Mahatma Gandhi’s landmark visit to Kundapur ignited freedom struggle momentum

In February 1934, Mahatma Gandhi made a significant visit to Kundapur as part of his tour of the then Dakshina Kannada district. Arriving on the 25th, he presided over a gathering at the Naribena ground (now known as Gandhi Maidan), where thousands of people had gathered. Notable figures like 80-year-old Mutsaddhi Manjaiah Sherigar and supporters of the Khilafat movement were prominent during this time.

The event was marked by voluntary contributions to both the Harijan Fund and the Earthquake Fund. An auction of the gifts received raised a total of Rs. 400, which was also dedicated to the cause.

Gandhi stayed the night at the residence of freedom fighter Gopalkrishna Kamath, situated on the right side of Naribanya Maidan, now called Santiniketan. On February 26th, which was Gandhiji’s day of silence, he refrained from speaking to anyone throughout the day, spending the entirety of his time in Kundapur in silence. The following morning, he departed for Karwar via steamer from the Kundapur fort door.

Gandhi’s visit to Kundapur not only left a profound impact on the masses but also played a pivotal role in galvanizing the freedom struggle. This event catalyzed the organization of various movements aimed at India’s independence.

Looking at Kundapur’s historical sites today, Santiniketan stands as one of the municipality’s 23 wards. An iron welcome arch called Santiniketan is located on the service road, with an inscription at its base commemorating “Santiniketan Gandhi Nehru Nilaya 1934, 1937.” This arch marks the place where Gandhi, Nehru, and Indira Gandhi once stayed. In 1934, Gandhi arrived in Kundapur and delivered a speech against untouchability at a meeting presided over by Sahukar Manjaiah Sherigar.

Notably, the gifts received during the visit were auctioned, yielding 400 rupees for Bihar’s flood relief fund. Gandhi’s stay at Narayana Kamath’s Santiniketan included participation in an early morning prayer meeting on February 26th, followed by his observance of Maunvrat (vow of silence) for the entire day. The next day, he continued his journey, departing for Gangolli and eventually reaching Karwar by the steamer “Dayavati.”

Gopalakrishna Kamath, Narayana Kamath’s son, resided in Shantiniketan. In 1960, in memory of Gandhiji, a welcome arch was erected, and the road was named Santiniketan. However, the original house is no longer standing, and the welcome arch remains as the sole remnant of that era.