Gandhi Jayanti is also not a national holiday but a day to remember Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of truth, non-violence, simplicity and service. Bengaluru has a number of places where one might spend the day learning about the Mahatma’s life, looking at India’s history or thinking about the good he preached.
If you’re going to have a fun day in Bengaluru on Gandhi Jayanti, these places can be part of a thoughtful day dedicated to Bapu’s legacy.
Gandhi Bhavan: The main stop for Gandhi Jayanti.
Gandhi Bhavan in Kumara Park East should be one of the first places on the list. The Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi was established to preserve Gandhi's memory and spread his message to future generations.
The Gandhi Bhavan complex includes a picture gallery, library and facilities connected with Gandhian literature and educational activities. The library has more than 10,000 books related to Gandhi and Sarvodaya literature.
A visit here can be very meaningful on October 2, when people gather at the beginning of October to remember Gandhi and reflect on what he was taught.
Mahatma Gandhi's Bengaluru Connection
Gandhi had a historical connection with Bengaluru. According to the Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi, the site of Gandhi Bhavan is located in the Kumara Park area, where Gandhi stayed while visiting the old Mysore State in 1927.
This makes the area interesting to visitors who are interested not only in Gandhi’s philosophy but his connection with Karnataka.
Mahatma Gandhi Park: A Quiet Place for Reflection
Mahatma Gandhi Park on MG Road can provide a quieter experience. The park was renamed in honor of Gandhi and a monument to him and excerpts of his words are given.
The park also has greenery and areas for recreation and reflection. A visit here can be combined with a peaceful walk and a few moments away from the city’s busy routine.
Lalbagh: Remember Gandhi Amid Nature
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is not a Gandhi memorial but it can be included in a Gandhi Jayanti day because of its connection to Bengaluru's history and public life.
Historical accounts show that Gandhi visited Bengaluru in 1915 and received a public welcome in Lalbagh.
Today visitors are able to spend a peaceful morning in the gardens and think about Gandhi's ideas of simplicity and a life closer to nature.
Gandhi Centre of Science and Human Values.
Gandhi Centre of Science and Human Values at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan on Race Course Road is another place connected with Gandhian thought. The centre offers educational and cultural activities and keeps the resources related to Gandhi and human values.
Visitors interested in the intellectual and philosophical side of Gandhi can consider including this institution in their Gandhi Jayanti plans.
Make Gandhi Jayanti a meaningful day.
Instead of treating October 2 as a holiday, Bengaluru residents can take this day to learn, reflect and remember Gandhi’s message. On a visit to Gandhi Bhavan, and then to a peaceful visit to Mahatma Gandhi Park or Lalbagh, the day can be made into a little trip down the history.
Gandhi Jayanti can also be a reminder that remembering a historical figure is not only about visiting monuments. It can be about reflecting on values such as truth, non-violence, simplicity, compassion and service in everyday life.
