A historic moment unfolded in Surat as Laljibhai Tulsibai Patel, a prominent Indian businessman and philanthropist, purchased the world’s most expensive suit (clothing) ever sold at auction for a staggering ₹43,131,311 (approximately £448,944 or $693,174).
The suit, famously worn by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi, was instantly recognizable for having his name subtly embroidered in pinstripes. It garnered widespread attention when first worn during a visit by former U.S. President Barack Obama in 2015.
The auction was held as a fundraising initiative, and all proceeds were dedicated to the Namami Gange Fund, a flagship government project aimed at cleaning and rejuvenating the sacred Ganges River. The generous contribution by Laljibhai Patel not only set a Guinness World Record but also underscored the growing role of public participation in supporting environmental and cultural preservation in India.
The record-breaking auction combined style, symbolism, and social impact—demonstrating how fashion and philanthropy can come together for a cause of national importance.
