Sabarmati Ashram Gujarat: An Overview

Introduction: Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram, originally called the Satyagraha Ashram, is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Established in 1917, it was initially housed at the Kocharab Bungalow, belonging to barrister Jivanlal Desai, before moving to its current location. The Ashram became a significant centre for Mahatma Gandhi’s work during India’s struggle for independence, where he lived from 1915 to 1933. It was a place for peaceful protests, debates, and meetings, playing a key role in the nonviolent resistance movement against British rule.

The Ashram’s strategic location near Saint Dadheechi’s temple allowed Gandhi to conduct his revolutionary work effectively. Today, the Sabarmati Ashram stands as a symbol of Gandhi’s legacy and the power of nonviolent protest in India’s fight for freedom.

Sabarmati Ashram History

The original Sabarmati Ashram was established in May 1915 at Jivanlal Desai’s Kochrab Bungalow, located about 10 kilometres from its present site. Desai, a barrister and close associate of Gandhi, offered his bungalow to serve as the first base for Gandhi’s nonviolent struggle. However, as the need for more space grew to accommodate activities such as farming and animal husbandry, the Ashram was relocated to a 36-acre site on the banks of the Sabarmati River on June 17, 1917. This new location provided the ideal environment for Gandhi to carry out his vision of self-reliance and peaceful resistance.

The Ashram played an important role in the Indian freedom movement as it served as a house for various initiatives aiming to destroy the chains of colonialism. Gandhi cultivated and honed the nonviolent resistance, the Satyagraha, within the walls of the Ashram.

There are significant events that took place in the Ashram.

Some of them are-

1. Champaran Satyagraha (1917)
2. Kheda Satyagraha (1918)
3. Non- Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)
4. Dandi March (1930)
5. Quit India Movement (1942)
6. Last Resistance of Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi embarked on his final journey from the Ashram. They took his mortal remains from the Sabarmati Ashram, which marked Gandhi’s final resistance

Who lives in Sabarmati Ashram?

Residents of Sabarmati Ashram can be broadly categorized into two groups:

• Religious Community: A dedicated group of individuals who live at the ashram and follow the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. They practice a simple lifestyle, focusing on community service, self-sufficiency, and khadi production (handwoven cloth).
• Staff Members: The ashram employs staff members to manage the museum, guest house, and other operations. These include curators, security personnel, maintenance workers, and administrative staff.

While the exact number of residents fluctuates, it likely consists of a few dozen people from the religious community and a smaller group of staff members.

Summarizing key information about Sabarmati Ashram

Aspect	Details
Location	Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Established	1917
Founder	Mahatma Gandhi
Historical Significance	Museum and centre for preserving Gandhi’s legacy
Key Events	Launch of the Salt March in 1930
Main Attractions	Open all days, entry is usually a free or minimal fee
Present Use	Open all days, entry is usually free or minimal fee
Open to Public	Yes
Other Names	Satyagraha Ashram
Visitor Information	Open all days, entry usually free or minimal fee

Objectives of Sabarmati Ashram

The Sabarmati Ashram, established by Mahatma Gandhi, served several key objectives:

• Promoting Non-Violent Patriotism: The Ashram fostered a sense of service to India without resorting to hatred or violence. It emphasized peaceful resistance as a means to achieve national liberation.
• Spiritual Growth and Social Responsibility: The Ashram aimed to cultivate spiritual development in individuals while upholding a commitment to social justice. It wasn’t about personal gain but about contributing to the betterment of society.
• Stewardship and Responsibility: The Ashram instilled a sense of responsibility in its residents. It emphasized using one’s talents and resources, given by society and a higher power, for the greater good.

In essence, the Sabarmati Ashram served as a training ground for individuals dedicated to India’s freedom struggle through non-violent means, social responsibility, and personal growth.

How to Reach the Sabarmati Ashram?

Aspect	Details
Location	Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI), is located 4.2 km from the Ashram.
Nearest Airport	Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI), located 4.2 km from the Ashram.
Airport Transport	Taxi fare to the Ashram: 300-400 INR.
Accommodation	Hotels near the Ashram start at 1072 INR per night.
Nearest Railway Station	Ahmedabad Junction, with convenient transport options like auto-rickshaws to the Ashram.
Public Transport	Efficient bus network with local buses available at a low cost, showcasing daily life in Ahmedabad.
Visitor Experience	Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad, is significant for Mahatma Gandhi’s ideologies and the Indian independence movement.
Significance	Central to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision and the history of India’s struggle for independence.

