My Nana Ji -Lala Kanwar Bhan

 

My Nana Ji  L Kanwar Bhan served with distinction in the British Indian Army and proudly participated in both the First and Second World Wars. During his military career, he earned several honors and victory badges for his courage and dedication. Whenever a family member needed help securing a position in the Army or a government department, he would personally approach the British officers, dressed impeccably in his military uniform adorned with the medals and badges he had earned on the battlefield. His reputation, discipline, and service record commanded immense respect.

He was a striking personality, 

       L Kanwar Bhan flanked by his grand son Goga and grand daughter Pushpa

fair-complexioned and handsome, often remarked upon for looking almost English in appearance, though he was of short stature. His confidence, integrity, and leadership made him a natural guide for the younger generations.

One of Nana Ji’s greatest legacies was his emphasis on education, particularly English. Thanks to his influence and encouragement, many members of the family developed strong language skills and aspirations. His grandson, Harish Khanna, went on to crack the prestigious IAS examination and eventually retired as Secretary to the Government of India.

The family, however, followed different paths after Partition. His daughters were married into diverse households. Bai Ji and Hari Bai married cousins within the extended family. Savitri was married into a prominent landlord family. Lachhmi Bai married an educated young man from a jeweler’s family who served in the Karachi Shipyard and later moved to the Mumbai Shipyard. Despite the opportunities in Mumbai, Lachhmi Massi longed to remain close to her sisters in Delhi.

In those turbulent post-Partition years, Bai Ji played a significant role in helping the family resettle. She arranged for two houses in Aliganj that had been left behind by departing Muslim families. The family lived there for several years before eventually being allotted refugee accommodation in the newly developing colonies of Lajpat Nagar and the Rajinder Nagar barracks.

Looking back, Nana Ji’s military achievements were only one part of his greatness. His real contribution was the confidence, discipline, education, and sense of service that he instilled in future generations. His influence continued long after the wars had ended, shaping the fortunes of an entire family.