This month, Blackhawk Living is thrilled to introduce the Malhotra family—Samta (Sam) , Akshiv, and their two daughters, Veera and Myra — a joyful, active, and multigenerational household with deep roots in the Blackhawk Community.
A Connection Sparked in the Library
Samta and Akshiv’s story began halfway around the world in the library of a medical college in Bombay. Samta, laser-focused on exam prep, happened upon a studious classmate—Akshiv—whose notes she nervously asked to borrow. That brief interaction led to daily visits, long walks, countless cups of coffee, and the kind of connection that only deepens over time.
After years of friendship turned into romance, Akshiv moved to Syracuse, NY to begin his residency in internal medicine. Ready to start their lives together, they were married in a “big fat Indian wedding” in New Delhi before Samta joined him in the U.S.
From Blackhawk to Bombay… and Back Again
Though born in Orange County, Samta moved to Blackhawk in the 4th grade and attended local schools—including Tassajara Hills Elementary, Diablo Vista Middle School and Monte Vista High School—before heading to India to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. That journey led her to meet Akshiv, who was born and raised in New Delhi.
The couple eventually moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where Akshiv completed his fellowship in Hematology-Oncology at the University of Cincinnati, and where their first daughter, Veera, was born. But when it came time to settle down and raise their family, there was no question—Samta knew she wanted to return to the supportive, tight- knit Blackhawk community she called home.
Now back in her childhood house on Silver Birch Lane, Samta is raising Veera and Maya surrounded by her parents, brother, uncle, aunt, and cousins— all within minutes of one another. “We have dinner with my parents almost every night,” she shares. “Our girls are being raised with constant love, support, and family presence. That’s something we feel incredibly lucky to have.”
Driven by Purpose and Passion
Akshiv, a physician at UCSF specializing in gastrointestinal oncology, discovered his calling early. Inspired by both his parents—who are also doctors—and his grandmother’s battle with cancer, he pursued a career where compassion and cutting-edge science intersect. He describes his work as both intellectually challenging and deeply human, often forming lasting bonds with the patients and families he supports.
He also serves on the advisory board of EazeBio, a Precision Health startup advancing biomarker-based diagnostics and care. His dedication to improving lives extends far beyond the clinic.
Family Life: Competitive, Curious, and Always Moving
Whether it’s hiking Half Dome, training for a half marathon, or battling it out in Settlers of Catan, the Malhotras know how to make life fun. Tennis, swimming, Bollywood dance, board games, and music are all major parts of their family rhythm. They attend concerts together (recent favorites include Diljit Dosanjh and ADE in Amsterdam), frequent Bay Area museums and performances, and travel every Christmas morning to find sunshine and surf.
Veera is a bundle of talent and curiosity—she’s a proud member of the HOX swim team, Girl Scouts, a Bollywood dance troupe, and takes tennis lessons locally. She’s also a budding scientist and avid reader with a love for art.
Maya is blossoming in preschool at Autumn Creek Learning Center, taking karate, and learning to swim at All-Star Swim. Samta jokes that while Maya may be shy, she holds her own during heated board game nights.
Rooted in Community
Returning to Blackhawk was about more than nostalgia for Samta—it was about legacy. “This is where I was raised, and I wanted my daughters to have the same sense of community and belonging I had growing up,” she says.
Neighbors have become extended family, with familiar faces from Samta’s babysitting days still living
on the street, and newer neighbors becoming trusted babysitters and tutors. “Everyone here is kind, generous, and willing to help,” she adds. “It really is a village.”
A Legacy of Connection
With three generations nearby, the Malhotras represent the heart of Blackhawk—deeply rooted, family-first, and full of warmth. Whether gathering for nightly dinners, cheering each other on at school performances, or chasing goals from the personal to the professional, the Malhotras live their motto daily: Through strength and kindness, we grow together.
We’re honored to share their story with the community they so lovingly call home.
By Megan Scott, Resident since 2010
Photos Courtesy of the Malhotras Family