It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mangala Junnarkar on August 3, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by the love of her family.

Mangala is survived by her husband Ashok, her daughters Gauri (Mihir) and Rupa, her brothers Nandu (Lata) and Satish (Krishna), along with many nieces, nephews, and Dewey the family cat.

Mangala was born in Pune, India, the eldest of 3 siblings. After attending SP College in Pune, Mangala completed her dental degree at Government Dental College in Mumbai. It was in Mumbai that Mangala met Ashok while completing a mountaineering expedition outside Manali in Himachal Pradesh in 1966.

After getting engaged in 1969, Mangala and Ashok made the life-changing decision to seek new adventures and opportunities in Canada. Mangala pursued dentistry for a time, but eventually transitioned into teaching. She taught Adult ESL for the Toronto District School Board for 16 years. It was a role which reflected her natural patience, warmth, and deep respect for others. Mangala had a remarkable ability to meet people where they were, guiding newcomers to Canada not only in learning English, but in finding their footing in a new life. Her classroom was a place of encouragement and dignity, and many students spoke of her as more than a teacher - she was a steady presence who helped them build a sense of belonging in a new land.

However, the highest calling in Mangala's life, and the place where she found most joy and purpose, was the Chinmaya Mission. A devotee of Swami Chinmayananda from the late 1970s onward, Mangala, together with a small group of like-spirited people, grew the seeds of Gurudev's message into the abundance of blessings and legacy we see today in Toronto and beyond. Her energetic and meticulous nature ensured every puja and program were a success. But Mangala's most lasting legacy was her unwavering dedication to the ashram's Balavihar program. What began with a single student (her daughter Rupa), grew under her devotion and care into a vibrant, multi-generational community of spiritual learning and connection. She nurtured each child and teacher under her tutelage with love, ensuring that Gurudev's teachings would continue to guide future generations. Her tireless work created a living legacy, one that continues to flourish. Mangala was the epitome of seva that we all aspire to be.

Mangala was a gifted cook, who loved good food and who had an ability to turn even humble ingredients into gourmet meals. A master of Indian cuisine, many in the community turned to her for advice and recipes, and she was always quick to share them. She especially shared her love of cooking with her daughters, teaching not only recipes and techniques, but the importance of hospitality and nourishment. No one who knew Mangala would ever leave from her home hungry, or empty-handed.

Travel was one of Mangala and Ashok's greatest pleasures, reflecting their adventurous spirits and openness to life. Mangala embraced new experiences with excitement and wonder, always eager to explore. Their travels took them to 5 continents, and all across Canada.

Mangala was especially fond of nature, and immersing herself in the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Mangala was a natural thinker, poet, and philosopher, with a deep awareness of the spiritual lessons found in everyday experiences. She believed that true spirituality was practiced not only in prayer, but in kindness, humility, and mindfulness. Whether admiring a sunrise, tending to her garden, or spending time with her family, she carried a sense of wonder and gratitude that inspired those around her to appreciate the beauty and sacredness of life.

She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the blessing of being in her presence.

We love you always and forever, Mom.