I first met Trrk 26 years ago in Madurai. I was just married and enjoying the hospitality of my in-laws. Trrk had completed his MBBS and with his young wife was doing his MD in Radiology at Madurai Medical College. We struck up a good rapport right away. But soon I had to end my honeymoon and head back home to Kerala. We re-established contact through his efforts just over 15 years ago. By then I was managing a textile business in Kollam and he was doing the same on a much bigger scale in Alleppey.
Since then we have been the thickest of friends dialing each other numerous times each day. We used to talk for hours on end on just about every subject under the Sun. I can truthfully say that he was instrumental in introducing me to Modems, BBSs, Internet, Mobile phones, GPS …. The list could go on and on. He’d discover interesting utilities or programs on the Net and pass it on to me and I only had to seek his help on anything and he’d scour the Net to find a solution.
I used to admire so many of his qualities. He gave equal respect to all. I’ve seen him treat his junior most employee with the same courtesy and respect as he would show to any honoured guest. An exemplary gentleman. Most unassuming and down to earth. The briefest of encounters with him will leave a lasting impression. Absolutely no ‘elitist airs’ about him, although his lineage gave him every right to it. Ever ready to give more than a helping hand. Ever willing to share knowledge. Above all a principled person, not given to wavering. His family’s wishes always came first and he never ever hesitated to put aside his own plans to adjust to theirs.
I’ve traveled with him so many times and marveled at his driving etiquette. Often I’ve got annoyed with his ‘no horn’ resolve and made no bones of my feelings. I’d chide him saying that he will scare drivers and pedestrians ( especially two wheelers ) by creeping up silently behind them. He’d take it with a smile and stick to his resolve maintaining that he’s extra careful so he does not spring nasty surprises.
His interests covered a vast field. Foremost being Cars and Car Magazines. Other interests included Computers, Internet, Modems, Mobile phones, GPS devices.….He was adept at putting technology to good use. Truly a man of the digital age. An avid nature lover he’d stop his car to capture a sunset or a green paddy field or a monsoon scene with his favorite HTC. He procured a device that records video and used to derive great pleasure in recording his trips. One of his last recordings through a flooded road is fit to be preserved for posterity.
I visited him on 29th July, 10 days before the tragic loss and these are probably the last images of Trrk during his brief sojourn through planet Earth….
Adieu my friend, you’ve left a permanent vaccum in my life. |