Our Sanjeev Kumar is gone

In a large family, with quite a few good looking chaps, the question was never, “ Who’s the smartest?” For that matter, Ashok uncle stood miles ahead of others. The point of discussion always centred around whether he resembled Shashi Kapoor more or Sanjeev Kumar more, the two of the most popular stars of 70s! And he indeed loved to juggle with his looks by occasionally growing moustaches and occasionally shaving them off to keep the above discussion alive. 

But handsomeness was not his only quality. He was the pioneer of the family in investing in shares of good companies, much before the current rage of everyone joining the shares/Mutual Funds bandwagon and was an astute investor. However, he was satisfied with whatever he achieved professionally and led a peaceful, family oriented, relaxed life post quitting his job. 

There was another reason for him being slightly special for me in particular. He was exactly in the middle amongst 7 brothers and sisters. While those elder to him were too elder for me, my mother included, I clearly remember all his important life events – his marriage on 5/2/71, birth of his daughter on 9th November the same year, his transfer to Hyderabad, Rohtak etc. I remember almost all major events connected with his life. 

On the 21st instant, our Sanjeev Kumar decided to bid adieu to this world to undertake his journey to the heavenly abode. He was bereft of any major sickness but surrendered to a very severe assault on his health by a sudden ailment. 

Handsome yet reserved, savvy yet simple, but above all an endearing member of our family has departed, leaving all his nears and dears shell shocked. 

May your soul be in the most peaceful state Ashok Mama!