Kenyan President William Ruto made a symbolic gesture of respect during his inaugural state visit to India on Tuesday. At the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in New Delhi, Ruto adhered to the site’s rules by removing his shoes before walking on the hallowed grounds. The memorial, also known as Raj Ghat, is a significant site dedicated to the revered Indian leader who played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence.
Ruto, accompanied by a delegation, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by walking in socks at the memorial. The rules at Raj Ghat dictate that visitors must either walk barefoot, in socks, or occasionally wear slippers as a mark of reverence. The Kenyan President also participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial park, where Gandhi was cremated, and joined in a brief prayer led by officials.
Established at the location of Gandhi’s cremation, Raj Ghat is a national shrine recognized for its architectural design, earning multiple awards. The simplicity of Gandhi’s ideals is reflected in the park, characterized by grass lawns and trees. Notably, trees at the site have been planted by influential world leaders, including Queen Elizabeth II.
The memorial park also features museums dedicated to various leaders such as Lal Bahadur Shashtri, Indira Gandhi, Jawaharalal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, and Sanjay Gandhi. An eternal flame adjacent to Gandhi’s memorial symbolizes the enduring impact of his principles.
This isn’t the first instance of President Ruto removing his shoes as a sign of respect. Previously, during the G20 meeting hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders like US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also adhered to the tradition, walking in socks or barefoot. Some opted for felt slippers, particularly during inclement weather.
President Ruto’s gesture at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial underscores the universal reverence for Gandhi’s legacy and the symbolic importance of respecting cultural traditions during diplomatic visits.