Kigali, 20 April 2019
Good afternoon. Let me start by welcoming all of you to Kigali for Ram Katha, especially those visiting Rwanda for the first time.
It is an honour for Rwanda to host this unique spiritual event. Please feel at home and get the most out of your time here in our country and your country.
I first learned of Morari Bapu from Ashish Thakkar. I want to thank Ashish and his family for their role in bringing Ram Katha to Kigali.
Most importantly, I want to thank our special guest, Bapu, who is no stranger to Africa for choosing Rwanda and being here in our country for the next nine days. We hope you will feel comfortable and secure for the coming days.
I also want to thank all of you for coming at this particular time. This month, we are commemorating 25 years since the genocide that happened in 1994. We truly appreciate this gesture of solidarity, which reflects the principles of truth, love, and compassion that are central to Bapu’s teaching.
In Rwanda, we relate very closely to these three human values. Over the last two-and-a-half decades, Rwandans have engaged in a constant process of conversation and collective action to overcome the exact opposite, namely falsehood and hatred.
The efforts and sacrifices made by Rwandans and friends of Rwanda throughout this complex journey have given us a country to be proud of today.
The example of Ram Katha is one of tolerance and inclusion. I have learned of the concrete lessons that are often given about the importance of breaking down taboos and barriers among people, both within societies and around the world.
This serves as inspiration for everyone, everywhere, to find the strength to live together in a spirit of mutual respect and harmony. Ultimately, we all aspire to have the opportunity to live our best lives and contribute to the well-being of others.
This is why we are pleased to host Ram Katha in Kigali and to have you in our midst. We trust that you will have a chance to get to know our country and our people. And also find a reason to keep coming back, where you are very welcome.
Bapu, once again, I wish to welcome and also thank all of you, and I convey my best wishes for a satisfying Ram Katha. Thank you very much.