Jewels of India
Leading Indo Canadian Personalities
This book brings forth the accomplishments of people like Dr. Budhendranauth Doobay (an eminent cardiologist and a Hindu priest in Canada, he is a body and mind healer in the truest sense of the word), Deepa Mehta (a transnational artist and a screenwriter, director and producer, her work has been called courageous, provocative and breathtaking), Dr. Gurdev Singh Gill (a communist activist, the first Indo-Canadian to graduate in medicine from UBC and the first to practice medicine in the country. In 1990, he was the first Indo-Canadian to receive the Order of B.C.), Dr. Lalita Malhotra (a health professional, a mentor and community leader, she has delivered more than 10,000 babies in Canada.
For her deep connection with the indigenous community, she is now called the Angel of the North) among many others. These are some people who are earning laurels for both India and Canada but hardly do resident Indians know about them. It is time that India too started celebrating them.
People Inside The Book
Dr. Aditya Jha
CEO, dgMarket International Inc., Washington DC, Chair, POA Educational Foundation, Toronto
From a child who hadn’t seen an electric bulb to a serial entrepreneur, he today has his business interests in India, Nepal, Canada and Thailand. He has a deep concern for Indo-Canadians and Indianism. To address his love for art and culture, he promotes art and culture among Canadian Aboriginals and supports the Toronto International Film Festival and Canadian Museum for Human Rights. He also promotes education and
entrepreneurship.
Aditya Tawatia
Founder, International Yoga Festival & Health Expo Foundation, President, Aditya Tawatia Personal Real Estate Corporation, British Columbia
Creative, pragmatic and sedate, he inspires people to find positivity in gloom. He founded the Yoga foundation with the idea that one can lead a healthy lifestyle and also contribute to society and nature. His vision is to help people experience the yogic way of life with an everlasting holistic approach. He accomplished his role as a dedicated ambassador of Indian values and a true Canadian in the capacity of a publisher, businessman and philanthropist.
Dr. Alice Benjamin
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, McGill University, McGill University Health Centre
Having delivered more than 10,000 babies, dominated by her caring, compassionate yet professional nature. A pillar for her department, she is a highly awarded obstetrics and gynaecology expert by various departments, city and country – and the mothers and children she has cared for. As a tribute to her, many awards and funds have been established in her name by grateful patients and the institutes she has worked with.
Dr. Amarjit Singh Arneja
Associate Professor of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Manitoba
A celebrated doctor in Canada, he also has become the society’s doctor helping it mend its ways. He is the first Asian to be on the board of the American Academy of Paediatrics Section on Plastic Surgery. He is a well-published expert now and has trained many specialists. He has supported organisations like the Canadian Human Rights Museum, India Canada Cultural and Heritage Association and also initiated the formation of the Manitoba Association of Asian Physicians. He has also worked tremendously to bring recognition to Indian culture.
Anand Sarup Aggarwal
Founder, Manor Park Group of Industries & Infinity Convention Centre Ontario
A true champion and a legendary entrepreneur, who has followed the principle of honest, focussed and hard work, he built a whole empire at a
young age. A role model for young entrepreneurs, he has an inherent sense
of service to society. His spiritualism led him to serve the local gurudwara which he has continued for the past several years. He has contributed to bilateral relationship between India and Canada. His family also
contributes to the Heart Institute.
Anil Arora
Chief Statistician of Canada, Statistics Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
Exploring multiple professions, grasping multiple experiences, the genius learned to remain resolute and strong-minded, picking up all the odd jobs,
he grew multifold as the chief statistician of Canada. He has led significant
transformational initiatives with experience and partnerships spanning all
three levels of government, the private sector and international organisations, including the UN and the OECD. Not to forget, he started with this organisation as a supervisor of computer operations and data
processing and has worked hard his way up.
Anu Srivastava
Founder & CEO, ARRA Arts & Executive Director, V Serve Canada Mississauga, Ontario
She has organised the IIFA Awards promotional events in Brampton and brought the limelight to the city. She has, upon invitation, been the chair of the Panorama India and brought unparalleled success to India Day Parade in Toronto. Though she was once unknown to this side when she was in the health sector. It was her love for art and culture that has made a shining example of culture, values and selflessness. Her family is proud to still have the original manuscript of Sare jahan se acha, Hindostan humara.
Dr. Arun kumar Garg
Founding Chair & President, Canada India Network Society Clinical Professor, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia
Recognised for contributing to build bilateral links between Canada and India, he conceptualised and founded the Canada India Network Society. An initiator and founder of many organisations, he has served in many leadership positions including president of Doctors of British Columbia. He has been the recipient of many awards and honours. He firmly believes in that ancient concepts and modern methods make the best medicine for today
Dr. Azad Kumar Kaushik
President, ImmVacca & National Alliance of Indo-Canadians (NAIC),Ontario
As a scientist and an academic, his discoveries on cow antibodies, the largest known to exist in a species, is a perfect tribute to the goddess, Kamadhenu. His advocacy of Indian philosophy and civilisation, his philanthropic marvels and his novel discoveries recognised internationally
paved the way into the league of most prominent global Indians serving humanity. Today, he continues to derive satisfaction and joy from his science and giving back to the community.
