East End crowd gathers to witness the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi

This extraordinary overhead shot captures the moment Mahatma Gandhi stepped from his motorcar into a sea of admirers on an East End thoroughfare in 1931. Cloaked in his iconic homespun khadi, Gandhi’s serene figure contrasts with the eager crowd—men, women and children pressing forward, many tipping their caps or reaching out to touch his hand. Policemen stand guard at the car door, ensuring his safe passage through the throng.

Historical Context
Invited to Britain for the Second Round Table Conference, Gandhi’s 1931 visit drew immense public interest across London. In the East End—home to docks, factories and a vibrant working‑class community—his message of non‑violent resistance and self‑rule resonated deeply, uniting local residents and the Indian diaspora in a rare display of solidarity. These street‑corner welcomes underscored the global reach of India’s independence movement and the profound impact of Gandhi’s moral leadership on interwar Britain.

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