‘India’s first temple for Mahatma Gandhi’ readies for Independence Day

In an era when the younger generation is increasingly moving away from the memories of India’s freedom struggle and the sacrifices of the freedom fighters, an effort in Srikakulam is keeping the spirit of patriotism alive. Located in Shanti Nagar Colony of Srikakulam, the Gandhi Mandiram-Freedom Fighters Smruthi Vanam has emerged as a historical and patriotic landmark, bringing together the memories of freedom fighters, social reformers and national figures at a single place.

It is considered to be India’s first temple constructed for Mahatma Gandhi, who inspired crores of people across the world with his ideas such as non-violence, insistence on truth and others. The temple is being geared up for the 80th Independence Day celebrations in its premises.

Mandir Committee chairman Surangi Mohana Rao, convener Jami Bhimashankar, coordinator M.V.S.S. Sastry and others have been making arrangements for the celebrations, in which hundreds of students will take part and learn about the sacrifices of great leaders.

Members of the mandir committee point out the busts along the Smruthi Vanam walkway in Srikakulam on Sunday, the Gandhi Mandiram behind them, barefoot on ground they treat as a temple’s.
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Special Arrangement

Created through the collective efforts of social activists, public representatives, officials and people from different sections of society, the Smruthi Vanam stands as a living tribute to those who dedicated their lives to the nation and society.

The Municipal Corporation of Srikakulam allotted the old park with 50 cents of land for the construction of the Gandhi Mandiram on January 30, 2022, the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The Gandhi Mandiram is not merely a memorial. It has become a place where patriotic values are celebrated regularly. Every day, the atmosphere resonates with Vande Mataram, Jana Gana Mana, Gandhi’s bhajans and patriotic songs, creating an environment of national consciousness and devotion. The daily programmes are intended to remind visitors, particularly the younger generation, that the freedom enjoyed today was earned through the sacrifices, struggles and determination of countless Indians.

Savitribai Phule, Jyotirao Phule and other reformers and freedom fighters line a walkway at the Freedom Fighters Smruthi Vanam in Srikakulam, 65 painted busts in all.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

One of the major attractions of the Freedom Fighters Smruthi Vanam is the installation of 65 statues representing freedom fighters, social reformers, national personalities and inspirational figures. Visitors can walk through the Smruthi Vanam and see statues of freedom fighters such as Bhagat Singh and Subhas Chandra Bose, and figures such as Swami Vivekananda and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. A 105-ft national flag on a tall flag pole was also hoisted.