New Delhi : Dr. SPS Oberoi, the man who tirelessly helps people in need around the world—providing medical assistance, offering education to children from underprivileged families, delivering vocational training, giving out monthly pension cheques, and much more —is also a deeply compassionate and emotional soul.
Managing Trustee of Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust, Dr. Oberoi, was so deeply moved by the heartfelt words and innocence of seven-year-old Ekagardeep Kaur that he decided to adopt her as his own.
Touched by her self respect , strength, and hopeful outlook at such an early age despite her heartbreaking loss, he vowed to support her for life, ensuring she would never feel alone in her journey.
Ekagardeep Kaur’s father, Sandeep Singh, was one of the victims of the suspected gas leak incident in Georgia, which tragically claimed the lives of 12 persons including 11 from Punjab, India.
The Trust's team, under his leadership, ensured that the victims' bodies were brought back with dignity. They received the bodies at Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport in Amritsar and then transported them in the Trust’s ambulances to their respective villages, allowing the families to have one final glimpse of their loved ones and perform the necessary last rites in accordance with their traditions.
Ekagardeep Kaur’s words were filled with both sorrow and hope. She shared her dream of becoming a doctor, and Dr. Oberoi, moved by her determination, assured her of his full support in her journey.
What struck him the most was her determination despite the deep loss of her father. Ekagardeep told him that when she grew up, she would return to help the Trust in the same way it had helped her family. Her innocent and heartfelt words deeply moved Dr. Oberoi, who felt a sense of responsibility not just as a trustee but as a figure of support for Ekagardeep.
In an emotional moment, Dr. Oberoi embraced Ekardeep and said to her “I am your "Nanu" (maternal grandfather) now”, and he assured her that she should not worry about anything, that he would be there for her as she pursued her dreams—whether to become a doctor, engineer or even a pilot.
Their bond grew as he made sure to stay in touch with her regularly and offered her a listening ear whenever she needed one.
Ekagardeep’s sweet, innocent words, referring to him as her “Nanu,” and her mature conversations—such as consoling her mother by speaking about her late father—touched everyone around her.
He said that her innocent, yet wise words, such as "Whenever I remember my father, I put my hand on his photo," will forever remain etched in his heart, reminding him of the strength that lies within even the most vulnerable.