Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi has in a dateless letter, sealed in the time capsule, 'Smriti Manjusha-Samay Sandook', and lowered into the ground at the site of Mahatma Mandir here today, fervently asked the discerning citizens to look at the Mandir as an epitome of peace, and not just as an edifice of brick-and-mortar.
Excerpts:
Dear Citizens,
The Mahatma Mandir being built at the state capital is not just a project to give concrete shape to a dream in brick-and-mortar. It is impossible rather perhaps needless to give form to the philosophy of Gandhi Bapu, who belonged to the millennium. However, the Mandir could certainly be a source of inspiration for common man.The site has been so chosen that it could be viewed from all directions by the rulers and administrators, so that they get an opportunity to fulfill his ideals, all the time.
The most significant feature of the Mandir 'more than the plan, architecture and budget' is the soil and water brought from places far and wide, across the state, nation and the world. The 'Jal-Mati-Kalash Abhishek' of the Mandir is just a symbolic contribution of the people's strength, their feelings.
The Mandir is a tribute to one who has descended on the earth to take the world from the path of destruction to development, to provide shade to the earth burning in the fire of violence, to silence the guns, to let doves spread the message of peace. It is a temple to remind the mankind the power of a pinch of salt, to reestablish the strength of self-reliance of the spinning wheel.
Mahatma Gandhi will live for ever and so will the dignity of Gujarat and Gujarat. I am thankful to the 5.5-crore Gujaratis for providing me an opportunity to build the Mahatma Mandir befitting the aspirations of the people in the 21sst Century.
My million greetings to all,
Yours as ever,
