One of the most iconic images of Mahatma Gandhi is that of the beloved Bapu sitting besides a Charkha, fully immersed in spinning.

The Charkha is a powerful symbol that Mahatma Gandhi used during his fight against colonialism and injustice. It stood for self-sustenance and a war against poverty. Mahatma Gandhi strongly advocated the usage of Khadi products.

Over the last several years, Shri Narendra Modi has left no stone unturned to popularize Khadi and create a mass movement where everyone purchases Khadi products, specially on the special day of Gandhi Jayanti.

The Prime Minister himself regularly wears Khadi and has been doing so since the very early days when he was working for the RSS and BJP organisation.

Shri Modi has given the Mantra of ‘Khadi for nation, Khadi for fashion’ – the idea that Khadi can become a symbol of national pride and a fashion statement, which can be popular among the youth.

He has repeatedly said, “When we purchase a Khadi, we are brightening the lives of the lakhs of weavers who toil day and night. Buying a Khadi product is like ushering a Diwali in the homes of the weavers.”

The efforts of Shri Narendra Modi have borne good results. After the Prime Minister’s clarion call urging buy Khadi, during the very first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme on 3rd October 2014, Khadi sales shot up considerably particularly in the flagship Khadi Gram Udyog Bhavan store in New Delhi.

Today, there is surely greater awareness about Khadi and it can be a powerful means of empowering the poorest of the poor.