**Historic Gandhi Portrait Fetches Over $200,000 at London Auction**

The portrait, painted during Gandhi's 1931 visit to London, emphasizes his influential role in India's fight for independence.

A remarkable oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, created in 1931, has been auctioned in London for £152,800 ($204,648), far exceeding pre-auction estimates of £50,000-£70,000. This artwork, crafted by British artist Clare Leighton, is believed to be the only oil portrait Gandhi posed for, cementing its historical significance. The sale took place at Bonhams, where experts noted the painting's provenance as it was painted during Gandhi's landmark visit to London for the second Round Table conference discussing India's self-governance.

Clare Leighton was among the select few artists permitted to meet Gandhi personally, allowing her to study and capture his likeness through multiple sittings. The painting remained in Leighton's family until her passing in 1989, after which it was sold. While the buyer's identity remains unknown, there is speculation regarding whether the portrait will be put on public display, adding to the intrigue surrounding this conveyance of cultural history.

Mahatma Gandhi is widely celebrated as the "father of the nation" in India for his role in leading a non-violent independence movement against British colonial rule, and the sale of this portrait underscores the continuing respect and admiration for his principles worldwide. As art and history merge through this auction, Gandhi’s legacy resonates, inspiring generations yet to come.