Mahatma Gandhi’s Visits to Sukkur and the Gandhi Arch Legacy
Introduction
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| Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Leader of Indian Independence |
Mahatma Gandhi, revered as the father of India’s non-violent independence movement, left an indelible mark on countless regions, including Sukkur in Sindh (now part of Pakistan). Known for his philosophy of ahimsa (non-violence), Gandhi visited Sukkur multiple times to rally support for India’s freedom struggle. One enduring symbol of his influence is the Mahatma Gandhi Arch, a structure built by Sukkur’s citizens to honor him, later renamed Ayub Gate. This article delves into Gandhi’s visits to Sukkur, the history of the Gandhi Arch, and his lasting legacy in the region.
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| Historical Mahatma Gandhi Arch in Sukkur |
Gandhi’s Journeys to Sukkur
Between 1916 and 1934, Gandhi made seven documented trips to Sindh, with at least three stops in Sukkur. Historical records highlight his visits in:
- 1920 (possible early visit)
- 1922
- 1929
These visits were pivotal in spreading his message of unity, self-reliance, and resistance against British colonial rule. Gandhi’s presence in Sukkur galvanized the local population, strengthening their resolve in the independence movement.
Notable Moments from His Visits
- 1922: Gandhi arrived in Sukkur with key figures like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Maulana Shaukat Ali. He was greeted by local leaders, including Syed Mehboob Ali Shah, who presented him with a letter of gratitude. Gandhi then proceeded to Rohri, speaking at the Seth Diyaram Dharamshala (located near 'Qademi Imambargah Mehandi Jo Pir,' beside the Indus River) might be the old name of what is now known as Shri Baba Khushi Ram Mandir.
- 1929: This visit emphasized communal harmony and non-violent resistance, further inspiring Sukkur’s residents to join the broader struggle.
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| Bal Gangadhar Tilak: His Role in Indian Independence and Sukkur Visit |
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| Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Indian Freedom Fighter |
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| Maulana Shaukat Ali with Gandhi in Sukkur, 1922. |
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| Mahatma Gandhi Honored by Syed Mehboob Ali Shah in Sukkur, 1922 |
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| Historical Seth Diyaram Dharamshala in Rohri, Sindh |
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| Dharamshala, was built in 1930 by Seth Dayaram Jotwani |
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| Main Gate of Seth Diyaram Dharamshala, Rohri |
Seth Diyaram Dharamshala and the Seth Sugni Chand Industrial Complex in Rohri
Nestled in Rohri, Sindh, the Seth Diyaram Dharamshala stands as a historical landmark tied to the legacy of Seth Diyaram, the city’s first notable landlord and contractor. His son, Seth Sugni Chand, expanded the family’s influence as a prominent industrialist, landowner, and owner of significant properties, including the Seth Sugni Chand Industrial Complex. This complex, a hub of economic activity, faced illegal occupation after 1965 when Seth Sugni Chand relocated to Britain and later India. The main gate of the complex, a symbol of its historical significance, reflects the architectural heritage of the era. The story of Seth Diyaram and his descendants highlights Rohri’s rich history and the challenges of preserving its heritage amidst modern encroachments.
The Gandhi Arch: A Tribute in Stone
The Mahatma Gandhi Arch, constructed near the railway hospital in Sukkur, was a testament to Gandhi’s impact. Likely built during his 1922 or 1929 visit, the arch symbolized the city’s admiration for his leadership. After Pakistan’s independence in 1947, it underwent renovation around 1960 and was renamed Ayub Gate in honor of President Ayub Khan. Despite the name change, its historical ties to Gandhi endure.
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| Ayub Gate, originally Mahatma Gandhi Arch |
Gandhi’s Influence in Sukkur
Gandhi’s teachings of non-violence and self-sufficiency such as promoting khadi (handwoven cloth) found fertile ground in Sukkur’s diverse community. His emphasis on Hindu-Muslim unity also fostered a spirit of cooperation, crucial for the independence movement’s success in Sindh.
A Snapshot of Gandhi’s Life
- Born: October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, India
- Career: A lawyer turned freedom fighter, Gandhi led iconic campaigns like the Dandi Salt March and Quit India Movement.
- Family: Married to Kasturba Gandhi, with four sons: Harilal, Manilal, Ramdas, and Devdas.
- Death: Assassinated on January 30, 1948, in Delhi by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist.
Conclusion
Mahatma Gandhi’s visits to Sukkur and the creation of the Gandhi Arch reflect his far-reaching influence on India’s fight for freedom. Though now called Ayub Gate, the monument remains a silent witness to his legacy in Sindh. Gandhi’s principles of peace and resilience continue to inspire generations worldwide.
References
- Sindh historical records and Molai Shedai’s writings.
- Sukkur municipal archives.
- “The Life of Mahatma Gandhi” by Louis Fischer.
- Syed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi, local historical records, and Sukkur municipal archives
- Photo Credit: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Shah Musavi
- Mahatma Gandhi
Further Reading
For more insights, explore:
- “Gandhi: His Life and Message for the World” by Louis Fischer
- Gandhi’s autobiography, “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”
Note: This article is intended for educational purposes, celebrating historical events without endorsing any political views.
Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi
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