MAHATMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY KOTTAYAM
MAHATMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY KOTTAYAM The brown colour circular insignia of the Mahatma Gandhi University Kottayam (MGUK) in Kerala has a traditional spinning wheel of the charkha representing Mahatma Gandhi’s values in a circle. These are ensconced by a circular border, which carries its name and place. At the bottom on a bunch of palm leaf manuscripts its motto in Sanskrit ‘विद्यया अमृतमश्नुते’ (Verse 11, Ishopanishad) meaning ‘Knowledge Enjoys Immortality’ is inscribed. The charkha or spinning wheel, is a symbol of self-sufficiency, freedom and resilience. The charkha was popularised by Mahatma Gandhi, who used it as a metaphor for ancient work ethics and a symbol of economic and social reaction to British rule. The traditional lamp symbolises light, illumination, awakening, devotion, purity, guidance, protection, hope and prosperity.