The Rani who touched many lives in special ways
Padam Shri Rani Lila Ram Kumar Bhargava’s passing away is an indelible loss not only for her family and vast circle of friends but also for Lucknow and the nation. She has left behind a lasting legacy as an ardent nationalist who participated in the freedom struggle and an empowering leader of the women’s movement in India.
She was one of the dynamic founder members and President of the National Council of Women in India (NCWI) and the long serving selfless president of its Lucknow branch, ably assisted by her daughter Rita Singh.
My mother Tehrim Dass, who worked closely with Rani Ram Kumar Bhargava for a number of social causes, admired her dedication as a committed social worker, which also earned her a number of prestigious awards including the much deserved recognition of Padam Shri.
I first met Aunty Lila (as I knew her), as a young girl aged 8 when she came to greet my Dadiji, Dr Prem Nath Dass (who had been the president of the NCWI with Aunty Lila as the vice president) on the occasion of Christmas. My last meeting with her was on December 25, 2013 when we were privileged to have her join us for our Christmas lunch. Our family greatly cherished her warm friendship spanning over six decades.
We admired Aunty Lila for her beauty and grace, her generosity of heart, compassion, sensitivity and dedicated service for the under privileged. Each time I met Aunty Lila she had interesting stories to recount with a profound message for the younger generation.
She was soft spoken and had the ability to connect with everyone. Hence, she was always a much sought after guest for events from personal gatherings to major public functions. Even in recent years when she was not keeping good health, she always endeavoured to oblige her well wishers with her gracious presence.
Not many are aware that in 2001 she donated the personal library of Munshi Nawal Kishore along with the valuable antique printing machines to the Amiruddaulah Library of Lucknow.
The collection is now housed in a separate section named Munshi Nawal Kishore Gallery. This was just one of her many unassuming philanthropic gestures to our city.
Rani Ram Kumar Bhargava was a proud mother of four loving and caring children -- Ranjit, Rita, Lav and Kush -- who along with their respective families have upheld the family values, traditions and renown.
Lucknow shall ever miss Rani Lila Ram Kumar Bhargava, an iconic personality who touched so many lives in special ways.