A friend to all and a friend of all

Nihal Ratnasiri hailed from a very respectable family and was a promising student and top ruggerite of the prestigious Lumbini Vidyalaya. His chosen career was in safety and security; in which, his burly figure, stentorian voice, intelligence, efficiency and bravery stood him in good stead. Although he was a terror when it came to duty at all other times he was essentially so kindhearted, humble, helpful and caring.

He was involved in the security aspects of the University of Sri Jayawardenapura. He was a Senior Security Warden and thereafter he had a stint with the national carrier SriLankan Airlines; serving in the capacity of In-flight Marshal.

On his return from France, he was recruited as Deputy Chief Security Officer to the prestigious World Trade Centre (WTC).

The Havelock City project comprises eight residential towers, a five storeyed commercial complex and four storeyed shopping mall. 

Nihal had his own “favourites” too! Yes, they were the elderly, infirm and those living alone. He knew them all by name, their apartment numbers and telephone numbers too. He was at their beck and call and ever ready and willing to help 24/7. Once he knew that I was living with my very elderly mother and that I was her sole care giver, we were on his top priority list and that was the beginning of a lasting friendship. He made it a point to visit my mother.

Nihal knew his onions. He had no need to bluff. He was a Jack of all trades and certainly a Master of his ‘Craft!’  He never watched the clock nor did he warm his chair! He rarely sat on it and if he did it was to attend to paper work or use his computer. He could easily squeeze in 12 hours into an eight hour shift! Nihal was not a “military man” but worked to military precision!

It was indeed a “pleasure” to hear him giving his “boys” a dressing down! Very many of his “boys” told me, with gratitude how much they owe this great man! Those whom he blasted were those who praised him the most!
There were residents, including myself, who would continue to seek his assistance all the time. That was the confidence we had in him. He used to solve problems in double quick time. 

He was devoted to his religion and helped the clergy and temples in numerous ways. He, together with his wife, observed sil at the temple on Poya days. He once mentioned that he was using his mother’s “Piruwānā Poth Vahansey” and that the pages were giving way now. Every time he whizzed past me on his motorbike he would take a U-turn and return to exchange pleasantries. The moment I introduced myself to his wife at the funeral, she quipped, “Aren’t you the one who gave him the “Piruvana Poth Vahansey”!

The words, “I miss him so much” coming from people like Dr. Senaka Dharmalleke and Dilkushi are ample testimony to what Nihal Ratnasiri meant to those who associated with him closely.

May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana!
Gajendran Marcandan