Kheda district in Gujarat is 32 km from Ahmedabad. The town is known for the Kheda Satyagraha that was initiated in 1918 by Mahatma Gandhi in support of the farmers in the area who were facing a bad year of famine and were unable to pay revenue to the British government. Most of the farmers in Kheda owned their land. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and other Gandhian leaders mobilised the farmers and spearheaded this historic revolt against taxes.
The movement gathered a lot of support from different ethnic communities in the state and people from all cities in Gujarat joined the agitation. Despite being aware of the problems being faced by the farmers the government refused to waive off the revenue. The unrelenting government gave directives to confiscate the land and other property that the peasants possessed. Those people who tried to buy the land seized from the villagers were ostracised by the community.
The agitation got widespread support from all walks of society. The British government had to finally bow down to the pressure and agreed to suspend tax collection for that year and the next. All the property that was confiscated from the Kheda farmers were also returned to them. Those who had bought the land were also forced to return the property to the original owners despite the fact that the government stated that they would support the latter.
Nearby attractions include Meldi Mata temple, Khedia Hanuman Temple, Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Shree Mankameshvar Temple, Shree Somath temple, Shree Hanumanji temple Bhadrakali temple, and many other temples.
How to reach there
By Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad
By Rail: The railway junction for Kheda district is at Nadiad, which is at a distance of about 18 km. Trains can be taken from Ahmedabad station
By Road: Kheda is well connected by road. The National Highway No 8 that connects Mumbai and Ahmedabad passes through Kheda.
Where to stay
Palace Hotel Kheda, Shah Water Resorts & Spa and Camp Dinosaur, Kheda.
