Sreeraj Menon
(Sarvajit batch – 2007-10)

As it may have been the case for many, Ruchir Sir was not just one of my favorite teachers but also family.

It was in the year 2007, the month I had joined Brindavan Campus for pursuing my B.Com Hons. program. I recall we had a class unit test the next day and I hastened to the stores in the evening right before it closed to purchase a few stationary. I picked up what was needed and rushed to the billing counter only to realize I was 5 rupees short. Ruchir Sir said, “That’s alright Sreeraj, you take these and go back to the hostel as Bhajan’s are about to start”.

After bhajan’s were over, I saw Ruchir Sir near the Hostel Library on C floor and approached him to pay him back the 5 rupees I had borrowed from him. Ruchir Sir seemed a bit disappointed – he kept walking towards his room and after my continued persistence, he asked in a voice filled with emotion,” Will you return your elder brother money for something he buys for you?” I was equally taken aback by what he said. I said no, I wouldn’t. He said,” In that case this is no different”, smiled and closed the door behind him as he entered his room.

Since that day, Ruchir sir has been an elder brother to me and although I know he must now be with Bhagawan, I cannot possibly stop feeling sad recognizing that I will never be able to see his warm, pleasant smile ever again which is something you cannot miss whenever you visit Brindavan. The last time I met sir was in late 2019, a little before the lockdown near the snack stall just outside the stores and the memory of that brief meeting will remain etched in my memory forever.

May Sai always bless him with his presence and love.