Wardha, April 16 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu made a significant visit to the renowned Sevagram Ashram located in Maharashtra's Wardha on Thursday, exploring Mahatma Gandhi’s former residence, which includes Bapu Kuti, Ba Kuti, and Adi Niwas.

Throughout her visit, she honored Gandhi with tributes, wandered through the grounds, and showed genuine interest in the historical relevance of various sites.

The President engaged in a prayer meeting, participated in a tree planting initiative to promote environmental conservation, and even tried her hand at traditional thread spinning, known as sut katayi.

She was accompanied by prominent figures such as Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Guardian Minister Dr Pankaj Bhoyar, and Collector Vanmathi C., among other dignitaries.

The residents of the Ashram expressed their admiration for the President’s visit, highlighting her notable simplicity and her inquisitive nature. While observing the preserved artefacts from Mahatma Gandhi’s everyday life, President Murmu spotted a pair of large tongs in a corner. Her curiosity led her to ask about its function. The Ashram staff explained that during Gandhi’s era, the region frequently encountered snakes. Gandhi had firmly instructed that no snakes should be harmed; thus, volunteers used these tongs to safely catch the snakes, transport them in baskets, and release them into the forest. This practice illustrated a real-life application of the principle of non-violence (Ahimsa).

The President conveyed her deep appreciation for this historical insight. Unlike many high-profile visitors who typically hurry through the site, President Murmu took the time to read every informational display on the boards and plaques at the Ashram.

"Typically, high-profile guests are pressed for time and miss out on the exhibits. But Madam President read everything carefully," remarked Vijay Tambe, an Ashram member who guided her. In a show of respect, the President removed her shoes before entering each hut, opting for the bamboo slippers provided by the Ashram.

She also showed particular interest in the hotline phone that was once used by Bapu.

In line with the Ashram's customs, a tree planting ceremony was conducted. Although the sapling had been pre-selected, the President recognized it immediately upon her arrival, exclaiming, "Oh, this is a Bel tree, isn't it? It's very beneficial!" Her accurate identification impressed everyone present, showcasing her extensive knowledge of plants.

President Murmu expressed her joy over the serene and well-maintained environment of the Ashram and tried spinning thread on the charkha.

Before leaving, she praised the staff for their efforts in preserving the grounds, stating, "You have maintained this area exquisitely; please continue to protect it." She also marveled at the ancient clay roof tiles (kavelu) still intact on the huts.