A Hidden Legacy of Courage

Long before the world learned about Schindler’s List, an Indian businessman named Kundan Lal quietly risked his life to save Jewish families from Nazi persecution. Despite his remarkable efforts, his story remained largely unknown, even to his own family. It was only a single sentence that revealed the truth to his grandson, Vinay Gupta: “Your nana helped Jewish families escape the Nazis.”

The Unlikely Savior

Kundan Lal, a successful machine tools manufacturer from Ludhiana, Punjab, was in Vienna in 1938 for medical treatment when he met Alfred and Lucy Wachsler. Learning about the escalating anti-Semitic violence in Austria, he decided to help. Offering jobs and visas, he facilitated the escape of 14 Jewish individuals from Nazi-occupied Austria.

From Austria to India: A Lifeline

Returning to India, Kundan Lal placed job advertisements in Austrian newspapers, seeking skilled workers willing to relocate. Between 1938 and 1939, he successfully brought five Jewish families to India. Among them were Fritz Weiss, Hans Losch, and the Wachsler family. Despite the challenges of adapting to life in Ludhiana, Kundan Lal’s efforts provided them with a crucial lifeline.

Challenges and New Beginnings

Life in India was not easy for the refugees. The lack of a Jewish community and familiar cultural elements led some to leave for Bombay or other destinations. However, others like the Wachsler family stayed longer, contributing to local industries by establishing workshops and factories.

Legacy of Humanity

Kundan Lal’s selfless actions during a time of global turmoil left a lasting impact. Although he never shared his story publicly, his legacy lives on through Vinay Gupta’s book ‘A Rescue in Vienna’. The story of Kundan Lal serves as a testament to the power of individual courage and compassion in the face of adversity.