For Global Peace with Social Justice in a Sustainable Environment

Rajkumari Amrit Kaur and Mahatma Gandhi, Part-VII

Prof. Dr. Yogendra Yadav

Gandhian Scholar

Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India

Contact No. – 09415777229, 094055338

E-mail- dr.yogendragandhi@gmail.com;dr.yadav.yogendra@gandhifoundation.net

Rajkumari Amrit Kaur and Mahatma Gandhi, Part-VII

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You should accept the proffered nomination on the Education Board. I hope the Raja affair is being smoothed. Mahadev is definitely coming tomorrow only to leave for Alwar on 29th. There is a rush to the Ashram. I simply cannot stop it. I never told you that Surendra was arrested and being tried in Wardha. All well. Hope you will be able to report yourself here by 15th October. Like you to be here in my absence.”432 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have answered all your three questions. You should join the Women’s Tagore Memorial Committee and Education Board. For Hancock let it is 4 p.m. on 11th October. I did not give the exact date. I am glad you are definitely on the mend. The apples have come.”433 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “We can easily accept the Kapurthala terms. If it is a good local man can be obtained you can open a bhandar there. Why should not the State produce its own khadi? I suppose there is not enough atmospheres for it. Jamnalalji is getting on. His mind is still weak. He has shouldered a big burden in the shape of a Cow Service Sangh. A preliminary meeting is going on today. I have to attend tomorrow. Will you care to join? It is again specially woman’s work. She spins, she milks, she bears, she keeps the house. Daughter milk-maid. I have redirected two packets. Bul’s letter I have destroyed. She has written another letter. I think the thing will end favorably.”434

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have not missed the two days you mention. But the post here is a curious thing. These are the drawbacks of village life. I revel in them. You are quite right in not paying anything to the Sammelan as you have never appreciated their activity. My No has been sent already for reasons of my own. I shall see what can be done about Suman. Let him write to Jajuji. If I go out I would like you to look after Sevagram. But that can be only if you are quite fit. But if you are not, you can certainly stay on there till after my return. I would leave it entirely to you. If I go, I hardly think I can finish the tour under twenty days or even a month. Much will depend upon my health and invitations. I have not given away your pen for good.2 I told Mira that it was yours and that you had specially put it in my rack for use by me only. But for the moment I had no other. So on your return we shall fix up something for her and get back what I have given her. Just now I am using Lilavati’s and the one Mira has returned. I had a meeting of new Goseva Sangh at Nalwadi. It was good and business-like because of Jamnalalji. It was begun punctually and finished in time.”435

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I sent you a long letter posted this morning with late fee. It was written last night. So you got three letters at a time. They answer all your questions; I have sent an appointment for 11th for Hancock. He has now sent a long wire for a wire to be sent to his paper. How can I cope with such work? I am trying.”436 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I repeat that you should accept the nomination. I have already told you, my touring is uncertain. I agree that if you are not completely restored or otherwise, too, if you feel the benefits of Simla climate, you should stay away during my absence. Indeed if you feel the benefit, you should prolong your stay till you are completely restored. P.’s trial was finished this morning. Judgment will be pronounced this afternoon. Madalasa gave birth to a son. All are happy.”437

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I suppose it will come and go till at last it is itself exhausted in the effort, if we do not feed it. That is nature’s way. And you are following it, I am sure. No fried chips or anything of the sort. You did not tell me about this exposition of the Bible. But having met many Seventh-day Adventists, I can understand his zeal. We shall discuss the propriety of your joining the Goseva Sangh. Of course you can resign from the Education Board if it became necessary.”438 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Whatever happens, you belong to Sevagram. And you will serve whether you are bodily in Sevagram or elsewhere. You must shed the nervousness too about being ill in Sevagram.”439

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Your note has reached me in time. Why you should get three letters at a time I do not understand. But let us not forget that this is but a small village. You have to work out your karma and that cheerfully. It is likely that winter will set in early this year. So many additions are being made to the cottage that you will hardly recognize it when you return.”440 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Today I have to attend A.I.S.A. meeting and therefore this is before the post. I do hope you are better. Stokes has sent a boxful of good apples. They are quite good, though some were damaged in transit. Vijaya, Vasumati and Pannalal came in today. Others coming and many are applying. The Ashram is growing smaller and smaller. Can you grow smaller? Anyway the Ashram is. Sardar does not come before 19th.”441Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Again I follow the new rule of writing during the silence hour. So your cough is persistent. Poor Shummy. I am almost sure that the cough is due to some error in diet. Some grease, more starch, sour fruit, sloppy food, too much protein, both animal and vegetable, dal, spices ever so little, general indigestion. These are the causes according to my belief. Menkel’s manipulations are local. They can never bring permanent cure unless your digestive apparatus is in order. There is no moving out for me during this month. Almost all dates are booked. If Rajaji comes about 20th, it means four or five days’ conversations. Additions to the cottage are substantial and expensive.”442 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “This is according to the new rule. Your note is cheery. May the improvement be steady and continuous? Everybody is wondering whether you are at all coming. I continue to say you are though an uncertainty has crept into my heart. Kamaladevi is leaving just today. She will meet her mother and come over for a few days’ stay. Dr. Das will leave for Calcutta in two or three days; he is going for a few days only. Satyamurti has come today and is putting up at the Bungalow. The weather here is generally good, though it warms up a little in the afternoon.”443

