10/04/2024
Dr. Amarjit Singh Marwah, 98, remains a towering figure whose contributions to the Indian community and the broader society of the United States are nothing short of legendary. He is not only a pioneer but also a diplomat, philanthropist, and bridge-builder between cultures. It is crucial for the younger generation to understand the impact that leaders like him have made, especially when faced with tremendous obstacles.
Dr. Marwah arrived in the U.S. on a Fulbright scholarship in 1953, embarking on a journey that would forever change the perception of Indians in America. After studying Pediatric Dentistry in New York and earning a Master’s Degree at the University of Illinois, Chicago, he attended Howard University in Washington D.C., where he earned his American Doctorate in Dentistry. This allowed him to practice in the U.S., where he later joined the School of Dentistry at USC in 1962. But his road was not easy. His iconic decision to tear up his acceptance letter to USC after being told by the dean that his turban "may look funny in the clinic" reflects his deep pride in his Sikh identity and his refusal to compromise his principles.
Dr. Marwah’s story doesn’t end with his personal success in dentistry, where he counted Hollywood legends like Elizabeth Taylor, Sidney Poitier, and Muhammad Ali among his clients. His impact in civic and public life is monumental. He served as the Campaign Manager for Dalip Singh Saund’s historic 1956 election to the U.S. Congress, making Saund the first Sikh, Indian, and Asian man elected to the U.S. Congress. Dr. Marwah was instrumental in opening doors for Indians and Asians in American politics, something our youth should recognize as a foundation for future engagement in public service.
His role as a Commissioner for the City of Los Angeles for 18 years, appointed by Mayor Tom Bradley, stands as a testament to his civic contributions. Under his leadership, the city established monuments such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, Barnsdall Park, and Union Station. His work to preserve the 1888 Chinese shrine at Evergreen Cemetery further exemplifies his dedication to cultural heritage. These are contributions that young people should be proud of and take as inspiration for their own roles in society.
Dr. Marwah’s philanthropy is also noteworthy. His generous donation of a building near Beverly Hills to establish the first Sikh temple in the U.S. after India's Independence, located in Hollywood, reflects his deep-rooted commitment to the Sikh faith and community. The temple was inaugurated in 1969 to honor Guru Nanak's 500th anniversary, a landmark moment that helped strengthen the Indian presence in America. This temple, located at 1966 N. Vermont Avenue, was a hub of cultural and spiritual life, visited by key figures including then-Councilman Tom Bradley.
Internationally, Dr. Marwah has also supported many health and educational initiatives in underserved communities in India, demonstrating his far-reaching humanitarian ethos. His life is an extraordinary blend of personal achievement, public service, and cultural preservation.
What is particularly fascinating about Dr. Marwah is his deep connection to both the Indian and American cultural landscapes. He has hosted Bollywood legends like Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, and Sunil Dutt with Whisky hospitality for eleven months at Taj Hotel during the dry months of Bombay under PM Morarji Desai's regime, sharing hospitality and stories that reflect his roots in both nations. His close friendship with Amitabh Bachchan during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where Bachchan stayed at his home, further underlines his unique role in blending East and West.
Dr. Marwah’s 18-acre ranch in Malibu, one of the most exclusive areas in the U.S., was purchased in 1968, showing his long-standing success and presence in American society. He has maintained close relationships with influential figures like Eric Garcetti, the current U.S. Ambassador to India, and Garcetti’s father, Gil Garcetti, the former District Attorney of Los Angeles. These connections highlight his stature as a key figure in both local and international diplomacy.
The city of Los Angeles honored him by renaming a street in his name on Hollywood Boulevard, a lasting tribute to his many years of service. His legacy is not just about the past but about building bridges for the future. It is the responsibility of the younger generation to learn from his life—his journey, sacrifices, and immense contributions—and continue the work of fostering cultural understanding, service, and integrity in an ever-evolving global society.
As Dr. Marwah himself humorously recalls, the New York Times once published his picture on its front page with the caption "Santa has a son" after a journalist captured him standing next to Santa Claus. This lighthearted story reflects the ease with which Dr. Marwah has navigated both the serious and humorous aspects of life, embracing the opportunities that came his way while staying true to his identity.
Dr. Marwah’s incredible contributions to dentistry, community building, civic engagement, and cultural diplomacy make him a figure to be celebrated and learned from. His uncut and unedited conversation with me on September 30, 2024, is a treasure trove of wisdom for the young generation. It is a privilege to share this conversation, one that offers invaluable lessons on resilience, pride in one's roots, and the power of service to humanity. Let us not only honor such personalities but also take their torch forward, illuminating paths for future generations.
YouTube Video link. Please do watch and share :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqAZvAVTjpg&t=431s
Sat Sri Akal
Sukhi Chahal
