Chandra Mani Tiwari, co-founder of Chandra Rugs
ADAIRSVILLE, Ga. -- The Tiwari family is mourning the passing of area rug industry leader Chandra Mani Tiwari of Adairsville, Georgia-based Chandra Rugs. Mr. Tiwari died at age 62, surrounded by his devoted family. He is survived by his cherished wife and soulmate, Maya Tiwari; his sons, Ravi, Shashi and Saket; his daughters, Rekha, Rita and Pooja; his nephew Satya; his children in-law and his five adored grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.
Chandra was born in 1963 in Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, the rug capital of India, where his journey began in a family rooted in entrepreneurship and craftsmanship. From an early age, he developed a deep respect for the artistry and discipline of the rug industry, working alongside his brother, Surya Tiwari, in the family business Surya Carpet Inc. After graduating from Banaras Hindu University in 1982, he formally joined the company and began shaping what would become an extraordinary legacy.
At just 23 years old, Chandra made the courageous decision to move to the United States, driven by vision, determination, and an unshakable belief in what was possible. He was a true pioneer, helping introduce Indian handcrafted rugs to the American market and playing a central role in building Surya into a leading name in home furnishings.
In 2006, alongside his eldest son Ravi, he co-founded Chandra Rugs— an extension not only of his entrepreneurial spirit, but of his belief in family, partnership, and legacy. Together, they built a brand grounded in innovation, quality, and a deep commitment to the artisans whose work he deeply respected.
But beyond his accomplishments, Chandra was, at his core, a man of extraordinary spirit. He had a rare energy that filled every room—his presence was magnetic, his laughter infectious, and his charm unforgettable. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and uplifted. He lived life fully and joyfully, always moving, always building, always dreaming bigger.
He was also remarkably sharp—whip smart, quick-witted, and endlessly curious. He took pride in his mental agility and loved challenging himself to be faster than a calculator, delighting in numbers and the thrill of solving problems in his head. That same sharpness carried through everything he did, from business decisions to everyday conversations," the family stated.
Faith was a quiet but powerful foundation in Chandra’s life. His devotion inspired him to build Sankat Mochan Temple in Adairsville, Georgia, as a reflection of his beliefs—a place not only of worship, but of gathering, connection, and community. Through it, he created something deeply meaningful, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging that will endure for generations.
Chandra’s legacy is not only in the businesses he built, but in the lives he touched. He formed lasting relationships with customers, partners, and friends across the world. To know him was to experience his generosity, his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering belief in people.
As a husband, father, and grandfather, he was our anchor, our inspiration, and our greatest source of strength and love. His legacy lives on in all of us—in the values he instilled, the community he built, and the love he gave so freely.
He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
In lieu of flowers, we are accepting donations to his temple, Sankat Mochan Mandir, located in Adairsville, Georgia. We will be distributing the funds to all the charities to which he regularly donated. To contribute, click here.
The family welcomes and deeply appreciates any personal stories, memories, or prayers you may wish to share. Please feel free to reach out to ravi@shopchandra.com.