“Be the change that you want to see in the world”
-- Mahatma Gandhi
Change is the radical reaction caused by some strong turn of events or
an experience which drives one to move away from the ordinary. Do something
which you have never attempted before. To commit to a discipline, bring some
decorum into one's life by re-evaluating the principles and dedicate oneself to
responsibilities. Thereby turning the wheels of time to bring a change with
one's actions, inspiring many more to follow suit...These seem to be high
ideals and great expectations to a common citizen. I thought to myself, “What
change would I make to the world by changing myself?" But my perspective took a 360 degree turn
when I was luckily selected by Raksha Maam to accompany the students of Grade 6
to the Ahimsa Museum. This shrine is
dedicated to the simplest yet powerful personality in history of the world --
Mahatma Gandhi.
There was something uncommon about this one individual who took the
most basic of principles which became the guiding force behind the change one
wanted to see in the nation. Dressed in a dhoti and shawl, he shook the very
foundation of the greatest power, Britain which chose India as a resource bank
for different purposes. So much so that it led to a drain of wealth, confidence
and the very spirit of our Nation. He chose Truth as his weapon, fought Might
with Right and inspired millions with nothing but a beguiling child-like smile
and power of words which chastened the hardened hearts of the British.
To present these ideals to children and youth of today is a mammoth
task and the Ahimsa Museum, an initiative taken by Biraj Ram Nayak, a motivated
disciple of the principles of Gandhiji, has chosen the perfect medium to
attract this age group with digital media interactions, online activities on
the latest I-pad applications and touch screen computer screens—gadgets that
are much easier and appealing to them than the text books of History. We were
treated to a previously unreleased edition of 20th century Fox Studio movie on
Gandhiji which was the best experience we ever had. Every part of the session
inspired confidence in the students to pursue their dreams with passion, hard
work and truthfulness in whatever they choose to do.
The amount of knowledge that the volunteers possessed about Gandhiji
was commendable which was delivered to the students with a passion and force
that was genuine and reflected in their action and manners. To see the
volunteers, as young as 23 or 24 years, so principled, motivated and committed
to bring a change in society was an eye-opener for me...When I interacted with
Mr. Huzefa, our host for the session, I was amazed at his zeal and enthusiasm
to bring a change in the youth of our society who will in turn build our
Nation, inspired by the principles of the Mahatma. True enough, Mahatma was the
most courageous leader who shouldered our Nation to attain Independence. He
continues to inspire us with his ideals which will surely move the nation
towards prosperity...
By
Jemima Cherith
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