After his return from South Africa in July 1914, Mahatma Gandhi travelled the length and breadth of India, with mode being the third class on Indian Railways. The aim was to have a one-to-one connection with the masses, he shared his experiences in the book “Third Class in Indian Railways” penned in Ranchi on September 25, 1917.
In a bid to bring these historical moments closer to common public, on Wednesday, Union Minister for Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat unveiled a meticulously restored railway coach at Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) at Rajghat in the national Capital which is visited by over 10,000 people daily, including domestic and foreign visitors.
The historical coach is painted brown and marked with a ‘III’ to denote third-class compartments, featuring a life-size sculpture of the ‘Father of the Nation’, depicting the famous act of stepping down from the coach, underscoring its national legacy.
Donated by the Union Ministry of Railways, the coach is also enriched with sculptures showcasing Gandhi’s travels and interactions with fellow passengers, providing visitors with an immersive experience that brings to life Mahatma Gandhi’s rail journeys.
During the ceremony, Shekhawat emphasised that Gandhi’s principles, especially his commitment to ahimsa (non-violence), remain profoundly relevant in today’s geopolitical climate. “Gandhiji’s thoughts are relevant even today. Today, war has broken out in Russia-Ukraine and Gaza-Israel. In such a time, peace can be established in the world only by using Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence.”
He recalled that Gandhi always used to travel in third class and connect directly with the common people.
The Union Cabinet Minister also noted that the current Government’s initiatives, such as the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision in defence and technology, align with Gandhi’s ideals. Shekhawat also addressed the urgent issue of climate change, urging adherence to Gandhi’s teachings to protect the environment.
“Gandhi transformed the freedom movement into a mass movement. His memories will become a source of inspiration and energy for future India,” said the Minister, adding that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi took inspiration from Gandhi and launched a cleanliness campaign across the country.
We made the country free from open defecation by building a record 11 crore toilets. This was Gandhi’s dream, which our Prime Minister realised, said the Minister.
On the occasion, GSDS Vice Chairman and former Union Minister Vijay Goel, reflected on Gandhi’s profound connection with train journeys, recalling an incident in 1893 when Gandhi was forcibly removed from a train in South Africa due to racial discrimination. This pivotal experience acted as a catalyst for Gandhi to fight against apartheid and other injustices.
Dr Jwala Prasad, GSDS director acknowledged the committee’s efforts under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to realise Gandhi’s dreams, particularly through the Swachhata Abhiyan. Shekhawat also participated in the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, planting a sapling dedicated to environmental conservation.
The ceremony was attended by diplomats and representatives from countries including Peru, South Africa, Mauritius, Colombia, and others, underscoring the global impact of Gandhi’s legacy.
Raj Ghat is the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, who was cremated there on January 31, 1948. The memorial is a simple black marble structure in the middle of a garden, located on the banks of the Yamuna River.
