Upon his arrival from South Africa in 1915, Mahatma Gandhi involved himself in active politics in the country. In the same year, Gandhi came into contact with Motibhai Darji, a dedicated political and social worker of Wadhwan state. Darji, enthused with the Swadeshi spirit, worked actively for the economic and social reconstruction in the state. Darji helped Mahatma Gandhi in his tour of the district of Surendranagar in Gujarat, most notably by sending volunteers along with Gandhi to Dhrangadhara.
In 1917 when a plague broke out in the district, Motibhai contracted the plague while serving the sick people. He died in January 1918 at the young age of 26 years. In recognition of his contribution a chowk was named as Moti Chowk in Wadhwan.
On 15th December 1918, Gandhi visited the state capital of Dhrangadhra at the invitation of the people of the city. He was welcomed with an address by the people. The Maharaja of Dhrangadhra was also in attendance during the function. He greatly praised the services and contribution of Gandhi and Kasturba. In the year 1921, Gandhi visited the Surendranagar district once again in order to collect funds for the Tilak memorial and addressed a public meeting at Moti Chowk in Wadhwan.
Gandhi’s multiple visits to the region ignited the swadeshi mindset of the people, encouraging them to come forward and contribute to the nationalist cause.
Source: Indian Culture Portal