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Ramsarandas is an old devotee of Ludhiana. He has been regularly sending money and khadi. He has a doctor son in England, another in India but married to a Scotch girl. She wrote asking for permission for herself and Father-in-law to come and pass a few days at Sevagram. He became ill and was nursed back to health. His teeth were all extracted. They were the seat of disease. Bessie is a fine steady girl, extremely devoted to her father-in-law, nearly as old as I am. He insisted on doing Civil Disobedience. He proposes to go again. He says he does not mind dying there. My tour is off for the time being. For G. says he must try. If he fails, I might be allowed. Of course he won’t fail. I have told you about my anxiety. It won’t be any more for you than for any other patient. But the point is not your anxiety or mine. It is that you should not become ill. You should find out the art of keeping well. You live on the border line. That is bad.”444 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I can ill afford even to send a postcard. The apples have come. Hancock came yesterday. Can’t say whether there was any change in K. The heat for the last two days has been scorching and I felt glad that you were not here to go through the experience.”445

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Yesterday was another hectic day. So I had to satisfy myself by sending you a card only. I think I told you I had your amendments of the Constitution which was placed before the meeting. A small committee was appointed to go into all the suggestions. Rajen Babu is its head. The heat wave seems to have passed. Lilavati is free from her fever. Maganlal has returned from Delhi after having sat for his examination. He is plucky. This was his third failure. And he is not sure that it will be a walk-over this time.”446 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Of course you should not worry Shummy until you are uniformly well for at least a fortnight. There need be no hurry to leave the place so long as the weather there agrees with you. We have here a homoeopath. He is a crank like me. I have entrusted Prabhakar to his care. He took charge yesterday and P. is distinctly better today. As you know I have little faith in h’pathy, though I would like to for its comparative simplicity.”447

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You are right. The extensions to the cottage are so elaborate that there is every danger of our being crowded. The cosines will be gone. Let us see. I have suggested full fortnight to test you. And otherwise too this is no time for you to come. Nights are good but the days are oppressive. So every way it is good you are not here. Asaf Ali is in Wardha. He will be coming presently.”448 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “This I am writing after curfew. It will be posted by Prithvichand who is leaving tomorrow. I am glad you report marked improvement. May it continue? I have told Satyamurti plainly that so far as I am concerned no change can be made. If he thinks otherwise he is free to cultivate public opinion in his favour. You are right about Harijans.”449

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “One letter was entrusted to Prithvichand for posting. You should pass a day in Jullundur when you descend and do what you can. The nights are getting colder night after night, not so the days. The cottage is nearing completion. No more now. Munshi and others have come.”450 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have a sadder one from her but that is on account of Asaf Ali. He passed two days with me. He wants a change. I held out no hope. He will come again. Rajaji comes Tuesday, Sardar and M. tomorrow. Jamnalal came in yesterday. On your return journey it might be well to pass a day in Lahore and go and see Aruna and others. But you know better. I would not like to delay unnecessarily.”451 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You do forget things nowadays. You wrote only the other day that the Simla weather just now was superb and suited you well. You dreaded the heat below. In today’s note you say the heat will suit you! I had suggested the very thing and you had opined otherwise. Anyway the way is becoming clearer daily because the temperature is steadily going down. How I wish your effort for the porters will succeed. What you say is terrible. At long last J.’s letter was delivered by M. today. He does not give me gloomy account of J. Devdas has also come in and so Ramdas, his wife and children less Sumitra who is detained in Bombay for her eyes. Of course Sardar has come. Raihana is still with me, quite merry.”452

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You can’t undermine your body because someone else’s is much worse than yours. You can try to bring your weak bodied neighbour to your strength. The same thing applies to one’s house. No doubt you have to give up superfluities as you would superfluous fat or even muscle. The day is full.”453 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Hindi is absolutely good, language perfect and lettering quite nice. Of course you have access to all my letters and answers. I expect to be able to train you to do the whole of the editing in time. You have a wonderful command over your pen, only the thought formation has to come. To produce the exact thought means exact understanding. It is difficult when one has to interpret another. But it is not beyond you I know. You should begin to throw notes at me. I may reject them all as you see I do Mahadev’s. I want to build a cottage for my convenience rather than yours. You will still sit by me but if there is a room which can be called yours it may yield many uses. You wanted to build me a little hospital. Let this be something like it. About buying when I get the time.”454

