Dear Mr Mahalingam, RIP

Mr. Mahalingam, Father of Krishna Kumar (Flat 3002)  expired on 30 July around 2.30 PM. He is survived by his wife, his son, daughter, daughter in law and his grandchildren, Vaibhav and Sandhya.

He probably suffered from both dementia and Parkinson’s.

I feel very sad and my heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved family . May his soul rest in peace.

Jayanthi and I have interacted with him and his wife Gomathi on many occasions  from the time both our families moved into SP.

At the time we moved in, around 20 months back, Mr Mahalingam was a  very active person. Early mornings at 6.30 AM  you could see him taking a brisk walk around the SP campus. And he would complete at least 2 laps and more.

A cane in his hand and wearing a a bright striped polo shirt, he would walk in short steps. And his eyes always glittered. Every time I passed by him during my morning walk , I would always raise my hand and utter a loud Good Morning !  And he would look up brightly, his eyes shining in recognition and give me a dazzling smile! 

And in a chill weather he would wear a monkey cap – but he still stuck to his morning schedule.

Slowly  I saw him losing his health. The morning walks became less frequent and his steps began faltering.  And I guess things became progressively difficult for him and he needed a full time help at home and during his short walks outside.

Once he stumbled and fell in front of Block 1.  Fortunately we saw him and rushed with our wheel chair and dropped him at his home.

And my dad (at 90+ years) used to sit with him and strike up a conversation every now and then

. Once my dad offered him a flower which he had picked up  near the children’s park. Mr. Mahalingam would not take it – and he rejected it  with a forceful comment ’Don’t give it to me. Give it to your girl-friend!!’

And another time, Mr. Mahalingam, gave a slip to the guards at the entry gate and walked off   bare footed and with a bunch of coins in his pocket. He said he was going back to Koramangla ! and when we asked him how will he go, he replied ‘ I will catch a bus!’ And it took some  persuasion from Jayanthi to bring him back to his home.

Sadly, over the last few months, his evening walks became fewer and shorter.  However each time I  passed by him and wished him, I was always rewarded with those twinkling eyes and a bright smile !

Sir , I will always remember you & your smile !!

And I am sure you have taken your smile along with you where ever you have gone  and you will be brightening up that place as well!

RiP Dear Mr Mahalingam. We will miss you .

Krish..