Gujarat Vidyapith to Share Replicas of Morarji Desai's Prestigious Awards with PM Museum
In a significant cultural and historical collaboration, the Gujarat Vidyapith, founded by Mahatma Gandhi, has agreed to provide replicas of the Bharat Ratna and Nishan-e-Pakistan awards bestowed upon the late Prime Minister Morarji Desai to the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library (PMML) in Delhi. This initiative stems from a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two institutions in 2024, aimed at enhancing public access to Desai's legacy.
Historical Context and Custodianship
Morarji Desai, who served as Prime Minister from 1977 to 1979, was a distinguished leader and the Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith from 1963 until his passing in 1995. In his will dated May 4, 1991, he bequeathed all his personal belongings, including awards, books, and state gifts, to the Vidyapith. As the sole custodian, the institution displays these original items in a dedicated gallery, but footfalls are limited compared to the PMML, which attracts a larger audience.
The original Bharat Ratna and Nishan-e-Pakistan are prominently featured in this gallery. Desai is the only Indian Prime Minister to have received the Nishan-e-Pakistan, awarded on May 18, 1991, shortly after he was conferred the Bharat Ratna in March of the same year. The Vidyapith's collection also includes over a dozen walking sticks, acupressure equipment, a miniature Quran, and various international gifts, reflecting his diverse interests and diplomatic engagements.
Collaboration Details and Process
The decision to share replicas was finalized after PMML Director Ashwani Lohani visited the Morarji Desai gallery on February 2 and held discussions with Vice-Chancellor Dr. Harshad Patel. Bound by Desai's will, the Vidyapith will only provide replicas, not original items, ensuring the preservation of his legacy at its source. The proposal required approval from the Vidyapith's governing council, emphasizing institutional integrity.
Under the MoU signed on July 15, 2024, which is valid for five years, the two institutions have established a collaborative relationship. This agreement allows mutual access to research facilities and digital resources, fostering academic exchange. The process of creating and delivering the replicas is expected to take 2-3 months, with the Vidyapith also planning to classify and share letters of national importance from Desai's extensive collection.
Broader Implications and Legacy
This exchange highlights the ongoing efforts to democratize access to historical artifacts and promote educational outreach. The PMML's initiative to enrich its section on Morarji Desai, which previously had scant material, underscores the importance of preserving India's political heritage. Desai's tenure as Prime Minister, marked by the post-Emergency era and alliances with parties like the Jana Sangh, now BJP, remains a pivotal chapter in Indian history.
By sharing these replicas, the Gujarat Vidyapith and PMML are not only honoring Desai's contributions but also fostering a deeper understanding of India's diplomatic and civilian honors. This collaboration sets a precedent for future partnerships between educational and cultural institutions, ensuring that historical narratives are accessible to a wider audience.
