Mr. Girdhari Lal Kaul

Mr. Girdhari Lal Kaul, a long-time resident of Chandigarh, peacefully departed this material world for his heavenly abode on December 31, 2025. AƯectionately known as “Boyi Toath” by family and close friends, Mr. Kaul was immensely proud of his Kashmiri heritage. He instilled these values in everyone he touched and across four generations of his family. A true leader, he led by example, firmly believing that “one who can control himself can lead others.” He was widely respected for his wisdom, humility, and moral strength, and stood as a guiding light for Kashmiri Pandit and other communities. Born in Vichar Nag, Srinagar, Mr. Kaul moved from the Kashmir Valley to Chandigarh at a very young age in 1956, when the city itself was in its formative years. Along with a small group of Kashmiri Pandit families who arrived around the same time, he helped build not only a new life but a lifelong bond of friendship and mutual support. These relationships flourished as their careers and families grew together, forming friendships that became a lasting inspiration for generations and remain deeply cherished to this day. Mr. Kaul began his distinguished career at a young age, working with the first Chief Minister of Punjab after India gained independence. Following the reorganization of Punjab into three states, he transitioned into the Punjab Government service, where he rose through the ranks with integrity and dedication, eventually retiring as Secretary of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly). A founding member of the volunteer organizing team that helped establish Kashmir Sabha in Chandigarh, Mr. Kaul played a pivotal role during the tragic mass migration of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989–1990. He tirelessly mobilized support for displaced families in Chandigarh and Punjab, advocating for government assistance and resources for those in desperate circumstances. He did so quietly, without seeking recognition—driven solely by his deep love for the Kashmiri community, its culture, and its people. He is survived by his loving wife, daughter, sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a close-knit extended family of brother, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He earned the deep respect and affection of every member of his family—each of whom lovingly called him “Daddy.” You will be deeply missed, Daddy. Your values, love, and legacy will live on forever.

Survived by:

Smt. Susheela Kaul, Chandigarh (Wife)

Smt. Saroj Kaul, Chandigarh (Sister-in-law)

Vijay & Neelam Kaul, Chandigarh (Brother & Sister-in-law)

Anjana & Jyoti Kaul, New Delhi (Daughter & Son-in-law)

Rajan & Veena Kaul, Pleasanton, USA (Son & Daughter-in-law)

Rajesh & Rekha Kaul, Chandigarh (Son & Daughter-in-law)

Granddaughters, grandsons, great-grandson, great-granddaughter, nieces, and nephews