Monument celebrates Gandhi’s enduring message of peace and non-violence and marks another milestone in India–North Dakota relations

By:  Vandana Jhingan 

In a historic milestone for India–U.S. cultural relations, North Dakota has unveiled its first life-size statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Peace Park in downtown Bismarck, the state capital. The installation, facilitated by the Consulate General of India in Seattle with support from the Indian American community of North Dakota and the North Dakota Trade Office, celebrates Gandhi’s enduring legacy of peace, non-violence and humanity.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by North Dakota First Lady Kjersti Armstrong, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring and the Consul General of India in Seattle, along with officials of the Bismarck Parks and Recreation District and members of the Indian American community.

The ceremony opened with the national anthems of the United States and India, followed by musical presentations of Gandhi’s favourite hymns by local school students. Held during the year marking Mahatma Gandhi’s 157th birth anniversary, the event added special significance to the worldwide observance of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, which is also recognized by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Addressing the gathering, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring highlighted the growing friendship between India and North Dakota. He observed that Gandhi’s message transcended national boundaries and resonated with people across the world, including the people of North Dakota. He described the statue as a lasting symbol of peace and non-violence.

First Lady Kjersti Armstrong expressed her admiration for Gandhi and said it was an honour to celebrate his legacy. She emphasized that his message was particularly relevant in today’s world, perhaps more than ever.

Located at 400 East Front Avenue in downtown Bismarck, Peace Park was developed shortly after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks as a place dedicated to peace and reflection. The park already features a Peace Pole installed by the Gandhi Peace Network of North Dakota, along with other bronze sculptures. Gandhi’s statue now joins these installations, strengthening the park’s identity as a public space dedicated to peace, understanding and harmony.

The installation also reflects the expanding relationship between India and North Dakota. Since the establishment of the Consulate General of India in Seattle, engagement with the state has steadily increased. Visits by the Consul General in 2024 and 2026 included meetings with the Governor, Bismarck’s Mayor and leaders from agriculture, business and education.

The Consulate has also organized cultural and consular outreach in Fargo, including celebrations of the International Day of Yoga 2026 and a consular camp in February. North Dakota Trade Office delegations have also visited India as part of continuing exchanges aimed at strengthening commercial and institutional partnerships.

The Bismarck monument is the latest addition to the Consulate’s efforts to promote Gandhi’s legacy across the Pacific Northwest and Midwest. Previous installations include statues at the base of Seattle’s Space Needle in October 2024, the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln in December 2024, and the Mansfield Center at the University of Montana in Missoula in March 2026. Along with the earlier monument at Bellevue Public Library, installed in October 2009, the Bismarck statue is the fifth Gandhi monument within the Seattle Consulate’s jurisdiction.

Beyond its significance as a cultural installation, the statue represents a shared commitment to the universal values Gandhi championed. His message that peace, non-violence and mutual respect can transcend political, cultural and national differences continues to inspire generations.

For North Dakota’s Indian American community, the monument is also a source of pride—a permanent recognition of India’s heritage and its contribution to the global message of peace.