Guru and my Parents
With blessings
of my Guru
and my Parents
BABA GHAI
11/01/1939 – 11/11/2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Davender Kumar Ghai, fondly known as Baba Ghai or Baba ji, a beacon of peace, unity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Baba Ghai, the Founding President of the Anglo Asian Friendship Society, has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of countless individuals across the globe through his selfless dedication to humanitarian service, religious equality, and the pursuit of peace.
Recognised for his deep spirituality and commitment to the principle that “God is one,” Baba Ghai’s life was a testament to his belief in serving others over material gain, embodying the essence of a true fakir.
His multilingual prowess and approachable demeanour made him a respected figure among diverse communities, transcending cultural and religious boundaries to bring people together in harmony and mutual respect.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life of Baba Ghai, whose teachings and vision will continue to inspire us to live in service to humanity and in pursuit of a better world for all.
– The Family, Friends, and Devoted Followers of Davender Kumar Ghai (Baba Ghai)
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Davender Kumar Ghai
Who was Baba Ghai?
Active in politics since the 1970s when he was acclaimed as one of the most promising prospective parliamentary candidates of his generation, his life faced a dramatic change after a serious car accident in New Delhi, 1987. It was the pivotal moment after which he immersed himself in charitable service and that passion remains undimmed to this very day, in spite of debilitating ill health.
His unqualified commitment to charitable service have inspired those around him for decades and established the charity at the defining edge of the most challenging issues today.
His formative years were passed in the company of the Indian sub continent’s most revered Hindu, Sikh and Muslim saints, fakirs and pirs; infusing a passion for just and humane social policy.
He spoke 12 languages fluently (in addition to dozens of African dialects) and was recognised as an inspiration to communities from across the faith spectrum. To many he was simply known as ‘Baba ji’, a term of respect conferred upon learned elders and the enlightened in South East Asia.
Baba Ghai was also a former Vice Chair of Newcastle Racial Equality Council, Patron of Newcastle Indian Association and a Charity Commission-appointed Arbitrator for various North East faith organisations.
Before his passing, Baba Ghai published a book, a tale of struggle and success, both spiritual and professional. On the pages of “Wealth of Both Worlds” Baba Ghai recounts the story of his life and how he developed the concept of bringing multi-faith communities together. Find out more…
BABA GHAI background
Origins
Baba Ghai arrived in Britain from Kenya in the 1950s on the eve of the Mau-Mau rebellion. He spoke 12 languages and was recognised as an inspiration to communities from across the faith spectrum. To many he was simply known as ‘Baba ji’, a term of respect conferred upon learned elders and the enlightened in South East Asia.
Personal statement
Anglo Asian Friendship Society
Baba Ghai was the Founding President of the Anglo Asian Friendship Society, the UK’s largest grassroots multi-faith charity (Registered Charity No. I 108891) The UK Charity Commission granted it charitable status beyond the Red Cross and Oxfam.
Amnesty International
Amnesty International have hailed his, “enlightening, pacifying and unifying effect among communities around the world”. Dedicating over 30 years to humanitarian public service, Baba Ghai was renowned for his leadership and statesmanship. His ideals and vision have guided and established the charity for almost quarter of a century.
