By Shobaraj Yumlembam
IMPHAL, April 5: Responding to an invitation from Dr Jamini, the granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi and Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti New Delhi, Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee visited Imphal and attended the formal inauguration of Khadi weaving and embroidery and Charkha Spinning at Dr Jamini`s Ashram at Ghari today.
In an interaction with this reporter, she said she was inspired by people who work silently and help others and contributes to the society. “The people here use original tools which are historical museum pieces to make and reviving Khadi which is a source of livelihood for many,” she said.
Khadi is of great use but there is less market for it here. “The armed forces should also buy and use some Khadi made by this centre, which can be used for mental therapy as it is the symbol of nonviolence. I would like to pay homage to the people of Manipur for following what Gandhiji had wanted by making Khadi which is the thread of life,” she added.
She continued that she will be taking back the message of peace from Manipur and urged the people to use Khadi to bring peace and not violence.
When asked whether she would be visiting Irom Sharmila who has been on a continuous fast for more than 12 years demanding to repeal Arms Forces Special Powers Act 1958, and who has been a living example of her own grand father`s belief of non violent struggle, she wondered who Irom Sharmila was. However, when told about her, she expressed her strong desire to visit and have a talk with the anti AFSPA campaigner.