About Sevagram Ashram
Sevagram Ashram is a historic heritage site in Sevagram village, Wardha district, Maharashtra, established by Mahatma Gandhi in April 1936 as his residence and headquarters until 1948. Originally named Shegaon, it was renamed Sevagram meaning 'village of service' to avoid postal confusion. The ashram served as the center for national movements and constructive work institutions during India's freedom struggle. Today it preserves Gandhi's personal belongings, original cottages, and prayer grounds while functioning as a living memorial to Gandhian philosophy.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore preserved mud cottages including Bapu Kuti (Gandhi's residence), Ba Kuti (Kasturba's cottage), Adi Nivas, and Akhiri Nivas where Gandhi's personal belongings and daily use items are displayed. Volunteers provide historical narratives at each structure explaining their significance. The open-air prayer ground continues to host morning and evening prayers. Visitors can observe traditional spinning and weaving at the Cotton to Cloth workshop and purchase khadi products, books, and homemade items from ashram shops. The environment is peaceful and reflective with simple earthen architecture surrounded by trees.
Key highlights
- 01
Bapu Kuti housing Gandhi's personal belongings including his sleeping cot and massage table
- 02
Open-air prayer ground where interfaith prayers have been held continuously since Gandhi's time
- 03
Adi Nivas, the first hut built with a budget cap of Rs. 500 using local materials
- 04
Gandhi's Secretariat displaying the telephone brought by British authorities for consultations
- 05
Cotton to Cloth workshop demonstrating traditional spinning and weaving practices
- 06
Akhiri Nivas where Gandhi lived before departing for Noakhali in 1946
History of Sevagram Ashram
Mahatma Gandhi established his residence in Sevagram on April 30, 1936, at age 67, making it his headquarters until his death in 1948. The ashram became the central location for decisions on important national matters and movements during India's freedom struggle. Originally called Shegaon, it was renamed Sevagram in 1940 to distinguish it from another village associated with Saint Gajanan Maharaj. Gandhi lived simply in mud huts with minimal facilities, initially without even a post office. The site witnessed numerous historic events and housed institutions for nation-building activities devised by Gandhi.