GBC Professor Dies After Motorcycle Accident

Grace Bible College professor Ashish Dahiwadkar sustained severe injuries when a car knocked him off his motorcycle and dragged him underneath. This beloved faculty member entered the presence of the Lord on December 15, 2024, after a 10-day hospital battle. He never fully regained consciousness.

Ashish was an orphan, and his closest family was truly his wife, daughter, and the Grace Bible College community. He first arrived as a student, but as a professor, he loved pouring his life into the young students—especially those who, like him, had no parents.

John Cook had a deep affection for Ashish and encouraged him in his desire to teach. The photo below, taken in 2017, shows Ashish as a student at GBC. John had asked him to translate at a church service. Although terrified, Ashish did well. Principal Pramod Tantarpale became one of Ashish’s mentors. Over the years, Ashish grew into a valued senior faculty member and served faithfully as GBC’s Chaplain.

A Life of Kindness and Deep Impact

Ashish’s gentleness and kindness stood out to all. He loved to talk about Jesus and shared his faith freely with anyone who would listen. During the 10 days he lay in a coma, several thousand people he had ministered to came to the hospital. They took turns quietly standing vigil in the parking lot, praying for him.

May our lives leave such a mark on our communities. Several friends even traveled long distances by train just to pray for Ashish. Many from the Indigenous Ministries family also joined in prayer.

Ashish’s widow, Shaddra, is a capable math and science teacher. She plans to finish the school year near GBC, and this summer, she will relocate with little Annu to be closer to her parents. Shaddra, Ashish, and Annu are a cherished part of the GBC family and will be greatly missed.

Many generous donors from the Indigenous Ministries community gave toward medical expenses. Because of this kindness, we were able to send $3,300 to help cover Ashish’s hospital costs and support Shaddra. She asked us to express her sincere gratitude for every prayer and gift.

Please continue praying for Shaddra and Annu, and for the students, faculty, and leadership at Grace Bible College. The photos below include snapshots of Ashish, Shaddra, Annu, John Cook, and several of the GBC men on campus.