The cover page of Gandhiji: His Life and Work which offers invaluable insights into Gandhi’s political life and philosophy.
A rare book on Mahatma Gandhi, published on his 75th birthday on October 2, 1944, has been discovered in an antique collector’s collection at Manjeri in Malappuram district of Kerala. The book, titled Gandhiji: His Life and Work, offers invaluable insights into Gandhi’s political life and philosophy.
The book features a signed message from Albert Einstein, where he pens the famous quote about Gandhi: “A leader of his people, unsupported by any outward authority; a politician whose success rests not upon craft nor mastery of technical devices, but simply on the convincing power of his personality…. Generations to come, it may be, will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth.”
P. Sivadasan, history professor from Calicut University, examined the book and said that while many people were familiar with the quote about Gandhi, not all knew its author was Einstein. “This rare document clarifies the origin of the quote,” Dr. Sivadasan said.
The page carrying Albert Einstein’s signed message on Gandhi.
Einstein sent his signed message from Princeton University, New Jersey, for inclusion in the book, which was published with Gandhi’s permission. According to the book, Indian poet-journalist in New York Krishnalal Shridharani procured Einstein’s message for publication.
The book features contributions from notable figures such as Pearl S. Buck, Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahadev Desai, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, G.A. Natesan, Minoo Masani, Humayun Kabir and Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, who shared their insights on Gandhi’s life and legacy.
Abdul Salim P., known as Guinness Salim, exclaimed: “I was thrilled to stumble upon this priceless 503-page document.” He received the book from a friend in Thrissur, who later “regretted parting with it” once he realised its true value.
Mr. Salim, holder of three Guinness records, has a large Gandhi collection featuring around 1,000 London-printed postcard photos. “These photos tell Gandhi’s story from age 7 to his cremation,” he said.
The inside cover.
Only 1,500 copies printed
The book’s publisher, Karnatak Publishing House in Bombay, has gained recognition for this publication. Dinanath Gopal Tendulkar led the editorial team that compiled the volume. Only 1,500 copies were printed, a joint effort by Karnatak Publishing House and Navajeevan Press, Ahmedabad.
Published with Gandhi’s blessings and featuring his foreword, the book’s proceeds were intended to aid the poor. Gandhi wrote: “The profit from its sale will add to the purse to be presented to me for Daridranarayan.”
The book’s mustard-yellow jute cover, with the title ‘Gandhiji’ in English and Hindi, shows wear and fraying. Inside, articles by several luminaries and rare photos from Gandhi’s political life are featured. One notable piece is an article by Gandhi himself on Kasturba, showcasing her patience and support.
Published – October 02, 2025 12:41 pm IST
