In December, two brothers (Ryan and Dhanush) lost their father suddenly, an event that has permanently changed their lives. Their father, Arjun Rao Chandaka, was an honest and hardworking person who worked tirelessly to support his children and wife on a single income. Arjun's wife was hospitalised for acute mental health care following his death, leaving the boys with no parent able to care for them. Since then, Arjun's wife (boys' mum) has moved to India, where she is being cared for by her sisters.

In addition to this loss, the critical risk the boys now face is the loss of stability, education, and the life they have always known. Without access to boarding and appropriate care in Australia, the only alternative would be for the boys to leave the country and relocate to India, causing major disruption to their schooling, wellbeing, and support networks.

This cause is about keeping the boys in school in Australia, where they have grown up and been educated, and providing them with structure, safety, and continuity during an already difficult year. We have been fortunate that a school has offered both boys enrolment for 2026, recognising the complexity and urgency of the situation.

This is the only option that allows the boys to stay together in Melbourne, enabling the older one to complete Year 12 and the younger one to transition into Year 7. Boarding offers them the environment they acutely need to continue learning, remain connected to their community, and move forward with dignity and independence within a structured day-to-day routine.

However, boarding schools in Australia are costly, particularly for two children, and this situation is further complicated by the fact that their dad was the sole breadwinner of the family. The combined tuition and boarding fees for both boys totals over $89,000.

By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping secure this critical year of boarding, honouring their father’s legacy by protecting his sons’ education and future at a time when stability matters most. This period of transition is particularly important while the family works through the estate process and longer-term financial arrangements are clarified.

The boys’ cousins (my sister and I) will act as their local emergency contacts, facilitating weekend stays with us, organising travel to India during term breaks, and supporting any other required activities. We are also organising this fundraiser.

All funds raised will be directed toward the boys’ schooling costs. Any surplus will support their travel between Australia and India during school holidays so they can visit their mum. If you would like to request further information, or if you want to be involved beyond 2026, please contact us at arjun.legacy2025@gmail.com.