The Honourable Baljit Singh Chadha, P.C.
President & Founder, Balcorp Limited Quebec
He is the only non-political Indo-Canadian sworn in as a member of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada whereby he was given the title Honourable and the initials P.C. after his name. He is also known as the ‘Nut King’ of Canada. He is a first-generation Indo-Canadian and an entrepreneur of exemplary success. Co-founding the Chadha Family Foundation in 1992, the family gives back to society that has made him successful by promoting art, culture, health and education.
Dr. Budhendranauth Doobay
Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon & Founder, Vishnu Temple Ontario
As an eminent cardiologist and a Hindu priest in Canada, he is a body and mind healer in the truest sense of the word. He had led the establishment
of a temple in Canada, which operates a school and clubs for senior citizens and women, and promotes cultural peace. He has adopted an orphanage in India and supports an IT school in Guyana, where he has established a medical centre to provide free dialysis to the needy.
Chimanbhai Bhikhabhai Patel
Past Trustee Chairman, Sanatan Mandir Cultural Centre Markham, Ontario
Though he initially found it tough to find a firm footing in Canada, he gradually started a series of businesses in partnerships. He involved himself in organising Indian social events. Associating with several organisations, he finally took charge as the building chairman of the
Sanatan Mandir Cultural Centre. Creating awareness about India in Canada, he has set up the Bhikhabhai Bhulabhai Patel Charitable Trust in India to fulfil the needs of students from weaker section, help improve sanitationand drinking-water facilities.
Cuckoo Kochar
President & Founder, DCR Phoenix Former Board of Directors, CMHC Orléans, Ottawa
He is a master negotiator when it comes to land development, has a strong business sense that has lead him to success, but it is his humility and family values that truly mark his character. He still believes in trust and fairness over the signature on paper. The moment he found the opportunity to start on his own and build up the business on quality. For all his commitment to society, a scholarship has been created in conjunction with Carleton University for engineering and architecture students from India.
Dr. Daya Gupta
Chief Eye Surgeon, Gupta Eye Centre Medical Director, Ultra Vision Eye Laser Centre Winnipeg, Manitoba
He is a leader in the community, a champion of eye health and a generous philanthropist. He also opened one of the first refractive eye surgery clinics in the province. Trained in both Canada and the USA, he has performed almost 50,000 successful surgeries and provided
treatment to more than half a million people. He was been well-recognised including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award. He is the founding president of Manitoba Association of Asian Physicians, he has
readily provided free surgeries and glasses.
Deepa Mehta
Filmmaker & screenwriter Co-Founder, Hamilton-Mehta Productions Toronto, Ontario
A transnational artist and a screenwriter, director and producer, her work has been called courageous, provocative and breathtaking. Her visually lush and emotionally resonating films have played at every major international film festival; receiving numerous awards and accolades, and have been distributed around the world. She began her career making documentaries in India and has grown to make films on controversial topics, challenging traditions and stereotypes.
Devinder Shory
Founder & Lawyer, Shory Law Ex-Member, House of Commons of Canada
He who has served thousands of clients dealing with business and real-estate law, handling sales, purchases, financing, leasing, and transfers of real estate and businesses, and acted for a wide range of related clients once found it difficult to learn the basic Canadian language! With his firm belied, he overcame every hurdle. He has now involved himself in philanthropy, pro-bono legal work & promotion of
‘access to justice’ initiatives, working with not-for-profit organisations
both locally and nationally.
Dr. Digvir Singh Jayas
Vice-President & Distinguished Professor, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba
For him, solving complex mathematical puzzles was the easiest thing he could do as a child. A mathematical genius, he pursued it as his career but at the same time, he also stayed close to what he loved the most and thus became an agricultural engineer. Author and co-author of several agri-books, he loves to teach and explore correct grain storage to avoid its wastage and thus add to hunger minimisation globally. Many
countries, including China, Ukraine, Canada, India and the USA, have borrowed his expertise.
Dr. Dipak Roy
Founder and Executive Chairman, D-TA Systems Inc. Ottawa, Ontario
He came to Canada with two goals in mind: to complete his PhD and to leverage the opportunities in Canada in his favour. His first company, ICS, was taken over by none other than Radstone/General Electronics
which established him in the defense and security industry. He quickly
set fresh plans in motion and formed D-TA Systems, which now offers complete and near-complete sensor technology for use in the electronic defence market. Passionate for philanthropy, he has created over 250
high-skilled jobs.
