Tribute to My Friend Murugappan 883

Tribute to My Friend Murugappan Whenever I recollect the past, my memory always goes to my dear friend Murugappan. It’s truly amazing how a brief meeting during a short journey turned into a strong friendship that has lasted over four decades. At the time we met, he was working as the Branch Manager of a leading finance company. He had a great rapport with his clients and was well known in that area for his integrity and professionalism—qualities I deeply admired. We became close friends, and every Sunday we would visit the Ramakrishna Vedanta College in Mysore. We listened to Swamiji's inspiring 45-minute lectures through our Ramakrishna Seva Sangh. I still cherish those sessions and remember one of the powerful mantras: "Asato Ma Sad Gamaya." Apart from visiting the Ramakrishna Institute, we also watched a few movies together. Our similar way of thinking further strengthened our bond. He left Mysore around 1990 upon his promotion and transfer to the Madurai office. I left Mysore in 1993 and returned to India in 2009. In 2010, I had the opportunity to meet him again in Chennai—and to this day, our friendship and bond remain strong. Murugappan is known for his simplicity, his kind and helpful nature, and his deep-rooted values. He is blessed with a wonderful son who is doing well in business. I fondly remember sitting behind him on his powerful Rajdoot motorcycle between 1984 and 1990. I always admired his careful driving. With his characteristic smile, he would say, “Don’t worry, Sayaburey, I will take you carefully.” He hails from the famous Chettinad town of Karaikudi, where he is now settled. Sadly, he lost his beloved wife a few years ago. Today, I remember this wonderful and generous friend with great affection. I wish him continued peace, good health, and happiness—and all the very best to his son and family as well K.Ragavan 28-7-25