Kathmandu— In December 2025, Ahmedabad, Gujarat hosted the ISAME Constitutional Area Conference of Lions Clubs International, drawing attendees from across South Asia and the Middle East. The event, which saw participation from approximately 400 Nepali members, provided a platform for fellowship and community service discussions within the U.S.-headquartered organization. Beyond the conference, participants explored significant historical and cultural landmarks in India, including Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram and Lucknow's Ambedkar Memorial Park, prompting reflections on legacies of leadership and social change.

International Gathering in Gujarat

Lions Clubs International, with 1.4 million members globally, held its ISAME conference in Ahmedabad at the Gandhi Mandir in Gandhinagar. India boasts the largest national membership within the organization, followed by the United States. The gathering marked a return to Ahmedabad for some attendees, including the author, who previously visited for a similar event in 2005. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the 2025 conference and pledged support for Lions Clubs’ humanitarian work.

Reflections on History and Social Change

Visits to historical sites offered moments of reflection on India's past. A trip to Sabarmati Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi’s headquarters from 1917-1930, highlighted the birthplace of the Salt March and Gandhi’s philosophy of Satyagraha. The author recalled travelling by train near Godhra in 2005, a site marked by communal unrest. In Lucknow, attendees visited Ambedkar Memorial Park, a monumental complex dedicated to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and other social reformers.

Controversy Surrounds Ambedkar Memorial

The Ambedkar Memorial Park in Lucknow, while architecturally striking with its 124 elephant statues, proved controversial due to its estimated cost of ₹700 crore. Critics argued the funds could have been better allocated to essential services like schools and hospitals, while supporters defended it as a legitimate investment in preserving history and recognizing marginalized communities. The inclusion of statues of former Chief Minister Mayawati also drew criticism, with accusations of promoting a personality cult. A public interest litigation concerning alleged irregularities in construction was dismissed by the Supreme Court in January 2025.

Journey Through Uttar Pradesh

Following the Ahmedabad conference, the author and fellow travelers journeyed to Lucknow, arriving at the newly renovated Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport. Despite modest accommodations at the Tulip Hotel, they were able to explore some of Lucknow’s historic mansions and monuments before visiting Ambedkar Memorial Park. The group then travelled onward by car to Krishnanagar, Nepal, completing a six-hour drive.

The author's journey through India and Nepal highlighted both the dedication to community service embodied by Lions Clubs International and the complex legacies of leaders who shaped modern South Asia.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.