In Fond Memory of
A.N. Mehendale
(1924-2009) Engineer, Freedom Fighter, Visionary
Fondly known as ‘Mandley Sahab’, A.N. Mehendale’s life reflected resilience, vision, and service. Jailed as a teenager during the Quit India Movement, he went on to help build independent India—working on Chandigarh’s Capital Project, urban planning in Punjab and Haryana, and pioneering projects at the Atomic Energy Establishment. One of his standout achievements was completing 100 village water supply schemes in just 400 days.
On his birth centenary in 2024, we discovered a rare diary he wrote as a teenager. This website celebrates his legacy—through stories, tributes, and glimpses from the past.
A Brief History
Born on May 23, 1924, in Pune, A.N. Mehendale’s life mirrored the transformation of India—from colonial rule to a modern republic. His story is one of perseverance, vision, and service.
- 1924: Born in Pune to Narayan and Ramabai Mehendale
- 1937–41: Teen years captured in a diary
- 1942: Participated in the freedom movement, imprisoned during the Quit India Movement
- 1947: Graduated in Civil Engineering from COEP, began career in Baroda
- 1952-59: Joined Chandigarh Capital Project; worked with Architect Le Corbusier
- 1959-62: Worked with Dr. Homi Bhabha at Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (AEET)
- 1962–66: Served in Punjab Public Health Engineering Department
- 1966-84: Played a vital role in planning towns across Haryana (Karnal, Rohtak, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Hisar, Bhiwani and more)
- 1984: Retired as Chief Engineer, HUDA; launched Anant Consultants with son Nirmal
- 2009: Passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy of public service, entrepreneurship, and wisdom
Photo Gallery
Glimpses of a Remarkable Journey
The Diary
Mandley Sahab
To mark his 100th birth anniversary in 2024, we compiled and published Mandley Sahab, a tribute that includes his personal diary (1937–1941). Written during his formative years, it reveals the discipline, curiosity, and patriotism that defined his life.
Dedications
