The building that houses the Gandhi Memorial Museum, Madurai is the historic Tamukkam Palace belonging to Rani Mangammal of Nayak Dynasty built about 1670 A.D.

Later, This was under the occupation of the Nawab of Carnatic, the East India Company and a few others. Finally the Palace had remained for many years as the official residence of the British District Collector of Madurai, It was in 1955 the palace with about 13 acres of land was gifted by the Tamil Nadu State Government to the All India Gandhi Smarak Nidhi for the purpose of housing Gandhi Memorial Museum.

Besides the major renovation to the original building a complete new wing on the northern side was constructed for the Library, Open Air Theatre and also several other buildings.

Holy city of Madurai has played a crucial role in the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his fight against many oddities of our country and the colonial system. This city boasts of being one of the first in the country to have a temple as renowned as Meenakshi Sundareswara temple being opened for everyone. It was here, where Mahatma Gandhi entered the magnificent Meenakshi Temple with Harijans, which was a historic step in his fight against untouchability. Gandhi Memorial Museum symbolizes this and many other important facets of Mahatma Gandhi’s life.

Gandhi Memorial Museum not only offers a glimpse into the aspects of Mahatma Gandhi, but also holds a high historical significance. Originally a palace of Rani Mangammal of the Naick dynasty, this building has seen many rulers with changing decades. In a way it also represents the transition of history from one point of time to other.

A wide array of activities is conducted at the museum for the benefit of visitors and residents. Different kinds of classes which are conducted everyday such as self employment classes, Hindi and Sanskrit courses, yoga classes, pranayama and meditation classes and many more.

This museum also celebrates festivals with great fervour. For instance, on the occasion of Gandhi jayanti on 2nd October, a 5 day long programme is organised every year. Various renowned speakers and artists from all over the country are invited at the festival.