Mahatma Gandhi (1869 -1948) led a nonviolent movement to win freedom for India from British rule.

History & Design:

Inscriptions on the walkway at the entrance to the India Cultural Garden say “welcome” in 15 of India’s major languages, as well as English. The most prominent feature of the Indian Cultural Garden is the 10 foot bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi. It sits on a seven-foot granite pedestal that gives it a impressive presence on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, named for one of the most famous students of Gandhi’s teachings. The statue was created by Gautam Pal of Calcutta.

On either side of Gandhi are six pillars that depict aspects of Indian heritage. All heritage pillars display a lotus flower, India’s national flower. The six pillars are:

• Universal Brotherhood – Inscriptions include ancient text stating that the whole world is one family.
• Legacy -India’s contributions to humanity.
• Artistic Traditions – India’s visual and performing arts traditions and major artists.
• Leadership – Major leaders in both ancient and modern India.
• Modern India – Status of modern India and Indian diaspora in America.
• Connections – Historical connections between India and America.

The India Cultural Garden borders Doan Brook, and steps leading to Doan Brook are reminiscent of the steps (known as ghats) leading to rivers that are a common sight in India.

Plantings:

An eastern redbud was planted at the India Cultural Garden in 2008 by Prof. Rajmohan Gandhi, the grandson of the Mahatma.