Title:
Mahatma Gandhi Handwritten Postcard from Sevagram, May 20, 1942, PSA/DNA Certified Handwriting – Historic Pre–Quit India Movement Correspondence – Cert. #85419174

Description:
Rare handwritten postcard entirely penned by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (1869–1948), dated May 20, 1942, from Sevagram, Wardha, India. Written in Gandhi's hand and addressed to Natwar in Rajkot, the postcard contains a brief personal message composed during one of the most critical periods of India's struggle for independence.

The postcard bears postal markings from May 1942 and originates from Sevagram Ashram, Gandhi's principal residence and operational headquarters during the final years of the independence movement. The message is entirely handwritten by Gandhi and remains a remarkable surviving example of his personal correspondence. The card displays expected age toning and handling wear consistent with its wartime-era use and has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA.

Full Translation:

"Sevagram
Via Wardha
20-5-42

Natwar

I won't recall you back from there. I will try whatever I can do in Rajkot. I am here for only eight days."

— M. K. Gandhi

Historical Context:
This postcard was written just weeks after the failure of the Cripps Mission, the British government's final major attempt to secure Indian cooperation in World War II without granting immediate independence. The mission's collapse intensified political tensions throughout India and helped set the stage for Gandhi's historic Quit India Movement, launched less than three months later on August 8, 1942.

The recipient's connection to Rajkot adds particular significance. Gandhi spent part of his childhood in Rajkot, where his father served as Diwan (Chief Minister). The city played a formative role in Gandhi's development and remained deeply important to him throughout his life.

The correspondence also reflects Gandhi's longstanding relationship with the Jasani family, whose association with him stretched back decades through family connections in South Africa and later Rajkot. Members of the family became dedicated supporters of Gandhi's independence efforts, participating in fundraising, political activism, and civil resistance campaigns.

Written from Sevagram during the final months before the Quit India Movement, this postcard captures Gandhi engaged in the personal communications and organizational work that underpinned the broader independence struggle. Such fully handwritten Gandhi correspondence from this pivotal period is highly desirable and increasingly difficult to locate.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA.
PSA/DNA Certification Number: 85419174.
PSA/DNA designation: Authentic Auto (Handwritten).
Professionally housed in a tamper-evident PSA holder for long-term preservation and display.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This PSA/DNA-authenticated handwritten Gandhi postcard represents a rare opportunity to acquire an intimate piece of correspondence from one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century. Penned from Sevagram during the crucial months preceding the Quit India Movement, the postcard combines exceptional historical context, complete handwritten content, and direct connections to Gandhi's personal network in Rajkot. It is a museum-worthy artifact from the closing chapter of India's struggle for independence and a centerpiece item for advanced collectors of world history, political leadership, and Indian independence memorabilia.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.