New Delhi, June 15: A postcard signed by India’s iconic freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi has been sold for USD 20,233 in an auction in the United States. The postal card penned on both sides and signed “M. K. Gandhi,” dated November 30, 1924, was written to Annie Besant, a woman of Irish-origin who became a leader of the Indian freedom movement. The bidding for the postcard ended on June 13.
“I thank you for your letter. My son Devdas leaves tonight. Pray, do not worry about his expenses. He will deem it an honour to be your guest. Jamnadas gave me the Khadar towel sent by you. I shall treasure the gift: spinning is exceedingly good,” Gandhi wrote in the postcard.
“I have already discussed with the secretary the arrangements abt your board + lodging in Belgium. The secretary’s name is Gangadharrao Deshpande Belgaum so please let me know your special requirements. I know that Mr. Gangadharrao Deshpande is most anxious to make you comfortable. The account of spinning + weaving organised by Mme de Mangiardi is most interesting,” he wrote.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, was a prominent leader of the pre-independence era. Mahatma Gandhi drew praise for his contribution around the world so much so that his birth-date is celebrated as ‘International Day of Non-Violence’. He took India to a totally new level by employing movements like non-violence, civil disobedience, and civil rights during India’s freedom struggle with the British. He is best known as ‘Father of the Nation’ and ‘Bapu’.