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have a heavy day before me today too. But I must give you a decent letter. Your apples have come in time, but the basket was found to contain only 22. I am inquiring. But nothing will come out of it. Sometimes such thefts do take place. The apples are very good. You need not go to Lahore. Better to give a day to Jullundur. What you say about the ruling class is but too true. You held up J.L.’s letter too long. You must have seen my note on Jayaprakash Narayan. Prabha is somewhat better now. The nights are properly cold now. I had all the blankets I wear during winter. The cottage is nearing completion.”455 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I must hurry again. I began a serious study of your rendering of K’s writing. It has begun ill. English is fairly good but the thought does not run smooth. The whole must read logical. You will see on your return what I mean. It is a most difficult task and if you are found to have failed it won’t be accounted as your fault. Of course I shall deal with your chest. You will stay in Jullunder as long as necessary.”456

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have gone through some more sheets of your rendering. It is likely that as I proceed it will run smooth. I have the earth bandage on and am lying on my back as I write this. I do so in the midst of the visitors.”457 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “It was a tragedy about Raghuvansh. I had asked Prabhavati to write for you. She thought it was for me. Now I have written to him myself. Copy herewith. It is your duty to say ‘no’ emphatically. You may write accordingly. For the Harijans you may look to me for Rs. 1,500. I shall manage on your return. Will it be enough? If necessary you should placate Shummy by staying till 15th. But you know best what to do.”458 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Yes, woman also like man can only propose and God reserves sole right to dispose. So when you come, I shall believe that you have. I am glad you will be leaving with S. It is well he will have his full measure of pleasure. The weather also will be cooler still by the time you return. Poor Prabha! You are over-sensitive. Your translation is good so far as style goes. I have simply remarked upon the looseness of thought. Even if it is loose in the original, the translator has to make it definite. It is a difficult thing but it has to be done. But it cannot be done if you cannot take corrections in perfect good humor. I have only begun. It may run quite smooth as I proceed.”459

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “It will be nice to make the help to Harijans dependent upon their conforming to your conditions. You should raise a whole-time worker there. Your dream was strange. Sometimes these do come. I attach no importance to them. When you come you will miss Raihana. She has become a member of the family and sings every evening. She has taught some a few verses from the Koran. She sings the shlokas correctly.”460 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Has there not been idiocy somewhere about your collapse? Why did you take that pill? But there you are. “There’s many a slip between the cup and the lip.” So we shall both believe when you are actually installed here. Take care of yourself. You should not be anxious about your health whilst you may not be indifferent about it.”461 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Your letter makes one sad. But you must not be nervous. Take things as they come. Mathuri and Lakshmibehn came here yesterday. Lakshmibehn is Panditji’s widow. Mathuri sang a bhajan last evening in her magnificent voice. The substance is, man is after pleasure or happiness but it ever flies from him. Why will he not appreciate the fact that substantial pleasure or happiness comes through grief or unhappiness? Cheer up and pass on all your troubles to Him the Rock of Ages. I shall see to the apples being inspected at the station.”462

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I can’t give you up, even if you can. It is a case not even of “till death do us part”. Blood relationship is in its very nature a physical connection, not so genuine friendship. But this discussion will take us into deeper waters. No time for it. I hope you are daily regaining lost ground. If the cold is so severe, can you not get down a few days earlier and wait S. in Jullundur?” 463 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am sorry to have to report to you that the apples were 19 short. They were weighed at the station. The weight showed 21 seers less. The Station Master won’t issue the certificate; though the weighing was in his presence he refused to give the certificate. You should lodge a complaint on your side. I am doing likewise here. I am well. I wish you could say the same of yourself. No more possible today.”464

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “It is well Rajasaheb is gone. He was a living death. I felt I should send you’re a wire and so one is going. Bul has been here for a few days. Gosibehn came in last night from Mussorie having seen Indu and Jawahar Lal. I reported to you about the apples. This record from Vaidya is very good. You should write to him.”465 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Yes, undhi you will be available. I have been forgetting to write to you about it. Radhabai Subbaroyan is here. She will leave for Madras tomorrow. Here is a letter for you. I think it is from Mridula. She has forgotten to sign the letter. I am glad you will be bringing someone. Don’t make up your mind to send him away at once. But you shall decide.”466 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You will get this on the 15th. From tomorrow I shall write to your Jullundur address. Today there are Kher Miyan, Ismet, Radhabai, Sultana, etc. All are accommodated in the new hut. Dr. Das and Nimai have come today, and Kanaiyo also.”467

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Today also I shall make do with a postcard. I am all right, and so you are, I hope. I understand what you say in your letter. I have to go to Wardha in connection with the States’ People’s Conference. Hence this much should be enough. Beryl has sent a shawl. Tell her it is good.”468 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “We will see about the man. I have read your suggestions. I was present at the time of constitution making and both your suggestions were accepted at my instance. Perhaps they would have been accepted even otherwise.”469 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “An ideal secretary keeps her chief straight where he is going astray. She hovers round him and watches all the movement about him, picks up his papers, even torn, lest he might have torn important ones in mistake, collects all she has given him, if it is to be found anywhere. Therefore she leaves after him and seeks what he has left behind and if not owned by anybody else, collects it. Now I was right in correcting you yesterday but wholly wrong in showing disappointment or irritation. Forget the wrong and treasure the right. What I have said is by way of indication. Follow the spirit of this note and you will be an ideal secretary. This is my birthday present which goes loaded with all the good wishes that I am capable of conceiving.”470