Dwarka Persaud
Co-Founder, Norwich Plastics Cambridge, Ontario
Fighting British discrimination, he has become a leader in the plastic recycling industry with his calmness. He took the Gandhian approach to
discrimination and work and kept learning small things to make a big difference. Today, he recycles human thoughts and vibes with his
knowledge of Hinduism, Geeta, Ramayana and other holy scriptures, even though he has never lived in India. From small gatherings at his
home, he now supports concerns in India through the India-based temples and organisations.
Dr. Gurdev Singh Gill
President, Indo-Canadian Friendship Society of British Columbia New Westminster, British Columbia
Gill was the first Indo-Canadian to graduate in medicine from UBC and
the first to practice medicine in the country. In 1990, he was the first Indo-Canadian to receive the Order of B.C. Gill was a community activist who was part of delegations to Ottawa in the 1950s to convince the federal government to make immigration more equitable. He later became a community activist to make immigration more equitable and adopted 27 villages too and supported the building of a gurudwara in Vancouver.
The Honourable Harbance ‘Herb’ Singh Dhaliwal, P.C.
Appointed Minister in the Federal Cabinet (June 1997–December 2003) Chairman, National Green Biomed Ltd. Richmond, British Columbia
He was the first appointed MP in the Canadian cabinet in 1997 – that was history made! He always has wanted the Indo-Canadian community
to be at the forefront. From a modest upbringing, he has demonstrated a lifelong quest for entrepreneurial attainment, political inclusion, social improvement and personal growth of Indians and Canadians, inspired by the Sikh philosophy of sewa. He works towards basic sanitation facilities and other village improvement aspects in India.
Haresh Kumar Bhatt
President, Natu'oil Services Inc. Port Coquitlam, British Columbia
He had the desire and knowledge to make it large, his wife’s relentless support and a small one-room office – he knew it was enough for him to start and be the best at it. He has lived across oceans and understood the work ethics of different cultures which has helped him rise from humble beginnings to heading an MNC. Partnering with the Rotary Club of Bhavnagar Roundtown, the Bhatt family has provided 980 free cataract surgeries for the underprivileged.
Hari B. Varshney
Founder, Varshney Capital Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia
Though he immigrated with a small scholarship to the UBC and did odd jobs to sustain himself, he is now a well-known business leader, a
humanitarian and a community leader. A CA by profession, he has built a strong legacy for his children, including one of the largest diamond
mines being developed globally. Holding an annual golf tournament for children’s charities, serving as chair of the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, among several such initiatives, his focus on philanthropy is immense.
Dr. Harsha Venilal Dehejia
Practicing Physician & Adjunct Research Professor, College of the Humanities Carleton University Ottawa, Ontario
A physician, who is also a philosopher, heals patients and teaches students to appreciate Indian art. A man living abroad for close to 60 years yet in complete awe of his parent nation – India. Although he is a
leading allergist in Ottawa, Dr. Dehejia has found time to write books about the poetry and painting and gods of India, host a radio program, An Indian Morning, and teach a course at Carleton University on
Hinduism and Classical Indian intellectual traditions.
Jagannath Prasad Das
Emeritus Director, J.P. Das Centre on Developmental & Learning Disabilities, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta
He is credited with the development of one of the first brain-based theories of intelligence. His Das-Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System focuses on cognitive processing and helps in the diagnosis of learning difficulties. A professor emeritus of educational psychology, he is internationally recognised and awarded for his work in the field of
cognitive psychology. He has also constructed both an assessment framework and practical tools designed to improve children’s reading,
mathematics and cognitive processes.
Dr. Jagmohan Lal Humar
Distinguished Research Professor, Carleton University Ottawa, Ontario
An outstanding academician with over 45 years of association with Carleton University, a brilliant civil engineer, gold medallist, a community leader, a poetry lover… This Mr. Master-of-all-trades has
been a topper of BHU and IIT-Kharagpur and also cleared UPSC exams. With a strong belief in education, he has supported the formation of a Hindi-teaching school in Ottawa. He helps build schools in India and provides scholarships. He is an accomplished poet and has published a book of poetry.
Jai Dev ‘JAY’ Sarkar
Founder, President & CEO, Sartrex Power Controls Systems Inc. Concord, Ontario
A man of outstanding business acumen and philanthropic achievements,
he is a respected member of many nuclear associations and societies. Globally promoting nuclear energy generation, he also participated in trade missions with the Canadian Government to promote and defend the CANDU brand. He involves in philanthropy in Canada and across the whole world where there is a need for assistance, donations,
contribution and consideration.
Dr. Jawahar ‘Jay’ Kalra
Professor & Board of Governors, University of Saskatchewan Member, Board of Directors, Council of Canadian Academies Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
His father’s heart attack pushed him to be a doctor and his choice made him the best! A pioneer in the Canadian medical field, he not only teaches students and provides clinical services for patients, but he has been involved in research at the cutting edge of applied biochemistry. For
his passion and involvement in human welfare and community building, he has featured in the Senior Living 60 Influential Canadians Over 60 along with five former prime ministers of the country.
