Ambassador Kamal Nain Bakshi (1938–2025)

Ambassador Kamal Nain Bakshi, a distinguished Indian Foreign Service officer, esteemed diplomat, and compassionate humanitarian, passed away on June 5, 2025, at the age of 86 years. He leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership, dedicated service, and quiet strength that touched lives across the borders and generations. Born on July 2, 1938, in Jullundur (now Jalandhar), Punjab, he was the beloved son of Karam Chand and Pushpa Bakshi – affectionately known as Biji – whose values of humility, integrity, and service deeply shaped his life. After earning a Master’s degree in Political Science, Ambassador Bakshi began his professional journey as a lecturer at Doaba College, Jalandhar. In 1962, he joined the Indian Foreign Service, embarking on a diplomatic career that spanned more than the three decades and included some of the most significant global postings. His roles included: Third Secretary in Bonn and Vienna First Secretary in Stockholm Assistant High Commissioner in Karachi Deputy High Commissioner in Ottawa and Dhaka Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi Joint Secretary to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi Ambassador to Sweden, Norway, Iraq, Austria, and Italy Permanent Representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization, Rome. A defi chapter of his career came during the 1990 Gulf War, when, as Ambassador to Iraq, he played a pivotal role in organizing the evacuation of over 100,000 Indian nationals from Kuwait and Iraq. Facing immense logistical and political challenges, his steady leadership and compassion helped bring thousands home safely – an operation that remains one of the largest and most successful civilian evacuations in the modern history. In addition to his diplomatic achievements, Ambassador Bakshi was deeply involved in social causes. As Vice Chairman of the Spastics Society of India (now Able Disabled All People Together [ADAPT]), he championed the rights and inclusion of individuals with neuromuscular and developmental disabilities. His work helped build greater awareness and support for people with disabilities in India. Ambassador Bakshi was predeceased by his devoted wife, Urmila, who was his steadfast partner and supported him through every chapter of his life. He is survived by his two sons, Aseem and Vishal who carry forward the legacy of a father who served his country and community with steadfast devotion, and his daughters-in-law, Emma and Vibha; and his beloved grandchildren – Tia, Pierre, Varun, and Vir – who brought him immense pride and joy. He will be remembered not only for his distinguished diplomatic service, but also for his warmth, wisdom, and deep sense of responsibility to others. Whether in the corridors of power or in service to the marginalized, Ambassador Kamal Nain Bakshi embodied the very best of humanity. May his soul rest in peace. Obituary: A Journey of a lifetime together Shri Kamal Bakshi, or Kamalji as we called him, was also the Honorary Vice-Chair of the Spastics Society, now called ADAPT, one of India’s largest Charities for disabled people and their families from the poorest parts of India and Asia. He played a key role in the growth of the organization from a very young age of 40. While in service he helped the organization to get prime land in the institutional area of Bandra, Bombay, and thereafter, helped with the architecture of the building which is today known as “The National Indian and Asian Resource Centre.” He was present at every function of importance to the organization and what was outstanding was his communication skills his oratory, in English, Hindi, Urdu his writing, his speeches, above all his leadership, his ability to make quick well thought out decisions were key factors in his important work in the Society’s development from a small school to a huge 5 storied building which was to be the National and Asian Resource Centre. It was his utter humility, his modesty, and his refusal to seek office or prestige – having declined the Chairmanship several times – were the hallmark of his remarkable stature. His spirituality was another quality. He had an overwhelming desire to pursue this and toward the end, after he had left the Government he joined “Yogananda Ashram” helping them with their administration which he knew so well, drawing me in too as a member. Leader, Scholar, Philosopher, Thinker, and Spiritualist. Reaching out to help others which he best loved, giving a meaning to his life… that’s what we lost when Kamal left us yesterday June 5, 2025. Before he gasped his last breath, he quoted Shakespeare! I end this Obituary to him quoting Shakespeare, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.” Farewell our friend, colleague. It is not a goodbye forever… for you will always remain in our hearts for the love and time you so generously gave.

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