George keeps Mahatma alive for future generations
On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, he advises youngsters to uphold Gandhian values and shun intolerance and violence
By : t. sudheesh
Update: 2015-10-02 06:33 GMT
ALAPPUZHA: At a time when the Father of the Nation is confined to textbooks and classrooms, here is a man who believes he is “destined to bring the Mahatma alive”.
Gandhi lookalike George Paul has played his role on more than 4,000 occasions - on stage, films, documentaries and public functions.
On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, he advises youngsters to uphold Gandhian values and shun intolerance and violence.
“I’m a staunch believer in his vision. I feel great being his lookalike, as I can reach out to so many people," he says.
The devout Gandhian has even received a certificate from the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi appreciating his Gandhi replica.
He made his debut as Gandhi in 1985 for a May Day fancy-dress competition held in Scooters company here, where he was an employee.
Only 37 then, he shaved off his curly mane and never let it grow again. He learnt Gandhian mannerisms and decided to “live like Bapu”.
There has been no looking back since, and the housing colony he lived in became “Sabarmati Nagar”.
"I have visited several voluntary organisations, school and colleges in and outside the state as part of stage shows,” he says.
“I know it's impossible to be exactly like him, but I believe the Gandhian school of thought is eternal.”
He abstains from non-veg and has learnt the art of patience, simplicity and tolerance. He wants to travel the world to spread the message.
He also poses as the model for Gandhi statues, and he worked for many of them you see around.
He appeared as Gandhi in Yugapurushan, Methiyadippadukal and Hansen’s Disease.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated,” he quoted Gandhi.