For Mangesh Rajan Borkar, the grand-nephew of Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis, an Indian medic who became a wartime hero in China, the commemorations on Wednesday to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War were deeply personal and profoundly.
The commemorative event was attended by foreigners who contributed to the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, and their families.
Dr. Kotnis left his family 87 years ago to offer his medical skills to Chinese civilians and soldiers wounded in the war, and to help train Chinese medical personnel. He succumbed to illness from overwork at the young age of 32.
"I was really touched by President Xi's speech, where he really stressed on reflecting back on the history, commemorating the heroes of the war, the fallen soldiers of the war, including Dr. Kotnis, and drawing wisdom from that history, and focusing on peaceful coexistence, focusing on building a shared future, where there is solidarity, mutual trust, peace, building a future for humanity where peace will prevail, where people's sovereignty can be protected, and there is global peace across the world. That's what touched me the most," said Borkar.
Borkar also reflected on China's modern defense capabilities, which were showcased during the event. While acknowledging the technological advancements, he emphasized China's peaceful intentions.
"I think what left me the lasting impression was I believe the display and showcasing of the high-tech weapons, that China has come a long way with its defense system. China has now a capability to combat any enemy that attacks China, but China wants to hold a peaceful stance. That is one thing that I would like to stress on," said Borkar.
China's V-Day commemorations show nation’s commitment to peace: grand-nephew of Indian doctor
