In remembrance of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya carries out National Week every year from April 6–13. Gandhian concepts and ideals are highlighted throughout the week through a variety of events, including presentations, seminars, lectures, and workshops. The Mani Bhavan Sangrahalaya and Gandhi Smarak Nidhi arranged a book reading by Dr. Prabha Ravi Shankar on April 10, 2026, as part of this year’s activities. In her book “Mahadev Desai: Mahatma Gandhi’s Good Fortune,” she studied the life of a trusted associate of Mahatma Gandhi.
Mahadev Desai is still regarded as one of the most important, yet frequently underrated, figures in India’s freedom struggle. Dr Prabha Ravi Shankar’s newest book highlights the inspiring narrative of the man who stood solidly behind Gandhi.
Desai joined the Sabarmati Ashram in 1917, drawn by Gandhi’s aim of social change and freedom from British colonial rule. It was here that he began working as Gandhi’s personal secretary for the rest of his life. He was responsible for much more than just administrative work. Desai became a close condante who actively participated in the ashram’s everyday activities and helped Gandhi make some important decisions. Desai was well-liked by contemporaries like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel because of his intelligence and in-depth knowledge of social and political matters. He was a major contributor to Gandhi’s newspapers, including Harijan, Young India, and Navjivan. He used his writings to assist, explain, and deepen the ideals of the Gandhian movement.
Among his many talents, Desai’s diary writing stood out. Considered a diarist par excellence, his extensive documentation sheds light on Gandhi’s life and the important events of the independence struggle. His writings continue to serve as an important historical resource. Dr. Shankar, in her book, explains to us that Desai was more than just a secretary; he was a thinker,
writer, and a loyal freedom ghter whose impact deserves far more credit in the history of India’s independence.
By- Manasi Prabhoo, B.A., M.A. (English Literature), M.A. (Publishing). Email: manasiprabhoo@gmail.com
About the Author