Mahatma Gandhi and Sabarmati Ashram

The Sabarmati Ashram was a special place where Mahatma Gandhi practised and taught his important ideas. His core ideas were his twin, the pillars of truth (Satya) and nonviolence (Ahinsa).

Gandhi believed that ideas were very important tools for personal and societal growth. When he interacted with the local community, he found these values violated and aimed to address these issues. The Ashram became the platform to think about these issues. Mahatma Gandhi was a person with dedication. While working with them, he showed people how to live by these ideas in everyday life.

Gandhi made his clothes and thread to showcase simplicity by using “Chakra,” which is present in the Ashram. He made people realize that they should not depend on the British rulers and be self-sufficient in everyday chores.

Why Did Mahatma Gandhi leave Sabarmati Ashram?

Mahatma Gandhi’s decision to leave Sabarmati Ashram in 1933 stemmed from a confluence of factors:

• Vision for a New Community: Gandhi desired to establish a self-sufficient ashram environment focused on practical activities like agriculture, animal husbandry, and khadi production (handwoven cloth). He envisioned an ashram that could demonstrate his ideals of self-reliance. Sabarmati, with its limited space, wasn’t ideal for these endeavours.
• A Search for Suitable Land: Gandhi sought a more barren, rural location that would be better suited for his vision of an agricultural and craft-based community. This new ashram would serve as a model for rural development in India.
• Symbolic Significance (Uncertain): There’s a less-confirmed reason suggesting Gandhi may have been drawn to a location with a historical connection. Some believe he sought a place associated with the mythological sage Dadhichi Rishi, who supposedly sacrificed his bones for a righteous cause. This potential connection could have held symbolic meaning for Gandhi.

Sabarmati Ashram Drawing & The Present Architecture

Sabarmati Ashram, once Mahatma Gandhi’s residence, now serves as a museum and a living monument to his legacy. Here’s a look at its key architectural features:

• Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya: This museum houses exhibits and artefacts related to Gandhi’s life and philosophy.
• Hridaya Kunj (Heart Hut): This was Gandhi’s personal residence during his stay at the ashram. It’s likely preserved in its original state, offering a glimpse into his simple lifestyle.
• Nandini Guest House: Located near Hridaya Kunj, Nandini provides accommodation for visitors interested in learning more about Gandhi’s life and work.
• Vinoba Kutir (Mira Kutir): Originally named after Acharya Vinoba Bhave, a follower of Gandhi, this cottage was later occupied by Mirabehn, a British follower who embraced Gandhian principles.
• Upasana Mandir (Prayer Ground): This open-air space served as a venue for communal prayers. Here, Gandhi addressed individual questions and offered guidance, fostering a sense of community.
• Magan Niwas: This hut was the residence of Maganlal Gandhi, Gandhi’s cousin and the ashram manager. He was considered the “soul of the ashram” for his dedication to its smooth functioning

Tracing the Dandi March

As the name suggests, The Dandi March was a March to a place called Dandi. This was an amazing event of history led by Mahatma Gandhi in his journey of independence. It happened in 1930, led by Gandhi and his followers.

Gandhi did this March as a symbol of breaking the British unfair rules and laws. The Sabarmati Ashram played a crucial role as the starting point of this March. Gandhi, with his followers, set out on this 240-mile journey from the Ashram to the coastal town of Dandi.

The Dandi March demonstrated the strength of unity and peaceful protest. It was a turning point in India’s fight for freedom with a wave of civil disobedience.

Sabarmati Ashram Regulations, Entry Fee & Timings

Aspect	Details
Ashram Timings	8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Key Places to Visit	Magan Niwas, Hriday Kunj, Vinobha-Mira Kutir, Udyog Mandir, Somnath Chhatralaya, etc.
Special Event	Spinning Wheel Demonstration: Watch the spinning wheel in action at these times:
	– Morning: 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
	– Evening: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee	Free entry
Guided Tours	Available for school tours and large groups, upon prior notification.
Photography/Videography	Allowed without charge
Visitor Dress Code	Appropriate attire is advised to maintain the dignity of the Ashram
Prohibited Activities	Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use are strictly prohibited
Parking	Free parking available within Ashram premises
Open on Holidays	The Ashram is open every day, including public and private holidays.

