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Vallabhbhai Patel (1875-1950) – Letter - a handwritten letter in Gujerati, written whilst Patel was imprisoned in Nasik Road Central Prison. The letter is lengthy, written over two sides, and reads: Central Prison, Nasik Road Date: 20.01.34 Dear Sister, I received your letter of date 09-01-34. There is no need to send food. Here I can get everything and who will eat it? Your brother is capable of living eating air only. Here we stayed together for long time so I have many experiences. In such situation with him we have to remain half hungry (half fed). But the reasons other than that are there is no need to get food from outside. I am allowed to order whatever I need, so why you should send from that far place. It is allowed to order the milk, curd, butter, vegetables etc. in whatever quantity, so why to worry? So please do not send anything. God has graced dear Jitu – as I was worried much about him. Haribhai didn’t come so there is no reason to be sad. I am in front of Chandubhai, so he can consider me just like Haribhai. And Haribhai does not need to come here leaving his business. Do not believe that Chandubhai has anything less. And also tell Haribhai not to be sad about that. Nobody need to come here. Also, at the end of the next month he will be released, right? Time has become full. Time passes so fast. Today I have received the letter of Maniben from Belgam. She is well. In the cupboard of her books, there are four parts of Saraswatichandra. And also there is a part of the ‘Gujarati Stri Ratno’ published by the ‘Sastu Sahitya’. Please send these books to her. Jivan or Harakhchand will get you searched them. Hope all are well. Sending salutations to both of you. I am going to send a letter at the end of this month. Send me a letter if you want to write anything. I have received the letter of Haribhai. The kids of Balubhai shown good affection towards him. The money is in Ahmedabad so it happens normally. [Illegible] but still they have shown the good sweetness and love. It might feel lonely in the home as everyone left, but I hope you have become used to, haven’t you? Where is Mrudula? Did she return from Vihar/Virar or not? Hope you both are well. We both are fine and enjoying. From, Salutations from Vallabhbhai. Just tell Haribhai about the matter of Prahlad’s marriage offer. You should consult with him. If you don’t tell him then it if he gets to know that the things are hidden from him, then he will feel unhappy. So it is wise decision that you should tell him beforehand or take his advice if possible. Also tell Kikiben that he should tell him herself so no misunderstanding could happen. Stamped to top 'Superintendent - Nasik Road Central Prison' with an official's signature in red pencil. Written in black ink to both sides of the folded paper. 21cm x 13cm, approx. Upon the failure of the Round Table Conference in London, Gandhi and Patel were arrested in January 1932 when the struggle re-opened, and imprisoned in the Yeravda Central Jail. During this term of imprisonment, Patel and Gandhi grew close to each other, and the two developed a close bond of affection, trust, and frankness. Their mutual relationship could be described as that of an elder brother (Gandhi) and his younger brother (Patel). Despite having arguments with Gandhi, Patel respected his instincts and leadership. In prison, the two discussed national and social issues, read Hindu epics, and cracked jokes. Gandhi taught Patel Sanskrit. Gandhi's secretary, Mahadev Desai, kept detailed records of conversations between Gandhi and Patel. When Gandhi embarked on a fast-unto-death protesting the separate electorates allocated for untouchables, Patel looked after Gandhi closely and himself refrained from partaking of food. Patel was later moved to a jail in Nasik, and refused a British offer for a brief release to attend the cremation of his brother Vithalbhai, who had died in October 1933. He was finally released in July 1934 Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel