30th November, Delhi:
“D sahib is an honest officer”, “He
has been more than helpful and at times of adversity, he puts the most calm
façade”. From peons, drivers to the top brass of the cabinet section, words of
appreciation showered.
On 30th November 2013,
D sahib retired as the Deputy Secretary from the Cabinet Secretariat. An insider informs, “For previous baabu’s
retirement party we see a maximum of 30-40 people. But for D sahib, the numbers
ran into 200, Madamji”. Yes, it stands true that at the time of retirement you
receive nothing short of accolades and appreciation. But, how often does your
boss’s throat choke talking about you? How often do your junior staff’s eyes
well thanking you? And how often at a pooja are you called ahead, thanked and
prayed for a great retired life (from work). When words pour from heart it
reaches the heart.
D sahib helped one and all within
the limits of his powers. People mocked at his foolishness when he never used
his position for any personal aggrandisement. The same people today stand and
respect their D sahib on his retirement day.
D sahib’s principles thrived and his respect mounted with effort of one
lady – Mrs. D sahib (madamji). Mrs. D is his backbone, the pillar from which he
draws his strength and the sprinters block that pushed him forge his
principles.
As my parents step out of another
retirement party smiling with humility and simplicity, dad’s golden words echo
in my mind – ‘There are no short cuts to success and hardwork always pays’. I
thank god for blessing me with D sahib and madamji, whom I very proudly call my
dad and mom.
So now what next after all that nostalgia? There’s
no minute to waste, because it’s time to get ready for the second innings,
where Mr & Mrs. D sahib have to take
the Grand task of spending a Grand time with their Grandchild!
