The resounding “Jai Sai Ram” will henceforth be missed in Prasanthi Nilayam, now that our dear Anil Kumar Sir (fondly called as MAK) has left the physical plane.

Sir was not just a personality, he was a phenomenon; a unique and rare combination of devotion, humour, simplicity and deep understanding. He had the natural ability to bring in tremendous energy and liveliness, mixing laughter and message in one go.

Once we students were presenting songs in Sai Sruthi (Kodaikanal) in the informal setting and Swami joined us by playing talam. It was joy for all of us beyond bounds. After the programme, Sir exclaimed, “Swami, seeing you playing talam here, I am reminded of those old days when you used to play talam in Brindavan bunglow.” Swami gave a mischievous smile and whispered, “Yes, in this Brindavan (Bangalore) I used to play talam while in that Brindavan (Lord Krishna’s) I used to play flute.” Sir was overjoyed to hear this revelation and was almost dancing in ecstasy. He wanted to translate and announce it to for everyone but Swami tried to stop him. Sir, with folded hands to Swami, went on to announce, “I seek pardon from Swami for not obeying His command but I can’t stop myself from telling you a very important thing that He just said.” and then narrated the revelation in English. Swami, in reciprocation of that pure love from his beloved devotee, kept smiling and almost blushed.

Sir will be missed for sure but he will be remembered forever for his invaluable service which he did in many ways: teaching, college administration, live translation of Swami’s discourses, books, satsang talks and so on.

I recollect he getting emotionally chocked while sharing an incident from his life. In an interview, his mother expressed her concern about Sir’s future who had just joined Swami’s institute at a young age. Swami had assured her, “Amma, your son will be known by as many people as those who know Me”.

So true, dear Sir, you will be remembered and missed for ever!

Neeraj Acharya, MBA, 1997, Prasanthi Nilayam