On 7th April 2022 (Thursday), the large Hindu community of East London was in deep shock and grief when it learned that one of its most popular and active social worker Shri Basheshar Nath Bhanot was no more. It was a shocking news because he was seen active only few days before. Around 500 people came to pay heartfelt homage at his ‘antyesthi sanskaar’ (cremation). He was given a royal farewell with horse driven cortege led by a band and followed on foot by family, relatives and friends.
Bhanot ji, as he was popularly known by, was born in Punjab, Bharat in 1932 and after marrying Krishna in 1958, the couple moved to Kenya where they both taught in secondary schools. In 1965 he obtained a Diploma in Education from Sheffield University and then went on to write 2 history books which were used in history curriculum in secondary schools in Kenya. He came to UK in 1972 and continued his teaching profession and also established various businesses.
He was a committed Swayamsevak of HSS UK and an active social worker. He was an inspiration to many, had very youthful personality and truly a man of action even at his age. He was admired for his kindness, generosity, integrity and ‘sewa bhava’ for communities locally and nationally. His beaming face, hefty laughter and jovial personality was such that he instantly connected with people of all ages, strangers as well as known people. He shared positivity everywhere. He nurtured his family so well that every member became socially active and contributed their mite to the community.
He was one of the co-founders and ex-secretary of VHP Ilford Hindu Centre which he helped build and develop physically, financially and mentally. He was also co-chair of OFBJP East London chapter. He co-founded a charity – www.makeitbeat.org.uk – to save lives through CPR training.
He leaves behind wife Krishna and a large bereaved family of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. We pray for eternal peace and sadgati to the departed punya aatmaa. Aum Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi
By: Dhiraj D Shah, President HSS UK: 15 April 2022
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Sad loss and a life well lived