On the momentous occasion of the 76th Republic Day, Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, Vizag, a top CBSE-affiliated institution, proudly hosted an extraordinary exhibition commemorating the life and legacy of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. This heartfelt initiative brought to light an exceptional collection of commemorative coins, stamps, and over a hundred rare photographs that eloquently chronicled pivotal moments of Gandhi’s life during and beyond India’s freedom struggle.
The exhibition commenced with an exquisite display of commemorative coins, which drew significant attention from attendees. Among the collection were the rare coins issued in 1969 to mark Gandhi’s birth centenary. These coins, minted in denominations of 10 paise and 1 rupee, were adorned with intricate engravings of Gandhi’s iconic profile, a lasting testament to his influence on generations. Another noteworthy piece was the unique coin released in 1994 to honor the 125th anniversary of his birth. The depiction of Gandhi walking with his staff on this coin served as a timeless tribute to the historic Dandi March, symbolizing his relentless pursuit of justice and equality.
The philatelic segment of the exhibition offered a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of Gandhi through a remarkable collection of stamps, both Indian and international. One of the highlights was the 1948 1.5 anna stamp, issued shortly after Gandhi’s assassination. This stamp featured a profound depiction of the Mahatma accompanied by the affectionate term “Bapuji.” Equally captivating was the 1969 centenary stamp series, which artistically showcased Gandhi’s spinning wheel and glasses, emblematic of his philosophy of self- reliance and his visionary leadership.
The heart of the exhibition lay in its photographic timeline, a compelling visual narrative of Gandhi’s journey. Over 100 rare photographs transported visitors through significant chapters of his life, offering an intimate understanding of his transformative years. Early images captured his time in South Africa, where the seeds of Satyagraha—his revolutionary principle of nonviolent resistance—were sown. The collection then transitioned to India, portraying defining moments like the Champaran and Kheda movements, the Salt March, and the Quit India Movement. Each photograph not only documented historic milestones but also highlighted Gandhi’s unparalleled leadership and steadfast commitment to nonviolence.
Post-independence photographs further enriched the exhibition, shedding light on Gandhi’s tireless efforts to foster communal harmony in a newly liberated India. These images depicted his serene prayers, heartfelt interactions with the masses, and the poignant final moments before his assassination. Accompanied by insightful captions, these visuals offered visitors an opportunity to reflect deeply on Gandhi’s enduring teachings and their relevance in today’s world.
The meticulously curated exhibition resonated profoundly with attendees, evoking admiration and inspiration. For the students of Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, it served as an invaluable learning experience, reinforcing the timeless principles of truth, nonviolence, and selflessness. The display not only honoured the life of a great leader but also encouraged the young minds to emulate his ideals in their everyday lives.
As the exhibition concluded, the atmosphere was imbued with a sense of reverence and resolves to uphold Gandhi’s vision for a harmonious and inclusive society. Through this thoughtful initiative, Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing responsible citizens who embody the virtues of compassion, integrity, and resilience. Indeed, “Glimpses of Gandhi” was not merely an exhibition but a profound tribute to the values that define our nation’s soul.