Dr. Kailash Prasad
Professor Emeritus, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Venerated as the first to elucidate the usefulness of flaxseeds in cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, he is somebody who was an ambitious go-getter, wanted to do something different in his life. He has five patents in the USA and four patents in Canada on the uses of flaxseed. He also obtained FDA (USA) approval for Beneflax extracted
from flaxseed for health benefits. Who knew the only third matriculate of a village would become an internationally awarded researcher.
Dr. Kalai S. Kalaichelvan
President & CEO, EION Wireless Ottawa, Ontario
A leader since childhood, it was obvious that he would be a leader growing up. His very foundation was on ‘making an impact on society’. Exploring entrepreneurship rather early on, he was driven to become a serial entrepreneur, has written books and was the only Canadian on the global advisory board for Samsung’s CEO. He continues to have a significant impact on the lives of the people he touches as he leads a
‘technology-intensive’ workplace.
Kalyanji Vallabhbhai Mistry
Founder, Shree Prajapati Mandal of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
A raring youth during the Indian independence fight, he has never stopped being concerned for India – throughout his journey from
Gujarat to Uganda to Kenya to Canada. Representing the eternal Gujarati spirit of enterprise, he never got into the business. He has lived for his families, the one he was born into, the one he created and the society. He has grown SPM from a 50-member to a 3000-member strong organisation.
Kanwal ‘Ken‘ Talwar
President, Indo-Canada Community Centre Inc. Vice President, Hindu Temple of Ottawa-Carleton Inc. Ottawa, Ontario
His advocacy of multiculturalism and unity in diversity has won him
recognition among the Indian diaspora. He is a devout Sanatana Dharma follower who has steered his way with an attitude of gratitude, giving and working together. He has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting rich Indian culture and heritage. This man who dedicates himself to society had studied at the IIT and IIM and went on to achieve
success at Public Works Canada and Industry Canada departments.
Kirit ‘Baba’ Somchand Shah
President, Shah Trading Company Limited Scarborough, Ontario
He believes family happiness to be his true success and has his family values deeply rooted in him. When he started in Canada, he decided to bring India to Canada – through edibles – and became one of the firsts
to offer Indian and subcontinent taste to immigrants. He has always felt strongly for the needy and contributed his part following the footsteps of
his father back in Kenya. He now keeps himself busy with doing his bit for society’s betterment and mentoring the youth.
Dr. Krishnamurti Dakshinamurti
Professor Emeritus, University of Manitoba President, Mahatma Gandhi Centre of Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba
Unable to attend school, he became a regional medical college teacher to a professor emeritus of an international medical faculty to become one of the most outstanding scientists of the 21st century, he has come to believe in the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Having personally met Mahatma Gandhi, he established the Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship in Human Rights at the University of Manitoba. He has authored several peer-reviewed research publications and books in his field and is well-known for his encyclopedic knowledge.
Kuldeep Sharma
President & CEO, Crown Group of Hotels President, Haryana Association of North America (HANA) Mississauga, Ontario
He took his hospitality company into acquiring new businesses in just three years having started with establishing one of the largest security companies in the 70s in Faridabad. He represents the new generation of Indians that have migrated in the business category to contribute to the economic growth of Canada. He is a regular supporter of various health,trade and community organizations and has been recognised by organisations for giving back to the community and mentoring.
Dr. Lalita Malhotra
Obstetrician & Family Physician, Malhotra Clinic Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
A health professional, a mentor and community leader, she has delivered more than 10,000 babies in Canada. For her deep connection with the
indigenous community, she is now called the Angel of the North. She has helped found a wellness clinic for women and advocated for skills-upgrading opportunities. She counsels teenagers, volunteers with the YWCA’s Family Futures Programme and has raised funds for disaster relief beyond the national boundaries. A great humanitarian, there’s nothing limiting her.
Lata Champsee
President & Chair, Board of Directors, Jain Society of Toronto, Inc. Toronto, Ontario
From an unambitious girl in India to a determined woman in Canada, she is an architect trained by experience, whose indulgence is social-work and motherhood. She not only relentlessly supported her
husband’s real-estate company to success but also towards societal upliftment. With her experience, she took charge of renovation at JSOT and fulfilled her promises. Champsee Family Foundation today supports
education, health,vocational training, etc. for the needy.
Lata Pada
Founder & Artistic Director, Sampradaya Dance Creations Mississauga, Ontario
A successful arts leader who has channelled a personal tragedy into an inspirational example of undying courage, establishing her dance
company in a country where her classical dance was not appreciated and supported, she is a testament of inner strength, resilience and positivity. Her excellence in Bharatanatyam is recognised internationally – some being for Indian president in 1992, two extensive solo performance tours of North America at the likes of the Metropolitan Museum of the Arts (New York), The World Bank (Washington).
