HAVERI: Nestled in the small village of Hosaritti, the Gandhi Grameen Gurukul School stands as a testament to the vision of esteemed freedom fighter Gudleppa Hallikeri. Founded in 1973, this unique institution not only provides regular education but also trains students in essential agricultural skills, cattle care, horticulture, and sericulture.
Hallikeri established the school after turning 50, using Rs 1.5 lakh raised from the local community. A trust was formed under his leadership, acquiring the 32-acre land for just Rs 16,000. Today, the school serves 250 students from fifth to tenth grade, primarily hailing from impoverished agricultural families across North Karnataka. In addition to traditional subjects, students learn computer skills and embrace Gandhian principles, preparing them for modern challenges. The state government funds food and lodging, while the trust manages additional expenses.
In a recent announcement, the state government revealed that the school would receive the prestigious Gandhi Seva award, alongside Gandhian professor JB Shivaraju from Tumakuru. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to present the awards in Bengaluru on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanthi Day.
VU Chakki, the school’s senior trustee, expressed pride in this recognition and noted that it will coincide with the inauguration of a museum honoring Hallikeri’s life. Titled ‘Darshana Pradarshana,’ the museum will showcase around 300 photographs documenting his early years, freedom struggle, and contributions. These images have been sourced from various libraries and personal collections, allowing visitors to glimpse Hallikeri’s legacy.
The school is now advocating for increased government funding, akin to that provided to Morarji Desai Residential Schools. Currently, only four out of 29 sanctioned teaching positions are filled, with the remainder staffed by privately funded educators.
Hallikeri’s dedication to social reform and education was deeply influenced by his association with Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Ashram. Gandhi encouraged Hallikeri to return to Haveri to establish a similar institution, promoting the use of khadi and self-sufficiency. Hallikeri’s contributions were recognized post-Independence by prominent figures, including Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
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