In fond remembrance of a devoted wife, mother, and beloved grandmother, Pratibha Kapoor of Newton, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on December 13, 2023, at age 75, surrounded by the love of her family. Pratibha left behind a legacy of unwavering love and cherished memories.
Pratibha was born in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India in 1948 to Sh. Bhawani Prasad Kapoor and Smt. Pushpa Lata Kapoor. She graduated from Punjab University with a Bachelor in Science then went on to earn a Master in History from Rajasthan University, and a Master in Philosophy from Himachal Pradesh University.
In India, she worked as a preschool teacher at Sunken Garden School before emigrating to the United States in 1988. She settled in Newton, Massachusetts where she lived for 35 years and raised her two daughters alongside her husband, Pushap Raj Kapoor. She took pride in shaping young minds as a lead Montessori Teacher at Montessori Educare School in Newton Centre until 2007.
After retirement, Pratibha and Pushap finally took time for themselves to travel the world, visiting 16 countries on 5 continents, including the 4 major Hindu pilgrimage sites. They would often return to Mandi to visit their numerous relatives and friends and give back to their hometown. In 2017, they established the Pratibha Pushap Foundation to honor outstanding and upcoming Sports, Arts & Culture achievers. In 2022, they funded the construction of a green crematorium in their hometown.
Pratibha was always surrounded by love through her extended family of brothers and sisters-in-law. Her story wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the everlasting bond that exists between her, Karuna, and Chander, they were her confidantes and best friends, along with their husbands Pushap Raj, Prem, and Onaly. She was like a second mother to her many nieces and nephews, whom they affectionately called Kakiji. She was renowned for her gentle, selfless nature and easy smile. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and showering them through her love of cooking. She was a master chef.
Pratibha’s legacy extends beyond generations, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her best friend and husband of 50 years, Pushap Raj Kapoor. Her two daughters, Puja Kapoor-Kapur and Bonu Kapoor-Mohimen, and their husbands Gaurav Kapur and
Anirban Ben Mohimen. She was a devoted Nanni (grandmother) to her 4 grandchildren; Riya and Rahul Kapur, and Neal Avi and Niam Chand Mohimen. She is also survived by her siblings, Kirti Prakash Kapoor and Nalin Kapoor, both of India, and her sister Prem Vada Kapoor of New Jersey.
As we bid farewell, we celebrate a well-lived life and the enduring love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.
Pratibha’s wake will be held on Friday, December 15 from 4:00-7:00pm at the Eaton & Mackay Funeral Home, 465 Centre St, Newton, MA 02458.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a foundation very near and dear to our hearts; Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 16th. While we appreciate all the love and support, this will be a private event for immediate family members.