Express News Service
BENGALURU: Of over 600 degree colleges functioning in Bengaluru, this particular college stands out for its love for ‘khadi’. Seshadripuram Degree College, which is one of the oldest colleges in the city, has made it mandatory for students and staff to wear khadi once a week. They wear khadi dress on all Saturdays. The aim is to spread Gandhiji’s concept of self-reliance and make them understand the value of the cottage industry.
“Students did not show much enthusiasm initially. But when they saw teachers donning khadi clothes, they also followed suit. Now, all the students wear khadi uniforms with pride every Saturday,” said a faculty member at the degree college located in Seshadripuram.
“Never we thought khadi dress could be so comfortable. If the idea of mandatory khadi uniforms is replicated across the country, it will help strengthen Indian economy greatly,” said a student at Seshadripuram degree college.
“This is a small effort on our part to spread the message of Mahatma Gandhi. In this age of gadgets, it is our responsibility to make students understand the importance of Swadeshi factor,” said W P Krishna, honorary general secretary of Seshadripuram Education Trust.
Mandatory khadi at govt colleges likely
The state government is also planning to introduce khadi dress at colleges. “After Dasara, I will discuss with my department officials about introducing khadi dress once a week at all higher education institutions across the state,” said higher education minister GT Devegowda. He appreciated Seshadripuram group of institutions and Hubballi-based Karnataka State Law University for leading the way. Mandatory khadi dress rule is in place at all affiliated colleges of Karnataka State Law University and all institutions run by the Seshadripuram Education Trust.
