Gandhi Smriti Sangrahalaya
| Place | Bhitiharwa |
|---|---|
| State | Bihar |
| Virtual Museum | No |
| Year of Establishment | Not Available |
| Museum Type | Memorial / Educational Museum |
| National Importance Museum | Yes |
| Address | 110, Bhitiharwa Ashram Rd, near by Bhitiharwa Gandhi Ashram, Bhitiharwa, Bihar 845455 |
| Visiting Time | 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Daily) |
| Entry Fee | Free Entry |
Museum Introduction
Established on November 20, 1917, the Bhitiharwa Ashram (also known as the Gandhi Smriti Sangrahalaya) in West Champaran, Bihar, is a site of immense historical significance. It was here that Mahatma Gandhi founded his second basic school to educate the children of indigo farmers. The ashram served as a strategic base during the Champaran Satyagraha, the first non-violent movement against British colonial rule in India.
General Collections
The museum houses a poignant collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Gandhi's stay. The exhibits include original furniture, tools for self-reliance, and a gallery of over two dozen photographs documenting the struggle of the Champaran peasants and the birth of the Satyagraha movement.
Unique Historical Collections
Original "Bapu Kuti": The humble hut with mud-plastered walls and a tiled roof where Gandhi stayed, preserved in its original form. The Bronze Bell: The original school bell used in the basic school established by Gandhi in 1917. Kasturba Gandhi’s Chakki: A traditional stone wheat grinder used by Kasturba Gandhi during her stay, symbolizing the principle of self-reliance (Swadeshi). Gandhi's Table: A wooden table hand-crafted or used by Gandhi for his administrative and educational work.
Additional Information
| Archaeological Survey of India | No |
|---|---|
| Notes | The ashram is located approximately 58 km from the district headquarters at Bettiah and 16 km from Narkatiaganj. It remains a "temple of inspiration" for Gandhians, though it has faced maintenance challenges following floods from the Pandui River in 2017. The site famously embodies Gandhi's quote: "The way to Swaraj is through the door of the village school." |
| Artifacts | Gandhi's Charkha (spinning wheel); Wooden table and bench; Bronze school bell; Kasturba's stone wheat grinder (Chakki); Original bricks carried by Kasturba Gandhi for the school foundation; Rare photographs of the indigo farmers' uprising. |
| Highly Descriptive | Yes |
| Contact Details | +91 79707 88770 |
| Email ID | directorculture-bih@nic.in |
Artifact Gallery