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am keeping quite fit. B.P. is under restraint, therefore don’t worry. I am still engrossed in looking after J’s1 affairs. He is growing on me. I can’t think of anything outside him. The meeting of friends comes of on 19th. The invitation goes as from me.”471 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You are a child in several things. You were cut up because I would not take you to Delhi even as I was because I was not to be sent to Kanpur by my father!!! How stupid! I am quite positive that it would have looked and been bad to have taken you with me. And in Sevagram your presence is most essential. There are the patients; there is Chandrasinha and several others. There is Hayatulla. If you do not realize these things now, when will you? You must be wise. Cheer up and do your work there.”472

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “No time till now to write to you. I am sorry Jawahar Lal won’t let me leave till Tuesday. I wonder what you have done about coming here. I adhere to my opinion though you did not like it. I know this, if I have to be out of Sevagram I cannot keep my health. I am writing this in the midst of a meeting. Mahadev is here looking well.”473 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have not a minute to spare. I shall try to start tomorrow. I hope Ba, Narendra Dev, Sharda and Abha are well. Tell Krishnaverma to take proper care of Janakibehn. What happened to the friend from Morvi who was on a fast?”474 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Yesterday the train arrived after ten. Rangaswami had much to do with our getting the seats. We arrived safe here at 1 p.m. Now I am writing this after beginning my silence. It is 2.35 p.m. I hope it will not be necessary to stay here for more than 8 days. Ba and other patients I hope, are well and Balvantsinha is quiet.”475

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “No difficulty in deciphering your Hindi. This I write in English for your pleasure. It is being written with the scent per cent swadeshi pen. It is giving good work. I note the questions you have raised. I must try to answer them next week. Ba is keeping well. The weather is not too trying. The nights are quite pleasant. On my return I found I was reduced to 981/2. I was bound to lose that much. The work was strenuous. There is no cause for worry for I am otherwise quite well. Here is a letter received today as also one from Badshah Khan. I should not wonder if some Hindu girls are kidnapped or Hindus murdered. I do not know how much truth there is in the charge against the official world. However, we must wait, watch and pray.”476 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You are right. You have been writing every day. Continue writing in the same way. I was to reach Sevagram on the 18th. Quaid-e-Azam was not in Bombay. I also learnt that it would be no use seeing him. There is no occasion to go to Bombay again. You should take rest, lots of rest and improve your health. I have a letter from Balkrishna saying he has arrived at Dalhousie. Lala Hansraj should not be troubled.”477 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You have given me a graphic account of the interview. It was a good thing you wrote and you got an appointment. Of course, he was sweet and friendly and will always remain so. But that makes no difference to the plan. It will mature slowly. You therefore need not be in a hurry to come away. The weather is much too hot for you.”478

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “J. L. has passed the whole day here. We have had a heart to heart talk. It is all to the good. We shall meet again. He has got to go for the Lucknow meeting. I told J. L. about your anxiety to meet him, but Shummy’s boil prevented you. He thought it was your visit to the V. I hope he is better for the lancet cut. The heat is on the increase. It increases but to decrease. I don’t want you to witness the process. Ba is flourishing. Did I tell you I had gone up to 101 lb.? I think I have.”479 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I hope you have been having my letters regularly. They are posted all right. Maulana Saheb is definitely leaving tomorrow and reaching here the day after. Khurshed is coming with him. Mira is still in Orissa. I am really keeping very well. What I am eating is enough. I hope Shummy is better and that you are putting on weight.”480

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I do take note of things that go on. Of course many things will happen. A big system will not die without much effort. It is still terribly hot here. There is no sign of the wind changing. I am not likely to call you before the end of this month. There is no need for you to worry about anything at this end. Abha is going to Rajkot, Laxmi to her husband and Vasumati to Ahmadabad.”481 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “It seems that there is no more now of the other pads. One rupee was paid to Nanavati before your letter came. There is nothing wrong with Mahadev’s spectacles. The terrific heat is responsible for all the mischief. It will go some day and the cool air will be all the more appreciated. You will have to prove your proposition about the balances.”482 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Sushila comes here on 18th for a week. I think she has come first nothing much among five candidates. Sushila says nothing about the place she has got. I hope there is nothing serious with S.’s eyes. J.L. came in yesterday. He slept in Sevagram, Maulana comes tomorrow.”483

