And infuse his life with colour he did. A sourcing analyst at Scotiabank in downtown Toronto by day, Nanji poured himself into his artwork at night, leaving behind a series of memorable pieces before passing away in 2011 at the age of 29.
Born and raised in Mississauga, Nanji discovered at a young age that creating art allowed him to express himself in ways that words could not. His sketches ranged from life-size drawings of his comic book heroes to illustrations depicting how appreciative he was of the life he had.
According to Nanji’s parents, Azad and Begum Datoo, their son was a “kind and gentle soul” who found the silver lining in every situation. Nanji kept working at his full-time job even after he was diagnosed with leukemia in 2006.
“He never once complained about being sick,” Azad said. “He woke up early and went to work every day, even with [limited mobility] because of his illness.
Nanji’s parents said their son never wanted recognition for his artwork.
“There was something very spiritual about his art,” explained Begum. “He didn’t really talk about it…[but] his art came from his heart and it had a deeper meaning for him.”
Nanji also led a vibrant social life and participated actively in community service. He joined his friends on ski trips to Montreal, took part in local charity initiatives such as the CN Tower Climb for United Way, and became a Big Brother, an IVC Lieutenant, and Students’ Majalis Kamadia in Mississauga Jamatkhana.
Despite a successful bone marrow transplant, Nanji passed away from complications with leukemia on July 8, 2011.
Begum estimated that around 2,000 friends, colleagues, and family members attended Nanji’s funeral. His closest friends later got tattoos in his memory.
In 2017, Begum gave permission for Aleem’s art to be displayed inside Mississauga Jamatkhana and at Toronto’s Jubilee Arts Festival. She believed it was time that his talent, and his appreciation for life, were shared with others.
“He never let his illness get in his way of living life to its fullest,” said Azad.
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