This weekend, we had the pleasure of traveling to Wardha, Maharastra, about an hour's train ride from Nagpur, to see the Sevagram Ashram. This ashram is of particular importance because it was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, when he decided to make a head quarters in Central India. Many important political meetings and decisions were made from the mud floors of this austere complex. It was here that Mahatma Gandhi resided until he left in 1946 to advocate for independence among the larger cities of India, which was achieved in 1947. Two years after leaving the Sevagram Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948.
Mahatma Gandhi named the ashram Sevagram, which means village of service saying, "Village improvement is the only foundation on which conditions in India can be permanently ameliorated". He wished Sevagram to shine as an example of village development and community collaboration. Soon Sevagram became a full-fledged institution, with a mix of politicians and worshippers united by the common cause of building a stronger India.
Today, the ashram is still functioning and alive with the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi. There is a small but impressive museum across from the ashram that describes the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his dedication to non-violence and equality. The ashram features several small cottages where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife, and guests stayed. There's a large common ground for prayers surrounded by huge trees and a few gardens. It was wonderful to escape the city for awhile achieve some peace of mind where so many others had made such a profound impact on the future of their country.
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| Trees in the courtyard of Sevagram. |
After the ashram, we took a drive to the country to see green farm lands and a huge lake. Our driver invited us to his home for lunch with his wife and two children. The boys were just finishing high school and were eager to practice their English. We are eternally grateful of all of the hospitality and kindness that others have shown us in India!
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| The family that invited us for lunch. |
