On Independence Day in 1947, Gandhiji wasn’t in Delhi unfurling the Tricolour. He was in Calcutta.
Mahatma Gandhi arrived in the city on August 9, 1947 at Sodepur with the intention of proceeding towards Noakhali, the site of vicious post-Partition riots. However, Muslim League leader H.S. Suhrawardy requested him to extend his stay in view of the growing communal tension in Calcutta.
Hyderi Manzil in Maibagan, now Beleghata, was chosen because Gandhiji purposely wanted to stay at a predominantly Muslim neighbourhood. The Telegraph Online
Local leaders hoisting national flag in Gandhi Bhavan. The Telegraph Online
He agreed on condition that the others would work to restore peace in Noakhali. Gandhiji then came to Hyderi Manzil with Suhrawardy. Hyderi Manzil in Maibagan, now Beleghata, was chosen because Gandhiji purposely wanted to stay at a predominantly Muslim neighbourhood.
Hyderi Manzil was Gandhiji’s address during the peace mission. The Telegraph Online
The main building of the museum complex. The Telegraph Online
Hyderi Manzil was Gandhiji’s address during the peace mission. On September 1, he observed Satyagraha from Hyderi Manzil. He fasted for 73 hours, after which leaders who were rioting in Calcutta surrendered by laying down weapons, primarily swords, at his feet and requested him to give up his fast.
Hyderi Manzil was later converted to a museum and rechristened Gandhi Bhawan. The Telegraph Online
Gandhi Bhawan is now under the care of the West Bengal government. The Telegraph Online
Hyderi Manzil was later converted to a museum and rechristened Gandhi Bhawan. Apart from a pictorial representation of the Mahatma’s life, the Bhawan also houses the room where Gandhiji stayed. Several items of his personal use are on display, the tumbler Gandhiji used to drink water from, a mattress and a pillow, his long walking stick, tattered chappals and many a charkha.
The formal inauguration of the Gandhi Bhawan is delayed due to the pandemic. The Telegraph Online
Gandhi Bhawan is now under the care of the West Bengal government. It awaits a formal inauguration -- delayed due to the pandemic -- after which it will be opened to the public.