Mahatma Gandhi had a direct connection to Rotary in India, having addressed the Rotary Club of Calcutta, the first Rotary club in the country, on August 18, 1925, to speak on the economic and spiritual value of the charkha (spinning wheel). Beyond this direct interaction, Gandhi's philosophy of "Service Above Self" resonates deeply with Rotary's core values, as seen in the shared emphasis on helping others, non-violence, and community empowerment. His teachings have inspired Rotarians and are reflected in their pursuit of service and positive change globally.
Read the text of the full speech:
He also wrote an article , "My 7 points for a new world order," which was published in the February 1942 issue of The Rotarian magazine.
Read about PRIP Rajendra Saboo's encounters with him, and the lessons that he learnt from him, in his article that was published in Rotary magazine in May 2025 issue:
