Credits Data Collation Intros Sketches Concept, Design and Actualisation Type Setting and Design Printed atÂ
G Jayakumar Ramesh Babu B Mathew Dominic Gopikrishna K S Unib Graphics Akshara Offset, Tvpm. Ph: 0471-2471174
Dedicated to
890 Syam Kumar B
913 Ajith Kumar T M
Remembered in love, Mourned in absence, Tears can’t revive them, Hounoured be their memory.
932 Satish N
Foreword
S
ometimes, the best things in life come and go unannounced. When you recognize them with your new found wisdom, you feel their presence locked away beyond your reach, somewhere in the annals of time. They are tantalizingly close, yet distant, frozen in some glass warps of time. They keep teasing you and whet your desire to come and touch them, feel them once again. The Batch of 1979 boys and girls from Sainik School Kazhakootam felt this same intense desire about their school days. They were unwilling to sit back and suffer their longing. They decided to challenge time. What better way other than to re-live some of those blissful moments in the company of their good old chums and the families that complete their world! After several years of intense planning and cajoling, they gathered in the cool climes of nostalgic Ooty for a golden reunion. This book is a testimony and tribute to their journey through 50 years of existence on planet Earth. An affirmation of the undying spirit of friendship and brotherhood that is timeless. This compilation is not any book; it is our way of saying thank you for the beautiful gift of life that Almighty has chosen to bestow on us even without our asking. The book would have done its job, if it takes you back in time to the beautiful Kazhakootam campus where we lived the best years of our boyhood, unwittingly forging a life-long bond of friendship and togetherness that has sucked in the families too, over the years. Let us continue the journey together, holding on to each other, as we march into the twilight years of life, beyond fifty.
Ramesh Babu & Mathew Dominic 3
Veluthampi - 7 th Dormitory
Tagore - 4th Dormitory
5
1971
Sasi ran his way into the batch with his specs and crowned his laps with an 800m record that still stands. Was part of the batchmates who joined NDA but the run of life took him into a track of anonymity where he runs, not coming into view. We miss you, runner boy.
P Sasikumar
828
EV Thilakan
835
60 NDA. BA, Represented School in Athletics, 800 Metres record holder Email: psasik@thermaxindia.com. Mob:
1979
1971
The Peringottukara boy was destined to be part of the batch of 78-79, and bonded intimately with all of us, through the thick and thin of life. He excelled in volley ball and led the school team. Joined NDA and the army to retire and pursue a corporate career. Lives in Pune with Sudha and kids Priyanka and Rony. We are banking on Priyanka to elevate us to the “grand� stature. Address (O) Tata Communications Ltd, Alandi Road, Dighi, Poona, Maharashtra, 411 015, India, Ph. 092256 76869, (R) A-604, Surobhi Regency, BT Kawde Road, Ghorpadi, Poona, Maharastra, 411 001, India, (P) Eranezhath House, Peringottukara PO, Thrissur, 680 565, India, 0487 2391999 (pp). Administration, Admin Head, Army, Lt Col (Retd), 195 Field Regt, 60NDA. BA, MPM Poona University, PG diploma in Quality Mgmt System. Best Athlete 1978, Captain School Volleyball Team, School Blue in Volleyball, Distinction in MPM in Pune Univeristy, Qualified Lead Auditor. DOM 24/04/85, Sudha, Housewife. Ch Priyanka, 12/03/86, LLB. Ch Rony, 08/03/90, B Tech. Email: evthilakan@gmail.com, Mob 081499 95333 1979
7
1971
The gentle fellow from Ambalamugal led the pack, topping in the entrance examination. He maintained his leading and gentle ways at school, playing games, reciting poems, plucking coconuts and also studying (at times). ‘Roy Chakka’ was touted as a disciplined boy by Mr. NG Thomas the House Master until our man came crashing down with a pelmet box wherein he was hiding, in a Sunday hide & seek game. A colonel in the Army, married to Susan, Roy has by and large retained his leadership in life, except in case of dear Sarah. She is one of the youngest of gen next in the batch.
Roy Cherian Varghese
856
M Vinaya Chandran
857
Address (O) EDP, HQ AWHO, South Hutments, Kashmiri House, New Delhi 110 011. (P) Melel, 33/1314 A, Ponnurunni,Thammanam, Ernakulam, 682 032, India, 0484 2344881. Army, Engrs, Col, 60NDA. MSc, B Tech, House Captain, School Team Member Football, Basketball, Hockey. DOM 22/08/93, Susan. Ch Sara Maria Varghese, 14/01/00,. Email: mrcvarghese@hotmail.com, Mob 081307 47105 1979
1971
The Chanakya of the batch, who made many kings and stirred many revolutions, quietly staying in the background. Hailing from Peroorkada, his only public appearance was as the blind king- Dhritrashtra, in a stage play. Almost all adventures of the batch were planned by Vinay and the Indian Army continues to make use of the mastermind, now a Brigadier, for planning military strategy. Married to Beena, and proud father of Kannan and Shanku, two bright youngsters. Address (O) Directing Staff, Army Warfare College, MHOW, Madhya Pradesh, 453 441, India, (R) 1A, Bgavukam, Skyline, Dew Drops, Peroorkada PO, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 005, India, Ph. 0471 2432331, (P) Sivasakti, No: 17 NCC Nagar Colony, Peroorkada, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 005, India, 0471 2437571. Army, Brigadier, 61NDA, 71 Regular. MSc (Defence Studies), M Phil. Represented School Football Team, Attended HC Course 2005-06, Decorated with “YSM” (Yuddh Seva Medal) by President of India on 26/01/2005-Operations in Kashmier Valley. DOM 27/08/87, Beena, BSc, MEd, Teacher. Ch V Krishna Chandran, 26/09/89, B Tech (US). Ch V Anish Chandran, 28/07/92 Email vinaya_chandran@yahoo.com, vinaya_chandran@hotmail.com. Mob 075665 53247 1979
9
1971
Pisharody led life on a philosophy that did not exactly match with the rule book. But he managed to have a few followers at school that did not include his own brother Krishnakumar. A teacher in his native land of Perinthalmanna, Chandrasekhar continues to profess an out of centre way of life with many followers, including his brother. Usha is his inspiration, though she herself leads a quiet life.
MP Chandrasekhar
858
Ragdhu D
859
Address (O) GLP School, Thazkekode, West PO, Perintalmanna, Malappuram, Kerala, 679 322, India. (P) Rajamandiram, Kunnappally, Perintalmanna, Malappuram, 679 323, India, 04933 220973. Academics, Teacher, TTC, DOM 27/12/93, Usha, Housewife. Br R No:987 M P Krishna Kumar Email . Mob 097445 10473 1979
1971
The Parur man devoted most of his time and intelligence to a cause for the downtrodden, becoming president of a ‘Sabha’ and confusing the postman in the process. His interest in physics and mini-motors won ‘banging’ appreciation from the house captain and the doctor saw a few swollen palms the next day. He too had his brother at school. The corrosion engineer with outstanding academic records has a mind of gold and now puts it to use to protect Shell pipes in Huston, with soft support from Bindu. The kids Rohit and Asha think that he is a straight forward dad. Mercifully, they are unaware of his days at school. Address (O) Senior Staff Engineer, Shell Pipeline Co, Two Shell Plaza, TSP 1323, 777 Walker Road, Houston, TX, USA, Ph. 713 241 2364 (R) 15723, Sweet Rose Pl, Houston, Texas, 77095, USA, Ph. 281 855 3132 (P) Kamalayam, Kalapady, N Parur, Ernakulam, 683 513, India, 0484 2444448 Engineer, Corrosion. BE (Mech) REC Durgapur, M Tech (Corr. Engg) IIT. Prefect Nehru Srs, Green cards in Academics. DOM 09/09/91, Bindu B Tech., MBA, Software Engineer Ch Rohit, 02/08/94. Ch Asha, 30/12/98,Br R No:1755 D Govind Email parurman@yahoo.com. Mob 0017135697090
1979
11
1971
Swamy came all the way from Bombay with a bag full of pure-veg brains. His algorithm, devised to open a number-lock should have won him the Nobel Prize for ‘conflict resolution’. Adored by one and all for his academic excellence, he got away with many an adventure that would normally get you into trouble. Presence of his brother, Sathiavageeswaran at the school also helped. Swamy, like all intelligent Swamys had his sight fixed on IIT B and took the NDA exam to help the rest of the batch. Makes his living in the US, fighting for patents, but in peace and harmony with fellow patent lawyer Jyoti; with whom he has parented Shivram, Supriya and Supreeta. Address (O) Partner, Sughrue Mion, PLLC, Washington DC, NW, 20027, USA, Ph. 202 775 7542, (R) 11711 Roberts Glen Ct, Potomac, Maryland, 20854, USA, Ph. 301 552 3692, (P) 9113, Tallfield Ct, Lanham, 20706, USA, 301 552 3692. Patent Lawyer, Law, Engineering, Computer Science. B Tech (IIT Bombay), MS Ch.E (U of Akron, USA), MS (Comp.Sci, USA),, Doctor of Jurisprudence (Georgetown Law Center). House Capt. Ashoka Jrs,Defense Minister’s Trophy for Best Academic Performance 78-79, over 20 Green Cards in Academics (1971-79); Prizes in Quiz contests. DOM 04/07/91, Dr Jyoti Iyer, PhD, Doctor of Jurisprudence, Scientist, Patent Lawyer. Ch Shivram Iyer, 13/12/98, Hoover Middle School,Potomac Maryland. Ch Supriya Iyer, 09/01/03, Wayside Elementary School, Potomac Maryland. Ch Supreeta Iyer, 09/01/03, Wayside Elementary School, Potomac Maryland. Br R No: 667 S T Sathiavageeswaran Email Csubramanian@sughrue.com, Ciyer@sughrue.com. Mob
Chidambaram S
860
Abraham Simon
861
1979
1971
Simple Simonan played his way into the batch and played his way out of the school. The local lad was an uncontainable bundle of energy that got spent in the verdant estate and sprawling sports fields. The sports fields, trees and all of us relished the short stint of Siminan’s stay at school. All of us missed him terribly, thereafter. S/o Simon T Joseph(Retd) Q’ Section SSKZM
1979
13
1971
The pious Arya Central School boy was better known for the weekly supply of mouth-watering eatables his mother brought. The kind fellow distributed most of it and did not mind more of it being pilfered. ‘Eatable’ had a silent stay at school mainly with books. Now a professor of repute, Jaymohan stays at Kottayam with wife Dr. Anitha and Karthik and Kavya.
