Vasan, my smiling friend

It is said ‘God recalls those with noble souls sooner.’ He recalled K.S. Vasan earlier than usual.

One day I visited the admin section to talk to (the late) Venkatesan. I do not remember the day, the date, or the year. Having finished the business, I turned to return when I noticed this ‘boyish’ young man on a nearby chair, scrutinizing a bunch of papers in front of him. He looked at me and suddenly stood up. He extended his hand, and with a broad smile said, “I am Vasan. I have recently joined.” We shook hands.

He was cute. His broad smile was cute. His gentle voice was adorable and reassuring. And instantly we became friends. I am sure he must have greeted all other colleagues in the same manner and they all must have become his friends instantly, too.

I had interacted with Vasan on innumerable occasions for various matters. He always had his ‘landmark’ broad smile and his voice was always gentle and pleasant. His small stature was inversely proportional to his large heart and big deeds.

Even after leaving TERI, whenever I visited the library (and information centre) (where I worked last), I used to make it a point to go to ‘the main building’ (that is how the main TERI block was used to be referred to by us ‘librarians’). Vasan was one colleague I never wanted to miss during such short visits.

One day I noticed a rather cute car in the parking. It looked like a toy car, but bigger than an actual toy. It was cute because it was shorter in length, breadth, and height than even the smallest car I had seen. I asked Mr Dogra, (the late) Dr Pachauri’s driver, who was watching me looking curiously at the car, who it belonged to. He smiled and said, “This is Vasan’s car.” Suddenly I said, “Oh, yes, I should have realized.” Curiously I went around the vehicle. It smiled at me - the same broad smile as its owner’s.

I believe God missed his smile and recalled him.

God, please give him happiness and peace wherever he is.

We all miss you, Vasan!