While serving time at Poona’s Yeravada Jail in 1930 as a consequence of his initiation of the Civil Disobedience Movement, Gandhi is said to have devised a nifty, portable spinning wheel. Commonly known as peti charkha, it conveniently folds into a contraption similar to the size of a small briefcase, and has a handle for carrying. When unfolded for use, it works by turning a small crank, which runs the two wheels and spindle of the device. Made out of wood (usually teak), and replete with a hinge and a hollow metal handle, two storage compartments securely hold the spindle and fibre.