P Swaminathan
நான் என்னுடைய சித்தப்பா பி சுவாமிநாதனை (என் அப்பாவின் தம்பி) கிட்டத்தட்ட 10 நாட்களுக்கு முன்பு சென்னையில் இழந்தேன். என்ன நடந்தது என்பதை உணர கிட்டத்தட்ட ஒரு வாரம் ஆனது
I lost my Chitappa, P Swaminathan (my dad’s younger brother) almost 10 days ago in Chennai, India. It took me almost a week to realize what just happened. Rest in peace My dear uncle.
Appa in tamil means dad, Chitappa you were no less than a dad to me. You have been such a positive influence on me I will miss you. We will all miss you. May you rest in peace and shine the light on all of us from above.
Growing up as a child I fondly remember the innumerable trips to Chennai Royapettah house. I knew you were at that time teaching at the school of architecture, in Anna university. I would always be in awe when so many students from the school of architecture would visit you to take your guidance.
I remember fondly your love of architecture. Your handwriting in both English and Tamil can pass for a font of its own. Growing up, I was always fond of your stationery collection and you always let me take a few things from that like a Steadler eraser or sketch pen etc.In the many family trips we would do, I will cherish how the three brothers would sometimes wear the same color T-Shirt. There was always fun and laughter included in the trips.
I know you came from a tough background having lost your dad at such a young age. You really set the example high for us kids by showing what can be done with passion and education. You became the Dean at School of Architecture in Anna University which is no easy feat.
The love you had for Chitti, your kids and grandkids is a true example of how one should live life. You were always there for our family when there was a true need. For my dad, mom you were always a key advisor, a true and trusted friend and a lovely brother.
When my wife, Arati and my kids visited you many times in Chennai after my dad passed away we always came back feeling we met our dad. You made us laugh, advised my kids on ways of life. I always remember all my life that you have wished me every birthday of mine.
I cherish the last few calls with you when you would always take the time to talk to us. When my dad , Your elder brother passed away) you had written a hand written tribute which i read many many times. Here are the last few lines in that write up
You said and I quote“ When I met you last time you raised your eyes may be to tell me , I am going to go soon to be with god . May your soul rest in peace in that gods presence” .Loosely translated from Tamil.
I never knew a day would come in a few years when it’s your turn and I write a small tribute to you . May you rest in peace Chittappa. I will miss you, we will all miss you.
Till we meet again.
Lot of Love
Vibhu Srinivasan
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