Manjit Minhas
Co-founder & CEO, Minhas Breweries, Distilleries and Wineries Dragon, CBC’s Dragons’ Den Calgary, Alberta
Creating and running Canada’s largest beer and spirit company, owning
one of the oldest breweries in North America and the world’s ninth-largest in the world, she has proudly engraved her name in a
male-dominated sphere. A motivation to budding entrepreneurs, she is a
businesswoman of calibre, venture capitalist, television celebrity, a wife, a mom, a podcast host, a marketing expert. She supports charities like
The United Way and Ronald McDonald House. The family also funds a free, all-girls engineering school in India.
Dr. Mohit Bhandari
Distinguished Professor & Orthopaedic Surgeon-Scientist, McMaster University Hamilton, Ontario
A world-renowned surgeon-scientist, an advocate against domestic violence, an artist, a passionate adventurer, he is a recognised global leader in evidence-based surgery and orthopaedic research receiving the field’s highest awards. He has been acknowledged among the top 10 most cited orthopaedic fracture surgeons in the world. He is an extensively published author and editor of several research books. By providing scholarships and supporting Indian-origin trainees, and helping female victims of abuse, he contributes to society.
Dr. Naranjan S. Dhalla
Director of Cardiovascular Development, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Research Centre Distinguished Professor, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba
Having published, edited and written for several books, journals and papers on various aspects of the cardiovascular system, addressing several national and international conferences, training several graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and visiting scientists, his professional journey started with research on Ayurvedic herbs and drugs. A firm
believer in the philosophy of Guru Amar Das and satyam shivam sundaram, he established the Punjab Foundation of Manitoba and
formed the Indo Canadian Cultural Heritage Association (ICCHA) to do
something for his country.
Navaratna ‘Norton’ Kothari
Chairperson & Founder, Kothari Group of Companies Mississauga, Ontario
From a small village of newly independent India, he has formed a company spread across continents. One of the biggest mortgage lenders
in the private sector in Canada, he has helped construct a Hindu temple
in Malaysia and is the only Indo-Canadian entrepreneur to contribute to the Canadian Museum of Human Rights. Through the Trillium Health Partners Foundation and Canada India Foundation, he helps the global society grow. He has also helped establish a scholarship fund for needy students at BITS Pilani.
Navin Velji Chandaria
Conros Corporation & Chandaria Family Holdings, Inc. Toronto, Ontario
The mind behind several successful North American companies, he has boosted the technology startup industry of Canada. Starting from humble beginnings, he has built several businesses and brands from the ground up, including Northland Firelogs, Ross Adhesives, and LePage’s 2000 Inc. However, doing something for society always topped his
mind, and he started producing artificial logs using waste products that
would burn five times cleaner than wood – helping the society breathe clean – his bit of philanthropy among several other things.
Nazira ‘Naz’ Tareen
Founder, Ottawa Muslim Women’s Organisation (OMWO) Ottawa, Ontario
She was born the day WWII started and today is a modern-day community builder. Her community service has made her a legend and a household name in Ottawa. She joined Women’s Auxiliary, the Ottawa Muslim Association, and started to raise awareness about Islamic
fundamentals and philosophies in schools and through TV, clubs, organisations, prayer meets. It effectively came into power once hate-violence against Muslims started after 9/11. She encourages
Muslim women to participate in Canadian society as volunteers to help others.
Nemish Kantilal Mehta
President, Gujarati Samaj of Montreal Inc. President, VNP Solutions Montreal, Quebec
From Bollywood to the pious social leader, he has traversed from everything to nothing and risen back to everything. Starting from the grassroots, working hard for a living, joining Gujarati Samaj of Montreal as a member when he had nothing gave the right direction to his life. A few years later, he was leading the Samaj from the front. He focuses on uplifting the youth who lack guidance. This and a spiritual journey that he had set upon brought him professional success.
Dr. Nishith Goel
Founder & CEO, Cistel Technology Inc. Ottawa, Ontario
A top veteran IT service provider to the Canadian government who still sticks by the lessons Geeta taught him, his operations are spread across Canada and the USA and partners with several top IT companies globally. Finding its base in his grandfather’s shlokas recital, he formed the Cistel Foundation which supports charities in Ottawa, raising funds for various social, cultural and business events in Ottawa. He co-founded the Indian Professional Association in Ottawa, which evolved into the Indo-Canada Ottawa Business Chamber.
Paviter 'Pavi' Binning
President, Wittington Investments Toronto, Ontario
He has an extensive range of public company experience from industries including food, alcoholic beverages, telecommunications, retail, building materials, etc., at some of the top MNCs, he has worked in the UK, the USA and Canada. Coming from a lower middle-class family, he has
achieved today what not everyone can.
