Cuttack, Jan 31: The historic Swaraj Ashram in Cuttack is once again alive with the rhythmic sound of the charkha, the spinning wheel that became a symbol of India’s freedom struggle. Initiated as part of Mahatma Gandhi’s call for Swadeshi and self-reliance, the charkha was a favorite tool for freedom fighters and a central part of the ashram’s daily life.

To mark Gandhiji’s death anniversary, the Cuttack district administration has inaugurated a charkha center at the Swaraj Ashram. As part of the initiative, 12 independent charkhas have been brought from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, while 10 quintals of roving cotton yarn have been sourced from the Khadi Gramodyog and Industrial Commission in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh. These resources will be used to produce yarn and manufacture Khadi, reviving traditional handloom practices in the region.

The Chitrotpala Khadi Gramodyog in Kendupatna has been entrusted with managing the production, and training programs will be conducted for those interested in learning charkha operation and Khadi production, according to Nalini Kanta Sahu, Cuttack District Cultural Officer.

“This initiative will not only revive the historic charkha at the ashram but also reconnect people with Gandhi’s principles of nonviolence and unity,” said Sahu. “The sound of the charkha will once again echo in every household connected to the ashram.”

The Swaraj Ashram has a rich historical legacy. Bapu first visited on March 23, 1921, accompanied by his wife Kasturaba and son Devadas. In 1925, during Madhusudan Das’s visit to Odisha, Gandhi again stayed at the ashram and inaugurated a Khadi exhibition. Over the years, leaders including Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and Odisha stalwarts Gopabandhu Choudhury and Nabakrushna Choudhury spent time here, making it a hub of freedom movement activities.

With the reinstallation of the charkha, the Swaraj Ashram now offers visitors a chance to witness history and engage with India’s enduring Khadi and Swadeshi heritage.