Between August 9 and September 7, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi stayed in Calcutta attempting to restore peace following the communal violence that had plagued the city during Partition. On August 14, Hindus and Muslims jointly celebrated independence, an event described as a “miracle” by contemporaries, though Gandhi termed it a “short-lived nine-day wonder” after fresh riots and deaths occurred in early September. Gandhi held prayer meetings in key communal areas such as Bara Bazar and Park Circus, promoting unity by emphasizing shared cultural symbols and urging respect for all communities. He also coordinated relief efforts, including rice shipments to flood-affected East Bengal. Despite his efforts, Gandhi faced suspicion and criticism from both Hindu and Muslim groups, each accusing him of bias. Reports from the period highlight nervousness among communities and authorities, with Gandhi’s presence in riot-affected neighborhoods seen as a stabilizing influence. The brief peace was overshadowed by renewed violence, illustrating the deep communal tensions during India’s independence and partition period. (Updated 22 Aug 2025, 11:04 IST; source: link)