Dignitaries Join Hands at IIC for Release of World Brotherhood Charter
World Brotherhood Organisation (WBO), marking its 25th year of fostering global peace, harmony, and human fraternity, hosted the inaugural World Brotherhood Day at India International Centre, New Delhi. Highlight of the evening was the release of the World Brotherhood Charter and taking of the Member’s Pledge, reaffirming the collective vision of “One World, One Family.”
The program opened with a cultural performance, followed by the lamp-lighting ceremony and a two-minute silence for victims of terrorism, symbolising the urgency of building peace in a world increasingly divided by conflict and violence.
In his powerful address, Shri Kapil Khanna, President of WBO, reminded the gathering that “peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, empathy & mutual respect.” He invoked the teachings of the Upanishads (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family) and the Sikh Gurus (Manas ki jaat sabhe ek hi pehchanbo – recognise the entire human race as one), underscoring Bharat’s civilizational role in guiding humanity through values of fraternity and inclusiveness.
He also connected the significance of 11th September with history – recalling Swami Vivekananda’s address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, which electrified the world with India’s message of universal brotherhood. While the same date in 2001 became a symbol of terror & division, he said, “today in 2025, we reclaim this day for dialogue, harmony and reaffirmation of one humanity.”
The distinguished panel of dignitaries included:
Shri Harsh Malhotra, Hon’ble Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways and Corporate Affairs, Govt. of India
Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Former Union Minister for Minority Affairs
Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture
Each of the leaders shared their reflections on the importance of fraternity and harmony in today’s times:
Harsh Malhotra, the Hon’ble Minister consistently championed the values of unity, inclusive development and social welfare. In his address, he underscores that development is not merely a catalyst for economic growth—it is a powerful instrument for connecting communities across regions and fostering mutual integration. By highlighting the importance of compassion and equal opportunity, he reinforces the belief that true development must embrace every segment of society, ensuring that progress is both equitable and humane.
Meenakshi Lekhi ji highlighted India’s unwavering commitment to peace and global brotherhood, emphasizing that cultural diplomacy and humanitarian aid reflect the nation’s inclusive worldview. She affirms that compassion must rise above borders and political differences, serving as a guiding principle in India’s engagement with the world.
Shri Mukhta Abbas Naqvi emphasized India’s pluralistic fabric, where people of all faiths coexist peacefully. He frames brotherhood not just as a political ideal but as a lived reality in India’s social landscape. He critiques divisive politics, defends and appreciates the organizations that promote nationalistic values and global brotherhood.
The evening culminated in the release of the World Brotherhood Charter, which sets out a roadmap for collective global action and reaffirmed commitment through the Member’s Pledge. The program concluded with the National Anthem and a fellowship dinner.
In the Closing Remarks, gratitude was extended to the dignitaries, members, and supporters of WBO. The audience was reminded that the Charter is not just a document, but a call to action – to live brotherhood in daily life, to build bridges where there are walls, and to heal where there is division.
Looking ahead, WBO announced a bold roadmap for the next 25 years, including:
Monthly World Brotherhood Dialogues across India and globally
Partnerships with the United Nations, NGOs, universities, and international forums
The establishment of the World Brotherhood Charter as a guiding document for citizens worldwide
The annual observance of World Brotherhood Day on 11th September, starting this year
The event was both a commemoration of 25 years of service and a clarion call to the future — reminding the world that while terror divides, brotherhood unites; while violence destroys, fraternity heals.
