The Indian-American community in the Chicago area is mourning the passing of Kala Oza, beloved wife of longtime Chicago news media journalist and photographer Jayanti Oza. She was 79.

Kala Oza passed away on August 8, 2026, at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield following a sudden deterioration in her health. Despite medical care and a courageous struggle, she could not overcome her illness. Her passing has brought profound grief to her family and to the many friends and community members who knew and respected her.

For Kala, family was at the center of her life. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, caring mother-in-law and proud grandmother. She shared her life with her husband, Jayanti, standing beside him throughout his long career in Chicago’s Indian-American news media. Together, they built a family and a life deeply connected to the community around them.

Kala is survived by her husband, Jayanti Oza; son Bharat Oza; daughters Kiran and Dipti Oza; son-in-law Ajay Dalwadi; and grandchildren Akash, Mahin, Abhi, Elon and Aryana. Her family remembers her not only for her love and affection but also for the values, relationships and memories she created across generations.

Her cremation was held on August 9 at DuPage Cremations Funeral Chapel in West Chicago. A large gathering of relatives, friends, well-wishers and members of Chicago-area senior organizations attended the final rites. Representatives of several senior community organizations joined the family in bidding her farewell.

A prayer and memorial gathering was held on August 11 at India Hub in Schaumburg, bringing together family members, friends and community leaders. The evening became an occasion to remember Kala’s life, her family and the personal connections she formed with those around her.

At the memorial gathering, Chicago-area singers presented devotional bhajans, creating a spiritual and deeply emotional atmosphere as family members, friends and community members came together to honor Kala’s memory and bid her a heartfelt farewell.

Community leaders, senior organization representatives, friends and members of the Oza family shared memories and emotional reflections, remembering Kala with affection, warmth and respect and highlighting the lasting impression she made on those around her.

While Kala may have lived away from her native homeland, she created a life in Chicago centered on family, friendship and community. Her legacy will live on through her husband, children, grandchildren and the many people who were fortunate to know her.

She will be remembered as a woman whose greatest contribution was the love she gave to her family and the relationships she nurtured throughout her life.

The IndoUS Tribune family extends its deepest condolences to Jayanti Oza and the entire bereaved Oza family. Jayanti Oza has been a highly respected and valued member of the IndoUS Tribune family and the Chicago Indian-American media community. We share in the family’s grief and pray that they find strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time.

May the Almighty grant eternal peace to the departed soul of Kala Oza and give her family the strength and courage to bear this profound loss.