Our beloved mother, Smt. Santosh Channan was born on 10 May 1938 in Lahore, Pakistan. Her life was an extraordinary journey of love, resilience, and selfless service, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. From her early years in Shimla, where she pursued her education after migrating during the Partition, to becoming the heart and soul of our family, she lived a life of unwavering purpose and grace.
She married Shri Sukhdev Raj Channan on 03 July 1957, initiating a lifelong partnership based on mutual respect, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to family. As a wife, she exemplified selflessness and wisdom, prioritizing family over material gains. Her decision to choose Srinagar over Ladakh during our father’s posting in 1959 reflected her deep understanding of what truly matters in life.
Through our father’s illustrious diplomatic career, she was his pillar of support and our family’s guiding light. From navigating the tense hostilities of 1965 in Co-Muree to embracing the adventures of an overland journey from Venice to Ankara and adapting to life in remote locations like Tezpur and Aizawl, she demonstrated unmatched courage and adaptability.
A Mother Who Defined Love and Strength
As a mother, she was our anchor, our teacher, and our greatest source of inspiration. She taught us compassion, resilience, and independence, ensuring we grew into individuals who could navigate life’s challenges with grace. Her nurturing spirit was evident in every aspect of our lives, whether it was turning hardships into learning opportunities or ensuring we experienced the cultural richness of the world during our father’s postings.
Her selflessness shone brightest during our father’s health crisis in 2007. She cared for him with unparalleled devotion, standing by his side through every moment until his passing in 2010. Her unwavering love and strength taught us the true meaning of sacrifice and dedication.
A Mentor, Friend, and Fearless Soul
Our mother was not just a parent; she was a mentor, confidante, and friend. Her wisdom extended beyond her children to her grandchildren, who adored her guidance and warmth. When armed robbers entered our home, she calmly convinced them to leave with her jewelry, even offering them her blessings, exemplifying her fearlessness and independence.
From Indian Express -: December 16, 2016
Heading – Burglars leave behind Rs 100 for daily needs of 78-year-old in capitalAccording to the gated news report, held against her will and on a knife-edge, 78-year-old Smt. Santosh Channan did not oppose the robbers who broke into her home early Thursday morning. She handed up Rs 2 lakh in gold jewelry and all the cash to the masked burglars. Smt. Santosh, who was cash-starved due to the demonetization program, appealed to the robbers to leave her the only Rs 2000 note for her daily needs. The robbers’ reaction astounded the elderly woman.
Surprisingly, one of the robbers took out a 100 rupee note from his handbag and presented it to the elderly woman.
DCP (southeast) Romil Baniya confirmed the event, saying a case had been lodged at the CR Park Police Station. According to police sources, forensic evidence has been acquired, and the criminals got access through the drawing room.
“First, they broke the glass windows, unlocked one of the doors from inside, cut through the wire mesh, and finally barged in,” said a police officer.
Her bravery, independence, and ability to find light in the darkest moments remain an inspiration to us all.
A Life of Service and Legacy
After our father’s retirement in 1990, our parents dedicated themselves to social service, with our mother playing an instrumental role in the Greater Kailash II community. She co-founded the Senior Citizens Forum and actively participated in social, religious, and sporting activities, leaving a lasting legacy in her community.
Even after our father’s passing, she remained fearless, self-reliant, and deeply committed to the values she upheld throughout her life.
A Celebration of Her Life
On 25 November 2024, our beloved mother, Smt. Santosh Channan reunited with our father in the heavens. Her life was a celebration of love, courage, and boundless generosity. She inspired us with her resilience, warmed us with her love, and guided us with her wisdom.
With all our love and respect,
From her children and grandchildren:
Binu and Ashwini
Neera and Manoj
The late Janki and Navin
Cherry and Kunal
Bhavuk
Bhavya Nayna and Varun
Kagweni and Yashasvi
Kirti and Sagal
We will forever carry her spirit in our hearts and honor her legacy in all that we do. May her soul rest in eternal peace.