I wish I could have captured his photograph. Two days back, I was strolling along the Dean Office road at Sevagram where I live. I stopped when I saw a teenager- with a bucket in right hand and a sleeping bag in the left- running towards me. Panting, and perspiring profusely, he gathered his breath and asked me, ” Sir, where is Sevagram ashram. I am supposed to report to the camp before 4 pm.” I showed him the way, suggested that he takes an auto to go there but he said that he would rather run to reach the Ashram than take an auto.
All first-year students at MGIMS spend their fortnight in Gandhiji’s Ashram. They live in dormitories, eat together, do voluntary labour. Teachers introduce them to Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry right in the Ashram. Decades later, most students recall that the Ashram fortnight was one of the most wonderful time they have ever had in their life, a time which created deep friendships, developed bonds, cultivated camaraderie and took off their fears about ragging. They also got a rich insight into what village life is all about and what people have to do to make both ends meet.
I have no idea what was his name, and where did he come from. All that I know is that he had won admission to the MGIMS and was enrolled as a first-year medical student. Five years later, he would add MBBS to his name; ten years later an MD or MS and probably fifteen years later, a DM or MCH. He might emerge as a successful, highly skilled doctor, respected worldwide for his knowledge, skills and selfless service. But to enter into the Hall of Fame, he had to get into the Ashram first. To paraphrase Neil Armstrong, these small steps towards Ashram ould turn out to be giant leaps for his career. All the best, young man!