Belagavi will host the centenary celebrations of the historic 1924 Congress session presided over by Mahatma Gandhi, with over 150 dignitaries, including AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, expected to attend. The event is scheduled for December 26 and 27.
A Congress Working Committee meeting will occur on the first day, followed by a public rally at CPEd grounds on the second.
Visit to Historic Sites
Dignitaries will visit Veera Soudha, the iconic session venue, and the Hudali and Kanabaragi villages, where Gandhiji stayed during his time in Belagavi. The event will also feature the unveiling of a Gandhiji statue at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha, accompanied by cultural performances.
State-Wide Celebrations
The Karnataka government has outlined year-long commemorative events under a committee led by Minister H.K. Patil. These include competitions for students, photo and painting exhibitions, drama and cinema screenings, charkha marathons, and mobile tableaux. Memorial stones will also be installed in villages and towns visited by Gandhiji.
Significance of the Belgaum Session
The 1924 session holds historical importance as the only Congress plenary session chaired by Mahatma Gandhi. Although the session itself spanned two days, Gandhiji spent eight days in Belagavi, from December 21 to 29, 1924. During this time, he engaged with various political and social organizations and addressed numerous gatherings. His emphasis on social service during this period is believed to have inspired the formation of the Seva Dal in Ghataprabha.