MS Jayamohan
862
Wilson Varghese
863
Address (O) Professor& Head, Dept of Mechanical Engineering, R I T (Government Engg college), Kottayam, Kerala, 686 501, India, Ph. 0481-2508453, (R) Kausthubham,Villa 16, Wexco Brookfield luxury homes, Adichira, Kottayam, Kerala, 686 016, India, Ph. 0481 2591340, (P), India. Academic, Engineering and Management, Professor and Head. BSc(Engg) Mechanical, M Tech (Industrial Engg), Ph D (Operations Management) IIT Madras. IInd Rank - AISSCE’79. DOM 26/01/92, Dr Anitha, Doctor. Ch Karthik J Warrier, 10/12/1993, Mechanical Engg NIT Calicut Kerala. Ch Kavya J Warrier, 05/02/1996, Plus 2 SFS Public School and Junior College Ettumanoor, Kottayam. . Email jmohanms@gmail.com, jayamohan@rit.ac.in. Mob 094463 60998
1979
1971
The boy from Brahmapuram showed his talent in the final years, to lead the Nehru House and bag the Naresh trophy. Nobody pinned any hope on the little fellow when he went to the catering school. Typical of Wilson, he proved all of us wrong and set up a restaurant that is most sought after, way down in Sydney. He does a thriving business of feeding people down under, and lives in Sydney with Sherly and the kids Anish and Slina. His brother Reji too was at the school. Address (O) 50, Spring Field St., Guild Ford, NSW, Sydney, 2161, Australia, Ph. 0061 2 97452261. (P) Parayil, Brahmapuram PO, Ambalamedu, Ernakulam, 682 301, India. Business. IHMCT, Adayar, Madras. Won Lt. Naresh memorial trophy for best House Captain` 78-79, Rep. School Football team. DOM 01/02/87, Sherly, Ch. Anish, Ch Slina. Br R No:1170 Reji Varghese Email sherlywilson@yahoo.com. Mob
1979
15
1971
The Mavelikkara man was with us for short while, but he made his presence felt through the numerous mango escapades. He had the unique knack of identifying the best mango on the best tree and getting it down with a single stone. His early departure was a great relief to the mango contractor but a loss to us.
K Radhakrishnan Nair
864
PG Ravikumar
865
Address (O) , India.(P) Kottapurathu, Cherukol, Mavelikara, Alappuzha, 690 105, India
1979
1971
Chakka Ravi led a quiet life and would have gone unnoticed, but for his size. None of us, including Ravi himself knew what he was up to, through the 7 years. But he surprised all of us, including himself, when he got into the NDA, in the first chance. The Arty man took a long shot all the way up to the land of five rivers to find Simi. Daughter Prutieksha. Address (O) NCC Directorate, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, 689 001, India. India, (P) Santushti, Puthenpura Annexe, Kuttemassery, Aluva, Ernakulam, 683 105, India. Army, LGSC,NBCW, Col, Artillery. BA.Served as ADC to the Governor of Sikkim, Served as Brigade Major at the Western Sector, Instructor Gunnery, Counter Insurgency Service in J&K and NE. DOM 09/02/89, Simi Khanna, Teacher, Model,Designer,Choreography,Make-up and Hair styling Specialist. Ch Prutieksha, 26/08/91,. Email rvpreeti@yahoo.com. Mob 095392 56340
1979
17
1971
Another Peruva man who enjoyed life and Asthma at school, in the most friendly manner. Thomachan played some football and made lots of friends, mainly from the younger lot of boys whom he almost mothered, as a house captain. His shy looks were famous and the lady teachers liked him for that. That was all a looong time ago. Thomachan now has a ‘continental’ physique that poor Anila takes good care of, and Christo adores. His consistent efforts on the group mail made the GTG at Ooty a great success.
Thomas Joseph
866
Prasannan K
867
Address (O) , Netherlands, (R) Schiermonnikoogstraat - 6, Amstelveen, 1181 HH, Netherlands, (P), Amstelveen, Netherlands, 0031627097143. Controller, Projects. Commerce / Controller Trainings. Prefect / House Captain Asoka Jrs, Under officer NCC. DOM , Anila, Finance Professional. Ch Christo, 15/06/88,. Email tthekkel@planet.nl. Mob
1979
1971
His quiet life at school was smooth like a whiff. You had to put in efforts to feel his silence. The banker, now living with wife Lekha and children makes an occassional appearance on the forum. Address (O) State Bank of Travancore, Kandallur, Kayamkulam, Alappuzha, Kerala, India, (P) Ananda Mandiram, Erumakuzhy, Nooranad, Alappuzha, 690 504, India, 0478 2382109. Bank, Asst Manager. BSc, DOM 07/09/92, Lekha,. . Email prasannansbt@yahoo.com. Mob 098470 23575
1979
19
1971
PBCB displayed a false sense of maturity that camouflaged all his extracurricular interests. The sub-junior boys he captained almost called him ‘uncle’. Not one to disappoint his little wards, PBCB tied the knot with Thara, sometime during a summer vacation. Young Vishnu and Aswathy are hence the senior citizens of gen-next. The lively banker raises a toast to any gathering.
Chandra Babu PB
868
Sankaran Kutty R
869
Address (O) Canara Bank, Konathukunnu, Thrissur, Kerala, 680 123, India, Ph. 0480 2860711. India, , (P) TC 15/404, Chandrathara, CSM Nagar, Edapazhinji, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 010, India, 0471 2720149. Bank, Computer, Senior Manager. BSc (Chem), CAIIB. House captain Veluthampi. DOM 07/04/85, S Thara. Ch Vishnu C Babu, 01/06/86, BSC (Nursing), Australia. Ch Aswathy, 22/05/90, B Tech. . Email pbcb868@yahoo.co.in. Mob 093493 55446
1979
1971
Kutty Sankaran was already a star, when he joined the batch. The movie star had a meteor like passage at SSKZM that was short-lived. But he left an impression, thanks to the role-play that he did from the movie for us in the common room. He too, like many other batch mates landed up in a bank and has kept in touch. His son Appu and wife Shobha are intrigued by the depth of affection he shares with us. Address (O) State Bank of Travancore, Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 581, India. (P) Indu Thara, 99, Mythri Nagar, Chengalloor, Poojappura PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 012, India, 0471 2356710. Bank. BSc (Chem).. DOM 15/11/89, R Shobha. Ch Appu, 30/08/90,. Email shobsan.r@gmail.com. Mob 085472 56710
1979
21
1971
The little fellow from Palakkad was a sober, silent fellow, until he got in to the boxing ring. His child-like disposition protected him through genuine mis-adventures, only to be wrongly implicated for something that he did not do. The fighter in him won that war. As an army man, he specializes in raising all girl battallions, with support from an all girls family Preetha, Pratibha and Pratyusha. Babu is a jolly good fellow who makes all gatherings very lively.
Babu Bhaskar C
870
Sivasankar C P
871
Address (O) CO, 3 Kerala (G) Bn NCC, Vadayattukara, Kollam, Kerala, 691 001, India, (R) Vinay Bhavan, VKRA-69, Vadayattukara Road, Kollam, Kerala, 691 001, India, (P) Raj Bhavan, PO Vettakad, Palakkad, 678 506, India, 04923 266565. Army, Col, 60NDA. MSW, PG Dip (counselling), School Boxing Team Member,. DOM 03/09/88, Preetha, Ch Pratibha, 01/04/90, B Tech. working in Accenture Ch Pratyusha, 14/10/97, Email babu870bhaskar@gmail.com, Mob 094950 75068
1979
1971
He was the only one in the batch to have a celebrated General as an uncle, though ‘Chichankar’ displayed no extraordinary valor of the sorts that often got boys into trouble. He lived a happy life, quetly participating in all the pleasures at school and had a bespectacled perspective of life. The hosiery man of Tirupur now makes an imprint on the OBA by subsidizing T-Shirts and knitwear for the alumni. Wife Bindu and son Varun have generously helped him grow in girth and wealth. Address (O) Bhavani Menon Garment Pvt Ltd, Vikar Square, SF 7A/3B, Chettipalayam, Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, 641 652, India, Ph. 0421 2351247/6450185, (R) 1/290, Souparnika, Vadyar Thottam, Chettipalayam, PN Road, TM Poondi PO, Tirupur, TamilNadu, 641652, India, Ph. 0421 2350217 /2351237, (P) . Business, Director. Radio Officers Course, DIP in Radiotelephony/Wireless. Prefect Nehru Srs. DOM 26/08/90, Bindu Sivasankar. Ch Varun Sankar, 29/10/92,. Email vibin@md3.vsnl.net.in, cpsivasankar@hotmail.com. Mob 098430 26890
1979
23
1971
The Konni man excelled in everything at school and was the natural choice for School Captain. His outstanding capabilities could not see him through to NDA, inspite of clearing SSB three times, with flying colours. The perforation in the ear could not be cleared even by acupuncture and Thomson became a technocrat. He has been generally elusive, ever since migrating to the US with wife Sarasu and children Edwin, Alwin and Jeswin.
Thomson David
872
Santosh Kumar K
873
Address (O) United Solar, Auburn Hills, Michigan, 48093, USA, Ph. 1248 476 1967, (R) 31787, Clarita Street, Livonia, MI,, 48152, USA, (P) Arapurayil, Attachakal PO, Payyanamon, Pathanamthitta, 689 692, India. Engineer. BSc Engg. (Elect), MS Computer Science, SM Engineering Management, MBA. School Captain, Captain School Football & Hockey teams, Best All Round Cadet, Capt of the TKM. College of Eng. Hockey Team, Rep. Quilon Dist. Hockey. DOM 09/05/88, Sarasu David, Senior Engineer. Ch Edwin David, Wayne Sate University. Ch Alwin David, Detroit Catholic Central High Scool. Ch Jeswin David. Email tdavid3@yahoo.com, tdavid3@alum.mit.edu. Mob
1979
1971
The Kundara Cadet found his calling in the Mrudangam and you couldn’t say who was playing whom, annual day after annual day. Ganapathy the gentleman joined the army and hangs on with his gentle demeanor. Wife Manju and daughter Vrinda. Address (O) HQ 166 Mtn Bde,, C/o 99 APO, India.(P) Santhosh Bhavan, TC8/984 Arayalloor , Thirumala, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 006, India, 0471 2351417. Army, Col, 7 Dogra, 60NDA. BA, MA (Def Studies). Captain School Cricket and Table Tennis Teams. DOM 29/05/88, Manju. Ch Vrinda Nair, 27/02/90,. Email santy_873@yahoo.co.uk. Mob 090028 57580
1979
25
1971
The intellectual rebel, Ajamlan was the right man at all the wrong places. Naturally brilliant, he could be a Bill Gates, if he had not chosen an armed forces career against sane advice. The contact person in Bangalore for his batchmates, he is now a Patent Attorney. We know that the Best of Ajay is yet to come; though Suma and daughter Pournami keep wondering why we have not yet lost hope.
Ajaya Prasad K
874
Jyotish Kumar K
875
Address (R) #301, SP Supreme Castle, 3rd Main, LN Reddy Colony, Vigyan Nagar, Marathahalli PO, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560 037, India, Ph. 080 25238927, (P) Kanjirakattu, Nedumkunnam PO, Changanacherry, Kottayam, 686 542, India, 0481 2416119. IN, Cdr (Retd), 60NDA. BSc, B Tech. House Captain - Veluthampi, Green cards in Academics. DOM 05/05/91, Suma, MSc, BEd, Teacher. Ch Pournami, 08/03/93. Email ajayaprasad@gmail.com, Mob 093419 31019
1979
1971
Famous for his long nose, linguistic skills and lively anecdotes Jyothish topped the batch to join NDA, winning the Kerala Govt trophy. We are proud of him, as the very first flag officer of the batch, though he maintains a stoic silence, very unlike the witty Jyothish we knew. Asha and the boys Rohit and Ankit too must be proud of him; and we hope that his stoic turn will take him places. Address (O) Naval HQ, DHQ PO, New Delhi, Delhi, 110 011, India.(P) Dwaraka, Dhanuvachapuram, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 503, India, 0471 2232835. Navy, Rear Admiral, 60NDA. MSc(Defence Studies). Top rank from SSKZM entrant to NDA- Kerala State Govt. Trophy, House Captain, Shivaji Srs.. DOM 30/11/87, Asha, Teacher. Ch Rohit, 15/03/89. Ch Ankit, 30/11/93,Br R No:1136 K Pradeep Kumar IRS,USA Email joe_coomer@yahoo.com, Mob 098106 80178
1979
27
1971
The first one to get off the train that took us home, the Kadakkavur man lived a quiet life, to be heard only through local slang. Now a KSEB man, Sunil has rejoined the bunch after years of hibernation. Wife Reena and kids Krishnendu and chandana who are youngest amongst our children.
Sunil Kumar G
876
Vipin I P
877
Address (O) Senior Superintendent, KSEB, Mangalapuram, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 317, India, (R) Jaya Bhavan, Malayamadom,, Kilimanoor PO, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 601, India, Ph. 0470 2672190, (P) Prabha Nivas, Thekkum Bhagom, Kadakkavur PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 306, India. Govt Service-State. BSc(Mathematics).. DOM 26/09/99, Reena Vijayan, Dist Coop Bank, Chadayamangalam. Ch Krishendu. Ch Chandana, Email govindansunilkumar21@gmail.com. Mob 094958 02128
1979
1971
The soft spoken VIP was the affable sort at school and continues to be so, quietly flying into the highest echelons of the IAF. Call on him and be sure of a great meal and lots of affection, from the entire family, including Mini, Sandeep and Nandita. Already approved for AVM we expect him to conquer the skies. Address (O) Attending NDC, New Delhi, Delhi, 110 011, India. India, (P) Indira Vilas, Venpakal, Aralumoodu PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 123, India, 0471 2222189. Air Force, Air Commodore, 60NDA. M Phil (Pol Sc), MSc(Defence Studies). President Radio and Electronics Club, QFI, Air Force Examiner, Commendation by CAS 1989 &1999, Decorated with “VM� on 26/1/2003. DOM 23/04/85, Mini. Ch Sandeep Nayar, 26/09/88. Ch Nandita Nayar, 29/08/92, Email vipnayar@hotmail.com. Mob 098717 23404
1979
29
1971
The tiny boy with the tiniest bucket in the batch, Venu went through the grind like all of us, in spite of his brother being a member of the staff. Continues to live very close to the school and occasionally gets in touch with school friends. Wife Manjusha and children, Gopikrishna and Jithin Krishna.
Venugopal D
878
Sreekumar V
879
Address (O) Malaria Contro unit, Valiathura, Trivandrum, Govt. Dispensary, Puthenthope, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 586, India.(P) V V Nivas, Kariyil, Kazhakootam, Thiruvananthapuram, 695582, India. Govt Service-State. BSc (Botany). DOM . 08/02/1992, Manjusha, Ch. Gopikrishna V M, 12/08/1993, Engg, Jithin Krishna V M, 12/7/ 1999 8th Std Email. Venus104@ovi.com Mob 098475 92309
1979
1971
Kuchidi came all the way from Ambala to entertain us with his limited Malayalam with a northern slang. His straightforward Gorkhali spirit of adventure often got him into trouble, being ‘caught’ for things that he actually did not do. Generally elusive, Sreekumar, the business consultant is a loss to the Indian Army. He retains his status as the most eligible bachelor in our batch. Address Thrissur, India. Consultant, Not married Email vakayils@hotmail.com. Mob
1979
31
1971
The intellectual came from Desamangalam to stay a vegetarian, resisting the temptation of beef and pork. He played chess and football and cracked differential equations. A successful banker, Kuttan makes occasional presence in the forum. Wife Sreeja, sons Anand and Vivek.
Neelakandhan K
880
Krishnan O P
881
Address (O) Reginal Manager, State Bank of India, Regional Office, Kottayam, Kerala, 686 001, India. India, (P) Kaplingat Mana, Pallom PO, Cheruthuruthy Via, Palakkad, 679 531, India. Bank, Deputy General Manager. MSc (Maths). Green cards in academics, Represented School Football team, ‘FIDE’ Rated Player in CHESS; FIDE Rating 2038. DOM 18/11/90, Sreeja C M, Housewife. Ch K Anand, 06/06/94. Ch K.Vivek, 15/01/02, Email neelakandhan.k@gmail.com, neelakandhan.k@sbi.co.in. Mob 094477 78704
1979
1971
Unni spent his time giving company to Santhosh on the Mrudangam and responding to “a plus b, Krishna the Mrudangam teacher ..........” from Mr Iyer. His squeaky role-play of Duryodhan gave a new interpretation to Mahabharat on stage. The retired naval officer is still at sea, often abandoning doctor Uma and daughters Namita and Nimisha at Kochi. Address (O) , India, (R) C-28, Jalvayu Vihar, Mundamveli, Kochi, Kerala, 682 510, India, Ph. 0482 2235403, (P) Ottur Mana, Durga Nagar, Chittur Road, Kunnathurmedu, Palakkad, 678 013, India, 0491 2522959. Merchant Navy, Long Navigation, IN, Cdr (Retd), 60NDA. BSc. Excellence in Academics (Receipient of Green Cards) House Captain Prasad Jr. DOM 19/10/90, Uma Krishnan MBBS, Doctor. Ch Namita, 28/06/94. Ch Nimisha, 18/04/97, Email opkrishnan@yahoo.com. Mob 093497 84308
1979
33
1971
Geo too was a tiny tot whose size gave him a natural advantage in getting away with some adventures that got exposed. The banker has stayed active in the forum and comes over to meet up all of us regularly from Muttom where he stays with Shinny and Meher.
Geo P Thomas
882
Kaleeswaran S
883
Address (O) State Bank of Travan core, Thekkumbhagom, Thodupuzha, Idukki, Kerala, 685 585, India, Ph. 04862 222512.(P) Pariyarath, Velliamattom PO, Thodupuzha, Idukki, 685 588, India, 04862 27675. Bank. BSc. Won Gold Medal for Top rank from College in English (BSc) Exam. DOM 30/10/93, Shinny. Ch Mehar, 13/08/94,. Email . Mob 097464 07770
1979
1971
The left handed Kaleeswaran was right in the middle of all the muddle and mischief, ranging from behind the dorm cricket to above the canteen erasor evacuation. The little time he had to himself was used to play the harmonium and to give away goodies that came from Kandiyur. The telephone man, hooked on to Saramma for life has Shalini and Sreekant as right numbers. Address (O) SDE (Bldg planning) BSNL Ekm,, BSNL BHAVAN, KALATHIL PARAMBIL Road, Near South Rly Stn. Ekm, Ernakulam, Kerala, 682 011, India, Ph. 0484 2376767, 0484 2376111 (fax), (R) “Sree Mookambika, 23/TNRA, Tagore Nagar Residents’ Association, Manjeri Lane, Eroor North P O, Kochi -682306, Tripunithara, Eroor, Ernakulam, Kerala, 682 306, India, Ph. 0484 2778 400, (P) Sree Krishna Vilasom, Kandiyoor, Mavelikkara, Alappuzha, 690 503, India, 0479 203330. Govt Service-Central. BSc.. DOM 15/10/86, MC Saramma, JTO Dept of Telecom. Ch Shalini, 06/09/87, PhD at IISc Bangalore. Ch Sreekanth, 09/03/92, B.Tech at Sahyadri Institure, Mangalore. . Email kaleeswarans@yahoo.com. Mob 094465 77840 1979
35
1971
He came with endearing folklore from Chathannur and lived a happy life at school. The happiness got passed on to gen next, as son Akhil also went to SSKZM. Now, retired from the army, Dileep is at Trivandrum with Suja, attending to domestic demands and managing security of a five star resort.
Dilip Kumar D S
884
Shajilal N
885
Address (O) Head (Securities), Nila Hotels Pvt Ltd, Kovalam, Kerala.(P) Deepalayam, Palamkonam PO, Venjaramood, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 607, India, 0472 2873096. Administration, Army, Col (Retd), 60NDA. Dipl II & Interpretership in Tibetan Lang (Dist.).. DOM 20/08/88, Suja. Ch Akhil, 20/07/90, SSKZM Roll No:4386. . . Email dileep884@yahoo.com. Mob 090486 94370
1979
1971
An uncle on the staff is supposed to make life at school smooth for you. But it could be stormy, if you were Shajilal and the uncle Shajilal’s uncle. Shajilal had this uncanny knack of finding himself in the eye of every storm and his uncle had the knack of putting him into one, even if our man managed to wriggle out of a few. He carried the cross for many of our crimes, but continues to be a friend to all of us. Smitha and Vivek and Vinay support the stone-crushing insurer who ensures his presence in everything we do. Address (O) Development Officer, LIC of India, Branch Attingal,, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 101, India, (R) Shibu Nivas, Kadakom P.O., Chirayinkil,, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, Ph. 0470 2623057, (P) Lal Bhavan, Eroor PO, Kollam, 691 312, India, 0475 2271849. Insurance. B Com.. DOM 23/08/90, Smitha. Ch Vivek Sanker, 27/06/92, Ch. Vinay Shanker,30/06/94 ,. Email shajichempolil@gmail.com. Mob 094464 51849
1979
37
1971
Utterly, butterly Nambeesan played some hockey, many pranks and watched a lot of movies as he economized on efforts at genuine education. Then he surprised all of us, to emerge as the only genuine scholar of the batch and today wins International acclaim as an economist. Wife Sreedevi and kids Archana and Ashwin, like all of us, are in awe.
Sasikumar S K
886
Ravindranathan C
887
Address (O) Senior Fellow , V V Giri National Labour Institute, Sector - 24, NOIDA, Uttar Pradesh, 201 301, India, Ph. 0120 2411022, (R) IV/3 Staff Quarters, VV Giri National Labour Institute,, Sector 24, NOIDA, Uttar Pradesh, 201 301, India, Ph. 0120 2412417, (P) . Govt Service-Central, Labour Economics, Professional / Academic. MA Ph.D (Eco). Rep. University College Hockey Team & Captain 1983-84 Team, Member, Study Group on Globalisation, Second National Commission Labour, Member, Labour Force Projections, 11th Five Year Plan, Editor, Labour & Development ( academic journal of VVGiri National Labour Institute), Authored nearly 30 research publications on labour,employment and migration. DOM 23/05/92, Shridevi, Home Maker. Ch Archana, 13/03/94, 12th Std, DPS NOIDA. Ch Ashwin, 03/06/2002, 4th Std, DPS NOIDA. . Email sasikumarsk2@gmail.com, sasikumarsk2@rediffmail.com. Mob 098188 93748 1979
1971
Choorakkattil was a normal cadet until someone discovered the pace bowler and runner in him, catapulting Ravindranathan into the hall of athletic fame. The banker on the move has been to many a city, leaving Prasanna teacher and the girls Ranjana and Ranjitha behind in Perunthalmanna. Address (O) Canara Bank, Pattambi, Palakkad, Kerala, India.(P) Sheethal, 1/451 A, Kidangil, Behind Presentation Convent,, PO Perintalmanna, Malappuram, 679 322, India, 04933 227072. Bank, Senior Manager. BSc, CAIIB. Represented School Team in Hockey, Football, Cricket, Athletics., State Schools Hockey Team Member, Went on deputation to Al Razouki International Exchange Co, Dbai, UAE an exchange house managed by Canara Bank. DOM 28/11/88, TP Prasanna Kumari, MSc B Ed, Teacher. Ch Ranjana, 03/10/89, BDS. Ch Ranjitha, 05/09/98, Email choorakattil@hotmail.com. Mob 094477 74111
1979
39
1971
He came with a design deficiency on the lower limb that helped him jump and keep the goal. Wrote Kunnamthanam stories in Kazhakuttom Cadet, the only book he ever read. The navy tolerated him for a while and handed him happily over to a PSU. Sudha the Air Indian and Anuroop and Ashwin are not as lucky, as they have to put up with him. As the old saying goes , his vices got transformed into virtues when he hit the jackpot and instant superstardom with his book of recollections “ After you sir”. The only published author of the batch with several books lined up in his long pipeline….including this CTB.
Ramesh Babu B
888
Jaison Jose
889
Address (O) Addl GM (Infra & SP), Mazagon Dock Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 010, India, Ph. 022 23750966, (R) 6, Sarin House, MDL Colony, Dockyard Road, Mumbai,, Maharastra, 400010, India, Ph. 022 23720075, (P) Palazhi, Kunnamthanam PO, Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta, 689581, India, 0469 2692315. Administration, Marine Engg, IN, Capt (Retd), 61NDA. M Tech (IIT, Bombay). Represented School in Hockey, Football teams, State level Athlete Naresh Memorial Trophy (Best House Captain-1978), Best Allround Officer in Basic Engineering Course, Commendations by Chief of Naval Staff, Secretary (Defence Production), Commander in Chief (WNC).. DOM 27/05/88, Sudha Ramesh, MSW, Air India. Ch Anuroop Ramesh Nair, 22/05/89, B Tech. Ch Ashwin Ramesh Nair, 26/07/93, Bsc(Eco) Email anuroop100@hotmail.com, anuroop100@yahoo.co.in. Mob 096193 22215
1979
1971
Slow with poise, Jaison had grace in his easy approach to life, even on the basketball court. Sajeev, his brother also played the game and both the brothers joined the Air Force. Jaison is our ground support to the IAF and Shiby, Nikhil and Naveen are his home support. Address (O) Air Force Station, Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 031, India. India, (P) Eroorickal House, Kadanad PO, Palai, Kottayam, 686 653, India, 0482 2248714. Air Force, Gp Capt, 63NDA. BA. Captain School Volleyball team, Athletics Dist team, House Captain-Shivaji Srs.. DOM 15/04/91, Shiby. Ch Nikhil, 15/05/93. Ch Naveen, 09/11/95, Email jaisonj889@yahoo.com, jaison889@gmail.com. Mob
1979
41
1971
The affable boy with a pleasing personality, Shyam was very much a part of the batch and everything we did. We lost the promising pilot to a tragic bike accident on 9/10/85 in Darjeeling. The endowment for top rank NDA entrant made in his name by his father, makes Shyam’s memory live on.
Syam Kumar B
890
Stanley Kurian
891
Address (O) , India. India, (P) , India. Air Force, Fg Offr, 62NDA... DOM ,. . Expired in a bike accident near Darjeeling on 19/10/85. An award instituted by his father to be awarded to the top ranking from school to the NDA in the Ist attempt.
1979
1971
Stealth, Silence and Surprise were Stanly’s core strengths. The Peruva man practiced all his surreptitious skills with such perfection that he could put a Ninja to shame. Many a military man of the batch owes his career to Stangly’s sign language that helped the batch score a record 99% success at the UPSC exam. The practicing politician and budding TV star is a loss to the Indian Army. He also works as a banker for the sake of Betty and the lovely kids. Address (O) State Bank of Travancore, Velloor, Kottayam, Kerala, 686 609, India, Ph. 04829 257122.(P) Koonanickal House, Peruva PO, Kottayam, 686 610, India, 04829 251376. Bank. BSc, LLB. Represented Kerala NCC contigent at Hyderabad. DOM 05/10/92, Betty, MSc B Ed, Teacher. Ch Bestun Maria, 05/01/94. Ch Cris Mary, 30/05/95, Email stanleykurian@yahoo.com, stanleykurian891@hotmail.com. Mob 094471 89100
1979
43
1971
The little man who is the big inspiration behind the old boy’s movement. His only claim to fame as a cadet was the prophetic statement made over a dropped Chappati. No one predicted that he would one day be a walking encyclopedia on the school and a prime mover of the OBA movement. The banker continues to manage our batch finances and Geetha and Sreehari are as much his fans, as all of us.
Jaya Kumar G
892
Anil M Kurian
893
Address (O) Canara Bank, Kattakada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 542, India, Ph. 0471 2290855.(P) Panchajanayam, TC 5/207, 231, Alathara, Sreekariyam PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 017, India, 0471 2593807. Bank. BSc. Represented School & College team in Football & Hockey. DOM 29/08/99, Geetha K Nair, Housewife. Ch Sreehari J, 26/05/00,. Auditor of OBA (88-93),Organising Secretary (93-2000), Treasurer (2000-2011) Email jayakumar892@gmail.com, jayakumar892@yahoo.co.in. Mob 094477 03807
1979
1971
Anil came with a bottle of Waterberry Compound followed by regular boxes of chocolates. He danced his way into leading the school in mass PT. The silent fellow with a smile is now a doctor in Sydney, practicing with wife Linnet and parenting Alan. Address (O) , Australia, (R) 2, Laura St., Glades Villa,, Sydney, NSW, 2111, Australia, (P) XLI/982, Arangath Cross Road, Pullepady, Ernakulam, 682 018, India, 0484 2367029. Doctor, Dermatology. MBBS, MD.. DOM 09/06/91, Linnet, MBBS, MD, Doctor. Ch Alan,. Email akurien@bigpond.net.au. Mob 09400963996
1979
45
Random thoughts from retirement Many scholars who delve into the relevance of the laws of science in societal interactions conclude that action and reaction are rarely equal though the two may be opposite to each other. A minor mistake, more often than not, gets severe punishment (deterrence!). Any mischief-maker could trigger a communal riot by desecrating a holy book and leaving it in the appropriate place of worship. Moby fury, police action, destruction of property, stoppage of work, closure of schools and colleges follow in its wake. The resulting trauma spawns retaliatory action. Many innocent lives are lost. Only the courts of law react leniently on the grounds of benefit of doubt and lack of irrefutable evidence. But the process is agonizingly slow. Setting up statues in homage to the memory of great men is a time-honoured tradition. When it is applied to controversial figures who excelled in polemics, sanctity is lost. When such statues need round-theclock protection, a comic element is also introduced. *** *** *** *** Gerontocracy is another source of discord especially in a vast country that is overpopulated, teeming with diverse religions, sects, sub-sects, innumerable languages and dialects. Politicians, long past their prime, refuse to retire in favour of the bettereducated, more energetic, well-qualified juniors. How nice it would be if oldies detach themselves voluntarily from their vocation and spend their twilight years in pleasurable hobbies, scholarly studies, silent, social, charitable work or in at least in spiritual workouts. The dubious dictum “old men should be rarely seen and never heard� is not irrelevant when they, with unexpected vigour, ridicule changing sartorial fashions, empowerment of women and the so-called depressed classes, emerging technology et al. They predict linguistic and cultural doom unless mother tongue becomes the sole medium of instruction not only at the primary levels but even in professional colleges, administration, for shop names and name boards for buses. Time has proved that linguistic feuds could easily
metamorphose into disputes about state boarders and sharing of river waters. Experts are of the view that in a vast, heterogeneous country like ours, recourse to a neutral, widely used foreign language could mitigate social and religious caste disputes, usher in egalitarianism and above all, induce upward mobility and economic progress. But this idea is not politically correct today and so, gets little publicity and support. For the vast majority of humanity, language and religion ought to be only support systems for a richer, more fulfilling, virtuous, service-oriented working life. But today, language and religion are the two chief causes for strife and bloodshed. *** *** *** *** One of the blessings for a teacher and student is the time they spend in a school or college, rich in infrastructural facilities and provision for cocurricular activities, free from social, communal and linguistic bias, and where knowledge, discipline and togetherness reign supreme. All these get further fortified by a harmonious synthesis of the best in the ethos of the defence services with their counterparts in the civilian sector. Our SSKZM is all these and much more. Its name and fame are the by-products of the quality of our alumni. Our 1979 batch has an unexcelled position in the way in which they met the challenges of drastically enhanced syllabi and extended school years. Their readiness to sacrifice pleasant pleasures and leisure for future success, inborn talent and self-effacing dedication, naturally culminated in glorious success inspiring their juniors. Warm felicitations to each of them, fond greetings to the wives and children. May outstanding success, happiness and prosperity ever remain their constant companions in all fields of endeavour! N B NAIR
1971
Brush the artist maintained the best bed and wrote honors boards. His good looks made him a mythological character at the tableau. The NABARD executive has retained those good looks and lives in Bangalore with Lekshmy and daughter Athira.
Ranjith Kumar K G
894
Balachandran P
895
Address (O) NABARD, Regional Office, Jeevan Prakash Annexe, JC Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560 002, India, (R) 27/10, NABARD Officer’s Quarters, Nandini Layout, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560096, India, Ph. 080 23196586, (P) 54, Abhaya Nagar, Peroorkada, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 005, India, 0471 2722397. Bank, Industrial Fisheries, Asst General Manager, NABARD. BSc (Zool), MSc (Industrial Fisheries), LLB(Gen). House Captain Nehru Jrs.. DOM 21/10/91, M Lekshmy. Ch K.Athira, 28/08/93, Bcom (Hons), Christ University, Bangalore. . . Email kgranjit@yahoo.co.in. Mob 094820 14930
1979
1971
BalC entertained us on stage as Bhima once and off-stage regularly with his instant wit with an Alwaye slang. He missed NDA by a whisker and joined the CBI. An active batch mate, BalC is in Delhi. Wife Jyothy who is a teacher by profession, created a unique record by becoming a college mate of daughter Anjali. Address (O) MDMA,CBI ,HQ, New Delhi, Delhi, 110 003, India, Ph. 011 24361162, (R) A-52, Pandara Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110003, India, Ph. 011 23071895, (P) Jyothy Nilayam, East Kadungallur, Aluva, Ernakulam, 683 102, India, 0484 2609304. CBI, Investigation, DySP. BA(Economics), LLB. Represented School Volleyball and Athletics team, Magazine Editor, U C College. 80-81, General Secretary, Rajagiri College 82-83, Best All round cadet, CBI, National Police Academy ,86, Worked as UN civil Police officer in KOSOVO. DOM 27/01/91, K L Jyothy, MSc,B Ed, Teacher. Ch Anjali, 02/01/92,. Email pbala61@yahoo.com. Mob 099583 44805
1979
47
1971
The all-rounder from Thalayolaparambu was a trail blazer on the obstacle course. He could run the course two times over, when most of us found it tough to do it even once, in the allotted three minutes. George talked less and kept a soldier’s demeanor. The army man has shifted turf to the public sector at Mysore, along with Shiny and the children Jacob and Catherine.
George Jacob
896
Ravi Balraj
897
Address (O) BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Ltd), Mysore, Karnataka, India. India, (P) Vayalil, Thalayolaparambu PO, Kottayam, 686 605, India, 04829 2636239. Administration, Army Col(Retd), 10 Assam Regt, 60NDA. BA, MSc. House Captain Prasad Srs. School team in Football, Hockey, Athletics. DOM 31/05/87, Shiny. Ch Jacob, 23/02/89, Engineer. Ch Catherine, 22/02/95, Email geocob@gmail.com, georgevayalil@yahoo.com. Mob 081976 47313
1979
1971
Ravi, the shy artist was a late entrant to the athletic arena. But he pounded his way into the sprints, winning them with his spectacles on. The chemist turned mushroom farmer works in Ootty as Chandini stays back at Coimbatore, bringing up Kiran and Roshni. Ravi is the inspiration behind the Ootty GTG. Address (O) Nilgri Fresh Produce Co., Chempaka, Butfire, Finger Post, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, 643 006, India, Ph. 0423 2441507, (R) FOJ, Jain Cambrae east, Avinashi road, Peelamedu, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 004, India, Ph. 0422 4272303, (P) Sai Vihar, III mile, Ponniam West, Tellicherry, Kannur, 670 101, India. Farmer. MSc.. DOM 01/05/88, Chandini, BA, Travel Executive. Ch Kiran Ravi, 26/01/90, B Tech. Ch Roshni Ravi, 30/11/94, XII class. . Email ravibalraj@hotmail.com, ravibalraja@yahoo.com. Mob 097877 08801
1979
49
1971
Gopal made Udayanapuram a talking point in Mr Iyer’s class, though the master could not light up the musician who lay dormant in the little fellow. The naval architect did a small stint with the navy design centre and shifted to California with wife Lata and kids Aishwarya and Raghav.
Gopalakrishnan R
898
Dileep M
899
Address (O) 14450 NE 24th Place, #217,, Bellevue, Washington, 98007, USA, Ph. 1 4258617977, (R) 13206 NE 93rd Street, Redmond, Washington, 98052, USA, Ph. 1 4258984002, (P) Aiswarya House, Vazhuthanakkadu Road, Vaikkom, Kottayam, 686 143, India, 04829 225951. Marine Surveyor, Naval Architect. B Tech (Naval Architecture & Ship building). 2nd Rank in AISSE 1977, 3rd Rank in AISSCE 1979. DOM 05/02/90, Lata Nair, MA, Accountant. Ch Aishwarya Nair, 22/09/90. Ch Raghav Nair, 25/02/92, Email rgnair1312@yahoo.com, rgnair1312@hotmail.com. Mob 12062719433
1979
1971
The promising boxer stayed generally silent during the four years he was with us. Dileep was also a silent explorer trekking the school estate at odd times. Has not been in touch for many years but we know that he is doing well, somewhere in the Middle East. Address Dubai, UAE, (P) Puthen Bunglow, Elampuzhannur PO, Kadakkal, Kollam, 691 536, India. Business.
1979
51
1971
Kochu Prem had his bed in the farthest corner of the dormitory and it took a while for him to come into the main stream. His boyish innocence made him a favorite of the lady teachers. The banker still retains that boyish appearance, though one is not so sure of the innocence. Works in Coimbatore and stays there with Usha and son Sreehari, as daughter Kalyani is pursuing her academics back home.
Prem Kumar S
900
Hari K P R
901
Address (O) The South Indian Bank Ltd, Big Bazar Street, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 001, India, Ph. 0422 2398081, (R) House No.51, Ist floor, Balasubramania Road, State Bank Colony, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641039, India, Ph. 0422 2443190, (P) TC 7/954-6, Sree Ushus, Maruthankuzhy, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 030, India, 0471 2361679. Bank, Senior Manager. BSc, CAIIB, LLB, PGDCA, MBA.. DOM 09/07/89, Usha Devi M S, Housewife. Ch Kalyani Prem, 04/08/90, MBBS. Ch Sreehari Prem, 25/01/96, XII Class. . Email premsurendran@gmail.com, premkumars@sib.co.in. Mob 094896 75056
1979
1971
The daredevilry of a spirited soldier was always evident to all of us in everything Hari did, right from the boxing ring to the coconut trees, through the football and hockey field. The valiant soldier proved us right, winning a Vir Chakra in the Kargil Heights. We are proud to be your batch mates Hari and keep wondering how Malini, Siddharth and Meera manage you. Address (O) ,(R) Flat No:45, Defence Officers Enclave, No.1 Chamiers Road, Nandanam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 035, India, (P) Hari Vihar, Sreemoolam Road, Kumarapuram, MC PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 011, India, 0471 2436816. Army, Infantry, Col, 61NDA. MSc (Defence&Strategic Studies). Represented School in Football, Hockey, Cricket, Boxing, Admn. Officer of Mil school Chail, UN Peace Keeping Force in Somalia, Participated in Kargil operations and instrumental in the capture of Jubar Hills, United Nations Mission in Congo (MONUC), Decorated with “VIR CHAKRA� by President on 26/01/2000. DOM 23/01/87, Malini, Housewife. Ch Siddharth H, 22/03/88. Ch Meera H, 14/04/91, Email harikpr@yahoo.co.in. Mob 094453 94882
1979
53
1971
The big man from Bhopal, the ever-jovial Josey smiled, laughed, painted and proved the ‘inverse’ growth theory by turning out to be one of the smallest guys of the batch in later years. The big size of his heart, smile and sense of humor have stayed, despite all the reading, a stint in the army and taking flight to Nigeria. Dr Alice has not been able to make him alright; and Divya and Sneha, like all of us, love him the way he is.
Josey Joseph
902
Mohan Kumar D
903
Address (O) , Nigeria, South Africa, Ph. 2347082105665, (R) Flat No:227, B-2 Cauvery Block, National Games Village, Bangalore, Karnataka, India, Ph. 080 25716538, (P) Kovukunnel House, Manthuruthy PO, Nedumkunnam Via, Kottayam, 686 542, India, 0481 222903. Administration, Army, Lt Col(Retd), ASC, 60NDA. BA, MBA (Cochin University ). House Captain Nehru Srs.. DOM 17/08/87, Alice Joseph, DHMS, Homoeo Doctor. Ch Divya Joseph, 03/11/88. Ch Sneha Joseph, 04/11/90, Email joseph_josey@yahoo.com. Mob 094485 33211
1979
1971
Mohan Kumar was a softie whose only act of adventure at school was to shave one arm-pit in the eighth. He enjoyed a quiet life, playing football, making pictures and captaining little sub-junior boys. The navy pilot showed his love for a batch mate by straying away from his flight path to display helibatics at his wedding. Now out of the navy but still flying, Mohan stays at Mumbai with wife Surekha and kids Aishwarya and Adarsh. Address (O) Global Vectra Helicorp Ltd, Hangar C- He/Hf, Juhu Civil Aerodrome, Mumbai, Maharastra, 400 054, India, Ph. 022 61409200, (R) 107 Natasha Towers, Juhu versova Link Road Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharastra, 400 061, India, Ph. 022 2631 3310, (P) 2/1232 , GRA 244, Lakshmi Nivas, Kottara Lane, Gowreesapattom, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 004, India, 0471 2445606. Aviation, Pilot, IN Cdr (Retd), 60NDA. MSc.. DOM 07/06/89, Surekha. Ch Aishwarya, 09/06/92. Ch Adarsh, 27/04/96, Email dmku7@yahoo.co.in, dmk903@yahoo.co.in. Mob 098960 39029
1979
55
TOUGH PEOPLE LAST Col N balan
As the rain pour down incessant, Swelling the waters to flow in torrent, Whirling and swirling you in its current, Here and there without any relent, Strong is the wind, high is the tide, Upon merciless waves you do ride, Lonely the stern, gloomy is the night, Full with many phantoms to fight, Twisting, meandering, choppy the sea, Daunting and tough as far as you can see, Take it head on, sail on you must, Until the port, you shouldn’t rest,
Clouds of doubt will vanish next day, Sunshine awaits you a little away, Rough it alone, only the strong shall win, Voices of the meek will be lost in the din, The peaks are high, yet always scaled, The seas are deep yet steadily sailed, Nothing is easily won nor begot, Rest never on laurels that past brought, Tough are the courses, which are seldom tread, Dithery to chart, whence holds your stead, Opportunities will come if not create a tonne, Roads shall beckon, if not trailblazer one.
ME A NURSE!!!
Vishnu C Babu
I am a nurse Got in this course, by not force As I have a lot of source Understood that it is not simple As picking a purse Something happened to me! But can’t be expressed in words!
He was rushed to the hospital Doctor said operation is vital His parents came without any capital Saw them become sentimental As the time was very crucial I feared they would become mental Because they cared the child as a beautiful petal
I witnessed an accident It was a horrifying incident No tooth was lost during that accident As he must have been on pepsodent I rush to the incident self-confident As I was thorough with nursing content The victim was a kindergarten student Yeah! … A UKG student that’s what I meant The ID card really proved that it was evident
The student got ready for an operation I saw the nurses doing preparation I joined the same boosting the coordination, As I have a good crave for education The operation went with lot of cooperation It involve more of instrumentation I peeped outside and Saw his parents under deep tension Ooops…! forgot to mention.
His father, a poor army man getting pension Thank God! The operation went without any interruption The child was saved due to the timely intervention He remained free from all complication The operation went to its completion I woke up the child with provocation For administration of an injection The child yelled “no more irritation” The child was shifted to pediatrics for observation The child came to the pediatrics It involves lot of tricks To handle those freaks I managed to calm him with building block bricks When he was done he started his kicks The glass kept near was shattered to bits He calmed down, as his mother gave him A beautiful kiss! After few days, the child got discharged I saw the child saying good-bye to the in-charge
I saw the child from a mile I think it’s been a long while The child came near and gave me a smile I stood near him without any style As though his face would never go pale Our relation was no fragile I am a nurse molded for care Not that, I have a crave for fare I am calm and quite as a beautiful hare I am looking for a beautiful pair After every thing, I could think of my past Sitting in a chair The smile the child gave me Was truly the biggest fare “I AM A GOOD NURSE, I SOLEMNLY SWEAR! BEARING EVERYTHING FOR CARE IN EVERY WARE AND TEAR”
Vijaya Kumar A R
904
1971
Muraleedharan V
905
1971
Shajilal K
906
1971
‘Vellappatta’, the handsome fellow was a champion chess player who could also play good cricket. We hear he is a Chartered Accountant in Mumbai, but surprisingly out of touch…
1979
Address (O) , India.(P) Aimury Variyam, Koovapady, Perumbavoor, Ernakulam, 683 542, India. Chartered Accountant. BSc, CA. Good Chess Player.
He liked to enjoy life in all its forms at the school and found the 275 acres falling short for his needs. The inviting sands of Varkala pulled him away, but he keeps in touch. Now working for Federal Bank and staying in Varkala with wife and kids Address (O) The Federal Bank Ltd,, Chirayinkeezhu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.Ph 0470 2640263 (P) Oottukuzhi, Puthan Veedu, Chemmankode, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 141, India. Bank, Manager. BSc (Agri).. Mob 9496151904
He could jump real high and spike the volley ball, but his record breaking highjump got disqualified for the style. The stylish gymnast with a broken tooth went missing after school, never to be traced. Rumor has it that he is somewhere in the High Ranges. Address (O) , India.(P) Kaipanel House, Poungottu PO, Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam, India... School Volleyball, Football, Athletic & Gymn Team Member.
57
The Second Coming Suraj Singh gazed vacuously at the dark and forlorn night. It was nippy and eerie simultaneously at the post. The ambience wore a look of uneasy danger. It was never easy to presume when the situation would mortify in to dimensions that it was really difficult to linear as to how it would manifest. Suraj Singh was mortally afraid of death. Not the pain of death, but death itself. Death would actually mean the end of his miseries, but he was really afraid as to what would happen of his people, his daughters, wife and his very young son. The very thought of his family, whom he loved so dearly, would steep him in an uneasy depression, a moment not too soon. Their responsibility so heavily weighed upon him, that it was the quintessence of all his actions at one moment and froze him to inaction the very next instant. His emotional vectors often would vacillate rapidly and uncontrollably. Life was a mere oscillation between tribulations and trepidations. He hailed from a remote village in Rajasthan. He belonged to a family that had passed on poverty from generation to generation. He had some land which was periodically mortgaged to meet the dire necessities of his family and incessant demands of his relatives. Long back he had run away from home to join the army, only to be forced later to return to assume the ever burgeoning responsibilities. He had got his sisters married, managed to build a two room brick walled house in which his family struggled to live. His family toiled day and night to keep the village bania at bay. It never ceased to amaze him as to how the people whom he saw on TV in the information room, had all the time in the world to be happy and tranquil, yet have all the money too. His pay was never enough for him. He had yet to get his daughters married .Though his sisters were married, their husbands would regularly send them home with some stipulate or the other. Despite the intense slog by his family round the year and by him during his meagre leaves, the farm yield would just not suffice to feed them. His son was too young to assume any responsibilities, born to him after the heart breaking birth of his two daughters. Things were never easy. Perhaps only death could salvage him from his ceaseless burdens. And it was too early to die. Mostly he was not really eager to go on leave. He had to go on leave because had to discharge some responsibility or the other. The spectacle of his frail and sickly wife and his growing daughters only fuelled hi s distress. He never sought to drown his sorrows in drinks because he could simply not afford to. His wife never complained but her eyes spoke of the unfathomable melancholy. Living on, seemed to be the principal predicament of life. He nursed the rifle gingerly. It seemed to weigh heavily in his hands. But he knew that it is this weapon that would eventually save him when it most mattered.
He had no friends. There were of course his platoon mates, his seniors and other men. His senior JCO and his CHM were never pleased with him. He felt that they were almost always hounding him. The CHM would forever and a day give him stares and never really missed an opportunity to rebuke him. The CHM would at all times give him the most knotty tasks and never really assisted him in any way. The platoon commander was also the senior JCO and he and the CHM seemed to be in league. He had often heard them discuss him and they forever kept him busy. He had to really evade any confrontation with them because he was due for promotion the next year. He did not really know his company commander and in any case sahib was too divorced from his world to care for him. He had Chandan Singh in his platoon, a young recruit of hardly two year’s service, who belonged to a nearby village to his. That the boy remained reticent and aloof from him did not help anything. Perhaps the young recruit too, knew of his misery and kept away from him. Suraj Singh looked pensively at his weapon. It was the only real companion he had .His redeemer from danger. It never ever demanded anything from him. He held it closely to his body. He stared in to perpetuity probing for concealed dangers. He reviled his brother in law. It was with great effort that he had got his sister married to that fellow. His brother in law was a chapraasi in the irrigation department and that meant a hell of a lot to the family, that his sister was secure. But Suraj Singh had to strive very hard to keep his brother in law content. The chap would hoist stroppy demands on him, probably with the connivance of his sister, of which he was quite certain. The fellow also had a lecherous look which used to linger on Suraj Singh’s wife for more time than that decorum would sanction. During the last leave Suraj Singh had noted with trepidation that the brother in law’s eyes roved over Suraj Singh s elder daughter, hooded with unconcealed desire. Suraj Singh wanted to strangle his brother in law to death. Just like he had felt seventeen years ago, when he came on his first leave after his marriage and was told by his wife of the unspeakable. Being away from the family for long periods did irreparable damage to a soldier’s life. His heart grew heavier than his rifle. Immense sorrow and self pity swept through him. Tears streamed down his weather torn cheeks. He felt like as in the middle of an ocean with all gloom around him. There seemed to be no open end to his miseries. Except death....... He drew his rifle close to him. Deliverance was so close to him. It could alleviate him of all miseries in no time. Squeeze of the trigger..., as one would squeeze the lemon...And it would all be over. He cocked the rifle tenderly. The sound of the moving parts was so very audible. He eased the bullet in to the chamber. Was there a second life? A second coming? It was a very poignant question. If he had a chance to live his life again, then would it be any better? Perhaps yes; perhaps no. He was not very sure. His fingers closed around the trigger. He closed his eyes.
