Chander Shekhar Mohlajee-Papajee for all-9th Death Anniversary

OBITUARY- A REMEMBERANCE OF OUR PAPAJEE-By M.Lall

Chandra Shekhar Papajee in whose pious memory we are meeting today was oldest amongst our cousins. Affectionately called Papajee, to signify his rightful place in the family hierarchy - a brother who also doubled up as a father figure. My oldest memory of childhood-mostly spent in the maternal homes of Sutar mandi and Mall Road in Lahore are those relating to Papajee. I vividly remember him taking me on his shoulders to a photographic studio for what I believe was my first photograph, -attached- which is still preserved, wearing a flowery frock. Later I also recall him taking me to a doctor for attending to some injury sustained while playing in the stairs

I have vivid recollection of photograph of RSS founder on the ground floor hall of the Sutar mandi House. These mystic photographs had aroused a great deal of childhood curiosity as I was told that these were of Papajee’s Gurus. We knew he was actively pursuing some social-cum-political activity. We did not understand true import of his deeds until the dreadful partition. We had a sampling of his courage and skills, when during pre-partition communal riots he drove us in a jeep from Amritsar to supposedly a safer home in Lahore. His great selfless leadership qualities were in full display during the post partition period which he was whole heartedly involved in rescue cum rehabilitation mission for the unfortunate refugees. Upon completion of his assigned role, he returned to Delhi to join the family and start an eventful banking career. I saw him fully immersed in his new role of a banker and trade unionist.

His marriage to our most gracious Sheela Bhabhi was an event of the century as it was largest post partition get together of the great Mohlajee clan and other close and not so close Panjabi relatives. Days of merry making, innocent banter, trivia plus religious ceremonies were made unforgettable by desi ghee loaded sweets, chanas and bhaturas offerings throughout the day till late nights.

The crushing wounds of partition loosened the family and clan fabric necessitating pan-world movement of the young generation in search of much needed economic opportunities. Half a century later, one can look back with great sense of pride that the Mohlajee’s in their chosen field and location have excelled. The most remarkable of their achievement is the fact that success has been earned without any dilution or compromise on the great and noble values of selfless love, regard for seniors, warm hospitality and unique sense of family vision. Papajee had all these and much more. He had developed keen interest in Astrology, Numerology, and Palmistry in addition to trying his hand in various commercial ventures. But for partition of India, Papajee’s talents would have undoubtedly been used at national level. I am very proud that I had a cousin as great as Papajee as well as I am proud to have been born to be related to great Mohlajee parivar. Papajee epitomised the best human values and we are going to miss him. For lack of better words I would like to conclude by saying Papajee we love you from deepest depth of our heart and we are going to miss you. We miss you Papajee.