A collection of Mahatma Gandhi’s handwritten manuscripts has been sold for Rs 16.20 crore at an auction in Mumbai. The sale is being described as the first time an Indian historical document has fetched such a high amount at auction.
The letters were written to Anand D. Hingorani, a participant in India’s freedom struggle and a disciple of Gandhi. After the death of Hingorani’s wife, Vidya, Gandhi is said to have written to him daily to offer comfort and guidance.
According to the details shared, the exchange continued for 23 months and included 688 letters. The writings covered themes such as truth, non-violence and service.
The correspondence was later compiled into a book titled A Thought for the Day. It is noted for documenting not only key moments of the freedom movement but also the friendship, mentorship and personal conversations between Gandhi and Hingorani.
The auction was held at Saffronart in Mumbai under the title “Gandhi: From the Collection of Anand D. Hingorani,” featuring Gandhi-related letters, manuscripts, photographs and personal items.
