Dr. Mahesh Varia

Dr. Mahesh Varia passed away on May 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Kampala, Uganda, Mahesh was a lifelong learner. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Liverpool in England, where he earned his medical degree. After a magical walk at the Talav ni Pal in Jamnagar, India, he married the great love of his life-Dr. Indira (Indu) Ghatalia in 1969. Together, they served as medical officers in rural Uganda.

In 1972, with their young daughter Rachna, Mahesh and Indu immigrated to the United States ahead of Uganda's expulsion of Asians. He completed his radiation oncology residency at Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia, where their daughter Nisha was born. The family then moved to North Carolina, where Mahesh joined the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1976. Their youngest daughter, Smita, was born soon after.

Mahesh spent 41 years at UNC Hospitals as a clinician, researcher, and mentor. He treated thousands of patients with deep compassion. He directed the training program for residents in radiation oncology for 20 years, authored dozens of research publications, and was a national leader in clinical trial development and radiation biology research on tumor hypoxia. He led with quiet excellence, and left an indelible imprint on his colleagues and patients alike.

Rooted in the Jain principles of non-violence and compassion, Mahesh and Indu transformed their beliefs into action through building community and dedicating themselves to service. They helped establish the thriving Jain Study Center of North Carolina, built a primary school in Gujarat, and returned to rural India annually for 17 years to provide free medical care. A lifelong vegetarian, Mahesh became a committed vegan in his later years.

Mahesh was ever ready to explore the world and try new things, from traveling across all seven continents - including Antarctica! - to taking line dancing classes. He immersed himself in his hobbies, including music, photography, and making slideshows. His eyes would light up when talking about one of his greatest joys--playing and teaching bridge.

Mahesh and Indu treasured connection and were central pillars of a large, extended family and a wide network of friends and community. All who knew Mahesh were touched by his kindness, gentleness, brilliance, and humility. He supported countless family and friends with advice and care. His tremendous example of quiet strength and equanimity, including after the loss of his beloved wife Indu in 2022, will be remembered always.

Mahesh is held in the hearts of daughters and sons-in-law, Rachna, Nisha, Smita, Junish, Ritchie, and Brad, and his cherished grandchildren, Siona, Simrin, Neel, Kaya, and Sejal.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to the  Share and Care Foundation and their projects supporting health care in rural India.