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Mahatma Gandhi Rejoices on Birth of Baby Boy |
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A brief letter in his native language of Gujarati, sharing happy news of the birth of a child.
MOHANDAS K. GANDHI.
Autograph Letter Signed, ca. 1920s, in Gujarati. 1 p., 5½ x 7¼ in. With autograph addressed envelope.
Inventory #27735
Price: $8,000
Translation
“Dear Sister,
Manibahen has sent the message that Sunita had given birth to a baby boy and both of them are well. We can realize your happiness from here too.
Much blessings from Bapu.”
Gandhi often addressed correspondents as “Sister” or “Brother,” and he frequently signed letters as “Bapu,” meaning “father” in many Indian languages including Gujarati, Hindi, and Marathi.
The Manibahen here is likely Manibahen Patel (1903-1990), the daughter of freedom fighter and post-independence leader Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. She adopted the teachings of Gandhi in 1918 and started working regularly at his ashram in Ahmedabad.
Provenance:
Ex-Dr. Balvantrai N Kanuga, Gandhi’s long-term physician and friend. The recipient was likely his wife, Nandubhen. In 1921, she led 131 women who participated for the first time at the Indian National Conference in Ahmedabad.
East Bristol Auctions, Bristol, UK, May 5, 2022. The 70-lot sale included Gandhi’s eyeglasses, hand-woven loincloth, wooden sandals, inkwell, eating implements, and prison diary.
