Even 4th Generation NRIS’ Strong Links With India

Its a remarkable example of how resilient is the bond between the NRIs with their country of origin. Some of the 4th generation has not even been to India. One Vivek Chadha, a 26-year-old UK-based follower of Mahatma Gandhi, has become the youngest donor so far to contribute £100,000 to the Gandhi Statue Memorial Trust. Chadha, Director of Nine Hospitality Ltd is a hotel owner, residential developer and major commercial investor in the UK real estate. Vivek graduated as a civil engineer in 2010 from University College London where Mahatma Gandhi was part of the University alumni. He said: “I am interested in particular in how Gandhi emphasised the privilege of giving and practiced compassion in creative ways. The fact that Gandhi concentrated all his energy in the service of others is a great example of how all young people should follow this idea in our day-to-day lives.”

Lord Meghnad Desai, chair of the Gandhi Statue Memorial Trust said, “It is very important that young people like Vivek step forward and donate towards this noble cause and he joins a very important growing group of British Asians who have responded generously. More than fifty per cent of the money raised so far has come from the UK, and 80 per cent of our 180 donors are British.”

One NRI said the knowledge about culture, social mores and history, and moreso the story of modern India is passed on from one generation to another. This is why in our hearts and minds India will never be far and foreign country.” Ahem!