Deepak Obhrai, a name that resonates with perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of equality, left an indelible mark on Canadian politics. Born on July 5, 1950, in Oldeani, Tanganyika (modern-day Tanzania), Obhrai’s journey from the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro to the corridors of Canadian Parliament is nothing short of extraordinary.
As the first and only Hindu to become a Member of Parliament in Canada, and at the time of his passing, the longest-serving Conservative MP, Obhrai’s legacy is a testament to the power of determination and the impact of unwavering commitment to one’s principles.
Deepak Obhrai: A Journey Across Continents
Obhrai’s early life was shaped by significant challenges. Born into a Hindu family in Tanganyika, his world was turned upside down when his father passed away when he was just six years old. Raised by his mother, who worked at a bank to provide for the family, Obhrai learned the values of hard work and resilience at a young age.
Deepak Obhrai attended primary school in Moshi, near the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, before moving on to high school in Arusha. His academic journey took him to Daly College in Indore, India, a prestigious institution that further broadened his horizons.
The young Obhrai’s path eventually led him to the United Kingdom, where he trained as an air traffic controller. However, his time in Britain was marred by the harsh realities of discrimination, leading him to return to Tanzania in search of a more inclusive environment. It was in Tanzania, while working at an airport, that he witnessed the historic Entebbe raid unfold in neighboring Uganda—a moment that would later underscore his deep appreciation for international affairs.
In 1977, Obhrai made the life-changing decision to immigrate to Canada, settling in Calgary with his wife Neena and their daughter Priti. His choice to avoid Montreal, due to the secessionist Parti Québécois’ recent election victory, marked the beginning of his new life in Western Canada. Calgary would become the stage for Obhrai’s remarkable political career, a journey that began with humble roots and culminated in national recognition.
A Pillar of the Calgary Community
Deepak Obhrai’s early years in Calgary were marked by his active involvement in the community. He retrained as an accountant and secured a job with the municipal government, while he and his wife established a successful dry cleaning business that expanded to three stores. But it was his passion for community service that truly set him apart.
Deepak Obhrai became a prominent figure in Calgary’s cultural and civic life, serving as the president of the India-Canada Association of Calgary, the Monterey Park Community Association, and the Hindu Society of Calgary. His dedication to fostering unity and understanding within the community laid the foundation for his future political endeavors.
From Local Activism to National Politics
Obhrai’s foray into politics was driven by a desire to represent and advocate for the diverse communities of Calgary. Despite initial setbacks—losing a race for an alderman position on Calgary City Council in 1993, and two failed bids for provincial nominations—Obhrai’s determination never wavered.
In 1997, his perseverance paid off when he secured the Reform Party of Canada’s nomination for the federal riding of Calgary East. Despite facing opposition from within his own party, Obhrai won the nomination and subsequently the election, marking the beginning of a political career that would span over two decades.
As a Member of Parliament, Obhrai quickly established himself as a vocal advocate for multiculturalism, international cooperation, and human rights. His unique perspective, shaped by his experiences across continents, allowed him to connect with constituents from all walks of life. Obhrai’s ability to bridge cultural divides and promote inclusivity earned him respect and admiration both within and outside his party.
A Voice for the Marginalized
Throughout his career, Deepak Obhrai remained committed to championing the rights of marginalized communities. As the Opposition critic for International Cooperation, Multiculturalism, International Trade, and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), he played a crucial role in shaping Canada’s approach to global issues. His appointment as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2006 further solidified his influence on Canada’s foreign policy.
Deepak Obhrai’s tenure as Parliamentary Secretary was marked by his tireless efforts to promote human rights on the international stage. In 2013, his role was expanded to include responsibility for international human rights, a testament to his deep commitment to justice and equality. His contributions were recognized not only in Canada but also internationally.
In 2014, Deepak Obhrai received the Pride of India Award from the Indo-American Friends Group of Washington, D.C., for his efforts to strengthen Canada’s relations with India and to increase the participation of the Indian diaspora in political activities.
A Pioneer in Conservative Politics
Deepak Obhrai’s dedication to the Conservative Party was unwavering. He was one of the few Alliance MPs who chose to sit with the Progressive Conservative caucus following the creation of the merged Conservative Party in 2003. His loyalty to the party and his constituents earned him the distinction of being the longest-serving Conservative MP in Canada’s 42nd Parliament.
In 2017, Deepak Obhrai made the bold decision to run for the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada. His campaign was centered on promoting Conservative outreach to immigrant communities and standing against divisive policies, such as the proposal by fellow candidate Kellie Leitch to screen immigrants for Canadian values. Although his bid for leadership was unsuccessful, Obhrai’s campaign highlighted the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the Conservative movement.
A Lasting Legacy
Deepak Obhrai’s passing on August 2, 2019, marked the end of an era. Diagnosed with liver cancer just weeks before his death, Obhrai faced his final days with the same courage and dignity that had defined his life. His legacy as a trailblazer in Canadian politics, a champion for human rights, and a voice for marginalized communities endures.
A memorial service held in Calgary in his honor saw tributes from political leaders across the spectrum, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper and then-Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer.
Also Read:Naheed Kurban Nenshi: A Journey of Leadership, Innovation, and Social Justice