In Memory of a Classmate Bandu, a gentleman par excellence

14 June 2021 07:01 am Views - 1211

Bandu and his family

 

On June 14, 2021, it would be one year since Bandu faded away from us forever. The clock ticks much faster than we think. His shadow remains to linger still. He has been a wonderful gentleman par excellence since I had known him. Our friendship goes back to 1974. Bandu, took no time to find friends at Nalanda due to his amiable personality and charm. He joined our class that was full of energy and mischief with juvenile power. Even as a classmate, he was a popular personality and this quality was very apparent amongst the cricket circles.   

His noble human quality continued to the society. Though he domiciled down under, he remained connected with us whenever he could. He never failed to revive the bonds whenever he visited Sri Lanka on his vacation.   
I am certain that he has created a void in the Sri Lankan community in Australia and mostly to his family. After Bandu’s demise the gathering that was present to pay their last respects with the ongoing Covid pandemic at the funeral ceremony in Sydney, validated the great life he had lived.  

"Though he domiciled down under, he remained connected with us whenever he could. He never failed to revive the bonds whenever he visited Sri Lanka on his vacation"

The eulogies were emotional and very touching that walked through the character and traits of Bandu as a husband, father, relative, friend, peer and a superior. All of the thoughts unanimously concluded, what a worthy personality Bandu was, and his life is worthy of celebration. Though his longevity was not to the expectations, it was a gorgeous and affluent one.  
Namali, Bandu’s lifetime partner and the three daughters Ranga, Lehana and Tiara, son-in-law Dasantha, and much-adored granddaughters Azalea Beatrice “Zelie” and Arabella Rose “Bella”, could rejoice Bandu’s superabundant life.   

Those we love don’t go away; They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, But, always near, Still loved, still missed, and very dear.
We have lost a dear buddy forever, impressions of him will linger endlessly, Adiós, amigo.  
May Bandu attain the supreme Bliss of Nibbana!