Should Have Been With You, But Certainly Not Without You: Honouring Manohar, Chairman Emeritus


For over three decades, Manohar dedicated his life to the mission of suicide prevention and emotional support, embodying the spirit of compassion and resilience that so many needed during their darkest hours. As Chairman Emeritus of Samaritans Mumbai helpline, his unwavering commitment to helping others transformed countless lives and inspired a generation of befrienders to carry on his legacy.

A Life of Service :
Manohar's journey began with a simple yet profound realization: that no one should face their struggles alone. This belief ignited a fire within him, leading him to volunteer tirelessly for a cause that was not just a job but a calling as evident in the over 30 years he served the cause. His ability to connect with those in distress was extraordinary; he listened without judgment and offered comfort in moments of despair. Many of his peers and those he supported often spoke of the warmth and understanding he brought to every conversation.

Inspiring the Next Generation :
Manohar understood that to create lasting change, it was essential to cultivate a community of skilled and compassionate befrienders. Under his guidance, training programs flourished, equipping volunteers with the tools they needed to support individuals facing emotional crises. His mentorship extended beyond mere instruction; he instilled a sense of duty and empathy in everyone he trained, ensuring that the helpline was not just a service, but a safe haven for those in need.
The community he built continues to thrive today, with many of his mentees stepping into leadership roles, perpetuating his mission and values. They carry forward his legacy, providing emotional support to those distressed, depressed, and suicidal. Each call answered is a testament to Manohar’s impact, a reminder that he lives on in the hearts of those he inspired.

Ankahee: A Legacy of Hope :
In honor of Manohar's remarkable contributions, we are proud to announce the launch of Ankahee, a new suicide prevention and emotional support helpline dedicated to his memory. The name, meaning “unspoken” in Hindi, reflects the many thoughts and feelings that often go unheard. Ankahee aims to create a space where individuals can share their struggles without fear, continuing the work Manohar was so passionate about.
With trained befrienders at its core, Ankahee will uphold the values of compassion, empathy, and understanding that Manohar embodied. It stands as a promise to those who seek help: you are not alone, and your voice matters.

Conclusion :
While Manohar will forever be missed, his legacy of love and support continues through our work here at Ankahee. His spirit will forever guide the work we do and the lives we touch. As we move forward with Ankahee, we carry with us the lessons he taught and the strength he imparted.
Manohar, you should have been with us in this journey, but certainly, you will always be a part of our mission. Thank you for everything. Your legacy lives on in every life we touch.