Dramatic Incident After Gandhi’s Death

Wanganui Chronicle, 4 February 1948, Page 5

Dramatic Incident After Gandhi’s Death

London, Feb. 2. Three hours after his assassination, rumours that Gandhi was still alive caused thousands to rush to Birla House. Mr. Nehru climbed on the gates and assured the crowds, in a choking voice that the rumour was falseDisciples then carried the body to the second floor verandah, to permit the crowd bn the ground below a final glimpse of their beloved leader. The disciples placed the body on a couch, lifted it on to tables, held the couch at an angle, and played a spotlight on the face so that it was visible to those below. One of the granddaughters folded Gandhi’s hands in a last blessing to the people. The Indian Deputy Premier, Mr. Patel, said in a broadcast from New Delhi that he saw Gandhi after the shooting and there was “the same calm, serene expression of forgiveness on the face. How much better it would have been if he had died during his fast.” In New Delhi blinds were drawn and the streets were dark and quiet, The cinemas were closed and only essential traffic was running. Men and women wept openly in the streets. A marriage procession was stopped, and the merrymakers dispersed to mourn. Stunned crowds and overwhelming grief were reported in other cities. Factories, shops, and offices closed and all public entertainments were cancelled throughout the country.