Guide and Mentor

Guide and Mentor

(in loving memory of Sri P. Kranthi Kumar)

In terms of time, it’s a short relation of eight years but in terms of moments, it’s a strong bond of fond memories. The warm welcome I receive every time I step in, fills me with great joy. I always get drenched in his affection.

We discuss almost everything under the Sun—from epics to e-mails; Indian history and English literature to latest films and book releases; and our past experiences to future ambitions. We have those chill moments on a scorching mid-summer noon; that fun and laughter in a breezy evening; the in-depth philosophical talks on some occasion and the pun and punch on other occasions. At times, it is just shooting the breeze.

In short,

A multi-folded personality he is!

Unfolds a petal in each encounter.

Has many arrows in his quiver--

Shoots the relevant one,

One role at a time—a teacher, a friend, a philosopher, a guide and a mentor.

I let my hair down in his presence, experiencing that fatherly affection. I gape at his energies, wondering at his ability to work on three to four projects simultaneously, cursing myself for not utilising my time effectively. He chides me for my hastiness and aids me in dealing with unfair people. He gives tasks and targets; and never fails to either appreciate or correct me with his constructive criticism. He teaches me life lessons in every context. Every encounter with him reminds me of ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ by Mitch Albom.

It is a huge loss to me personally that he met his maker. It left me paralyzed for a brief period but later I moved on realising that he is alive in my deeds and in my mind.

(I write this in simple present as I don’t want all this to be a past. He guides me in every living moment of mine.)