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am having long and pleasant chats with J. L. I have a journalist with me recommended by J. L. He leaves tomorrow. L. Fischer is his name. Khurshedbehn is still here. She has been looking after the guests. Maulana comes tonight. Here is a letter from Benares. Perhaps you remember the thing.”484 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The discussions with the Maulana and Jawaharlal take up a good deal of my time. They will continue for one or two days more. They are carried on peacefully. The weather seems to have changed somewhat today. A hot wind is still blowing. I am keeping good health.”485 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I was unable to send you anything yesterday. M. left this morning and J. L. will leave for Bombay this evening. He is passing the day here and dining with Mahadev. In one sentence, M. is not satisfied with my demand or the manner of enforcement; he needs time for thought. J. L. not quite so dissatisfied as M. but not quite convinced either. The W. C. will meet early July. The weather is better but still oppressive. No sign of a downpour.”486

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am glad I have been opening your post. I have dealt with Madalasa, I have advised you about Prema. You should reply. It is easy. Unity must come. Without it there will be no real independence. But with the third party in possession, no unity cultural, political or other is possible. That is why withdrawal is a necessary preliminary to unity. But you will deal with the letter as you like.”487 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “What is wrong with your knee? Why should you have anything wrong with you there unless you are erring about your diet? June 16, 1942 the foregoing was begun on 14th and then the whole pad was forgotten. Did I suggest your writing to Mayurbhanj? The authorities are molesting people for building a bund. If you feel like it you may write to them. A lot of luggage fell on her head leaving a fairly deep cut. She lay in that condition for six hours. The wound was dressed and stitched in Wardha. Brijkrishna has come in. Shri Prakasa has also come for a few days.”488

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Rajaji has just come. He should be in the Ashram any moment. Later He has come. J.L.’s statement you must have seen. That is his latest. Let us see what God has in store for us. I am satisfied with things as they are shaping themselves. Difficult of course everything is. There’s the bell.”489 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Here the monsoon has set in right earnest. So the heat of May is over. However, I do not advise you to come just yet. It would be better to rest there for some time. The knee must be put right. Our course is absolutely clear. Risk there is. But attainment of freedom without risk is not worth looking at.”490 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The weather is oppressive. I am not going to ask you to come here before August or even later. If there is anything serious I will tell you. Khurshedbehn comes on 28th. Horace Alexander and his friend Symonds are here for 3 days. The train incident is startling. Has it any significance?”491

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You may not expect long letters from me. I have read both the enclosed. Sri Prakasa came last night. He did good work in Jodhpur. It is good he went. Khurshed too came today. Rajen Babu is here. I won’t ask you to come down so long as I can help. It is good for you and Shummy that you are there during this season. For the last two days the weather is mild. We are having magnificent rains.”492 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You are too much disturbed about me. There is nothing but fatigue. I shall try to give me as much rest as possible. J. L. and Mridula are coming tomorrow. Satyavati comes tonight. Prafulla tomorrow. Ku. and Kamla are here. So you see we are a large family. Kher was here about Goseva and several others. They all went yesterday or the day before. Jodhpur’s letter is bad but what more can you expect from these gentlemen. Let us hope that Sri Prakasa’s visit will be fruitful. Ba has a little fever today after a long spell of freedom. I think she will be free tomorrow. Narendra Dev is splendid. He has 4 lb. of milk and still feels hungry!”493

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Don’t worry about me. The fatigue is due purely to want of rest. You may descend when you wish to but not so as to offend Shummy. Of course I will send for you when necessary. The weather just now is superb.”494 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “There is nothing wrong with me. What can I report? What was to be reported I did report. The magnificent weather has not brought me strength. It can come only from rest. I am making adjustments. Your letter to Jodhpur is quite all right; not much is to be expected from these people.”495 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “M. and Sardar came yesterday. The W. C. is sitting today. All have not yet arrived. I have been excused from attendance for today. Maulana and J. L. are coming in at 5 p. m. Mira and Mahtab came last night. Mira is cheerful. Satyavati and Brijkishen went today and Kamala went yesterday. Mridula came with M. Ba is quite well. Khurshed had a scorpion sting on her finger. She is brave about it. This completes the news. I am well. The weather has given me more energy. I sleep as much as I can three times in the day and four sometimes. Silence and closed eyes during walks. Shummy should have nature-cure. He can certainly have a renewed constitution. But that is like preaching to the winds.”496

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The A. I. C. C. takes place in Bombay. You may come if you wish. I hope to be there on 4th or may be even 3rd. P. is down with fever—103. Something wrong with the bladder. Asaf Ali went because he was indisposed. But he is against the resolution. The Maulana’s statement you must have seen. The resolution is my draft. Changes have been made for J. L.’s satisfaction, and of course Maulana’s.”497 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I get not a moment for letter-writing. Harijan and interviews absorb my time. I have replied to your repeated question. You can join me in Bombay. But if Shummy would be better pleased for you to stay in Simla till 15th August, I should stay on if I were you. You will gain nothing in Bombay. But I leave it entirely to you. You can do whatever pleases you. Mira is still in Delhi doing good work. P. is better today. Sushila is due today for his sake. I have gained 2 lb. during the week. This increase is solely due to the increase in the milk in-take. I hope S. is better and that your knee trouble you are going to leave there.”498

