We got to know family Kunchiwala in summer 1999 in an Indian get together at the University of Karlsruhe. We established very easily a strong bond between us due to their warm, friendly and ever ready to help nature. Their loving and affectionate nature is perhaps the reason that they are regarded and addressed Uncle and Aunty by young Indian community in Karlsruhe.

We landed in Germany in winter 1996. We had initially come for perusing our M. Sc. at the University of Karlsruhe, funded by DAAD. In the beginning we had tough time adjusting ourselves in a different climate, language and culture. We were assisted by the course coordinator regarding administrative formalities and accommodation, still there were times when we found ourselves lost in a foreign land. Slowly we got to know some Indian students who were living little longer there. They told us about DIG and events like Diwali etc. We still remember that getting the tickets for Diwali 1996 was a great deal, because students were kept so isolated from these Geshelschafts. It has changed a lot in the mean time and the sole credit goes to Family Kunchiwala who took initiative and made consistent efforts in taking care of incoming Indian students. Today Indian students enjoy a far better status in Karlsruhe than it was 10 years ago. Today DIG even has a youth association.

Knowing family Kunchiwala was a blessing for us. We could bend on them for any little or big help. We appreciate very much their natural affection and inclination towards students. In spite of their busy schedule they always find time for students, which is unusual in a land like Germany.

We spent 5 remember able years with Kunchiwala family in Karlsruhe until we left Germany in 2004. We still feel a very close bond with them. They always stood behind us in all our good and bad times and always supported us.

Dear Aunty and Uncle, We thank you from our hearts for the love and help you extended us during our stay in Karlsruhe.