Who was Hugh Gantzer?

Hugh Gantzer was a Padma Shri award-winning travel writer, known for his warmth and wit in chronicling India.

What awards did Hugh and Colleen Gantzer receive?

Hugh and Colleen Gantzer received six national awards, including the National Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award, and a commendation from the Prime Minister's Office.

What other roles did Hugh Gantzer have?

Hugh Gantzer served in the Indian Navy as a Commander and was a member of a Supreme Court monitoring committee for environmental issues.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Travel Legend Hugh Gantzer Dies at 95

Travel Legend Hugh Gantzer Dies at 95

4 Feb

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Summary

Padma Shri awardee Hugh Gantzer, celebrated travel writer, passed away at 95.
He and his late wife received six national awards and PMO commendation.
Gantzer also served as Commander in the Indian Navy and monitored environmental issues.

Padma Shri recipient Hugh Gantzer, a celebrated travel writer, passed away at his Mussoorie residence late Monday evening at the age of 95. Gantzer, along with his late wife Colleen, who passed away in 2024, was honored with six national awards. They also received a commendation from the Prime Minister's Office in 2017 for their pioneering work in travel literature.

Their prolific career began with a commission to write about Kerala, leading to over five decades of contributions. The couple produced 52 documentaries, authored more than 30 books, and penned travel columns for major English newspapers. Gantzer also served as a Commander in the Indian Navy and was a member of a Supreme Court-constituted committee monitoring environmental issues in Doon Valley and Mussoorie since 1990.