Kathas won't end, the form will

Every beginning has to reach its zenith. And so was it for Narayan Desai, who at the age of 80 took it upon himself to initiate a mission of spreading life and thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi through his ‘Gandhi Katha’ among people. After 107 editions of Katha and 8 successful years of his mission of carrying Bapu’s thoughts to people who like to listen more than reading, has reached to its pinnacle. Desai – a versatile personality better known as son of Mahadev Desai, Bapu’s personal secretary’s and Gandhi’s favourite ‘Bablo’ will begin his 108th Katha at Sadra on January 26. This is believed to be Desai’s last Gandhi Katha. The Kathas have reached a number that is considered sacred in Hindu philosophy.

Though it is believed that it will be his last Gandhi Katha, the octogenarian isn’t planning to sit quietly after that. Desai started the series of deliberations at the age of 80, an age when most others wouldn’t like to think of going out of their homes. Desai travelled across India to be a bridge between today’s generation and Mahatma Gandhi. Now, at 88, he still goes strong and unfazed by the natural process of aging.

Talking about his future plans, registrar of Gujarat Vidhyapeeth, Rajendra Khimani said, “Yes, this will be the last Gandhi Katha of Narayanbhai. Owing to his advancing years, it is becoming difficult for him to sit for four-five hours at a stretch everyday for five days. Therefore he is concluding his journey of Gandhi Katha with 108th Katha at Sadra. But at the same time, he wants to continue with something related to spread Gandhi’s life and thoughts.” Desai also expressed his wish to go deep into Gandhi’s thoughts and “broadcast it further.”