Pradeep Sood
Co-Founder & Director, Highbury Canco Corporation Board President, Commonwealth Games Foundation of Canada Ottawa, Ontario
A successful entrepreneur, business leader and community activist, he is passionate about economic development and the wellbeing of society. He
was also instrumental in saving 250 jobs when he bought the Heinz Canada food processing facility. He has planned and chaired fundraisers to support causes for many social causes. He has served as chairman of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and president of the Indo-Canada
Chamber of Commerce. One of his firms supports small businesses in research, development and finance.
Dr. Radhey Singhal
Former Professor & Chair, Department of Pharmacology Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa Ottawa, Ontario
He has spent most of his life bringing modern medicine within the context of today’s health issues. His doctoral thesis on an anti-diabetic drug came when the world knew little about diabetes. In a remarkable
career of around four decades in the USA, Canada and India, Radhey Singhal wears his success and brilliance as a pharmacologist with disarming modesty. After all these years, he continues to help the world understand Hinduism as a science.
Rajendra ‘Raj’ Kothari
Chair, UHN Foundation Former Vice-Chair & GTA Managing Partner, PwC Toronto, Ontario
Education and culture, financial independence and sharing, ambition and idealism – are all contradictory but they together form the fundamental values of his life. He has mastered the art of detoxifying our professional lives by mixing business with friendship and putting others first. His
humility defies all his achievements and philanthropy. Amid all this, he rediscovered India and appreciation of its culture, arts and philosophies while in the UK. He has often associated educational institutions with promoting Indo-Canadian bilateral relations through art and culture.
Rajnesh Dev ‘Dave’ Singh Mann
Founder, Mannkind Charitable Society Founder & President, Isle of Mann Property Group (IOM) Surrey, British Columbia
He came with just two dollars, growing up to pick up multiple jobs when he should be studying for a graduate degree. Working his way up and forming his own group, he has become an award-winning leader of the industry. When Dave achieved what he wanted is when his learning truly began. He turned to spirituality, meditation and helping the needy, especially children.
Among everything else, the Mann Charitable Society aims to delete the word ‘orphan’ out of dictionaries.
Ramesh Chotai
President, Bromed Pharmaceuticals Inc. Member of the Board, Canada India Foundation Ajax, Ontario
His success story trails India, Uganda, Kenya and Canada. Maintaining a balance among work, religion, culture and family, he has faced every
challenge and today India writes his name in golden letters. His is one of the leaders in pharmaceutical formulation technology. Co-founding the Canada India Foundation (CIF), he continues to strengthen
Indo-Canadian bilateral ties at different fronts, like trade, energy, health, etc. As a community builder and philanthropist, he has supported temples and Indian cultural preservation in Canada.
Dr. Ratna Ghosh & Dr. Ashok Vijh
Distinguished James McGill Professor William C. Macdonald Professor of Education, Ex-President, Academy of Science of The Royal Society of Canada Montreal, Quebec
While she has pioneered the emerging area of education and security, he is known for exploring his adventurous streak with science. The only couple to be inducted into the Orders of Canada, Quebec and Montreal, Fellowship of the Royal Society of Canada and the World of Academy of Sciences. Ratna is a dominating intellectual force on building intercultural bridges. Ashok connects the two countries with science. The two try to bring culture and science together – a unique concept of India.
Ravi ‘Ray’ Khanna
Founder, Kingsway Investments Ltd. Hamilton, Ontario
As an experienced and successful realtor, he specialises in creative strategy to achieve the desired professional outcomes. He has worked sleeplessly to make his company a success – through a roller coaster of ups and downs of life. On the way, he mentored several youngsters and invested himself in many social-reforming activities – in Canada and India. His special interest lies in facilitating education, vocation, potable water, etc., for the lesser fortunate.
Ripudaman Singh Dhillon
Director, ICC Immigration Inc. President, Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce Mississauga, Ontario
A first-generation immigrant, he has been the epitome of consistent service. A social entrepreneur, he works for people, the community, India and Canada and then profit. In fact, he has inspired over 300 friends to immigrate to Canada. Today, his company is one of the leading immigration consulting agencies in Canada which has helped over
10,000 immigrants. To serve his community, he started Ontario’s first multilingual radio station. He became the sixth South Asian to acquire a radio frequency in Canada.
Dr. Sadhna Joshi
Professor Emerita, Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Chief Scientific Officer, Division of Biologics, Biolyse Pharma St. Catharines, Ontario
She has a stellar academic record and unrelenting dedication for excellence as a family inheritance. She is a shining star of Canadian
molecular virology and gene therapy research and education. She coordinated the expression of soluble/secreted CD4 protein (receptor of HIV) for clinical trials and designing anti-HIV drugs. She was the first to conceive the idea and begin research on HIV gene therapy. She is a role model and mentor to many youths and also promotes Indian culture and literature.
