In November of 2025 I ventured on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to India to see the Taj Mahal. While that was a magnificent experience in itself, what I did not imagine was how visiting Gandhi Smriti would impact me so profoundly.

This solemn retreat hidden away in the bustling city of New Delhi was quiet, insightful, and peaceful in it’s own way. You see, this is not only the place where Gandhi spent his last 144 days on Earth, but also the place where he was assassinated. Visitors can view his humble abode, his meditation chair, the beautiful garden, and the martyr’s column denoting the place where he died. His footsteps in concrete show the path from his dwelling/office towards his meditation chair across the garden where he was interrupted by his assassin.

In a lighter note, there is a long exterior walkway with many photos and explanations about him. It explains how he grew up in India, went away to college in England where he studied to be a barrister (an English version of a  lawyer) and why he traveled to South Africa. His struggles in South Africa resulted in freedom from the British Monarchy. This momentous task is more than most people are capable in an entire lifetime. But for Gandhi, it merely set the stage for his role in securing the same freedom for his homeland, India.

The man epitomized the word: Satyagraha, which means “a policy of passive political resistance especially that advocated by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule in India.” (Quote from the New Oxford American Dictionary.)

After becoming acquainted with the history surrounding Gandhi and his accomplishments, I was eager to have a “soul connection” with him. Herewith is our conversation.

Janie J: Gandhi, you lived an exemplary life! I was in awe and admiration when I learned about you on my visit to India. Please tell me what you feel was your greatest accomplishment.

Gandhi: At the time, I didn’t think my accomplishments were many or so significant. I was only trying to solve the next issue in my journey. It is only now as I look back and notice how all those little steps I took resulted in big accomplishments. 

I hope that I left mankind with the sense that one person can indeed make a difference in the lives of others and leave a mark on humanity.

I didn’t realize it at first, but then it became an obsession with me to fix (or at least bring attention to) the unfairness and unethical treatment of some peoples. This was not right! I found it to be indignant! It infuriated me so, but I learned to keep myself calm so my words and actions would be taken seriously for I knew that sudden outbursts and yelling would only draw negative attention to me and my efforts. I think I exemplified to others the purpose and power of calm negotiation.

My greatest accomplishment then, I feel, was to show all humans are equal or should be treated as such, using calm methods versus loud outbursts. Peaceful learning and peaceful co-existence is what I’d call it. Learning we are all equal, accepting it and acting accordingly, all without violence and mayhem.

All my best to you on your journey. Namaste.

Mahatma Gandhi, the great leader of men, setting the example of kindness, compassion, and equality through non-destructive means.

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