....As Gandhis decided to return to their homeland, Parsee Rastomjee threw a farewell party for the champion of the Indian cause in Natal. . After the food has been eaten, Rustomjee placed a thick gold chain round Mr Gandhis neck, and presented him with a valuable gold locker and a large gold medal suitably inscribed. he was also given a bouquet of white roses, and was garlanded amid deafening cheers. his children were then given gold medals. ..The next week, the Gandhis were chief guests at a party hosted by the Natal Indian congress. At this meeting, too, Gandhi was given an array of jewels. these included a diamond ring presented on behalf of the community as a whole, a gold necklace subscribed for by Gujarati Hindus, a diamond pin from Abdul Cadir, and a gold watch offered by Dada Abdulla and company. Gandhi accepted the presents, but three days later he wrote to Parsee Rastomjee saying he was returning the gifts. he wished to make them over to the Natal Indian Congress, to form an emergency fund for times of crisis. The decision to return the presents caused a terrific row in the Gandhi household. you may not need the jewels, said Kasturba. your children may not need them.Cajoled, they will dance to your tune. I can understand your not permitting me to wear them. But what about my daughters-in-law? They will be sure to need them. And who knows what will happen tomorrow? I would be the last person to part with gifts lovingly given. Gandhi answered that it was not for her to decide what to do with gifts presented to him. Kasturba offered this telling rebuke; But service rendered by you is as good as rendered by me. I have toiled and moiled for you day and night. Is that no service? His wifes opposition was neutralised by the support of his two elder sons. with the assistance of his sons, Gandhi somehow succeeded in extorting a consent from his wife. Now Parsee Rastomjee begged Gandhi to reconsider his decision. Gandhi was unyielding. the presents were sent back to the congress, while their leader prepared to set sail for his homeland. - From GANDHI BEFORE INDIA by Guha.
Posted on: Thu, 31 Oct 2013 07:51:01 +0000
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