“In Loving Memory: A Visit of Solace and Solidarity”

On 30 April 2025, Mr Gaj Bahadur Gurung, a revered veteran of the 6th Gurkha Rifles and beloved patriarch of Kolma Kaule, Syangja, passed away peacefully in Pokhara, Nepal, at the age of 91. He leaves behind a legacy of honour, family, and quiet strength, deeply mourned by his daughters, Mrs Chitra Gurung and Mrs Kamala Gurung, and his sons-in-law, Ram Gurung Junior and Bishnu Gurung.

At the time of his passing, Kamala and her husband were already in Nepal. Guided by the sacred Gurung spiritual traditions, Mrs Chitra Gurung made the heartfelt journey from the UK to Nepal to fulfil her father's final rites. Over thirteen sacred days, she participated in the Arghun, the death ritual believed to guide the departed soul to the next realm, ensuring her father's spirit would find peace and passage to the afterlife.

Upon her return to Colchester on 27 May, the Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS) executive committee made a condolence visit on Sunday, 27 July, to the family home at St. Michael's Estate. In keeping with cherished Nepalese customs, this gathering was not only a gesture of mourning but also of spiritual and emotional solidarity.

Led by Chair Udaibahadur Gurung MBE, the delegation included the Ladies Coordinator, Treasurer, and Advisors Umesh Kumar Pun MVO and Kiran Gurung. They were warmly received by the grieving family, where emotions were tender but dignified. As a part of the condolence tradition, the Ladies Coordinator gently placed a Rupa, a sacred knotted thread, around the necks of the bereaved daughters. In our culture, the Rupa symbolises the return of one's fragmented soul, shaken by grief, back to a state of wholeness, reconnecting it with peace after the departure of a loved one. A sympathy card and fresh flowers were presented as further tokens of care and shared sorrow.

The Chair offered heartfelt words of comfort, acknowledging the profound sadness of losing a parent, while also gently reflecting on the blessing of having shared more than nine decades with a loving father. His words were filled with warmth, respect, and the shared understanding of life's sacred cycles.

Though the Vice Chair, Secretary, and Area Representative were unable to attend due to prior commitments, the strength of CNS's presence was deeply felt.

Mrs Chitra Gurung expressed her sincere appreciation to CNS for their thoughtful gesture, kindness, and the comforting presence that reminded her and her family that in moments of loss, community becomes family.

After sharing warm refreshments and quiet conversation, the delegation took their leave, offering continued prayers and wishes for strength, healing, and the enduring light of cherished memories.

May the soul of the late Gaj Bahadur Gurung rest in eternal peace. May his memory be a guiding light for those he leaves behind.

With heartfelt condolences,

Udaibahadur Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS)