Inauguration of Mahadev Desai Library Extension
Inaugurating the Mahadev Desai Library extension, the Vice-President said the occasion symbolised far more than the expansion of a physical structure. He described libraries as instruments of social change, noting that access to knowledge empowers individuals and communities to challenge injustice and uplift society.
Mahadev Desai, a close associate and secretary of Mahatma Gandhi, played a crucial role in documenting Gandhiji’s thoughts and movements. The library named after him, Shri Radhakrishnan observed, stands as a repository of ideas that continue to inspire generations committed to truth, service and ethical leadership.
An Emotional Walk Through History
During his visit, the Vice-President also toured the Kasturba Museum located within the Ashram, which preserves the spaces where Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi stayed during their visits to Delhi in the 1930s and 1940s. He said walking through the Ashram, including Kasturba Ba’s simple living quarters and kitchen, offered a powerful reminder of the austere lives led by India’s leaders.
Shri Radhakrishnan noted that the simplicity of the surroundings reflected the strength of character and unwavering resolve that defined the freedom movement. He said such places serve as living classrooms, teaching values that cannot be learned from textbooks alone.
Gandhi’s Transformation and Swadeshi Vision
Reflecting on Mahatma Gandhi’s personal journey, the Vice-President recalled how Gandhiji’s transformation was shaped by his encounters with poverty in India. He referred to the moment at Madurai railway station when Gandhiji resolved to give up Western attire and adopt the loincloth or dhoti, a decision that symbolised his complete identification with the masses.
He also spoke about Gandhi’s advocacy of swadeshi, recalling how Gandhiji opposed the export of Indian cotton to Manchester for processing and its subsequent resale to Indians. This, he said, was not merely an economic argument but a moral stand aimed at restoring dignity and self-reliance to the nation.
Birth Does Not Define a Person
Praising the work of the Harijan Sevak Sangh, Shri Radhakrishnan described it as a seed planted by Mahatma Gandhi that has borne lasting fruit. He said the organisation has played a significant role in combating social evils such as untouchability through education, awareness and sustained service.
Emphasising equality and human dignity, the Vice-President stated that birth does not determine whether an individual is good or bad. “It is character that defines a person,” he said, adding that sincere service to society shapes individuals of conscience and integrity.
Remembering K. R. Narayanan and Social Responsibility
Recalling the life of former President of India Shri K. R. Narayanan, the Vice-President noted that the Harijan Sevak Sangh had played a pivotal role in supporting his education. He said Dr. Narayanan’s journey stands as a testament to how institutional support and social commitment can transform lives.
Highlighting the reciprocal relationship between individuals and society, Shri Radhakrishnan said that while society shapes individuals, every citizen has a moral duty to give back. He underlined that service to society is not only an obligation but also a vital pathway to nation-building.
Tributes and Book Release
During the programme, the Vice-President released the book “Age of Enlightenment: Mahatma Gandhi’s Vision”, authored by Prof. Dr. Sankar Kumar Sanyal, for the Gandhian fraternity. He also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Thakkar Bapa and Vinoba Bhave, acknowledging their immense contributions to social reform.
The Vice-President further lauded Gujarat’s contribution to the nation, expressing gratitude for three towering figures it has given India — Mahatma Gandhi for freedom, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for unity, and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for development.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Sankar Kumar Sanyal, President of Harijan Sevak Sangh; Shri Naresh Yadav, former Member of Parliament and Vice President of the Sangh; Shri Laxmi Dass, former Chairman of KVIC and Vice President of the Sangh; along with several other dignitaries and members of the Gandhian community.
