“Condolence Visit to Anod Shrestha in Colchester

On Saturday, 14 December, committee members of the Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS) paid a heartfelt condolence visit to Anod Shrestha at his home on 6 Onstritch Street, Colchester, following the passing of his father, Mr Toran Dhoj Shrestha. Mr. Shrestha, aged 82.6, passed away on 3 November at Appolo Hospital in New Delhi, India, during a medical treatment. Anod, who had been at his father's bedside, was with him in his final moments.

Toran Dhoj Shrestha was a beloved and charismatic figure whose influence touched many lives. His passing on 3 November, the day of Bhai Tika, marked the end of an era for his family and the wider community. After completing the customary rituals for his father in Nepal, Anod returned to Colchester to find support from his community.

The CNS executives, including the vice-chair, secretary, ladies coordinator, cultural coordinator, Area Rep for St. Michael Estate, and the chair, came together to visit Anod and his family during this challenging time. The chair expressed heartfelt sympathy, acknowledging the profound loss Anod had experienced. "We all wish for our parents to live long lives, but it is the natural course of life that they must one day leave us. It was simply the time for your father to go, and we must accept that as part of the natural process," the chair said during the visit.

In a touching gesture, the ladies' coordinator placed a sacred thread, or Rupa, around Anod and his wife's necks, symbolizing strength and protection in their time of mourning. A condolence card was also presented to express the community's support.

The chair offered Anod the best wishes for the future, hoping he would never face such a tragedy again. The visit was an opportunity for the CNS members to show solidarity and support Anod and his family during their difficult time.

The chair also thanked Raj Tamang, Area Rep for St. Michael Estate, for organizing the visit and the rest of the committee members for taking the time to visit and support Anod. A special thanks was extended to the Shrestha family for providing refreshments to the visiting delegates, a kind gesture that was much appreciated by all.

Udai B Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS