Wandering Destination: Gandhi Research Foundation (GRF), Jalgaon, Maharashtra (IN)

“On Gandhi: Don’t ever forget, that we were not lead by a saint with his head in clouds, but by a master tactician with his feet on the ground.” ― Shashi Tharoor

Wandering Destination: Gandhi Research Foundation (GRF), Jalgaon, Maharashtra (IN)

About Gandhi Research Foundation (GRF):

Aerial view of campus [1]

It is the promoter of ‘Gandhi Teerth’ which is sponsored by Jain Irrigation and Bhavarlal Kantabai Foundation. The Foundation is the initiator and promoter of 'Gandhi Teerth', an international centre for Gandhian study, research and dialogue. Its core objective is to preserve and promote for posterity the Gandhian ideology and legacy. 'Gandhi Teerth' comprises Gandhi museum, Gandhi International Research Institute, Gandhi archives, publications, and various programmes for rural development based on Gandhian lines. GRF, was inaugurated by President of India, Pratibha Patil on 25th March, 2012 [2].

passages inside the museum [1]

Gandhi Teerth is a magnificent 65,000 sq. ft. sustainable structure located at Jain Hills, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India. The premise is beautifully landscaped with sprawling lawns and is adjoined by mango orchards with mounded sit-outs and serene walk-ways. The entire green complex nestles between 300 acres of lush, afforested hilly terrain, and is noise-free and pollution-free. Residential facilities for researchers and guests are housed within the complex [1].

Our system of education has three aspects. It leads to the development of the mind, the body and the soul. - M. K. Gandhi

Archives at GRF [1]

Highlights of the GRF [1]:

Audible information system

‘Khoj Gandhiji Ki’ museum: A thematic, state-of-art, interactive multimedia museum conceived and commissioned to disseminate Gandhiji’s life-lessons and ideology, as also the saga of Indian independence movement. It takes at least 3 hours to complete the theme walk. Museum has more than 30 sections equipped with Touch screen, Bioscope, Digital Books, 3-D Mapping and Animation, amalgamating different modern technologies

A great experience with some interactive programs, guide, Audio-visual presentation, and displays about Gandhiji's life. Audio is available in three languages: Marathi, Hindi and English.

GIRI (Gandhi International Research Institute) : The academic arm of GRF which will award diplomas, degrees and facilitate research in Gandhian studies. Part time and Full time Day Program on Gandhi, Nonviolence, Social Activism, Peace and Conflict Management.

Interactive awareness creation modules [1]

GRF Think Tank: A consortium of scholars who will deliberate on contemporary issues. It can independently study and opine on public policy matters such as peace, ahimsa etc.

Gandhiana : Collection, classification, indexing and synopsizing of publications by and on Gandhiji.

Gandhi Archives : Preservation of archival publications related to Gandhiji and the Indian Freedom Struggle.

Gandhinomics : Rural Development/Outreach Program based on Gandhian ideology

A model at GRF shocasing an ideal village from Sarvodaya concept of Gandhiji [1]

Facilities at GRF:

Library:

Library at GRF [1]

The foundation has a collection of 7350 books, 4090 periodicals, 4019 photographs, 75 films, 148 audio recordings of Mahatma Gandhi's speeches, and philately items from 114 countries. A complete digital data-base of the library’s collection can be instantly accessed through the central console. Desk-top and lap-top computing facilities with high speed, uninterrupted broadband internet connectivity are also provided in the library for individual use [2].

Auditorium:

Statue of Gandhiji. Skin made of Silicon.
To make it realistic, 'sweating' is added feature

It can house more than 300 people to showcase some of the rare footage of Gandhiji and footage related to India's freedom movement. I was lucky to see one 15 minute show, specially arranged for me. I was the only person watching the documentary in that big auditorium. Thanks to the Guide.

Shopping:
Books, collectibles, apparels made of Khadi and many other things can be purchased from the shop at the exit of the GRF. Pay by card is accepted. Complete list can be found here: http://www.gandhifoundation.net/publications.htm

Ashram (Bungalows reserved for foreigners / VIP's)

Ashram (reserved for foreigners / VIP's)

Rest house:

I must say, it is one of high-class facility. It has all the amenities a very good hotel should have. Several rooms are built near to the GRF. The complex is for GRF visitors as well as the farmers / trainees.

Guest house balcony

Swimming pool at guest house

Guest house lobby

Lunch place

Canteen / Mess:

A small canteen is provided near to the entry point. No water is allowed inside the museum. Lunch facility is available in the near by mess. Food and place is excellent.

Guest house / Training center rooms

Do's and Dont's:

Entry to museum / food is NOT free.
NO water during the museum tour of 2-3 hours.
Photography is NOT allowed inside the premises
Belongings must be deposited at the entry point (including mobile, pen, diary etc)
Lunch / Break fast / Dinner is served during specific timings.
Be patient, polite during the visit
Spare at least one day at GRF to understand and appreciate the concept
Do not touch the exhibits at the museum.

You must be the change you want to see in the world. - M. K. Gandhi

Statue of Gandhiji located in front of GRF [1]

Fees / Charges:

There is entry fee to the museum, varies for different categories. For adult visitor it is 100 Rs. Per day.
Food in canteen / mess as per the rate.
Battery driven golf cart is available on paying rental.

How to reach:

The Foundation is housed amidst afforested Jain Hills, 12 kms. from Jalgaon city. Jalgaon is well connected by road and rail to the rest of India.It is 55 kms from Ajanta Caves, 140 kms from Ellora Caves and 160 kms from Aurangabad airport. Nearest international airport is Mumbai.

GRF complex [1]

Contact Info:

Gandhi Research Foundation

Gandhi Teerth, Jain Hills PO Box 118,
Jalgaon - 425 001 (Maharashtra), India
Tel. No.: +91-257-226 0011
E-mail: info@gandhifoundation.org

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