By M.T. Yogesh Kumar

In the cultural city of Mysuru, a new Gandhi Bhavan has been constructed in Siddarthanagar near the new Deputy Commissioner’s Office at a cost of Rs. 3 crore. With the installation of a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi currently underway, the Bhavan is set to be inaugurated by the end of May 2025.

This project has been envisioned as a tribute to Mysuru’s significant role in the Indian freedom struggle against British rule. The Gandhi Bhavan aims to promote the ideals and philosophies of the Father of the Nation, engaging residents, tourists and followers of Gandhian values.

Nirmiti Kendra construction

The construction, which had been in progress for the past year and a half, is now complete. The contracted agency will hand over the building to the Nirmiti Kendra (construction centre) soon. Following this, the building will be transferred to the Department of Information and Publicity, once the installation of Mahatma Gandhi’s bust is completed.

The idea for the Gandhi Bhavan was first proposed during Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure. In the 2016-17 Budget, the State Government allocated funds for constructing Gandhi Bhavans in all district headquarters. 

As part of this initiative, a one-acre plot adjacent to the strong room storing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), near the new Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Siddarthanagar, Mysuru, was identified for the project. On this site, a 100×100 ft structure has now been built at an expenditure of Rs. 3 crore.

Features and purpose

The new Gandhi Bhavan is designed as an educational and cultural space showcasing Mahatma Gandhi’s life, ideals and contributions to India’s freedom struggle.

Exhibits will focus on Gandhiji’s commitment to a simple lifestyle, his involvement in the Satyagraha movement, his encouragement of cottage industries and his concern for children, women, Dalits and other marginalised communities.

Rare photographs and curated displays will provide deep insights into various phases of Mahatma’s life and the independence movement, aiming to inspire the public, particularly the youths.

What’s inside the Bhavan?

The Gandhi Bhavan includes a library, reading room, multipurpose hall, training centre, photo gallery chronicling Gandhiji’s life, auditorium, inner courtyard and office rooms.  Additional facilities include restrooms and a ramp at the rear of the building for differently-abled visitors.

The space will be utilised year-round for exhibitions, training sessions, workshops and events that promote the dissemination of Gandhiji’s teachings and philosophies.

 While the Department of Information and Publicity is responsible for the construction of the Gandhi Bhavan, a District-level Committee has been formed to oversee its management. The Committee is headed by the Deputy Commissioner and includes the CEO of the Zilla Panchayat and the Superintendent of Police (SP) as members. The District Information Officer will serve as the Member-Secretary.

Another Gandhi Bhavan in Mysuru

 Mysuru already houses a Gandhi Bhavan at University of Mysore’s Manasagangothri campus, which features various statues and exhibits dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. With the addition of this new Bhavan in Siddarthanagar, the city continues to play a prominent role in preserving and promoting Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.

Bust installation

 A bust of Mahatma Gandhi will be a central feature of the new Bhavan. The Nirmiti Kendra has commissioned the same artist, who sculpted the bust for the Gandhi Bhavan in Dharwad, to create a three-foot-tall bronze bust for the Mysuru centre. 

The artist has nearly completed the bust, which will soon be transported to the city and installed in the building premises. “The bronze bust’s construction is progressing swiftly and will be installed by the end of the month,” said Mahesh, Project Director, Nirmiti Kendra.

 Assistant Director of the Department of Information and Publicity T.K. Harish said that the Gandhi Bhavan would be inaugurated by the end of May as the works have been completed.