Dr. Salim Yusuf
Executive Director, Population Health Research Institute Distinguished University Professor, McMaster University & Hamilton Health Sciences Hamilton, Ontario
He was one of the two Indians to receive the Rhodes scholarship in 1976, his point of metamorphosis. From being concerned for social welfare to a man knowing the importance of brilliance, has played a pivotal role in a number of landmark trials over the last few years as a president of the World Heart Federation. From an initial interest in improving outcomes in acute myocardial infarction, his work has evolved into global health spanning clinical trials, epidemiology, geography and social sciences.
Sandeep Gupta
President, Aarti Group Brampton, Ontario
As a livewire entrepreneur, who has made phenomenal progress after just 19 years of stay in Canada, he is a perfect example of what a man can achieve with passion and drive. A big name in textile industry in Canada,
his business interests outside Canada into India, China and across the USA. He has also diversified into other fields, including development, construction and financing real estate. He is a man who loves stress – for new projects and targets, who embodies perpetual motion towards success.
Dr. Sankar DasGupta
Co-Founder & CEO, Electrovaya; Adjunct Professor, University of Toronto Mississauga, Ontario
An entrepreneur, an award-winning inventor, scientist and innovator with over 60 US patents, Sankar is passionate about the urgency to reduce the effects of climate change. He has been a member of many committees including the White House Committee on Energy & Environment, chaired by then Vice-President Al Gore. A founder charter member of TIE-Toronto and a speaker at conferences and universities worldwide, he is much concerned about malnutrition in India and found a solution in jackfruit trees.
Sardul Singh Gill
President & Secretary, Gill-AM Investments Ltd. Victoria, British Columbia
An Indian born and raised out of India, Sardul was an Indian at heart, always following the philosophy of sewa. Much concerned for education, he had contributed to the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of
Business, establishing an endowment for scholarships, awards, international projects, teaching and research. The Sardul S. Gill
Graduate School at UVic marks the first time in Canada that such an institution has been named for a Sikh-descent.
Dr. Shivendra Dwivedi
Ex-Chief, Dept. of Anesthesia, Santa Cabrini Hospital National President, Canada India Global Forum (CIGF) Montréal, Québec
A man dedicated to the service of the Indian community, the downtrodden and helpless, he got his MD at age 21, fellowship at 26 and became the chief of anaesthesia at Granby’s at 27! Many attend his workshops and sessions in Canada, though he once found it difficult to fund his visa. Young and successful, he wanted to be a successful human too. Today, every place that he has organised medical clinics in rural
India, the infant mortality rate has dropped significantly.
Dr. Shrawan Kumar
Professor Emeritus, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
A pioneer in rehabilitation ergonomics, he has dedicated himself to advancing the understanding of occupational musculoskeletal injuries. His theory on spinal biomechanics is an international benchmark and,
along with his other research, has made him one of the leading scientists
in the study of the causation, prevention and treatment of lower back
pain. He has also helped develop a code of conduct for ergonomists worldwide. As a volunteer and philanthropist, he has provided leadership to many international organizations abroad and the Indo-Canadian community.
Shreyas Ajmera
Founder, Seenergy Foods Limited Concord, Ontario
He has brought about a food revolution in Canada –syncing the concept
of ahimsa with understanding one’s roots, logical reasoning and awakening the sixth sense. What he has achieved by harmonising his
intellect, education, life principles, opportunities and love for human history is clearly visible. He has proved that moving forward does not necessarily mean relinquishing the wisdom of our rich past. It is, in fact, the other way around… going back to the roots to create a better future.
Sonia Sidhu
Member of Parliament, Brampton South Brampton, Ontario
First elected in 2015 and re-elected twice, she is a Member of Parliament for Brampton South. From a fun-loving girl to being a healthcare professional for 18 years to a health advocate and a local community leader driving change, she comes as a wave of hope, inclusivity and positivity. She has distinguished herself in the Parliament as someone focused on strong representation for her constituents. One of her
primary concerns has always been protecting people’s health, especially for those fighting diabetes.
Subhas ‘Sam’ Bhargava
Chair & Community Advisory Committee, Brain & Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
Learning from tragedy and using it for society’s benefit is something to
learn from them. Through leadership, advocacy and philanthropy, he and his wife have helped improve the lives of those living with
neurodegenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries. Their contributions helped create two research chairs at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and supported initiatives that have positioned Canada as a
leader in this field. They also played a role in launching Brain Health
Awareness Week through the University of Ottawa.
Subhash Khanna
President, The Trio Group Montreal, Quebec
He started to build a business with just $100 and soon became a leading figure
in society. The values he lives by – rooted, beliefs, ethics – have together made
him a businessman, a community leader, a philanthropist and a family head who has tried to weave teachings of ancient Indian civilisation in all his activities. He has supported the establishment of the landmark Hindu temple in
Dollard-des-Ormeaux in Montreal. He also promotes education and health
in India.
