Dhruva "Drew" T. Chellani

DHRUVA CHELLANI passed away on September 6, 2023.  DHRUVA (DREW, DURU) THANWARDAS CHELLANI (1962-2023), 61 years old, passed away in a car accident in Apex North Carolina, on September 6, 2023, along with his son Kris Chellani. He was born in Bombay, India, to Thanwardas and Maya Chellani. Dhruva, named after the North Star, just like the meaning in Sanskrit, was a shining star and served as a guiding light to his friends to help guide them. His formal education was in mechanical engineering, and his life’s work was developing businesses (Most notably, Classic Carolina, a successful UNC apparel store) in Chapel Hill, NC for the last 30 years. He lived in Carrboro, North Carolina with his family, his wife Nina, his son Kris, and daughters Krystal and Shera. Dhruva loved traveling around the world and spending time with his family. Every time he met someone, he put a smile on their face. He always extended his hand to anyone in need. He was known for his kind nature, his generosity, his humbleness, and his unwavering selflessness. He was an inspirational leader and his loved ones always looked up to him. He touched so many hearts with all the love he showed in the Chapel Hill Community. Dhruva always put the needs of others before his own; he will be deeply missed. Dhruva is survived by his wife Nina, his daughters Krystal and Shera, his brothers Mohan, Deepak and Vijay, and his sister LataDevi Mankani.

Dhruva and Kris passed away on Krishna Janmashtami. (The birthday of the Supreme Being, Krishna on earth, after whom Kris was named). Their souls are eternal.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory are honored to serve the Chellani family.