Gandhi Jayanti: A journey through capital’s peaceful sanctuaries

Walking through the hallowed spaces of Delhi, one is reminded not only of Gandhi’s extraordinary role in shaping India’s freedom struggle but also of the enduring relevance of his teachings today

Amid the hustle and chaos of Delhi’s vibrant streets, certain peaceful spaces quietly honour the legacy of one of the world’s most revered leaders, Mahatma Gandhi. As India commemorates Gandhi Jayanti, these places are not mere historical landmarks but serve as enduring symbols of his teachings on peace, non-violence and justice, offering a deeper connection to his life and philosophy.

Walking through these hallowed spaces, one is reminded not only of Gandhi’s extraordinary role in shaping India’s freedom struggle but also of the enduring relevance of his teachings today. Amidst the fast-paced life of the capital, these places offer visitors a chance to pause, reflect and reconnect with the values of truth and non-violence that he espoused.

For those wishing to connect with Gandhi’s teachings in modern India, these destinations in Delhi offer not just a walk through history, but a journey into the soul of a nation.

Raj Ghat: A Memorial of Silence and Peace

Raj Ghat is not just a place of mourning but a living testament to Gandhi’s vision of peace and harmony in a world fraught with division (Photo: Incredible India)

Nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River, Raj Ghat is perhaps one of the most iconic memorials in India. It is here that Mahatma Gandhi’s last rites were performed and today it stands as a simple yet deeply poignant black marble platform. The atmosphere at Raj Ghat is solemn and reflective. Visitors often walk in silence, honouring the man who led India’s non-violent struggle for independence. The words “Hey Ram,” reportedly Gandhi’s last words, are inscribed on the memorial, serving as a reminder of his deep spirituality and commitment to peace.

Every year, thousands of people, including international dignitaries, visit Raj Ghat to pay their respects. The surrounding greenery, the eternal flame at the memorial and the nearby museum dedicated to Gandhi’s life all contribute to an experience of quiet contemplation. Raj Ghat is not just a place of mourning but a living testament to Gandhi’s vision of peace and harmony in a world fraught with division.

Gandhi Smriti

The house was initially the Birla House, but today it has been transformed into a museum, preserving the memory of the Father of the Nation (Photo: Gandhi Smiriti & Gandhi Darshan)

If Raj Ghat is where Gandhi’s physical journey ended, Gandhi Smriti is where his final days were spent. Located at 5, Tees January Marg, this is the site where Gandhi was assassinated by Nathu Ram Godse, an activist of the far-right movement, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, on January 30, 1948. The house was initially the Birla House, but today it has been transformed into a museum, preserving the memory of the Father of the Nation.

The most haunting part of the visit, however, is the pathway marked with footprints leading to the spot where he was shot. Known as the Martyr’s Column (Photo: Gandhi Smiriti & Gandhi Darshan)

Walking through Gandhi Smriti, visitors can see preserved rooms where Gandhi lived, along with personal items such as his spinning wheel and letters. The most haunting part of the visit, however, is the pathway marked with footprints leading to the spot where he was shot. Known as the Martyr’s Column, this spot symbolises not just the tragedy of his death but also the enduring power of his message of non-violence or ahimsa.

The museum offers multimedia displays, photographs and exhibits on Gandhi’s life, philosophy and role in India’s independence.

National Gandhi Museum

the museum delves deep into the philosophical underpinnings of Gandhi’s movements, from his campaigns for civil rights in South Africa to his leadership in India’s fight for independence (Photo: National Gandhi Museum)

A short distance from Raj Ghat lies the National Gandhi Museum, a treasure trove for anyone interested in the intricacies of Gandhi’s life. The museum houses an extensive collection of books, letters, photographs and artifacts, including Gandhi’s personal belongings such as his sandals, glasses and walking stick.

Beyond the physical exhibits, the museum delves deep into the philosophical underpinnings of Gandhi’s movements, from his campaigns for civil rights in South Africa to his leadership in India’s fight for independence. Exhibits detail his profound belief in satyagraha (truth-force) and non-cooperation as means of resistance.

The National Gandhi Museum isn’t just a repository of historical artifacts, it is a space that encourages dialogue on issues Gandhi held close to his heart, social justice, economic self-reliance and communal harmony.

Gandhi Darshan

Gandhi Darshan is more than just a museum, it is a space of education and activism, regularly hosting seminars, workshops, and discussions aimed at keeping Gandhi’s vision alive in the modern world (Photo: Gandhi Smiriti & Gandhi Darshan)

Located near Raj Ghat, Gandhi Darshan is a sprawling campus that explores Gandhi’s multifaceted philosophy. Established in 1969, on the centenary of Gandhi’s birth, this memorial focuses on spreading awareness of his teachings and their contemporary relevance. The exhibits here delve into Gandhi’s thoughts on subjects like environment, education, and rural development ideas that continue to shape public discourse in India today.

Gandhi Darshan is more than just a museum, it is a space of education and activism, regularly hosting seminars, workshops, and discussions aimed at keeping Gandhi’s vision alive in the modern world. For visitors wanting to see how his philosophy is being put into practice, this centre provides a compelling mix of historical reflection and forward-thinking.

Despite Delhi’s unplanned and chaotic growth, these monuments honouring Gandhi and his legacy remain quiet sanctuaries that offer a contrast to the noise and chaos of urban life. Visiting these spaces allows one to pause and reflect on the values that Gandhi stood for and how they continue to resonate in today’s society. Whether it is the growing demand for non-violent solutions to global conflicts, the fight for social and economic justice, or the need for greater empathy and understanding between communities, Gandhi’s message is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.