A tribute to our father (-in-law) who left for his heavenly abode on May 20, 2013

An island unto himself, simplicity personified, immune from the overriding modern day ambitions, a firm believer in God, free from any malice, greed or rivalry-- such was the personality of our Papa Ji, as we had known him. Someone who savored only the simple pleasures of life--a delicious home cooked meal, seasonal delicacies, sun rise early every morning, fresh morning breeze and some kind words.

In this world full of expectations, he barely expected anything even from his own progeny. He would hardly tell anyone what he felt or desired yet people around him were always keen to take care of for his unspoken wishes.  Such was the charm of his personality.

A true worshipper of hard work, he would not rest even in his old age. His children may have forced him to retire but he dedicated his remaining years in nurturing the neighborhood park like his own baby. His body, mind and spirit were in perfect harmony in the lap of nature—his neighborhood park, while serving the community he lived in. The fruits of his labor can be seen and enjoyed even after he is gone.

As we ponder over his life, the following lines come to mind:

Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife,
Their sober wishes never learn'd to stray;
Along the cool sequester'd vale of life
They kept the noiseless tenor of their way.

- "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" by Thomas Gray

The philosophy of his life was consistent with the following words of wisdom from Bhagwad Geeta-

जो हुआ, वह अच्छा हुआ, जो हो रहा है, वह अच्छा हो रहा है, जो होगा, वह भी अच्छा ही होगा। तुम भूत का पश्चाताप न करो। भविष्य की चिन्ता न करो। वर्तमान चल रहा है।…जो कुछ भी तू करता है, उसे भगवान के अर्पण करता चल। ऐसा करने से सदा जीवन-मुक्त का आनंन्द अनुभव करेगा।

Whatever happened, happened for the good; whatever is happening, is happening for the good; whatever will happen, will also happen for the good only. You need not have any regrets for the past. You need not worry for the future. The present is happening...Whatever you do, do it as a dedication to God. This will bring you the tremendous experience of joy and life-freedom forever.

Unlike most of us, where the world is too much with us, his life was a spontaneous journey ruled by inner faith and karma–-mundane it may sound yet he lived in peace and died in peace! With inner peace and contentment, he slept his final night on May 19, 2013, never to witnesses another dawn in this mortal world.

May his noble soul rest in peace in the heavens above.