Sunday, December 1, 2013

A Reflection on a Visit to Ahimsa Museum


“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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