Pappu Kaka, that’s what he was to our generation – ever cheerful, jovial and generous. The youngest of the four brothers, everyone else in the family affectionately called him Pappu. At work, he was respectfully called as Balraj Sir – never a boss, he was everyone’s best friend, a true mentor who would endlessly keep sharing his experiences; but a tough and loud task master when work demanded. To Evelyn aunty, he was Raj; for Micky and Avi he was a loving Papa, always there for them.
As a kid, I would always count on him to help me with drawings. He had a good hand – in drawing and handwriting. When Grandma was diagnosed with cancer, he took upon him to accompany her for all the treatments. With his witty humor and hearty smile, he had the remarkable ability to quickly make friends and make an ever lasting impression. His, was the first love marraige in our family – clearing the way for the rest of us. A complete family man, who put the wishes of others before his own.
A mechanical engineer by qualification, from the prestigious Birla Vishwakarma Mahavidyalaya (BVM), Anand, he started his professional career at the Mazgaon Dock. For the rest of his life, he was the pillar of strength at Unique Mixers, our manufacturing business. He was the man on the floor – leading, managing and controlling the factory operations. His favourite subjects were engineering drawing and geometry, putting them to good use at all times. He was a master, when it came to matters pertaining to central excise. He was very popular amongst our customers, who found him approachable. Vendors called him Pappu Seth.
To me, he was my first mentor, when I joined the factory in 2003 – while Dad was recovering from his cardiac ailment. He remained one for the rest of his life, always lending a ear to my challenges and doing the best he could to help me.
Pappukaka was emotional. He listened with empathy. He was somebody, who would not think twice, before lending a helping hand – at his own cost and risk. It was only after he was gone, that we learned from the people he helped, about his many good deeds. With people and work, he always had a sixth sense – more often than not, he was right in his judgment. Yet, there were many who also took advantage of his goodness – only to be forgiven. He never took things seriously.
It’s more than two years now, since he left us. If he would have been around, we would be celebrating his 62nd Birthday today. Knowing him, the way he was, he would still want us to celebrate.
Happy Birthday Pappu Kaka. We miss you.