Mahatma Gandhi’s Lookalike Walks to Ayodhya, Steals the Spotlight
GG News Bureau
Ayodhya, 20th Jan. A devotee of Lord Ram, resembling Mahatma Gandhi, attracted the attention of people in Ayodhya as he walked barefoot with a stick in hand on a cold Friday morning. The doppelganger, wearing round-framed spectacles, lens-less, and a chain watch, happily posed for selfies with everyone and responded to their greetings. He carried a placard stating “Social service is my birth right.” (‘samaj seva mera janm siddh adhikaar hai’)
The lookalike is Mutanna Tirlapur, a 54-year-old man from Karnataka’s Gadag district. He said that chanting the name of Lord Ram energizes him and helps him endure the cold weather. Tirlapur embarked on a journey from his village on December 9, covering almost 2,000 kilometers on foot to reach Ayodhya. He walked an average of 40-50 kilometers per day, sometimes even 60-70 kilometers. Due to the cold weather, he now walks 30 kilometers per day.
When asked how he manages in such cold weather with minimal clothing, Tirlapur explained that although he feels cold, reciting the name of Lord Ram gives him strength and prevents any discomfort. He believes that the name of Ram brings peace to the mind and provides mental tranquility.
Regarding an invitation to attend the consecration ceremony, Tirlapur stated that there is no need for an invitation, as all Indians should come to Ayodhya. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for their efforts in building the temple of Shri Ram in Ayodhya.
Tirlapur has been dressing like Mahatma Gandhi for the past 15 years to raise awareness about the values Gandhi stood for. His family members are proud of his foot march and the people in his village and neighboring villages wished him luck as he embarked on his journey. Tirlapur’s message to the people of Ayodhya is that India is a peace-loving nation, and everyone should live in harmony and love one another.
In addition to his resemblance to Mahatma Gandhi, Tirlapur was seen carrying a placard with pictures of prominent leaders and the upcoming Ram temple. The placard also contains a message urging people to protect the environment, promote a liquor-free country, preserve soil, save wildlife, and stop cruelty towards animals.
Tirlapur believes that patriotism is akin to God and betraying one’s country is a disgrace. He emphasizes the importance of having goals in life and not dying without achieving anything. Ashu Dixit, a taxi driver in Ayodhya, was amazed to see someone resembling Mahatma Gandhi walking in the cold morning and commended his resemblance and walking style.