Dr. Sudarshan ‘Sudi’ Devanesen
Associate Professor & former Chair of the Department of Family Medicine, St. Michaels Hospital, University of Toronto Toronto, Ontario
Coming from a distinguished lineage of well-educated academicians, social-reformists and acclaimed doctors, he has a record of service and achievements as a doctor, teacher and philanthropist. He has served at the mission hospital his parents started. Later, it helped him perform with his heart in his profession even when he was serving in an extremely difficult location – it made him realise the harsh realities of the community. This started The Ripple Effect Wellness Organisation (TREWO) in 2006 to fight the pressing healthcare needs.
Sudarshan Kumar Bakshi
Founder, Janta Sewak Society Delta, British Columbia
Known for his community leadership and volunteer service today, he has worked as a forklift operator before he started his own NGO to uplift needy children and families in Canada, India and other countries and began supporting Indian charities to help fight the dowry system and promote vocational skills among needy women. Dedicating himself to the needy,
he has worked to increase understanding between cultural groups. He is a founding member of the Five Rivers Community Services Society, the largest funeral home in Canada.
Surjit Singh Babra
Chairman & CEO, SkyLink Group of Companies Vice Chairman, Highbury Canco Corporation Toronto, Ontario
He is the first Sikh to start an airline in 1988 – without an MBA! Ever since he is a serial entrepreneur taking his ventures to heights. He found his satisfaction in serving society. He has in fact brought copies of Guru Granth Sahib from Amritsar to Toronto. He lends his support to agriculture and young women to be rescued in India. Along with helping fight hunger in Canada, he has donated a whole forest – the Guru Nanak Forest.
Surya Vijay Sastry Kotamarti
Founder & CEO, The Kotamarti Group CPAs Professional Corporation Mississauga, Ontario
A chartered professional accountant living in Canada for over 22 years, he has many achievements to his name – one being his high-level accounting services to India and Kenya. His honesty and confidence are his assets. He has written several articles on taxation in well-read journals and
newspapers. He is on the board of governors of the Canada India Foundation (CIF). He established himself leaving all his achievements behind and yet actively indulges in various socio-cultural and charitable organisations.
Dr. Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan
CEO & Vice Chairman, Process Research ORTECH Inc. Chairman, Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation Mississauga, Ontario
This renowned scientist and innovator has been honoured for his philanthropy in the field of hydrometallurgy and business, which has benefitted him professionally and helped him strengthen the community
and Indo-Canada relations. He was instrumental in bringing India’s former
President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, three times to Canada. He sponsors drinking water systems and a mobile hospital in parts of south India. He has helped the formation of the Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation, the cornerstone of Indian culture and heritage in Ontario.
Vijay Thomas
Founder & CEO, Tangentia Ex-President, Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce Toronto, Ontario
He was 11 when he knew his aim – entrepreneurship. After a handful of jobs, he started on his own in 2003 rather young and today has many Fortune 500 companies as its clientele. As his bit for the society, he invests in companies in the India-Canada corridor and started Clean Planet in 2020. He has also launched FOHO – a unique blockchain-based fractional real-estate marketplace.
Vinodchandra Jethalal Patel
Co-Founder, Gujarati Seniors Samaj of Mississauga (GSSM) Mississauga, Ontario
Born right after WWI, Vinod had always loved the charm of rural India. He had participated in the Indian independence movement and also Kenya’s. While growing up in Kenya, he actively participated in social work. He also started to promote education in India through schools. To promote Indianism in Canada, he helped co-found GSSM to help senior citizens of the society.
Dr. Virendra Kumar Jha
Former Vice Chairman, Deloitte Canada Board Member, ICICI Bank Canada Toronto, Ontario
Serving Deloitte for more than 30 years, never once did he view himself as an employee but a part-owner. He was on its various councils and boards. He built and led the company’s
national risk advisory practice from 1990 until 2004 and was a founding member of the global firm’s India steering committee. Post-retirement, he is on boards of many organisations but it serving the needy in India occupies him the most. He is also utilising his engineering background for others’ benefit.
Yezdi Noshir Pavri
CTO & VP – Intel Security Group, McAfee, Inc. Founder & CEO – ShieldX Networks Inc., USA
He is an uber-successful Sikh entrepreneur, who is enormously wealthy, a serial entrepreneur with three successful exits and holds a sixth degree black belt in Tae Kwon-Do. He went to heal himself with the ‘dark room training’, a part of the Qigong training. And today, at the age of 52, Dr. Ratinder Paul Singh Ahuja is as full of beans, full of life, enthusiastic, and jolly as a 25-year- old.
When he was 12, an astrologer predicted he would become a priest. When he was 64, he helped build the first ever gurudwara in Dubai, the largest. Was it fate or was it will? Believing in “if you don’t grow, you begin to die,” this man is a successful businessman who found himself an identity in the city with the cut-throat competition within a month’s time. Here is the story of being successful, serene and calm, altogether – the story of Sardar Surender Singh Kandhari