“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

This speech of Nielsen Mandela perhaps affirms the reason behind people deriving inspiration from him and his way of seeing things. One of the biggest pillars of democracy and social justice, Nielson Mandela, raised his voice and stood tall against racism not only in South Africa but beyond. He established the first Black Law Firm and turned the struggle of the small nation of South Africa into a worldwide phenomenon. His theory of ‘Never giving up’ actually got reflected into the eyes of all the people shouting slogans of ‘Free Nielson Mandela’ when he was arrested during the Anti-Apartheid movement. Mandela has also tried to fight back HIV or AIDS in 2000 by setting agencies to bring up remedies and medical attention.

Well, this man and the city has a deep connection. Down the memory lane of the city, back in 18^th October 1999, his visit to the city just after getting released from jail made thousands of people gather in the Eden’s Garden stadium. Yes, the city supported his struggle and greeted him with charm and delight. People lined up outside the gates of the Kolkata airport, and the stadium was decorated with floral arrangements and arches, where he received a public reception for his constant courage to battle for the so-called ‘odds of the society’.

7 years back from today, the entire world was taken aback by the departure of the legend, the ideal, Nielson Mandela. During that time and till today, Kolkata remembers Mandela, not just as an anti-apartheid fighter but as a voice of millions, the voice of equality, the voice of independence, the voice of achieving the impossible.

Kolkata still remembers Mandela!