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I was wrong in telling you there was nothing from you for two days. M. had no time to give me your letters. You were wrong in not wanting to tell me of your illness. You do no good by such well-meaning but ill-serving suppression. However, that is past. I hope you are now fully restored. I am quite clear that it is far better that you Miss Bombay to be with S. than that you should cause him grief to come to Bombay. If it turns out which I hope it won’t as S. imagines, you would never forgive yourself for not being with him as long as you could.”499 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You must not worry. You have remained for the sake of S. There must be joy in that sacrifice. Why should you doubt the correctness of the step? You will gain more by your restraint than by coming to Bombay and this notwithstanding what happens in Bombay. I hope to be back in Sevagram before 14th and not before 10th. You may leave when you know the date for certain.”500

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “J. came yesterday an hour after me. Maulana came today. Prabhavati has come. Doctors pronounce me to be quite fit and better than when they saw me at Sevagram the other day. Of the company now only you are missing. For Mira too is here. But the loss here is Shummy’s gain. So I am quite satisfied.”501 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I was delighted to receive your letter through Dr. Sen. I may not meet him, for I go to Poona tomorrow. I have also your annual gifts. I am already in your new dhotis. They are too wide for me. But that matters little. They are well woven. The shawl also I prize. I did not know that you had begun to spin wool too.”502 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I better conserve my time and energy for the business before me. I have no news to give you. Play I dare not when there is work which calls me. And I have hardly enough energy to cope with the daily post.”503

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I was glad S. was able to go to Simla and give you some time. She is still in Poona looking after Manjula. Did I tell you that Dr. Jivraj Mehta was with me? I must ask him to write to you. He helps in a variety of ways and looks after my body without the slightest fuss. I do not even know that he is doing it. He is supposed to have come merely to keep company. You must not worry.”504 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have got up very early to write a few important letters. This is one of them. The A. I. S. A. meeting leaves me little leisure during the day. I read no newspapers and very little correspondence. The marvel is I am keeping well in spite of the stress. How I wish you were here. But God’s will be done and it is the best that can happen. No extension to the hospital can be made today. Everything is uncertain and things are expensive. Let your money go to the contemplated Mahadev Memorial Fund. The use may be decided afterwards. You should make your suggestion. Do not worry about the women’s conference. Everything is in the melting pot. Sushila is getting on. Mrs. Swaminathan and Mrs. Menon, her relative, are here. Have lovely khadi from Beryl and of course your annual shawls. It has struck four and I must not tarry long with you. Love from us all.”505

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have been neglecting you. You know why. I am writing this before the morning walk which commences just after 7 a.m. Dr. J. Mehta is standing by me. He has come for a day on his way to Madras where he is going to deliver an address to physicians. Rajaji is unwell and so did not come for the various meetings. Amtul Salaam is in Calcutta doing good work. Kanu’s wedding came off very well. Nearly 300 people died. Harijans and caste men of Sevagram were in it. Sevagram inmates and guests accounted for over 150. You are right in not worrying about the fast. It will come if God wants it.”506 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You have to submit to the relief in installments for the sake of your brothers. Amid conflict of duties, the choice is often a very delicate affair. In every case you will be cheerful and keep your body in a fit condition. The climate there must be most bracing. I hope you had a good time with Kamalnayan. I am well. Sushila has gone to Bombay to see Mathuradas. She is due any day now.”507

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Yes, a happy New Year to you, such happiness as you can derive from within. Happiness without there is none so far as I can see. I have your two dhotis. I am wearing them, too. They are fine. But the real fineness comes from the knowledge that the handiwork is yours so far as yarn is concerned.”508 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I should be no cause of worry. I am in God’s hands and that should be more than enough. I am daily gaining ground. So Beryl is fixed up. She has sent me a handwritten book “Khalil Gibran” and handspun. I have not written hitherto. If you think I now can, you may hand her the enclosed.”509 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You have gone through suffering during the snow-time. I envy. Although it was bad while it lasted, the experience was worth having. The attendants were also marvellous. That is human nature at its best. The more you suffer bravely and smilingly the stronger you will become. You will meet me in God’s good time.”510

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I wanted to write to you in Urdu. I was crowded out for want of time. Now I have your question in English. I am quite of opinion that the children of mixed marriage should be taught in the male parent’s religion. This seems to me to be self-obvious for common happiness and interest. That the instruction should be liberal goes without saying. I am considering merely the question of the choice of religion. The children cannot profess two religions. They must respect the female parent’s religion. If the female parent has not that much discretion and regard for her husband’s religion, the marriage becomes superficial. Of course it is another thing where the husband is wholly indifferent. I know such a case. Am I clear? Tell B. she should not be silent.”511 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am so glad Pyarelal was with you for two days. As soon as I get your manuscript I shall look through it and advice. If Shummy and Maude have to go to Bombay you have to swallow your pride (which would be false) and go to Bombay even under conditions. But you must feel the call from within, not from me. You must feel happy and at peace under all circumstances. That is the meaning of the shlokas we sing daily.”512

