In brief
A 688‑page bundle of Mahatma Gandhi’s handwritten notes, written between 1944 and 1946, fetched a record $1.69 million (£1.24 million) at a Mumbai auction, breaking the highest‑paid mark for an Indian historical document. The collection, preserved by the family of former freedom fighter Anand T. Hingorani, includes personal letters offering guidance after Gandhi’s wife’s death as well as philosophical musings on spinning and the Bhagavad Gita. Auction house Saffronart highlighted that the notes reveal Gandhi’s private life and practical application of his public principles. The sale coincided with other items – letters, photographs, and Gandhi’s portable spinning wheel – that underscored his lasting legacy. The buyer’s identity remains undisclosed, but the notes are expected to stay in India.
A rare collection of handwritten notes by independence leader Mahatma Gandhi sold for $1.69 million at an auction in Mumbai, breaking the record for an Indian historical document.
The 688 notes, written between 1944 and 1946, were kept by the family of former freedom fighter Anand T. Hingorani and address Gandhi’s thoughts on truth, non‑violence and self‑discipline. They include letters that guided Hingorani after the death of Gandhi’s wife, offering consolation and encouragement.
Saffronart’s auction, titled "Gandhi: From the Collection of Anand T Hingorani", highlighted that the notes provide a rare, personal glimpse of Gandhi beyond his public persona. The auction also featured other items such as letters, manuscripts, photographs and a portable spinning wheel he kept.
Co‑founder Dinesh Vazirani said the collection shows how Gandhi lived the principles he promoted, making it an important measure of his thought and practice.
The buyer’s identity has not been disclosed; Saffronart confirmed that the collection will remain in India.
