Last updated on: February 20, 2026
Raliatbehn Gandhi, also known as Gokibehn, was the elder sister of Mahatma Gandhi. She was born around 1862 or 1863 in Porbandar, Gujarat. She grew up in a respected family that served local rulers as administrators. Her life began long before her brother became famous. Yet she remained part of the world that shaped him.
She was one of four children. Her father was Karamchand Uttamchand Gandhi, often called Kaba Gandhi. Her mother was Putlibai Gandhi, a deeply religious woman. The family belonged to the Modh Bania community. They lived in a home guided by duty, faith, and discipline.
Quick Facts About Raliatbehn Gandhi
| Full Name | Raliatbehn Gandhi (also known as Gokibehn) |
| Birthdate | Around 1862–1863 |
| Occupation | N/A |
| Husband/Wife | Not Known |
| Death | Around 19598-1959 |
| Age | Lived about 97–98 years |
| Parents | Karamchand Uttamchand Gandhi and Putlibai Gandhi |
| Siblings | Laxmidas Gandhi, Karsandas Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi |
| Children | Not Knowm |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
A Family of Strong Values
Raliatbehn’s grandfather, Uttamchand “Ota” Gandhi, had served as Diwan of Porbandar and Junagadh. He was known for loyalty and courage. Stories about him were passed down in the family. These stories taught the children about honor and integrity.
Her father followed the same path in public service. Though he had little formal schooling, he was seen as fair and sharp in judgment. He worked as Diwan in several princely states. Watching him handle power and disputes gave the children early lessons about justice.
Her mother Putlibai shaped the spiritual side of the household. She prayed daily. She fasted often. She took vows for the well-being of her family. The children grew up seeing religion practiced in simple ways. This quiet devotion left a deep mark on them.
Growing Up with Her Siblings
Raliatbehn had two elder brothers, Laxmidas and Karsandas. The youngest child was Mohandas, later known as Mahatma Gandhi. As the only sister, she held a special role in the home.
In many Gujarati families of that time, older daughters helped raise younger siblings. Raliatbehn helped care for young Mohan. She watched over him during childhood. This early bond created closeness that lasted for life.
Her brothers worked to support the family and later helped Gandhi with his education. The siblings shared a strong sense of responsibility toward one another. Family honor mattered greatly to them.
A Private but Supportive Life
Unlike her famous brother, Raliatbehn did not live a public life. Most details about her marriage or children are not clearly recorded. This is common for women of the 19th century. Their work stayed inside the home and rarely entered official history.
Even so, she remained connected to Gandhi during his public career. She appeared in a few photographs with him. One notable moment came during his 1939 fast in Rajkot. She was seen beside him, massaging him along with other relatives. These small glimpses show her continued presence in his life.
A 1936 portrait simply labeled her as “Gandhiji’s elder sister, R. Ben.” The caption was brief, yet meaningful. It confirmed her quiet place within the family circle.
Later Years and Long Life
Raliatbehn lived a long life. She survived her brother by more than a decade. She passed away in 1960. This meant she witnessed India’s independence and the early years of the new nation Gandhi had helped shape.
While she never sought recognition, her life stretched across a period of huge change in Indian history. From princely rule to freedom, she saw the world transform.
READ ALSO: Mahatma Gandhi Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Her Quiet Legacy
Raliatbehn Gandhi represents the unseen strength behind famous figures. She did not lead marches or give speeches. Instead, she belonged to the inner world that formed Gandhi’s character. Her home taught discipline, faith, and loyalty.
Understanding her story helps us see Gandhi not only as a leader, but also as a younger brother shaped by family care. Raliatbehn stands for many women of her time whose lives were private yet deeply important. Her legacy lives in the values that helped shape one of history’s most influential figures.
