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Auction: 23025 - Historical Documents, Postal History & Autographs
Lot: 271

(x) India
Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948)
1933-1940 Three autograph letters written in Gujarati to members of the Dr P.J. Mehta family by Gandhi, who was a close personal friend; together with objects relating to his stay with Dr. Mehta in Burma on three occasions in 1902, 1915 and 1929.
6 March 1933 one page, written on both sides, with a filing and punch hole not affecting the text. Gandhi writes to Mr Ratilal Mehta and Mrs Champa R. Mehta, son and daughter in law of the late Dr P.J. Mehta, concerning the estate and a fair and equal division of the assets. Written from Yervada Mandir he proffers advice re the family finances. He suggests a vacation in the summer, and ends "Love, Bapu's blessings"
4 February 1937 Two page autograph letter (with filing punch holes),written to Mr Prabhashankar Parikh (Father of Champa Mehta, daughter in law of Dr. P. J. Mehta). Gandhi writes from Shegaon, Wardha to Rajkot after a tour in Travancore. "I feel a bit tired and need rest" He offers health advice to the family and suggests that for the elderly "...by natural treatment {Naturopathy} and by making appropriate changes in the diet and lifestyle, old-age can become pleasantly tolerable. I can see in the lives of many that during Old age, a childlike dietary regime proves very suitable." signed "Mohandas, V.Ma" (Vande Mataram).
24 November 1940 postcard franked by a George VI 9p stamp, with a punch hole through it, addressed and written by Gandhi on the reverse to Prabashankar (as previously). The message refers to the legacy and wealth of the late Dr P.J. Mehta and Gandhi refers to a misinterpretation of a previous letter. Prabhashankar has written his response on the front side of the postcard. Signed "Mo.Ka. Gandhi"
Silver objects:
A silver tray, drinking cup and bowl as used by Gandhi during his stay with the Mehta Family in Burma during his visits in 1902, 1915 and 1929. A room was dedicated to him and these objects were used by him at the dining table and kept by his bedside where he used to meditate and sleep. Used by Gandhi for consuming goats milk, water, coconut water, nuts, fruit and raw vegetables, which were essential to his diet.

A fascinating and historic group of items relating to one of the great figures of the twentieth century. Further notes and transcripts available on request.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Estimate
£25,000 to £30,000

Starting price
£19000