A Day Tour to Sevagram from Tadoba National Park
Known as the 'Village of Service,' Sevagram played a pivotal role in the Indian Independence Movement and served as the headquarters of Mahatma Gandhi. Nestled on the outskirts of Wardha City, this village was established by Gandhiji and remains a symbol of his legacy. From 1936 until his passing in 1948, Gandhiji resided here, shaping the village with his principles of simplicity and serenity. Often overlooked, Sevagram offers a tranquil retreat and makes for a perfect day trip from Tadoba National Park. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and ideologies fostered by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure.
Sevagram echoes with the teachings and principles of Gandhi, showcasing his simple way of life during his time in the ashram. It is believed that Mahatma Gandhi deliberated on numerous matters of national significance and made pivotal decisions for the freedom struggle while residing in this ashram.
Tracing Back the History of Sevagram
Sevagram, formerly known as Segaon, became the residence of Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. He committed not to return to Sabarmati until India achieved independence and relocated to the village at the invitation of Jamnalal Bajaj. In this serene village, significant national movements and decisions were conceived and implemented. It emerged as a hub for various institutions dedicated to nation-building efforts and remained central to Gandhiji's activities until India's independence.
Before Mahatma Gandhi arrived, Meera Ben (Miss Madelene Slade) had already made Sevagram her home. At that time, there was no proper road leading to Sevagram. However, upon Gandhi's arrival, a makeshift road was quickly constructed, and later, when a Congress ministry was established in the Central Provinces in 1937, the government constructed a metallic road under the provincial autonomy scheme.
Reaching Sevagram
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur and Railway Stations in Nagpur and Wardha are the most feasible options to reach Sevagram. Alternatively, coming to Sevagram for a day’s tour from Tadoba National Park incurs a 2-hour drive from Tadoba National Park, conquering approximately a route of 84 km.
Spending a Day in Sevagram
Visit the Ashram Museum- Within the Ashram, visitors can explore various facilities including a museum, a bookstall, a library, and accessible huts. The museum showcases Mahatma Gandhi's principles, ideologies, letters, and contributions, offering insights into his life and work. Visitors can view Gandhiji's personal belongings, carefully preserved to evoke his presence, including a Charkha, Khadau (wooden sandals), walking stick, telephone booth, and other items housed in one of the Ashram's huts.
Experience a Reading Time in the Ashram’s Library- Adjacent to the Ashram, a library under the management of Sarva Seva Sangha houses a special section dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's collection of books, aptly named the 'Gandhi Seva Sangha' section. Here, visitors can explore a plethora of literature related to Gandhiji's life and teachings. Additionally, the Ashram features a Gandhi Photo Gallery exhibiting a remarkable collection of rare and historic photographs of Mahatma Gandhi sourced from various parts of the world.
Observe the Humble Ambience of the Huts- The huts that were once home to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, still stand in their original form without basic amenities like electricity. Visitors who enter these huts in the Ashram are transported back to Gandhiji's time and experience his narrative. The huts have been given names like Adi Niwas, Bapu Kuti, Ba Kuti, Mahadev Kuti, Kishore Bhavan, Prachure Kuti, Akhri Niwas, and Rustom Bhavan, based on the individuals who lived there. Adi Niwas was Gandhi's first place of residence in Sevagram, while Akhri Niwas, also known as the last residence, was where he spent his last few days before leaving for Noakhali, from where he never returned. Rustom Bhavan, a four-room guest house on the campus, is open to visitors.
Understand the ‘Nai Talim’ Education System- New Talim represents an innovative approach to education, extending learning beyond conventional classroom settings. This philosophy, pioneered by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizes practical, real-world learning experiences. Anandaniketan, the school within the ashram, is managed by Nayitalim Pratishthan and embodies this ethos. The curriculum of Anandaniketan places a strong emphasis on 'Buniyadi Shikshan' or foundational education. Students are equipped with a diverse skill set including accounting, farming, marketing, weaving, and culinary arts, fostering self-sufficiency and practical knowledge.