Did Gujarat's Golden Jubilee Connect the Indian Diaspora from the UK to 'Jan Bhagidari'?
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Synopsis
Gujarat's golden jubilee in 2011 was more than just a celebration; it was an opportunity for the Indian diaspora in the UK to contribute to a monumental tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Discover how this event embodied unity and development, showcasing the power of community participation.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat's golden jubilee was celebrated globally in 2011.
- Jan Bhagidari emphasized the importance of people's participation.
- The Mahatma Mandir project aimed to symbolize unity and development.
- Soil from 18,000 villages and the UK was used for the monument.
- Indian diaspora played a crucial role in the initiative.
New Delhi, July 24 (NationPress) During the golden jubilee celebration of Gujarat in 2011, then Chief Minister Narendra Modi transformed this significant milestone into a worldwide event of 'Jan Bhagidari' – or people's participation – bringing together not just residents from across India but also the Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom.
The festivities centered around the announcement of the Mahatma Mandir, a convention and exhibition center in Gandhinagar, which was set to be constructed using soil gathered from over 18,000 villages throughout the state.
This initiative represented unity and advancement – principles deeply rooted in the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi – and was designed as a tribute to his enduring legacy.
In a remarkable gesture, soil was also shipped from the Gujarati community in the UK, contributing to the foundation of this monument.
Delegates from all 18,066 villages of Gujarat brought urns filled with earth to pour into the Mahatma Mandir’s base, while proud Gujaratis living abroad contributed soil from their overseas locations, particularly the UK.
On the occasion of Gujarat's 50th anniversary, Narendra Modi addressed a prominent audience in Mayfair, London, from Gandhinagar via a virtual platform.
The event was organized by Friends of Gujarat, Gujarat Samachar, and Asian Voice, and featured around 90 distinguished figures, including British MPs, Lords, and community leaders. Lord Gulam Noon was among those who participated in a lively discussion with Narendra Modi.
“The name Gujarat and development are synonymous. Gujarat is making history,” declared Modi to the overseas supporters.
The Modi Archive remarked, “Narendra Modi transformed Gujarat's golden jubilee into a golden moment of Jan Bhagidari,” highlighting the deep significance of the initiative.
It was announced that the Mahatma Mandir would rise from the soil of Gujarat's villages as well as from the 'mitti' (soil) sent by the diaspora.
“In this Golden Jubilee celebration, we have decided to build a Mahatma Mandir. We have collected earth from 18,000 villages in Gujarat and from abroad, particularly the UK,” he emphasized.
The message was clear, according to the Modi Archive, asserting that for Narendra Modi, the Indian diaspora was “never a passive audience but has always been – and continues to be – an active participant in nation-building.”
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that Gujarat's golden jubilee celebration was not merely an event; it was a powerful symbol of unity and collaboration among the Indian diaspora. This initiative showcased the active role of the community in nation-building, reinforcing the idea that the engagement of overseas Indians is invaluable to India's development narrative.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of Gujarat's golden jubilee?
Gujarat's golden jubilee in 2011 symbolized 50 years of statehood and was marked by global participation, especially from the Indian diaspora in the UK, showcasing unity and collective progress.
Who participated in the celebrations?
The celebrations included prominent figures such as British MPs, Lords, community leaders, and representatives from all villages in Gujarat, highlighting the event's inclusiveness.
What was the Mahatma Mandir project?
The Mahatma Mandir was an initiative to build a convention and exhibition center in Gandhinagar using soil collected from 18,000 villages, symbolizing unity and tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
How did the Indian diaspora contribute?
Gujaratis living abroad sent soil from the UK to be included in the Mahatma Mandir's foundation, reinforcing their connection to their roots and the state.
What message did Narendra Modi convey?
Narendra Modi emphasized that the Indian diaspora is an active participant in nation-building, not just a passive audience, highlighting their importance in India's progress.
