Ahmedabad: A controversy has erupted after videos surfaced on social media showing a wedding function with loud music and dancing being held inside the historic Kochrab Ashram, the first ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi after his return from South Africa in 1915.

The viral videos, which depict guests dancing to DJ music during the ceremony, have triggered sharp criticism for being in stark contrast to the ashram’s sanctity and Gandhian values of simplicity and restraint.

According to information emerging from the incident, the wedding was organised for a family member associated with the ashram administration. It is noteworthy that Kochrab Ashram is managed by Gujarat Vidyapith. However, no official statement has been issued by the administration clarifying whether permission was granted for hosting such an event. The videos were reportedly recorded by a local resident who raised concerns over what was perceived as the misuse of a nationally significant heritage site.

Viral videos of wedding function at Mahatma Gandhi’s Kochrab Ashram trigger rowhttps://t.co/BlrITk8QSJ pic.twitter.com/eS5aUQ7wwS

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Reacting strongly, Manish Doshi, spokesperson of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee, alleged that the incident was not a mere lapse but reflected a deeper disregard for Gandhian heritage. “This is not an administrative mistake. Such activities appear to be carried out deliberately. There are repeated attempts to undermine the legacy and ideology of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat and across the country,” Doshi said.

He further stated that Kochrab Ashram was originally a bungalow gifted to Gandhi by Barrister Desai in 1915 and later converted into an ashram, making its preservation a collective responsibility. “If new heritage cannot be created, at least existing heritage should be protected,” he added.

Kochrab Ashram, where Gandhi laid the foundation of his Satyagraha movement, has traditionally been associated with prayer meetings, educational activities and social reform initiatives.

Several questions are now being raised over whether official permission was granted for hosting a wedding with loud music at the ashram. Typically, ashram premises are rented out only for prayer meetings or educational activities. If the event was held without approval, it could constitute a serious violation; if permission was granted, critics say it reflects negligence in safeguarding historical heritage.

As the videos continue to circulate widely, public outrage has intensified, with many demanding accountability from the authorities and clarity on how such an event was allowed at a site closely associated with Gandhi’s philosophy. DeshGujarat