Mehroo J. Wadia

1920 – 2012

Mehroo Wadia (nee Daver) danced her way to the next life early Tuesday morning on October 30, 2012 leaving this world a less colorful place. Left to cherish her memories are her daughter, Yasmin; son-in-law, Jamsheed (Jimmy) and grand-daughter, Shireen Irani. Mehroo was born in Secunderabad, India, the youngest of 12 children. From an early age, she demonstrated her artistic sensibilities and her capacity to live life to its fullest. After completing initial education in art in India, she fulfilled a childhood dream and set sail for England in 1944 to further her art studies. Mehroo landed like a brilliant butterfly in drab post-war London where she survived the bland food to take the city by storm in her colorful, self-designed wardrobe. She stayed in the U.K. for several years studying at the Regent Street Polytechnic and the School of Design at Holborn and then working at an ad agency. Mehroo enjoyed meeting many famous people, exhibiting her work, travelling widely in Europe, learning to skate in a sari and making lifelong friendships. She returned to India, worked in the commercial art scene and eventually arrived in Delhi where she met her “love divine,” Major Jamshed Wadia, (1910 – 1983) whom she married in 1954. After their daughter, Yasmin, was born, Mehroo returned to work, eventually retiring as an assistant professor at the Delhi College of Arts. She was a prolific artist and her paintings were frequently exhibited to critical praise. Three years after Jamshed’s death in 1983, Mehroo joined Yasmin in Calgary where she threw herself into art, new friendships, the Stampede, belly dancing, creating children’s books, drumming and spiritual pursuits. Mehroo’s enquiring, open mind was always interested in other religions besides her own Zoroastrian faith that sustained and inspired her. Her art, often featuring sunflowers, has been displayed at various locations including the Calgary Zoo and Gulf Canada Square and for a time she also taught art to local seniors. A free spirit before the term was invented, Mehroo was a wonderful grandmother to Shireen giving her a “full childhood experience.” As she once said “Art means life; life itself is an art.” Mehroo’s life was a masterpiece. Heartfelt thanks to all the caregivers and medical staff who made her last few years comfortable. A private Family gathering was held. An announcement on a celebration of her life will follow. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via the website www.fostersgardenchapel.ca.

FOSTER'S GARDEN CHAPEL

FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM

Telephone: 403-297-0888

Honoured Provider of Dignity Memorial