New Delhi, 11 February 2026

Dr. K. A. Paul has returned to India after a series of high-level engagements in Washington, D.C., and New York, where he met senior U.S. lawmakers and international leaders to mobilise support for the Global Peace Prayer Festival scheduled for February 22 in Chennai. Following his return, he issued a nationwide call of “Chalo Chennai,” urging citizens and leaders to participate in the landmark peace gathering.

Addressing a press conference today at Andhra Bhawan, New Delhi, Dr. Paul shared details of his recent visit. During his engagements in the United States, he met members of the U.S. Senate and Congress from both Republican and Democratic parties. He also met the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mr. Mike Johnson, who publicly expressed support for India and the proposed peace initiative. Dr. Paul stated that these interactions reflect growing international encouragement for India-led efforts to advance global peace.

Positioning the initiative as a humanitarian and non-political platform, Dr. Paul emphasised that the world currently faces numerous major conflicts resulting in significant loss of life and economic strain. He asserted that India must step forward to lead a global movement focused on dialogue, reconciliation and stability, with the United States acting as a strategic partner in strengthening peace initiatives.

In a significant appeal for national unity, Dr. Paul formally invited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Leader of Opposition Shri Rahul Gandhi to attend the Chennai gathering as Chief Guests. He said their joint presence on a common platform dedicated to peace would send a strong message of unity within India and demonstrate bipartisan commitment to global harmony.

Dr. Paul also extended invitations to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Shri M.K. Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Udhayanidhi Stalin, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister Shri A. Revanth Reddy, Members of Parliament and leaders across party lines.

Reiterating the slogan “Chalo Chennai,” Dr. Paul described it as a people’s movement calling upon citizens, elected representatives, faith leaders and international delegates to converge in Chennai on February 22 in support of global peace. He said the initiative seeks to place peace above politics and project India’s moral leadership on the world stage.

The Global Peace Prayer Festival aims to connect participants across nations and amplify India’s voice in international peacebuilding efforts. Dr. Paul urged media organisations to provide extensive coverage and help carry India’s message of peace to a global audience.