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have gone through your booklet. It is good so far as it goes. Do you see that you have begun with your own experiences? You could not do otherwise. The central disease of India is its deep poverty and deeper ignorance. You have dealt with both but as items. But I do not ask you to rewrite anything. If you touch up anything, you may do so.”513 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “This letter will be given to you by Dr. Gurbuxani and his wife Vimalabehn. Both are educated. Both come from affluent families. They have given up Government service and also luxurious living in order to be with me. The wife cannot stand this heat. Perhaps she is pregnant too. They have lived in Simla. They are coming to Simla. Put them on to some public work if you can. They will have to be given some salary. Be frank if they cannot be useful. There is no question of favour in service. Here they had started with the cleaning of latrines.”514

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You see I am in Bombay and am fixed here up to 14th. God knows the next, if He allows freedom up to 14th. I am well. What about Lahore sister-in-law? Is she getting better? Shummy must get well quickly. Sushila hurt herself on trying to enter the prayer compound. Her arm is in a sling. There is no fracture. Krishna is also well. Badshah Khan is here as quiet as ever. He is sitting by me as I write this.”515 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I must simply have said I might not be expected to write always. I forgot to tell you yesterday that your letter paper with the edges unsmooth is better than with edges smoothed. You must keep well. I must be here for some time for work and medical attention by way of precaution.”516 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Gurbuxani’s wife has sunk herself in him. Therefore she would do what he says. But never spoil them by giving them more than their worth in our cause and according to our scale. Again no more than your public work can cope with. All I want you to do is to extend your sympathy and advice to them. Yes, Agatha’s letter that M. brought was duly received by me. He wanted no acknowledgment and I spared myself. You must keep yourself fit. I am glad Shummy is better.”517

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “So the restrictions are removed! I am for making speeches! Nothing much and the sting is still there. However, you are free to come to me when you are disengaged from the tasks there of which I learn from your letters to Pyarelal and Sushila. Of course you could not have Manu in the circumstances you mention. Anyway she has gone to her father in Karachi. I do not know how she is faring there. You need not worry. Why must you break the diet rule you know? Beware!”518 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “It is now 5.50 p.m. I have just finished your “Appeal to the Christians of India”. It is eloquent but not substantial. I do not propose to give you detailed criticism. As soon as you are free from your engagements there and are fit enough to come to me, I know you will make a dash. Therefore when you are with me, we shall together read the Appeal and decide what to do with it. Khurshed is here. She is with Nargis. She will migrate to ‘Dilkhusha’ as soon as N. is gone. Mehtab and Shriman were with me.”519

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You are right to ignore the newspaper notice, unless it is confirmed. Also of course there is no joy in the removal in the manner it is being brought about. As to speech, we must see what has to be done. Of course you are not leaving Simla so long as you are required there.”520 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I can never misunderstand absence of letters from you. The restrictions are bad. But nothing to be done till you are with me. Hope all things will go well regarding family affairs. I hope to go to Sevagram in the beginning of July. The weather there may be too trying for you then.”521 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “This is a good letter. But how simple Maude Royden Shaw is! When one is under the influence of morphia, one has such dreams? But are they worth any thought? Yet it sustains this good soul! Such is the power of imagination.”522

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The Working Committee is to meet here tomorrow. If Shummy is disturbed, I could easily transfer it elsewhere. It is to meet here for my sake. I do not need it here. Don’t be weak and have it here. This is not your sole house and Shummy is ill. Think well and clearly before replying. The meeting means a lot as you know. Sardar cannot eat at night. Nothing need be kept for him except hot milk and hot water. Probably Devdas will get into telephonic touch with him. He has undertaken to look after the three women and Sardar’s movement till his arrival here.”523 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You all surrounded us with lavish affection. May God bless you for it? I hope there is no more grief over Tofa’s departure from you. There should be none. Though there is rain there is no cold. I dread your having to come to this level from cool Simla. But you will see when it is time for you to come.”524 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The cuttings you have sent are interesting. I have read them all. I hope you no longer grieve over Tofa’s death. Don’t have another pet animal if you can restrain yourself. Though you must miss us all, I am glad you have a little leisure now. You were overworking yourself. I look forward to your account of the visit you have referred to in your letter. Sushila had an attack of dysentery. She had lost 4 lb. up to yesterday. She went to Bombay yesterday for the Sardar. There was a phone that she was still suffering. I do feel strongly that medical people should not suffer from avoidable complaints. Something wrong in a system that tolerates such evils. Well, I hear today from the Viceroy that the Bihar young man is to hang. It is a bad augury. I had forebodings as you know but had hoped otherwise. Let us see.”525

