Mysuru: A Gandhi Bhavan constructed at a cost of Rs 3 crore near the Deputy Commissioner’s Office complex in Siddhartha Nagar remains locked and unused despite being inaugurated last year by then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The facility, intended to promote Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and provide a venue for educational and cultural activities, has reportedly remained inaccessible since its inauguration, with weeds and bushes growing across the premises.

The situation has raised questions about the utilisation of public funds and the lack of arrangements to make the building operational. Although the facility includes a library, conference hall, training centre, photo gallery and a 100-seater meeting hall, it has yet to serve the purpose for which it was constructed.

Gandhi Bhavan envisioned in 2016-17 budget

The project traces its origins to the 2016-17 state budget presented during Siddaramaiah’s first tenure as Chief Minister. He had announced plans to establish Gandhi Bhavans in every district to promote Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and ideology.

The proposed centres were intended to provide spaces for meetings, seminars, conferences, exhibitions and other programmes centred on Gandhian principles. They were also envisioned as places where younger generations could learn about Gandhi’s life, values and contribution to India’s freedom movement.

The Mysuru facility was developed as part of this broader initiative. However, despite its inauguration last year, the building has not become operational.

Modern facilities lie unused

The Gandhi Bhavan was constructed by the Department of Information and Public Relations on a 100-by-100-foot area within a one-acre plot along Bannur Road.

The building houses several facilities designed to support educational and public activities, including:

  • A library dedicated to learning and reference.
  • A conference hall and training centre.
  • A photo gallery and exhibition space.
  • A meeting hall with seating for 100 people.
  • An office and toilet facilities.
  • A ramp to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.

A statue of Mahatma Gandhi stands on the front lawn, reflecting the purpose of the institution.

Despite these facilities, the premises remain locked. Weeds and bushes have reportedly grown around the building, adding to concerns about the maintenance of an asset intended for public use.

The lack of regular activity also means that the library, meeting spaces and exhibition facilities are yet to fulfil their intended educational and cultural role.

Staff shortage cited as reason for delay

Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations Vinodchandra said the department lacked the staff and resources required to maintain the facility.

He indicated that the district administration would take over maintenance following directions from higher authorities.

The proposed transfer of responsibility could help address the immediate maintenance issue. However, arrangements will also be needed to manage the facility, organise programmes and ensure that the building remains accessible to the public.

Without a clear operational plan, the infrastructure risks remaining unused despite the investment made in its construction.

Mysuru already has another Gandhi Bhavan

The newly constructed facility is Mysuru’s second Gandhi Bhavan. The University of Mysore’s Department of Gandhian Studies also operates a Gandhi Bhavan at Manasagangothri.

The existence of the university facility adds to the importance of defining the role of the newer building and ensuring that it complements existing efforts to promote Gandhian studies.

The district-level centre could provide opportunities for schools, colleges, voluntary organisations and public institutions to conduct discussions, seminars, exhibitions and educational programmes on Gandhi’s principles. Its facilities could also support activities related to peace, non-violence, social responsibility and community engagement.

For this potential to be realised, the building needs regular maintenance, adequate staffing and a programme calendar that encourages public participation.

Questions over utilisation of public funds

The continued closure of the Rs 3 crore facility highlights the importance of planning for staffing and maintenance alongside the construction of public buildings.

While the infrastructure has been completed and the building inaugurated, the absence of operational arrangements has prevented it from delivering its intended benefits.

The proposed handover to the district administration may provide a way forward, but the timeline for taking over the facility and opening it to the public remains unclear.

Making the Gandhi Bhavan functional would allow the government to put the existing infrastructure to use and provide Mysuru with another venue for educational and cultural activities promoting Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.

Until responsibility for maintenance and day-to-day operations is settled, the building will continue to stand as an unused public facility despite its intended role in preserving and spreading Gandhian ideals.