It is the year 1926. Mahatma Gandhi was on his visit to South India. Along with him was his close associate and great thinker Kakasaheb Kalelkar. As the journey progressed, they reached Nagar Koil, which is very close to Kanyakumari. In an earlier trip, Gandhiji had gone to Kanyakumari and seen the beautiful views there. This time he was staying at the house of a simple, gentlemanly family man in Nagercoil.
The same day, Gandhiji called the housekeeper and said, “I want to send Kaka to Kanyakumari, please arrange a motor car for him.” The homeowners immediately started making arrangements. After some time Gandhiji saw that Kakasaheb was still sitting there. He was surprised, then he asked the housekeeper, “Have arrangements for uncle’s departure been made or are they still pending?”
Seeing this inquiry of Gandhiji, Kakasaheb was a little curious, because Bapu did not have the habit of asking again after handing over the work to someone. He said casually, “Bapu, will you also come along, right?” Gandhiji smiled at this question, then said in a calm voice, “No uncle, it is not in my destiny to go again and again. I have seen it once, that is enough.” Hearing Bapu’s answer, Kakasaheb became a bit sad. He wanted Bapu to enjoy that natural beauty with him once again. Bapu sensed his state of mind.
After remaining silent for a moment, he said in a serious voice, “Uncle, we are carrying the burden of a huge movement on our shoulders. Thousands of volunteers are engaged in the service of the country. If I myself get attracted by the beautiful places, then they will all follow suit. For me, restraint is the best. When one has taken a vow to serve the nation, it is appropriate to give up the greed for one’s personal happiness and beauty.”
After hearing Bapu’s words, Kakasaheb’s heart was filled with joy in a moment. He understood that Gandhiji’s life was an example not only for him but for all those who were walking on the path of freedom. Every small action, every desire and every sacrifice of a leader gives direction to countless followers. This teaches us that true leadership is manifested not only in words, but also in conduct. Greed and attraction come in everyone’s life, but the person who can control himself for a greater purpose becomes the real leader of the society. In reality, greatness lies not in external achievements, but in inner discipline, sacrifice and determination.- Nripendra Abhishek Nrip