The charkha, or (spinning) wheel, was the physical embodiment and symbol of Gandhi’s constructive program. It represents localism (swadeshi), self-sufficiency (but at the same time interdependence, as the wheel only had meaning in the center of a vast network of cotton growers, carders, weavers, distributors, and users), the dignity of labor, equality and unity (as all volunteers were pretty much required to spin each day), and finally independence, as British control of India was rooted in control of her indigenous industries. Nehru called homespun cloth for this reason “the livery of our freedom.”

The Metta Center logo is derived from the charkha and we now have a real operating spinning wheel adorning our redecorated office. Stop by and visit the Durant House behind the First Congregational Church of Berkeley.