Exploring Sabarmati Ashram

Many areas in the Sabarmati Ashram give us a peek into Mahatma Gandhi’s life and his journey for the independence of India. Some buildings are-

Gandhi’s Living Quarters

• Hridaya Kunj, Gandhi’s living quarters, was the heart of his philosophy and discussions.
• It was here that he conversed with fellow freedom fighters and wrote influential works.

Museum and Exhibits

• The museum takes visitors through Gandhi’s life, showcasing personal letters, photographs, and belongings.

Notable Artefacts and Displays

• Key items on display include Gandhi’s iconic spinning wheel, representing his self-sufficiency movement.
• Other displays include manuscripts, artworks, and relics from his fight for India’s freedom.

Experience for Visitors

• Guided tours are available to help visitors uncover the Ashram’s historical significance.
• Guides share detailed stories about Gandhi’s life and pivotal events that unfolded at the Ashram.

Also Read:-

Quit India Movement – August 8, 1942

What is the Chipko Movement in India?

What is Non-Cooperation Movement: A Brief Overview

Sabarmati Ashram on Map

If you plan to visit the Sabarmati Ashram, you can easily spot it as it stands along the banks of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. There are many attractive landmarks nearby, which makes exploring Ahmedabad more interesting. Some of the landmarks are

Gujrat Science City

• It is located close to the Sabarmati Ashram. It is an interactive science museum and educational centre that offers engaging exhibits regarding science and IMAX theatre, with various hands-on activities to perform.

Kankaria Lake

• It is a large lake located in Ahmedabad. It offers boating, a park, and a zoo.

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

• It is a historic mosque in Ahmedabad.

Adalaj Stepwell

• These are unique stepwells that once provided water and a place to rest.

Akshardham Temple

• It is a spiritual and cultural centre with carved sculptures, stunning gardens, and an enlightening exhibition.

Sabarmati Ashram Events

The Sabarmati Ashram, a place steeped in Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and social justice, keeps his ideals alive through various events held throughout the year. Here’s a glimpse into some of these events:

• Gandhi Death Anniversary (January 30th): A solemn prayer meeting is held at Hridaykunj, the heart of the Ashram, to commemorate the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi on the anniversary of his passing.
• Republic Day (January 26th): The Ashram celebrates Republic Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony, marking a national day of significance.
• Independence Day (August 15th): The spirit of freedom resonates at the Ashram with another flag-hoisting ceremony, honouring India’s Independence Day.

These events, along with others held throughout the year, serve as a powerful reminder of Gandhi’s values and their continued relevance in the world today. Visitors to the Ashram can participate in these events and gain a deeper understanding of Gandhi’s vision for a just and peaceful society.

Sabarmati Ashram- A Symbol of Hope

During the struggle for India’s freedom, Sabarmati Ashram became a centre point for Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance and social reform. It has a deep connection with Mahatma Gandhi’s life and philosophy. The Ashram was more than a physical space. It was a hope and inspiration for millions of people in India who aspired to be a free nation from British rule.

10 Lines on Sabarmati Ashram

1. Sabarmati Ashram, on the banks of the Sabarmati River, was Mahatma Gandhi’s residence and a centre for India’s freedom struggle.
2. Established in 1917, it served as a hub for Gandhi’s experiments with truth, non-violence, and self-reliance.
3. The simple ashram buildings reflect Gandhi’s principles of simple living and high thinking.
4. Hridaykunj, the heart of the Ashram, was Gandhi’s living quarters.
5. The ashram housed activities like spinning, weaving, and education, promoting self-sufficiency.
6. From here, Gandhi launched the Dandi March in 1930, a pivotal moment in India’s fight for independence.
7. Today, the ashram is a museum, preserving Gandhi’s legacy through exhibits and memorials.
8. Visitors can experience the simplicity of Gandhi’s life and learn about his philosophy of Satyagraha.
9. Sabarmati Ashram serves as a reminder of India’s non-violent struggle for freedom and its enduring message of peace.
10. It’s a place of inspiration for all who seek social justice and positive change.

Frequently Asked Questions: Sabarmati Ashram