Gandhi National Memorial Society
Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace was built in the year 1892 A.D. by the 3rd Agakhan, Sultan Mohammad Shah Agakhan who was the 48th spiritual head of the Khoja Ismali religion. He constructed this palace to generate employment as Maharashtra was struck by the severe famine that time. It is known for its architectural excellence and is a mix of Islamic and French architecture. It covers an area of 17 acres, out of which 7 acres is the built-up area.
Agakhan Palace is known as a National Monument of India. Following the launch of Quit India Movement in 1942, Gandhiji, Kasturba, Mahadevbhai Desai, Sarojini Naidu, Miraben, Dr. Gilder, Secretary Pyarelal and other national leaders were interned at the Agakhan Palace from August 9, 1942 to May 6, 1944.Mahadevbhai & Kasturba passed away while in captivity at the Agakhan Palace and their Samadhis are located in the campus. The Donation was made to the Gandhi Smarak Nidhi a National Institution committed to the Gandhian activities, with the informal consent of State and Central Government, so as to assure to bring about and maintain the character of the Memorial of the Palace hallowed by the last incarceration of the Father of Nation from 9th Aug. 1942 to 6th May 1944.
Background of AgaKhan Palace
- The Aga Khan Palace was built between the year 1882-1887 and owned by His Highness Prince Muhammad Shah AgaKhan III.
- The Palace and its beautiful campus is acknowledged for its unique and rich historical, social, cultural, and political background besides having great sentimental and emotional attachment.
- Aga Khan Palace signifies most memorable, momentous and crucial formative period of India’s struggle for Independence, during “Quit India Movement” in 1942.
- It is the Aga Khan Palace where Gandhji our ‘Father of the Nation’, Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadevbhai Desai, Sarojini Naidu and many other freedom fighters were interned for 21 months (from 9th August1942 to 05th May 1944)
- During the internment, Gandhiji lost his two dear ones, Shri Mahadevbhai Desai, who was more than a son to him, passed away on 15th August 1942 and his companion of 62 years, his wife Kasturba, passed away on 22nd February, 1944.
- A National Status of Samadhis of Late Kasturba Gandhi, Late Shri Mahadevbhai Desai and Ashes of Mahatma Gandhi through Late Shri Jehangir Patel, are located in the premises of Aga Khan Palace.
- The year 1969, was celebrated as Gandhi centenary year all over the nation. On the occasion of 25th death anniversary of Kasturbaji, the Palace and 6.30 Acres open land which was originally belong to Late His Serene Highness Prince Aly Salomone Aga Khan and was donated by H.H. Prince Karim Shah Aga Khan as a National Memorial to the Gandhi Smarak Nidhi on 22nd February 1969.
- The Aga Khan Palace was declared as Centrally protected Monument by Government of India in April 2003 and ASI is doing the maintenance work since 2003.
About Ba & Bapu
Ba was the silent strength behind Bapu’s mission. With quiet dedication, she ensured his needs were never unmet, even during her final days. Her love was not loud—but it echoed in every act of care.
Whether it was the timing of his meals or the quality of the utensils, Ba maintained strict discipline around Bapu’s routine. Even when she was unwell, she would ask if his molasses bottle was filled or if his food was being served on time.
After her passing, Bapu often noticed and mentioned small things she used to manage silently. When a meal was served late, he softly remarked, “Ba never delayed, not even by a minute.”
Their relationship was a beautiful balance—Ba, with her steady, nurturing presence, and Bapu, deeply aware of her value in his life. Together, they embodied mutual respect, compassion, and shared purpose.
