If you’re planning to visit Sabarmati Ashram, we recommend taking a stroll across the historic Dandi Bridge. Also known as Dandi Pul, it is located just one km from the Ashram. This iconic structure holds historical significance because it was the first bridge crossed by Mahatma Gandhi and his 75 volunteers as they embarked on the Dandi March from Sabarmati Ashram.
While the old structure may now fade into obscurity, it stands as a silent witness to a crucial chapter in India’s fight for independence during the Non-cooperation movement.
Short history of Dandi March and Dandi Bridge
On March 12, 1930, Gandhi initiated a non-violent rebellion against the British salt monopoly in India, a movement that lasted 24 days, covering a distance of approximately 387 km from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi.
The march commenced from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, with Gandhi leading his 75 volunteers. The first bridge they crossed was a humble wooden structure over a canal connecting Gandhi Ashram to the city of Ahmedabad.
This march sparked a movement that reshaped India’s history and bolstered the country’s pursuit of independence. The bridge, now known as the Dandi Bridge, has become a symbolic milestone in the Yatra.
A place worth visiting
Despite the presence of a modern concrete bridge adjacent to the aging original structure, visitors can still sense the sacred ground where the Dandi March started—a movement that played a pivotal role in galvanizing public opinion against British colonial policies and stands as a landmark event in India’s struggle for independence.
Situated near Sabarmati Ashram, the bridge is a compelling destination in itself, offering not only a glimpse into history but also a panoramic view of the city. A visit to this location provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and reflect on the profound impact of the Dandi March on India’s journey toward freedom.
