friendship between the world’s oldest democracy and its largest. I think of the one and a half million Indians who do so much to make Britain the country it is today. I think of the growing trade between our countries," he said

"But I also think of the way we have both pursued Gandhi’s vision of different faiths living together in harmony. We are proud to be multi-racial, multi-ethnic democracies. And we will always stand together against those who would seek to destroy the societies we have built," the PM said.

Appreciating the sculptor, he said: "British sculptor, Philip Jackson, has done an incredible job."

Superstar Bachchan, who was present at the event, tweeted: "A moment in history - the unveiling of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Parliament Square, London, and invited to read from his work. At the unveiling the respect and dignity given .. so humbling. David Cameron, Arun Jaitley, Gopal Gandhi and self on stage ! Honour."

He further said: "My 4th visit to historic 10, Downing Street.. the meeting with the PM of GB, and walking with him and other dignitaries to event !"
 

Image: Arun Jaitley twitter page