Grateful Ahmedabad recalls Mahatma Gandhi’s contributions

Mahatma Gandhi's 142nd birth anniversary celebrations at Gandhi Ashram in the city on Sunday began with sarvadharma prarthana (all-religion prayers) on Sunday morning. Gujarat Governor Dr Kamala also attended the event and paid her tribute to Gandhi.

The function was organised by Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust.

The prayer function was held in the veranda of Gandhi's cottage in the ashram. After the prayers, the trust invited Dr Kamala to share her thoughts on Mahatma Gandhi's vision. The Governor spoke on the contribution made by Gandhi to nation-building and on the need to practice Gandhian values in daily life.

On this occasion, Dr Daksha Patni, who has written several books on Gandhian philosophy, explained some key ideas of Bapu and how he had applied them in different political situations. Patni explained how the Mahatma had handled all political controversies with the same ease and smile on his face.

The Gandhi Jayanti celebrations continued at the Ashram after the morning prayers. A blood donation camp was held. besides a sangeet sandhya programme by Sarang Club and the launch of a signature campaign in support of Irom Sharmila who has been on fast in Manipur for the last 10 years.

The flow of visitors at Gandhi Ashram was much greater than other days with both kids and elders visiting the place.

The shop inside the Ashram which sells mementoes and books on Gandhi as also books written by him, also witnessed an increase in sales. Sumitraben at the sales counter said that, like every year, this year too sales had shot up by around 50% on Gandhi's birthday.

Ashram authorities said that, on Sunday, the Ashram was visited by around 8,000 people. Many more children, foreigners and elderly people could be seen posing for a photograph near Gandhiji's statue at the ashram.

Bhagat Singh, who works for the air force, has been living in Ahmedabad for the last two years. He was among the visitors to Gandhi Ashram on Sunday and had come to the place for the first time.

"As it is Gandhiji's birthday today, I felt I should try to learn more about Bapu. So I came here with my wife and friends. We bought some mementoes and books to keep Gandhiji close to us," he said.