Gandhi's sa home sold to french travel company

02 October,2009 08:10 AM IST |   |  Hemal Ashar

The Kraal in a Johannesburg suburb was sold for Rs 3 crore


The Kraal in a Johannesburg suburb was sold for Rs 3 crore

The Kraal, Mahatma Gandhi's house in Johannesburg, South Africa was sold recently, to a French travel and tours company called, Voyageurs du Monde. The company also specialises in customised tours.

Former owner Jarrod Ball says, "It generated so much hype and news when it was on the market.
u00a0
It was eventually sold to the French company and Sylvia Cook of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty in Johannesburg negotiated the sale."

A spokesman from the real estate agency in South Africa, said, "The house has been sold to Voyageurs, a Paris-based company for more than 5 million rand (Rs 3 crore), though I would not reveal the exact figure.
u00a0

Peaceful: The Kraal in Johannesburg, which was sold by Jarrod and Nancy Ball.


There have been several people claiming to have bought the house, but I can confirm it has been sold to the Voyageurs."

When Jarrod was told that a Mumbai businessman too has claimed to buy the house, he retorted wryly, "Interesting. I hope he has paid for it."


Jarrod had said earlier that they wanted the buyer to, "Preserve the sphere of peace and tranquility that exists, of what was our (Jarrod and wife Nancy's) home for 30 years," and "perpetuate Gandhiji's principles, philosophy and legacy while ensuring the endorsement of Gandhiji's descendants and if possible involving them in some way."

The couple is reportedly, "delighted" with the Voyageurs sale. Jarrod says, "The company has invested in other heritage sites around the world, so has the expertise as well as the means to preserve and maintain it properly."

The Kraal

Hidden away on a quiet suburb of Johannesburg, the house was designed by Gandhi's confidante and architect Hermann Kallenbach.

Its distinct thatched roofs and rondavel style gave the house its name The Kraal". Gandhi lived in the house for three years from 1908.
"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Kraal Mahatma Gandhi house Johannesburg