Pramila BAICHWAL

PRAMILA BAICHWAL June 1, 1938 - July 16, 2023 Pramila Baichwal passed away, embraced by family on July 16, 2023, shortly after her 85th birthday and a brief illness. She arrived in Toronto 60 years ago to reunite with her husband, Gururaj, who had left India two years prior for graduate engineering education at the University of Toronto. Together, they helped build the Indian- Canadian community in Toronto. Pramila was the devoted mother and best friend of Ratna (Peter), Ravi (Sonja) and Anjali (Lyman); and was blessed to have four beautiful grandchildren, Olivia,Tejas, Avinash and Gabriella. They cherished her guidance, storytelling and cooking (especially omelettes). She was particularly proud that the elder three were in university and that the youngest was not far behind. Education was central to her life and dreams for her family. While raising her children, Pramila was eager to explore the work world, and embarked on a career at Bell Canada, never missing a day of work. Pramila also leaves behind her dear brother and sister-in-law, Raj and Jyotsna Inamdar, who followed her journey from India to Canada. She was also predeceased by sisters, Pushpa and Jani; and parents, Prof. V.M. and Indumati Inamdar and Nirmala Inamdar. Pramila's life was enriched by many nieces and nephews across North America and beyond. Her niece, Jennifer and husband, Nick, were close comforts until her last years. We cherish the memory of them bringing her on a boat to enjoy the Canadian Shield on Georgian Bay two summers ago. Pramila also leaves behind a community of friends and extended family, including sister-in-law, Elvina Baichwal; cousin, Guru Bablad; and best friend, Durga Pachapurkar, whom she met the very first day she arrived in Canada. The loss of her beloved husband in 2004 was profound but Pramila did not allow sadness to define the rest of her life. Rather, she expressed gratitude for the love of her life and the opportunity to continue their legacy. She made it her mission to travel the world for both of them. From South Africa to Thailand and places in between, she bit life by the marrow without regret. In addition to many other talents, Pramila was blessed with an amazing memory. She could tell you the exact date, time and sometimes, the weather, of any event. She was a storyteller for the ages. Pramila faced the end of her life with courage, dignity and beauty. We are grateful for the care she received from North York General Hospital, especially from Dr. Jeffrey Silverman, Dr. Anna Geagea and Mary Zhaou. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Pramila's life will be held this fall. In her honour, please consider making a donation to a hospital in your community. Om Shanti, Mum, Nana, Manakka, Auntie. We will continue to tell the stories you told us for generations to come.