A life of excellence and spiritual depth

ASHWIN Trikamjee has been remembered as a distinguished legal professional, a committed activist and a respected religious leader.

- TASCHICA PILLAY

Glowing tributes have been paid to the distinguished community leader who died in hospital early on Thursday following a short illness.

Trikamjee, aged 80, from Morningside, was head of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) and an executive consultant at Garlicke & Bousfield, specialising in commercial litigation and tax law.

He had served on boards of a number of par-astatals and major corporations. Yvonne Boden, CEO of Garlicke & Bousfield, said they were devastated.

“It was saddening to receive the news of Ashwin’s passing. A few days ago, I spoke to him and he said he was going to the hospital for observation. Last year we celebrated his 50 years as an attorney and later his 80th birthday. He was a very disciplined and fit man who played squash.

"He was a remarkable man. He worked up until two weeks ago,” said Boden.

She said they were mourning the death of Ashwin Trikamjee - a much-valued member of the G&B family for 32 years.

“His contribution within the realm of legal education is unmatched and many attorneys will remember with affection and gratitude the role Ashwin played in assisting them to qualify as practising attorneys.

“As a firm we have lost a truly unique and inspiring colleague and mentor - a loyal team member who always had time to assist and advise, he was slow to criticise and quick to praise and encourage. Committed to justice, equality and a truly free South Africa, Ashwin embodied what each of us should strive to be," read the law firm’s social media post.

Prof Brij Maharaj, deputy president of the SAHMS, said Trikamjee’s leadership across family, the legal fraternity, sports and community was a testament to his deep spiritual insights and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

“His life was a harmonious blend of professional excellence and spiritual depth, a shining example of what can be achieved when one is driven by a higher purpose," said Maharaj.