“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi
A recent visit to Gandhi Smriti and Rajghat in the heart of the capital, where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days and where his life was commemorated, offered the GDi team an opportunity to reflect deeply on this principle. Both these visits were especially poignant as it aligned with GDi’s recently celebrated Foundation Day— marking four years dedicated to carrying forward Gandhi’s vision by building a governance model that is people-centred, ethical, and inclusive.
Standing at Rajghat, the solemn memorial to Gandhi, we experienced a profound connection to the values espoused. The simple black marble platform and the eternal flame were a stark reminder of his legacy. Rajghat symbolises Gandhi’s teachings on peace, non-violence and the spirit of sacrifice. It was here, in this place of reverence, that all of us GDi found ourselves contemplating the path of service and nation-building that Gandhi championed.
Immersed in the simplicity and purpose of Gandhi’s life, we were reminded of the core values that drives our mission: fostering a governance model rooted in inclusivity, transparency, and grassroots empowerment. Soon after we walked through Gandhi Smriti, a place where Gandhi’s personal belongings and historical artefacts have been perfectly enshrined. It was clear that the Father of the Nation’s vision for India extended far beyond political freedom. His dream was a nation built on self-reliance, ethical governance, and shared responsibility—values that we uphold in GDi’s work.
We spent meaningful moments at Gandhi Smriti, gazing at his iconic round-rimmed glasses, spinning wheel, pocket-watch, sandals, walking stick among other personal belongings are on display, all of which serve as poignant reminders of his commitment to truth and service. While these may now have become historical relics; if you ponder on their significance you will find that Bapu’s artefacts represent his unyielding belief in simplicity, honesty, and the power of community—a philosophy that is embedded in GDi’s values to organisation building.
When we started GDi in 2020, we grounded our mission in Gandhian principles, aspiring to empower individuals, promote inclusivity, and support communities in achieving self-reliance. Gandhi's vision of swaraj, or self-governance, is integral to GDi’s work in building transparent, people-driven governance. We aim to integrate Gandhian philosophy by promoting projects in digital inclusion, policy reform, and regional development, allowing citizens to play an active role in their nation’s future. Like Gandhi, GDi believes that nation-building starts at the grassroots level, where empowered communities can collectively create a harmonious society.
The day-long visit was also a reminder of the immense importance of ethical governance. Gandhi’s emphasis on truth and accountability is part of GDi’s core mission. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, where information and technology have become integral to daily life, GDi focuses on creating mechanisms where technology provides empowerment and not surveillance. Digital inclusion is a central initiative, bridging gaps in knowledge and opportunity, and enabling people from all walks of life to engage with governance in meaningful ways. By promoting digital literacy and inclusivity, GDi carries forward Gandhi’s vision of a just and equitable society.
A day filled with learnings and a tour through history resulted in reaffirmation of GDi’s commitment to building a better India. Inspired by the enduring values of integrity, self-reliance, and community empowerment, I can confidently say we are more determined than ever to advance GDi’s mission. The path ahead may be long and arduous but we will continue to innovate and collaborate, ensuring that our governance models are effective, inclusive, transparent and create lasting positive change that resonates across every corner of our great nation.