New Delhi, December 4 (IANS). The world will remember Nelson Mandela, the most intense face of the global struggle against apartheid and the great leader who gave South Africa a new identity, on Friday (December 5). Mandela, the former president of South Africa and Bharat Ratna laureate, who gave a new direction to the struggle for human rights and equality, died on December 5, 2013, but his legacy remains the world’s loudest voice against racial injustice. Nelson Mandela fought against the oppressive system of apartheid in South Africa. He dedicated his whole life to fighting apartheid. Because of this, he had to spend 27 years of his life in prison, but still no one could break his courage and his spirit. After he was released from prison in 1990 after 27 years, he chose the path of peace and brotherhood in the country. After this, in 1994 he became the first black president of South Africa. His tenure was not limited to governance alone but was a comprehensive initiative to unite people from different sections of society. Nelson Mandela had a deep connection with India. He considered Mahatma Gandhi as his inspiration and following the path of Mahatma Gandhi, he chose the path of non-violence. In 1990, Mandela was awarded the country’s highest civilian honor ‘Bharat Ratna’ by the Government of India. He has said on many occasions that India’s freedom struggle and Gandhi’s nonviolence were decisive in determining the direction of his life. He was so influenced by Gandhi’s ideals that he began to follow his path and learned the lessons of non-violence and unity. This is the reason why he was called the Gandhi of Africa. Nelson Mandela was not only a politician, but was also considered a symbol of courage, sacrifice and humanity. He learned that no matter how difficult the struggle, it is important to stand on the path of justice and equality. –IANS KK/DSC Share this story Tags