All who have known RAJU Jr ( also Dev, Devraj,Mahadevan,sometimes Iyer ) was a simple, passionate, kind hearted, hardworking, exceedingly charming go- getter, seriously concerned about others well being and still popularly acknowledged to be the funniest person around. He was able to effortlessly have everyone join him for a jolly good time. As many grieving people know about keeping a loved one's memory alive after passing away can be a difficult task, Raju jr passing away so early a decade ago was clearly unexpected causing unimaginable distress to the growing family and his loved ones.The one I fondly remember about welcome reception which was extended to me and Hema at L A Airport ( Before the Immigration Check) with Garland and Bouquet escorted by immaculately attired airport staff. I and Hema were hardly in a state to react or utter a word of gratitude. I was sure that they had picked a wrong person for never was I close to being a public or social figure nor did anything spectacular during the flight to earn such an ovation; we were infact wondering about the grueling time we had to secure a visit visa from the American Consulate Mumbai office. Raju Jr was endowed with such a capacity and trust that people around him would gladly do a perfect job for him. The voyage from Chatrapati Shivaji to Los Angeles was nothing short than the dream of Arabian Night folklore.Papered by inflight cabin crew, up gradation, gifts and parted with a bottle of champagne. This is how he used to shower his affection to one and all.
One of the most comforting quotes to me is one by Shakespeare " What wound ever did heal out of Degrees " Death is part of Life, the best we can do is share the grief. Raju Jr to us, admiringly,was like Christopher Columbus ; guided the younger aspirant of the family from one room tenement of Sion to the distant land of prospect and prosperity.
Kalyaniji ( aunty to others and Ji to me ) has carried the torch courageously and fulfilled the vision which Raju jr inspired- Kid Varun is now Dr Varun Iyer, Jr Eshan in University , herself a successful home maker, achieved singularly with strength and detemination. Anand, Vaidya, Jasmine and Archana have taken the mantle forward, Nischay cleared the first term of engineering from the Iowa State University, Nishant has a secured job. We are strongly bonded having our roots fully entrenched at Balaji. " CHEERS RAJU JR AND MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY" I am for this occasion uncorking the SINGLE MART GLENFIDDICH SCOTCH always remained your brand of present to me.
Best Wishes from Great Grand Mother to the youngest keyaa and Athreya.
