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

The Gandhi Mandiram-Freedom Fighters Smruthi Vanam came up on 50 cents of an old park allotted by the Municipal Corporation on January 30, 2022; hundreds of students will take part in the Independence Day programme

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

In a bid to instill patriotism among the younger generation, an endeavor in Srikakulam is constructing India's first temple dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Situated in Shanti Nagar Colony, the Gandhi Mandiram-Freedom Fighters Smruthi Vanam serves as a historical and patriotic landmark, amalgamating the memories of freedom fighters, social reformers, and national figures.

This innovative structure is viewed as the world's first temple dedicated to Gandhi, whose ideals of non-violence, truth, and more, have inspired millions globally.

Preparations for the 80th Independence Day celebrations are underway within the premises of this temple. The Mandir Committee chairman, Surangi Mohana Rao, along with convener Jami Bhimashankar, coordinator M.V.S.S. Sastry, and others are diligently working towards the event. Hundreds of students will participate, educating them about the sacrifices made by great leaders.

The Smruthi Vanam, a collective effort of social activists, public representatives, officials, and individuals from diverse societal strata, stands as a living testament to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation and society.

The Municipal Corporation of Srikakulam granted the old park, encompassing 50 cents of land, for the construction of the Gandhi Mandiram on January 30, 2022, Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary. Beyond being a mere memorial, the Gandhi Mandiram has evolved into a venue for regular celebration of patriotic values. The environment reverberates with Vande Mataram, Jana Gana Mana, Gandhi's bhajans, and patriotic songs, fostering national consciousness and devotion.

Every day brings forth programs aimed at reminding visitors, particularly the youth, that their current freedom was hard-earned through the sacrifices, struggles, and determination of countless Indians. Among the prominent attractions of the Smruthi Vanam are 65 statues representing freedom fighters, social reformers, national personalities, and inspirational figures.

These range from Bhagat Singh and Subhas Chandra Bose to figures like Swami Vivekananda and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The grandeur of the Smruthi Vanam is accentuated by a 105-ft national flag on a tall flag pole, which was also hoisted recently.

Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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