In memoriam
It is with profound sadness that the family of Mr Chitranjan Patel, fondly known as Chitu, announce his passing on 17 July at the age of 80. He was a pillar of the Louis Trichardt community.
Born on 12 April 1945 in Johannesburg to Baboobhai Dayabhai Patel and Mrs Chanchalbhen Patel, Chitu spent a brief period in South Africa before the family returned to India in 1946. In 1953, his father resettled in Louis Trichardt, and a year later, in 1954, Chitu returned with his mother and siblings. He attended the Louis Trichardt Indian Government School from 1954 to 1962 and completed his high school education at Manav Mandir School in Mumbai from 1962 to 1966.
Chitu dedicated 59 years of his life (1966–2025) to the family business, Macs Patel Brothers (Macs), established in 1956. The business journeyed from 101 Kruger Street to 91 Kruger Street and, finally, to the Oriental Plaza in Eltivillas in 1980, where it became a cornerstone of the community. Macs specialises in gas, spices, accounting and insurance services.
Over the years, he ventured into various businesses — from brickmaking, bakeries, and flexible plastic packaging to bulk atchar production — each pursued with tireless dedication and loyalty, all while managing the family business. He also ran one of the largest independent short-term insurance brokerages in Limpopo.
Chitu was one of six siblings – four brothers and two sisters – and married Shakuntala Patel on 14 February 1970 in Newark, KwaZulu-Natal. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three children – two daughters and a son – gained a daughter-in-law, and later became proud grandparents to two beloved granddaughters. His heart was vast, filled with love and care. He always made time for family and treated every child as his own, giving selflessly to bring joy to others.
Chitu was a man of many talents and passions. A skilled off-spin cricket bowler, he also enjoyed playing tennis and soccer. His philanthropic nature, deep community involvement and humility earned him a place in the hearts of many. He served faithfully as secretary of the Louis Trichardt Hindu Seva Samaj, and his dedication to seva (selfless service) extended across numerous community initiatives.
As a founding and pioneering member of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in Louis Trichardt and South Africa, Chitu was instrumental in establishing the local BAPS Sabha, laying a spiritual foundation for future generations. His devotion to his guru and BAPS was unwavering. Seva was never an obligation to him — it was his way of life. He served saints and the organisation wholeheartedly, often putting their needs before his own. His humility, faith and silent sacrifice were a beacon of spiritual strength.
He was deeply rooted in the values of simplicity, hard work and generosity. A man of quiet strength and many words, his actions left a lasting impact — whether through mentoring young entrepreneurs, guiding students, or simply listening and offering support to those in need. He selflessly shared his skills to enhance the lives of others. He was always ready to welcome newcomers without judgement and to lend a helping hand wherever he could. A visit with him was never brief; you always knew it would take at least an hour to say goodbye … and every minute was worth it.
Chitu was a devoted husband, a loyal brother, and a father who raised his children to be strong, independent and principled. He may not have expressed affection through grand gestures, but his quiet companionship, unwavering support, and deep commitment spoke volumes. Time with him was sacred — and never rushed — for every moment was rich with wisdom, laughter and presence.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr Hussein Pahad, Dr Ahmed Bhayat, Dr Nilesh Kalan, Dr Vironica Chathury and the nursing staff at Netcare Milpark Hospital, who oversaw his care for five months in the ICU. To the families who opened their homes and hearts to us in Johannesburg, and to family and friends who supported us with regular visits, encouraging phone calls, and by embracing us in our hour of need — we are eternally grateful. To His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and the Santos of BAPS for their reassurance — it gave us comfort and strength. Special thanks to the LTT Hindu Seva Samaj and their facilities for their unwavering support," said the family.
Chitu's legacy lives on — not in grand monuments, but in the lives he uplifted, the faith he inspired, and the love he gave so freely. His life truly embodied the words of his Guru, Pramukh Swami Maharaj: "In the joy of others lies our own."
Chitu is survived by his younger brother Devendrabhai, his wife Shakuntala, his children Jasmina, Minalli and Mehul, his daughter-in-law Seema, and his granddaughters, Ruhi and Isha.