Amarjit
(b.1928 d.2005)

Amarjit m Gulabi Bai Bhandari

Amarjit Singh Nalwa's life is a testament to resilience and determination, navigating through turbulent times with courage and unwavering support from his wife, Dr. Gulabi Bai Bhandari, MBBS, MD. Theirs was a union that defied norms—a cross-cultural, arranged marriage in an era when such unions were rare and often faced with skepticism. The fact that they communicated in English, a language uncommon among Indian couples in the 1950s, highlights their willingness to bridge divides and embrace change.

Amarjit's journey began with service in the Royal India Navy, where he found himself embroiled in the historic Mutiny of 1946—an event pivotal in India's struggle for independence. Despite facing court martial for his involvement, his spirit remained unbroken. The Partition forced the Nalwa family to leave their ancestral home in Gujranwala (Pakistan) and start anew in India, facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch.

Initially, Amarjit ran a printing press in Kashmiri Gate, Delhi. The titles he chose to publish reflected his deep-rooted interest in military affairs. His transition into the world of finance was marked by challenges, yet he persevered, buoyed by the steadfast support of his wife, who became the first Nalwa wife to achieve financial independence through a career in the Medical Corps and later as a professor in medical colleges.

Inspired by the motto of his alma mater, Aitchison College (Lahore)—"Perseverance Commands Success"—Amarjit embarked on a journey to transform a barren piece of land in Phagwara, Punjab, into fertile ground. Through hard work and determination, this Nalwa family achieved financial stability, ensuring their children received a quality education and building a comfortable life.

Amarjit and Gulabi's story is not just one of overcoming adversity but also of embracing change, nurturing resilience, and finding strength in unity. It's a tale that resonates across generations, reminding us that with perseverance and a supportive partner by our side, we can conquer any challenge and build a future filled with promise.