Born at Hailakandi, Assam into an affluent zamindar family--Maternal Grandfather enjoyed the status of Rai Bahadur up to 1940s. Dad, though son of a humble priest, was chosen as son-in-law for his character qualities. Nanaji’s assessment was spot on as I grew up emulating the traits of Dad & Mom. To Mom goes the credit for demonstrating humility, compassion and unconditional love.
Despite financial constraints, schooling was in a reputed & expensive public school, St Joseph's Academy (SJA), Dehradun. Blessings continued as soon after Senior Cambridge my career in Army started with joining National Defense Academy in 1958.
Barring 19 years of smoking I remained a teetotaler despite challenging pressures during initial years. Having experienced value of ethics during formative years, I followed principle-centered life style with rewarding feedback contrary to popular perception that honesty does not pay. Perhaps, choosing to remain a bachelor helped. Without intending to be supercilious I need to acknowledge with humility affectionate thoughts of one young Captain & a Lt General well after my retirement—“Sir you have been my role model”.
Post-retirement I was cruising along aimlessly dissatisfied with my perfunctory life style socializing and partying. Emotional and intellectual satisfaction dawned in April 2000, defining moment when I discovered my Purpose of Life on joining Doon Youth Centre . Since then the journey has been exhilaratingly enriching. In this eventful journey I enjoyed the confidence and trust of a special band of teachers who made no mistake in teaching me. Guess who? Students of course!
Reminiscences are much too unique to be withheld—compelling reason for launching this blog to share!
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