Siby Kollappallil Joseph
March 8, 2025 marks the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Kochi which was then under the direct rule of the British. It was his second visit to Kerala. In December 1924 as the newly elected as the President of Indian National Congress in his address defined India’s immediate goal as: “The removal, at the earliest possible moment, of any communal or sectional representation. A common electorate must impartially elect its representatives on the sole ground of merit.” Gandhi also emphasized the importance of Hindu-Muslim unity, removal of untouchability, and the promotion of khaddar. As the President of Indian National Congress his visit to Kerala also reflected these concerns.
The Old Railway station near Ernakulam High court witnessed a historic moment when Mahatma Gandhi stepped down onto its platform marking the beginning of his tour. He was warmly welcomed at Ernakulam and Gandhi in his speech in reply to Corporation address, at Ernakulam on March 8, 1925 thanked very sincerely for the address and the sentiments expressed in it. His visit in this Presidency was mainly for the sake of his mission in Vykom which aimed to open the road to the temple for all sections of Hindus in the Travancore region of Kerala. During the speech Gandhi expressed his pleasure at finding all religious faiths and races living in peace and harmony in the State. He said “I refer to Hindu-Muslim unity which is a form of unity amongst all the races professing the various religions of India. I know that in this State you have no such question, as I understand, as between Hindus and Muslims or between Hindus and other races. It is a matter of great pleasure to me to find that in this State all the races are living in peace, amity and brotherhood. Let that state of things last forever. But I am afraid I am unable to pay you the same tribute so far as the spinning-wheel is concerned.”
Mahatma Gandhi addressed a huge gathering at a makeshift platform built on country boats at Fort Kochi beachfront on March 8, 1925. This historic “Spirit of Adventure” speech at Fort Kochi emphasized the importance of embracing change and challenging social injustices. He drew inspiration from the sea, saying, “Living on the seaside you are aware of what adventure can do. The sea is an epitome of adventures.” Gandhi then shifted his focus to the need for adventure in India’s national life, stating, “What we need is the spirit of adventure in our national life… It requires for instance an adventurous spirit to find out in the Hindu religion its black spots” Gandhi specifically highlighted the issue of untouchability, saying, “We have in our religion a black spot which must be removed. It is untouchability and here I am sorry to add also unapproachability. ” With reference to his mission at Vykom he said “ I want to plead wisdom and tell them that this untouchability and unapproachability cannot be part of Hinduism. I have come to tell them that the satyagrahis who are fighting against enormous odds at Vykom are not out to destroy religion, but to reform it. I have come to tell them of all the implications of this struggle. I have come to tell them also that it is wrong for us to be satisfied with things as they are, if we find that they are bad. It, therefore, gives me pleasure that I shall be carrying with me your blessings and your sympathy, for in the address presented to me on your behalf by the municipality I am assured of your sympathy and support.” Gandhi’s speech also promoted self-sufficiency and economic empowerment through the adoption of khaddar, hand-spun and hand-woven cloth. He argued, “The best way of ridding India of the curse of poverty and pauperism is for one and all of us to be dressed in khaddar.” Gandhi emphasized the value of simplicity and character over material possessions, saying, “Handsome is not who is handsome clothed, but handsome is who handsome does” This speech was part of Gandhi’s broader mission to promote social reform, economic empowerment, national unity and amity among all religious traditions. K. J. Berly Congress President of British Kochi organised this meeting. Gandhi stayed in the house of Mathura Das, a Gujarati staying in Mattancherry. Gandhi also addressed the ground of TD Highschool at Mattancherry. Then he proceeded to Vykom. Gandhi’s involvement in the Vaikom Satyagraha helped draw national attention to the issue and ultimately contributed to the success of the movement.
It is befitting that on March 8, 2025 coinciding with 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s historic address at Fort Kochi a series of programmes have been by various organizations, including the People’s Council for Cochin Development, Gandhi Peace Foundation, Gandhian Collective, and others with the support of prominent personalities. The centenary celebration of Gandhi’s visit to Kerala should not be limited to symbolic programmes, but rather serve as an opportunity for the State to reaffirm the communal amity Gandhi praised during his visit to Ernakulam and address larger social concerns. As we live in a time where communal harmony is under threat and the downtrodden continue to await social justice, it is crucial to revisit Gandhi’s ideals and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By organizing community events, launching initiatives to support marginalized communities and encouraging youth involvement, we can make the centenary celebration a meaningful and impactful event that honours Gandhi’s legacy and promotes a better future for all.
This note was prepared by Dr. Siby K. Joseph Director, Sri Jamnalal Bajaj Memorial Library and Research Centre for Gandhian Studies, Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan, Sevagram,Wardha- 442102, Maharashtra (INDIA)
Email: directorjbmlrc@gmail.com