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Don’t apologize for writing to me daily. You should continue without straining yourself and without expecting a reply daily. You are silent about your visit. You did well in writing to J. The criticism is unfriendly. But restraint is always good. I hope you are well. Ask Beryl to write to me. Is Shummy better?”526 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I am glad you saw the Vicereine. I shall send you by book post what I can lay hands upon. Sardar is none too well. Probably he will have first to have nature cure and then, if necessary, operation. If he goes to Poona, I shall have to go there. This may be the first week of August. Harijans have every right to curse us and abuse us. How can they isolate the few penitents from the die-hards? Only we must go on. Sushila is with Sardar. She has lost all she gained there, I think. You have to keep well. The secret is with you. No nibbling between meals. No fruit-chewing or anything else while walking. Take what you must at stated meals as so much for sustenance. Sushila is likely to return by the middle of the week. I am keeping well. I walk longer than usual. Today it was exactly two miles. Usually it is 11/2 miles.”527

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You need not bring your bedding. Bring only such things as you consider necessary. Regard mosquito-net among them. My rubbing-stone among them please. It was left there by mistake! Where did you get the powder for cleaning the septic tank commode?”528 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “You must get well quick and if you can get well more quickly living with me, you should follow me to Poona. I do not know how long I shall be there. I have written to Atulanand and that at length. Probably you will have a copy of my letter to him.”529 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I expected your answer to K. and asked her to do something herself. I wanted the name. Do not bring Saf Karo with you. Yes, you can join me in Poona, if I am not here by the time you come. No grumbling about your pains. Nanak is a good book but for the miracles. I wish you could induce the Raja to give a better thing in Hindustani, i. e., in Nagari and Urdu characters. He has taken much pain over it.”530 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Did you sleep well? Have your food as well here as in Manorville. Therefore, if you had fruit there in the morning or whatever it was, you should have here.”531

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have gone through it in a hurry. You should read it carefully, suggest corrections, and when I have seen them, dispatch.”532 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “How are you today? Your obstinacy is harmful. This is the place where it is likely that your throat trouble might go. Any way Dinshaw should be tried. He won’t do any injury. No medicine will have to be swallowed. “Pride goeth before destruction and haughtiness before a fall”, whatever that may mean.”533

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I have been worrying myself the whole day long over your illness, all the more because I cannot come to you. And now I see that you cannot come to Poona tomorrow. Tell me unreservedly what you will have me to do. Your obstinacy is remarkable and it is responsible for your suffering. I dare mention this just now so that you might remember this when you are well enough and shed it without ado as you have done in everything else.”534

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “I hope you reached Manorville safely and found all well. I hope you will have no difficulty on your way to London and back. You must keep well during your absence which I hope will be as short as possible. Pyarelal is still in bed. Though fever was below normal for some time during last night, it went up to over 103° during the day. But he looks better otherwise. Sardar must go to Bombay for a week. I shall stay here. This means I do not go to Sevagram before 2nd November.”535 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Your time will pass quickly and you will be with me. Only keep well. Be careful for nothing. You will see Zakir’s contradiction. I am attending to all the matters referred to by you. Pyarelal is slowly recovering I hope. He is deathly pale. But this illness may be a blessing in disguise. Let us hope. God keep you.”536 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Thank God you were all right up to Karachi and hope you will continue so till you return to me. Pyarelal is out of fever, has been for the past four days, and is slowly gaining strength. Sardar is in Bombay and will return on 1st. Dinshaw is with him. Our party will leave Poona, Deo volente, on 19th reaching Sevagram on 21st, necessary persons leaving for Calcutta on 30th November. Narandas, his wife and Kusum are here, will leave on Tuesday. My sister is here with her daughter. I hope I shall get some news about Beryl during your absence. Remember me to all the friends who may think of me and whom you may meet.”537

Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “Of course you can’t forget me. Your post has been coming regularly. And it gives me all the information I want. Good Shummy gives me news about you and the family, forbidding me to write in reply. I have taken him at his word. Pyarelal is quite well and has also commenced some work. I entertain the hope that he will settle down to work. Sardar returns tomorrow from Bombay. My programme, D.V., is: Leave here 19, Bombay 20, Sevagram 21 to 29, entrain for Calcutta 30 morning, reaching Calcutta 1st December. Gomati has been suffering from fever of long duration, now Chhaganlal Gandhi is laid up. Poor Kashi! I am well. No worry on my account. You must keep well. Love to your party and the friends there.”538 Mahatma Gandhi wrote, “The mail closes at noon. You may take all the time you need, whether at Delhi or Simla. Come when you can. I am in Calcutta till 10th at the least. Pyarelal is well and working. Sushila is in Sevagram looking after Madalasa. She is due here on 5th.”539

References:

432. LETTER TO AMRIT KAUR, September 26, 1941

433. LETTER TO AMRIT KAUR, September 28, 1941

434. LETTER TO AMRIT KAUR, September 29, 1941