Jamia Millia Islamia Hosts Workshop on “Mahatma Gandhi ka Swaraj” as Part of 105th Foundation Day Celebrations
- University recalls Mahatma Gandhi’s contribution to the founding of JMI and relevance of Gandhian ideals today
New Delhi, November 1, 2025: As part of its 105th Foundation Day celebrations, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) organized an intellectually enriching workshop on “Mahatma Gandhi ka Swaraj”, hosted by the Nelson Mandela Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (NMCPCR). The event celebrated Gandhi’s enduring association with JMI and explored the contemporary relevance of his philosophy of Swaraj and Nai Taleem (basic education).
The distinguished panel included Shri K. Satish Nambudiripad, Director General, Doordarshan; Prof. Sanjeev K. Sharma, Former Vice Chancellor, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari and Dean, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut; and Prof. Sanjeev Kumar H. M., Department of Political Science, University of Delhi. The event was graced by Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice Chancellor, JMI; Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar; and Prof. Neelofer Afzal, Dean of Students’ Welfare.
The workshop, convened by Dr. Binish Maryam with Sudhanshu Trivedi as co-convenor, opened with remarks from Prof. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, who reflected on Gandhi’s deep emotional connection with JMI. “As JMI turns 105, it is vital to recall that Jamia is a living expression of Gandhian ideals,” he said. Drawing parallels between Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, Prof. Rizvi emphasized that Swaraj was not just political freedom but “self-rule of the mind, body, and spirit.” He elaborated on Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj, linking it to the principles of participatory democracy and self-governance.
Prof. Rizvi highlighted the relevance of Gandhian principles such as khadi, rural development, and Panchayati Raj, noting their reflection in today’s government initiatives like ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’. Referring to JMI’s contribution to the educational landscape, he quoted Dr. Zakir Husain, former President of India and JMI’s founding Vice Chancellor, who described Jamia as “a laboratory for the nation.”
Prof. Sanjeev Kumar H. M. presented a deeply philosophical discourse on Gandhi’s pluralistic faith, interpreting his ideas from Hind Swaraj and the Bhagavad Gita. He described Gandhi’s concept of Ram Rajya as rooted in faith rather than religion, advocating ethical living and truth as guiding principles. He stressed that Gandhi’s notion of Swaraj involved “fearless critique” and a morally conscious society.
Chief Guest Shri K. Satish Nambudiripad lauded JMI’s 105-year journey, calling it “a monumental achievement.” Reflecting on Gandhi’s philosophy in the context of environmental degradation, he warned against human greed and overconsumption, invoking Gandhi’s famous words: “There is enough for everyone’s needs, but not for anyone’s greed.” He underscored the importance of Gandhian thought in promoting sustainable development and harmony with nature.
Prof. Sanjeev K. Sharma delivered an insightful lecture on Gandhi’s transformative years in South Africa and his establishment of the Phoenix Ashram. He stressed that Gandhi envisioned an India deeply rooted in its culture and not a mere imitation of the West. “Freedom of expression and self-critique,” he noted, “were integral to Gandhi’s character.” He concluded that true education must aim to make individuals “good citizens and compassionate human beings,” adding that JMI continues to uphold this vision.
Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice Chancellor, JMI, shared his personal and historical connection with Gandhi, highlighting that Gandhi’s two major contributions to Jamia were his Nai Taleem experiment and his personal efforts to sustain the university financially during times of crisis. “Gandhi’s life teaches us that truth and selfless service are the foundation of real education,” he remarked.
The workshop, attended by scholars, faculty members, and students, was coordinated by Dr. Binish Maryam, Associate Professor, NMCPCR, and concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.
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