Honoring the legacy of a revered leader

The Father of the Nation. One of India's most revered leaders. An icon who spearheaded India's liberation from the British. And a person who you can find on the Indian currency.

Much can be found on Mahatma Gandhi across the internet. Still, if you really wish to discover the nuances of his life, the stories and legends of the freedom struggle, only a handful of places in India will offer you that lens. One such place is in Patna, known as the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya.

Established in 1967, the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya is a testament to honouring the legacy of one of India's most influential leaders. As you step into this museum's serene confines, you will discover a rare collection of artefacts, documents, and interactive exhibits that chronicle Gandhiji's transformative journey.

Let's go inside and discover the life, legend, and philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi.

Origins in a tragedy

Just a few months after India rose to freedom, it was January 30, 1948, when the world went into shock after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. While the country was left in mourning, a resolute determination to preserve the memory and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi was actioned. Under the leadership of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, a Gandhi Memorial Trust was established, setting in motion the creation of a hallowed sanctuary dedicated to the Father of the Nation. In 1958, this committee decided to establish a Gandhi Sangrahalaya in Bihar and Patna, which was selected as the ideal location.

The Gandhi Memorial Trust initiated the Sangrahalaya activities on a humble scale, initially displaying pictures portraying Mahatma Gandhi's life and endeavours in the small rooms of the old building. The inauguration of the first gallery took place on December 16, 1967, with Acharya Badrinath Verma, a trusted associate of Maulana Mazharul Haque, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the former Education Minister of Bihar, officiating the ceremony.

A sanctuary that evolved with time

The journey of the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya began with the unveiling of Gandhiji's statue by the then Governor of Bihar, R.D. Bhandare, on June 10, 1975. This solemn ceremony marked the commencement of the construction that would transform this hallowed site into a comprehensive repository of Gandhian history and philosophy.

As the institution took form, its curators set out to craft a visual biography that takes you through the life and ideology of the revered leader. Photographs, works of art, manuscripts, and citations were meticulously assembled to chronicle the Mahatma's life, highlighting the pivotal moments that defined his legacy. Today, you can step into the world of Gandhian ideology with this chronological display, offering a glimpse into his personal spaces through meticulously recreated room models.

Two auditoriums named after revered figures from Gandhi's life – the Kasturba Gandhi Hall and the Badshah Khan Hall were also added later. These spaces now serve as venues for lectures, discussions, and cultural events, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Mahatma's enduring impact.

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Deeper into the Mahatma's world

Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya invites you to delve deeper into the Mahatma's enduring legacy through a wealth of engaging experiences. Within the museum's premises, an on-site bookstore offers a curated selection of affordable publications that provide further insight into Gandhi's life and teachings. These publications make for great additions to your library or even gifts.

The museum also periodically hosts enlightening events and activities. Free film screenings on relevant and contemporary issues, meetings, seminars, and exhibitions allow you to engage with the Gandhian values that continue to shape the nation.

Most notably, in 2018, the museum unveiled a new section titled "Homage to Mahatma." This latest addition further reinforces Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya's role as a living, breathing tribute to the man who changed the course of history.

Beyond the museum

As you step out of the hallowed halls of the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya, the other wonders of Patna start beckoning. Just a short distance away, the imposing Golghar is a testament to the region's colonial legacy, with its spiral design offering panoramic city views. For those drawn to the ancient roots of Indian spirituality, the Vishnupad Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, provides a profound experience steeped in timeless devotion. Additionally, the Takht Sri Patna Sahib, one of the holiest Sikh shrines, invites you to explore the rich diversity of Patna's religious heritage.

Through careful curation and steadfast commitment, the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalya has become a beacon of Gandhian thought in Patna. It invites you to witness the life and legacy of the Father of the Nation.