Godhra’s Gandhi Ashram, a forgotten historical site in run-down state, in dire need of revamp

Once a hub of political awakening and nation building, a place where Mahatma Gandhi’s voice echoed with messages of reform, and where prominent national leaders once walked its corridors, is now in a state of neglect in Godhra. 

The Gujarat government will mark Gujarat Sthapana Divas at Godhra in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Acharya Devvrat are slated to visit Godhra on Thursday.

As the celebrations of the foundation day have begun across the state including Panchmahal district, Godhra’s Gandhi Ashram awaits the attention of the authorities. 

The 108-year-old ashram now lies in a dilapidated condition. Currently, around 30 underprivileged students reside in the ashram and attend nearby schools. 

If renovated, this historically significant site could potentially become a prominent tourist destination in Godhra. 

While Gujarat Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism boast a rise in tourism and tourist numbers in Gujarat, a prominent site with historical importance lies in utter neglect.

An old prant office in Godhra, where Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel began his journey as an advocate, also lies in a state of disrepair.

Gandhi Ashram, Godhra- Where it all started

The Gandhi Ashram in Godhra was established in 1917. This site holds great historical significance in India’s struggle for independence, as it is the place where, on November 5, 1917, Mahatma Gandhi launched his campaign against untouchability and organised a meeting for the cause. 

At that time, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, practising law in Godhra, also attended the meeting and was deeply influenced by Gandhi’s speech. After the speech, Patel met Gandhi and decided to join him permanently in his mission.

It was at this ashram that Gandhi instructed Mohammad Ali Jinnah to speak in Hindi, instead of English. This suggestion reportedly hurt Jinnah’s sentiments. It is also said that the Quit India Movement originated from this place. Notable visitors meeting Gandhi at this location include Mama Fadke, Maulana Azad, Babu Rajendra Prasad, and Thakkar Bapa.

The walls of this ashram bear the weight of its forgotten legacy and ache for attention from the state government and local authorities for a revamp.