A Warm Reception with a Resplendent Celebration of World Unity and Cultural Diversity in ‘Nawabon ka Shahar’ Lucknow
The second day of the 26th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World (ICCJW) dawned in Lucknow with a remarkable spirit of unity, cultural grandeur, and international camaraderie, as the CMS family welcomed Chief Justices, Judges, Heads of States, and other eminent dignitaries from all over the world. On their way from Delhi to Lucknow, some of our distinguished delegates visited Agra to experience the timeless splendour of the Taj Mahal, marvelling at the architectural elegance and cultural legacy that continues to captivate humanity.
A Morning of Intellectual Conversations: Dr Joshua Lincoln’s Interactive Session
The day commenced with an engaging session for students led by Honourable Dr Joshua Lincoln (Senior Fellow, Centre for International Law and Governance, Fletcher School of Global Affairs, Tufts University, USA). He interacted with senior CMS students in a powerfully thought-provoking session on global citizenship and the future of shared humanity. His dialogue delved into themes of contemporary relevance, such as the responsibility of contributing to global solutions, the ethical dilemmas of AI governance and the regulation of private actors, and the subtle yet formidable influence algorithms exert over individual choice.
The intellectually invigorating exchange encouraged students to remain aware, reflective and ethically grounded, highlighting the idea that the youth must remain active participants in shaping the world they will inherit.
A Grand Reception in Lucknow: Cultural Night at CMS
The celebrations continued into the evening with the Cultural Night, a spectacular tribute to India’s artistic heritage and global harmony. Chief Guest Shri Brajesh Pathak, the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, graced the occasion with his distinguished presence, transforming the event into a memorable celebration of cultures, ideas and international unity. His address extended a warm welcome to more than 156 Chief Justices, Judges, Heads of States, and other Eminent Dignitaries from 51 countries, acknowledging the collective wisdom they bring to this landmark convergence.
In his address, Shri Brajesh Pathak highlighted that the presence of such eminent jurists has illuminated Lucknow’s prestige on the world stage and emphasised that the ‘City of Nawabs’ has historically symbolised ‘Unity in Diversity’ and inclusive coexistence. The message of unity emanating from this conference, he stated, is a matter of immense pride for every citizen of the city.
Shri Brajesh Pathak took this occasion to honour the distinguished delegates in attendance, including:
- Hon’ble Mr Stjepan Mesić, former President of Croatia
- Hon’ble Dr Pakalitha B. Mosisili, former Prime Minister of Lesotho
- Hon’ble Mr Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana
- Hon. Mr Osbert R. Frederick, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Antigua and Barbuda
A Vision Rooted in Article 51 – For the World’s Youngest Citizens
Welcoming Shri Brajesh Pathak and the distinguished dignitaries, CMS Founder-Director Dr Bharti Gandhi expressed heartfelt gratitude and reaffirmed that the conference moves the world closer to the cherished dream of the late Dr Jagdish Gandhi—world unity, world peace and a safe future for the younger generations.
Conference Convenor and CMS Manager, Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, extended her sincere thanks to the international delegates, reiterating that some of the world’s most eminent people have assembled to deliberate on behalf of the world’s 2.5 billion children and the non-voters, in whose name the future will be shaped.
A Night of Joy, Culture & the Spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
At the vibrant ‘Cultural Night’ at CMS Rajajipuram Campus I, students, educators, and principals extended a warm welcome to the delegates with floral garlands, live band, and folk music. The spectacular Dandiya presentation by students and teachers enthralled the audience. A breathtaking drone show with twelve synchronised formations lit up the night sky to symbolise the timeless Indian message: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — The world is one family. It was a spectacular embodiment of CMS’s vision of Jai Jagat and a symbolic gathering of the world’s finest jurists, united with the vision of safeguarding the future of 2.5 billion children of the world.