Gandhian Leader Prasanna Heggodu Raises Alarm Over Tree Felling at Historic Badanavalu Khadi Centre
In a strong critique of development practices, Gandhian and senior theatre personality Prasanna Heggodu has publicly questioned the felling of old trees at the Khadi Centre in Badanavalu village, located in Nanjangud taluk of Mysuru district. He argues that these actions, carried out in the name of progress, threaten the very essence of this historic site.
Call for Sustainable Conservation Based on Gandhian Principles
Prasanna has urgently appealed to the state government to adopt a sustainable Gandhian model for the conservation and rejuvenation of the centre. This location holds immense historical significance, as Mahatma Gandhi himself visited it during the freedom movement, making it a national monument associated with khadi production and Gandhian ideals.
Speaking to reporters, Prasanna expressed deep concern over the disturbances at the Badanavalu Khadi Centre. He alleged that reckless actions by officials have led to the felling of trees that had stood on the campus for decades, alongside alterations to the centre's original structure. "This is not just about trees; it's about preserving our heritage and the values Gandhi stood for," he emphasized.
Community Efforts Undermined by Hasty Development
Over the past two months, volunteers from across Karnataka, invited by the Karnataka Khadi Board, had been staying in Badanavalu. Their mission was to work with local residents to revive the Khadi Centre and transform the area into a "Gandhi Gram"—a model village embodying Gandhian principles. However, Prasanna claims that a hurried approach by certain officials, prioritizing rapid development, has severely undermined these community-driven initiatives.
He further alleged that unnecessary buildings are being constructed and heavy machinery deployed, which he says enables contractors to profit at the expense of public resources. "This commercialization goes against the spirit of self-reliance and sustainability that khadi represents," Prasanna stated.
Criticism of Textile Department Practices
Prasanna also accused the textile department of promoting what he described as counterfeit products, such as powerloom khadi, synthetic khadi, and powerloom sarees and dhotis. He argued that these items are harmful to the village economy and contradict Gandhian philosophy, which advocates for hand-spun, eco-friendly textiles. "True khadi supports local artisans and sustainable practices, not mass-produced imitations," he noted.
Proposal to Rename Railway Station as "Khadi Station"
In addition to his conservation demands, Prasanna has called for the Narasambudhi railway station at Badanavalu to be renamed "Khadi Station." He suggested that this station be developed into a centre for promoting khadi and Mahatma Gandhi's ideals, potentially attracting national and international visitors to the area. "This would honor our history and boost sustainable tourism," he explained.
Gandhian activist Mahadevappa was also present during the press interaction, supporting Prasanna's calls for action. The issue highlights ongoing tensions between development projects and heritage conservation in Karnataka, with activists urging a balance that respects historical and environmental values.
