Vinay Gupta’s discovery of his grandfather’s secret during a family conversation initiated a profound exploration into the past. His grandfather, Kundanlal, an Indian entrepreneur, emerged as a heroic figure, orchestrating a remarkable effort to rescue Jewish families amidst the chaos of World War II.
Kundanlal, a native of Ludhiana, forged a path from humble beginnings to becoming a significant businessman. He established businesses that provided employment and housing to Jewish families, only to see the British government designate them as “enemy aliens” at the war’s onset.
In the gripping narrative of Gupta’s memoir, A Rescue in Vienna, we learn how, under Hitler’s regime, Kundanlal stealthily extended job offers to Jewish professionals like Fritz Weiss, Alfred Wachsler, Hans Losch, and others, camouflaged as opportunities at fictive enterprises. The allure of safety and hope for a fresh start in India replaced despair with purpose for these families.
The turning point came during Kundanlal’s hospitalization in Vienna, where he first encountered Jewish individuals whose lives were unraveling under increasing anti-Semitic aggression. Capitalizing on this connection, he placed ads inviting skilled laborers to India, all while meticulously maintaining an air of secrecy regarding his plans.
Gupta highlights how Kundanlal’s careful, resolute actions saved lives, with many Jewish families securing safe passage and renewed futures in India. This poignant tale serves as a reminder of humanity’s capacity for compassion in the bleakest of times.
Source: www.bbc.com
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