23 April 1973 - 8 December 2009The gentle giant is no more with us, having decided to move to the Highest Court at the early age of 36. Though he was my nephew and younger by a quarter century almost, we were more of pals. We shared many things in common: left-of-center politics, love for beer, the oddities, inconsistencies and contradictions that is India. One of the things that he gave up on the way was his fascination for Indian Railways. With his friend Tuan, he travelled from Pune to Delhi by train in 2007 and that finished his fancy for ever. I remember he was aghast at the teeming crowds on the Old Delhi Railway Station on the steaming night and soon as we were out of the station he threw up.
But apart from that he had begun a fond journey to his roots and had promised to visit India every year. Alas, it wasn't to be! My wife and I visited him in Cumberland along with my sister. I liked the quaint old feel of the town, though it had witnessed not too long ago the closure of industry. He had told us that the place was now coming up as a country of weekend homes for the influential people of the capital. We went to the Court building and the staff there was very pleased to show us around. Eddie wanted me to get a feel of the Judge's seat, but I was too deferential to the system and stayed away from it. In Eddie's office I saw a notice put up for the benefit of the Offenders whom Eddie used to defend. The notice told these guys to dress well and attend the hearing on time. It also spelt out what dressing well meant for both the men and the women. The degree of detail spoke of the concern which Public Defenders had for the defence of the accused.
After the visit to the Court, we went out for dinner at a restaurant, which spoke of a long history. Looking at the portions being served, we wanted to split things in what is referred to in India as one by two. But that was not to be. Eddie said that wasn't the done thing at least in Cumberland. So we returned to Silver Spring in an overfull state. That was a memorable trip, though a very short one.
Then we met again in Jan 2009, when Eddie had come home on a weekend. He drove us to Anirudh's place for a luncheon. It was a sunny day and we all enjoyed the drive and the lunch. Off and on there would be a mail from Eddie prefacing some interesting news and developments. But this one no one had anticipated.
Eddie was soft spoken and considerate and extremely devoted to his family. In leaving us all bereft, he took care not to cause disruption. He went out so swiftly that it is difficult to imagine his absence. Eddie, you are with us! And we are with you! May Peace, Force and Joy be with you wherever you are!
