My Gandhian Adventure:
Down the Memory Lane
Fifty-five years ago, I was blessed with a golden opportunity that would shape my life. As a young girl, in II UG, I had the privilege of visiting several Gandhian centres across India, guided by senior Gandhians. Interactions with leaders, writers, and fellow students became unforgettable experiences in my life.
I was part of a select group of energetic, bright, and socially committed college students from across Tamil Nadu, chosen through an essay competition with the theme, "My Life is My Message." This was more than just a trip; it was an immersion into the very heart of India's freedom struggle and the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.
Our journey began in Chennai, where we had the rare chance to meet two of my favourite Tamil novelists, Ahilan and Jayakanthan, at our first meeting. As we travelled to Pune and Bombay, we encountered iconic leaders, including the legendary Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan. But it was Vinobaji who left the most lasting impression. His simplicity was matched only by the grandeur of his words. I vividly recall him quoting from Thiruvasagam, passionately reciting in Tamil, “திருவாசகம் அறியாதார், ஒரு வாசகமும் அறியார்”. His voice carried the weight of wisdom and it still echoes within my being.
The places we visited were equally profound. The samadhis of Gandhiji, Nehruji, and Shastriji left me in awe. I remember the simple cottage where Gandhiji stayed, his personal belongings preserved as a testament to his humble yet powerful life. A visit to the Yerwada Central prison, the iconic Marine Drive in Bombay, along with the Gateway of India, were moments of reflection, as was the Kamala Nehru Park at the top of Malabar Hill, Prince of Wales Museum etc .
These experiences did broaden my understanding of India. I remember writing about this life-changing experience in my college magazine 1970-71. The impact it had on my young mind was truly significant.
The lessons I learned from those Gandhian leaders and the places I visited continued to shape the way I looked at the world.
Fifty-five years later, the memories of that incredible journey remain fresh in my heart. Now in my old age, several memories of those meaningful moments, vividly flash across my mind.
"Old age, believe me, is a good and pleasant thing. It is true you are gently shouldered off the stage, but then you are given such a comfortable front stall as spectator." — Confucius
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