The iconic garland worn by Mahatma Gandhi during the historic Dandi March of 1930 recently made headlines as it went up for auction in the United Kingdom.
Despite its monumental historical significance, the garland did not meet its estimated guide price of GBP 20-30,000 during the auction.
However, it remains open for bids, with renewed interest expected in this artifact, deeply tied to India’s freedom struggle and Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence.
A Symbol of Resistance and Hope
The Dandi March, also known as the Salt March, was a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
On March 12, 1930, Mahatma Gandhi embarked on this non-violent protest, marching 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi to produce salt in defiance of British salt laws. It was during this historic march that Gandhi was presented with a unique garland, a symbol of respect and solidarity with his cause.
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This garland was offered by Nanduben Kanuga, wife of Dr. Balvantrai N. Kanuga, a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and his personal physician. The garland’s presentation occurred near the Kanuga family’s home as the march passed through Ahmedabad. Photographic evidence and inscriptions on the garland confirm its connection to this pivotal moment in history.
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The garland, crafted from pink cloth adorned with intricate patterns of silver and gold thread, sequins, and gold tinsel, reflects not just the artistic traditions of the time but also the reverence with which Gandhi was regarded. It became a part of the Kanuga family’s collection, a cherished relic of their association with the Mahatma and the freedom movement.
The Auction and Its Significance
The garland recently went under the hammer at Lyon & Turnbull’s ‘Islamic and Indian Art’ sale in London. Despite its profound historical importance, the garland did not secure a buyer during the initial auction, falling short of its GBP 20-30,000 estimate. Kristina Sanne, Head of Sale at the auction house, expressed surprise at the outcome, noting the significant interest it has generated post-auction.
The garland’s intricate design—a teardrop-shaped medallion, smaller rectangular and triangular medallions, and connections of gold threads—represents not just a physical artifact but a deep symbolic connection to Gandhi’s message of non-violent resistance. The fact that it remains unsold has added a layer of intrigue, prompting collectors and history enthusiasts to re-evaluate its cultural and historical value.
The auction highlighted other notable artifacts, including a Bhagavata Purana illustration from Punjab, Rajput equestrian portraits, and Kalighat paintings, all of which exceeded expectations. This demonstrates the thriving interest in Indian art and antiques, but the unsold status of the Mahatma Gandhi garland underscores its unique place in history, one that transcends monetary value.
Legacy of the Salt March and the Garland
The Dandi March was not just a protest against the salt tax; it was a broader assertion of self-reliance and civil disobedience. Gandhi’s act of picking up salt from the seashore was a symbolic defiance of oppressive laws, inspiring millions to join the movement.
The garland, presented to Mahatma Gandhi on the march’s commencement, embodies the spirit of this movement—a blend of cultural pride, non-violent resistance, and communal support.
The garland’s journey from being a token of support during the Salt March to a prized artifact in a London auction house reflects the global resonance of Gandhi’s legacy.
Its preservation and presentation by the Kanuga family highlight the personal connections and sacrifices made by those close to Gandhi. Dr. Kanuga’s contribution of 1,600 rupees for the grains of salt Gandhi produced further emphasizes the deep commitment of individuals to the cause of freedom.
The unsold garland now represents an opportunity for institutions, collectors, or governments to reclaim and preserve an artifact of immense historical significance. Its return to India, perhaps for public display in a museum, would allow it to serve as a reminder of Gandhi’s philosophy and the sacrifices of countless individuals in the fight for independence.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