In Memory of Family

The Manjari Sankurathri Memorial Foundation was established in 1989 by Dr. Chandrasekhar Sankurathri, as a tribute to his own family and 329 other people who perished in an act of terrorism on June 23, 1985. On that day, Air India Flight 182 was travelling from Toronto to India, via London. Tragically, the flight was terminated prematurely by a massive explosion off the coast of Ireland, killing everyone on board

MSMF’s intention is to immortalize this tragedy, in the history of Canada and the world, to remind everyone that terrorism has no place in the civilized world. Life will go on.

The objective of MSMF today is to help the needy and poor of India and Canada, and to improve their quality of life through sustainable development projects.

After reaching India in 1988, Dr. Chandra studied the conditions in India. He was shocked to discover that many people were and still are deprived of things that we take for granted. After a thorough examination of the conditions in on the ground, he decided to focus on two important developmental activities: education for poor, rural children, and eye care for everyone.

In the years to follow, Dr. Chandra and his team have also established a disaster relief program, to assist needy people during disruptive natural events in the region.

Today, Dr. Chandra lives by the statement etched upon the Air India Memorials in Ireland and Canada:

TIME FLIES

SUNS RISE

SHADOWS FALL

LET IT PASS BY

LOVE REIGNS FOREVER OVER ALL

The Role of Hema Sankurathri

Ms. Hema Sankurathri (Dr. Chandra’s sister) was involved in the development of the Sankurathri Foundation from 1990 to 2024, especially at Sarada Vidyalayam School. She was known for her friendly nature, leadership and generosity.

She spread her love and affection to all those who came into her life. This includes all the volunteers who have visited Sankurathri Foundation over the last 35 years, and all the children who have passed through the school. She had a tremendous impact in shaping their lives.

As a humble person, Ms. Hema was always hesitant to mention herself in any report or document. She never craved attention or publicity or recognition. It was simply her duty or karma to take care of others.