Bollywood-Enthusiast Shopkeeper Celebrated for 20 Years of Vibrant Living

Chandrika “Charlie” Pandya, a beloved shopkeeper known for his vibrant personality, passed away on November 6, 2023. He served the community for over 30 years through his popular newsagents and gift shop, Skipper’s, located on Rochester High Street.

Celebrating a Life Full of Joy

For 20 years, Charlie and his wife, Mina, ran their shop, which became a cornerstone of the Rochester community. Following their success, they transitioned the family business to Rainham, where Charlie continued to work even after the store’s ownership formally changed.

Born in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1944, Charlie was the sixth of eight siblings. He moved to the UK in 1962 under the promise to his father that he would abstain from alcohol and marry an Indian girl. He fulfilled both promises, marrying Minaxi Patel in 1973 and raising three sons: Rikin, Mitul, and Nitin.

A Fond Farewell

Charlie’s memorial service was attended by over 350 people. To honor his legacy, performers sang his favorite Bollywood songs, as well as hits from icons like Elvis and The Beatles. Mourners gathered at the George Vaults pub for lunch to celebrate his colorful life.

• Popular Hub: Skipper’s became more than a shop; it was a social hub where locals gathered for conversation.
• Awards: Charlie received multiple Newsagent of the Year awards during his career.
• Community Support: He remained active in helping senior citizens and Hindu community groups.

His son Mitul shared a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing how Charlie transformed the shop into a social gathering space. Charlie was deeply admired, with many customers making a point to visit him, even if other shops were closer.

Legacy of Love and Laughter

Even after selling Skipper’s in 2008, Charlie and Mina continued their travels, visiting family in India and further enriching their lives. Charlie was involved in the annual Dickens festivals, where he often donned Victorian attire to engage with the public.

His nephew, Kamal Thaker, highlighted the humor and warmth in the tributes given at his funeral. He remarked, “These eulogies were a celebration of his life, befitting a person who truly lived it to the fullest.”

Charlie Pandya’s influence on his community remains evident. His legacy endures through the many lives he touched and the vibrant memories he created. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.