1971
Alex the athlete set the tracks and field ablaze, each time he got in there. The Amburi man was all muscle and that made him the ‘Mr Batch’. Manohar his elder brother, is a brigadier. Alex was cut to be an army man, and that is what he became. Now on a mission abroad. Wife Denise and kids Catherine and Amy
Alex Thomas
907
Rajeevan T
908
Address (O) , Kabul, Afghanistan, (R) E203, Vivek Vihar, Sector 82, Noida, NOIDA, Uttar Pradesb, 201301, India, (P) Tresalayam, Amboori PO, Via Vellarada, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 505, India, 0471 2245255. Administration, Army, Lt Col(Retd), 3/5 GR, OTS 42. BA (Economics). Represented School in Hockey, Cricket, Football, Athletics teams & Kerala University, Command Football team member 1989-91, Commendation Card ‘92,. DOM 04/06/88, Dennise Alex. Ch Catherine Tresa,, 05/07/89. Ch Amy Clara, 24/07/99, Army School, Noida. . Br Roll No: 696 Col Manohar Thomas Email alexthomas45696@gmail.com, alexthomas696@yahoo.com. Mob
1979
1971
The only one in the batch to own a camera and have a steady girl friend, Rajeevan funded many an escapades in the Ashoka house. The pilot continues to fly, with Dr Vidya, the girlfriend turned wife still in company and Radhika, the infy as the booster. Address (O) Ops 1 A, Southern Air Command, Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 031, India, (R) 144/2 Bhima Towers, SAC Officers Mess, Chitralekha Complex, Sreekaryam, Trivandrum, Kerala, 695017, India, Ph. 4712555501, (P) Ram Nivas, Near Old Post Office, Payyanur, Kannur, 670 307, India, 0498 2502026. Air Force, Fighter Pilot, Gp Capt, Southern Air Command, 62NDA. BSc, MSc (Defence Studies), Mphil.Figher Combat Leader, DSSC, Higher Command Course (Army), Commanded a MIG-29 Squadron, COO Jamnagar, Station Commander Memora Lucknow,, CCM (Honolulu), Decorated with “Vayu Sena Medal” on 26/01/2006. DOM 30/04/87, Vidya Rajeevan, Doctor. Ch Radhika, 26/09/88, BE (Comp Science), Infosys Chennai. . . Email radviraj@yahoo.com. Mob 8547894278
1979
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He saw the dead eyes of his wife. The anguished face of his barren sister. The terror stricken eyes of his young and vulnerable daughters. What would become of them? They had nobody except him. Without him, their lives would wither away in the wanton hands of the world. He slowly pulled his rifle away. He had to live. There was no way he could die. Not now, certainly. He stared in to the darkness languidly. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The CHM was restive in his bunker. The company commander had summoned the senior JCO and him to confer about an imminent operation. A militant group was around the area as informed by a trustworthy source. The company commander wanted to launch a search and destroy operation and was choosing his team. When asked for a good NCO the CHM and the Senior JCO had unanimously suggested Suraj Singh’s name. The company commander had articulated apprehension over Suraj Singh. He reiterated that something seriously troubled Suraj Singh and all was not well with him. His eye seemed like dead fish. Now that worried the CHM. He depended upon Suraj Singh so heavily that he always gave Suraj Singh the toughest tasks. He had pressed the company commander on the name of Suraj Singh as the ideal choice for the operation. Now he felt that he must pepper up Suraj Singh to the impending task. He wore his cap and moved out to locate Suraj Singh in the post. “Suraj Singh...!� The CHM yelled out in to the nothingness. Suraj Singh was rudely surfed up from the cesspool of his thoughts. It was the CHM again...Damn him! It was the same old story. The militants had infiltrated in to the proximate areas. There were looking for targets to wreak retribution in retaliation to the successful military operations elsewhere. There were around ten of them. His company had to launch a search and destroy operation. Suraj Sigh would of course have a key role in the whole plot. His platoon would lead the search operations. Suraj Singh sighed deeply. Surprisingly the impending danger of the whole thing somehow mitigated his pain and problems. He looked at the CHM nonchalantly. The CHM looked in to his eyes. The moistness in their eyes that germinated from years of comradeire in hazardous and hard conditions was unnoticed to each other. The platoon had blundered along the mountainous jungle for about ten kilometres. They had now entered in to a narrow re-entrant amid coppice with a few trees hemming the wet slopes. It was ostensibly tranquil but Suraj Singh knew instantly that something was amiss. Seriously amiss. He looked around desperately at his platoon. They were of course blissfully nonchalant, deeply submerged in the stoic stupor of their own mundane world. Where was the danger? He did not have to search really hard. The danger was right there. In a few fleeting seconds that thundered like eternity, the place was reverberating with incessant bangs of gunshots and resonant shrieks of humans. The vacant calm
was now filled with violence that smelled of gunpowder and blood. Beside him Sepoy Virender Singh dropped dead. Suraj Singh stared for a fleeting second in to the inert form of Virender Singh. Next moment Suraj Singh was on the ground, grabbing his inanimate rifle, galvanising to rapid action and spitting fire in to the thickets. Suraj Singh assessed the situation with surprising calm. He was well perched behind a chinar tree. The tree was thick enough to shield him from more angles of fire than less. The nearest soldier around him was Devender Singh, who was a clear twenty five feet away. Suraj Singh looked around feverishly for the militants. There were only bushes that he could glimpse amongst the speckled crops of small rocky stones. Rifle fire chattered repetitively from the bushes and rocks. He carefully tried to locate these targets amidst these bushes and rocks. It was startling to him that during training he always fired at red and black papers pasted on metal sheets in the ranges, where as in combat situations targets manifested in other forms. Gradually he could identify three locations of the militants. He aimed carefully and shot at one of the bushes. It moved a bit and then no more fire came from there again. Tally one, he thought. He scanned the ground again. A second bout of firing and the second militant went down. He looked at his rifle reflectively, a weapon that would have signed off his life in to disgraceful oblivion a few moments ago, would now become his saviour. Bullets still whistled around him. He returned fire with a dispassion fuelled by a bizarre feeling of serene calm that seemed to overwhelm him. He was s no longer vexed about his daughters, nor his family and the attendant miseries. Nothing would vex him at this moment. Suraj Singh shot down a third militant. It was then he realised that he was the lone one in the direct action zone. His comrades were a little too far away from the re-entrant, far enough not to influence the course of events. For now. He was low on ammunition. He looked around. The CHM had by then crawled around to somewhere on his left. In between the sporadic silence between the rant of the rifles, Suraj Singh yelled for more ammunition. He was not very sure if the CHM heard him or not. Abruptly he heard the sound of the metal landing close to him. It was a magazine filled with ammunition thrown at him by the CHM. A little far away away from the safety of his cover. There was no choice. He had to break cover for a few seconds into the open to get the ammunition, neatly filled in the magazine. Without it, the militants would get him anyway. Suraj Singh crouched behind the tree and sprung to the place where the magazine lay. He side rolled back behind the tree once more. The sudden cadence of the rifle fire from the militants raised a higher din that nearly deafened him. He felt something tear in to him, in his left arm around the shoulder. He did not look at it. Not for now. He had to get the militants before they got to him. He snapped the magazine in to the rifle with a sound that was music to his ears.
1971
Kovittala participated in everything with great zest and zeal, often risking his reputation. Having the home minister as local guardian did not take away the innocence of this optimist who lived through a receding percentile as he walked from the class room to the mess, after each exam. Kozhi’s school spirit recently saved the campus from land-sharks. Shyamala has failed to mature him and Nimisha and Ishu are fortunate to have our eternal optimist for a dad.
Krishna Menon K
909
Anil Kumar K K
910
Address (O) Pangode Military Station, Thirumala, Trivandrum (R) A-27(1), Chitra Nagar, Pangode, Thirumala, Trivandrum, Ph. 0471 2352122.(P) 23/490, Mangat Lane, Thrissur, 680 002, India. Army, Col, MLI, 60NDA. BA.. DOM, 23/04/93, Shyamala MPhil in Eco.Ch Nimisha, 21/03/95, passed 12th, Ch Ishar, 19/03/99 8th std. Email shykrishishu@hotmail.com.
1979
1971
Troubles flocked to Kakka, the little bundle of energy as he flew an exciting flight at school, landing an unbelievable eleventh in NDA merit list. Decorated for gallantry the army man is his lively self with Sreekala, Sreedhar and Aswathy by his side. Address (O) , Shillong, Meghalaya, India.(P) Kottiyarathara Bunglow, Koppam, Vithura PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 551, India, 0472 2856212. Army, Col, 5 Assam, 61 NDA. BA. Decorated with “Sena Medal” by President of India. DOM 24/08/89, R Sreekala. Ch Anil Sreedhar, 06/06/90. Ch AS Aswathy, 02/03/92, Br R No:691 Late KK Sasikumar Email anilnair61@rediffmail.com. Mob 087947 19901
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He fired at the targets around him with more focus and grit. A fourth militant went down. Suraj Singh eased behind the tree now to look at the shoulder. A portion of his combat dress was torn away and the wound was gnarling away in to his flesh with smouldering pain. It was not serious, he thought; he will survive this. He looked in to the bushes where the militants lay in waiting. Did he hate them, these militants? Not really? He remembered his brother in law back in his village, who ate in to his life everyday: who had done unspeakable harm to his wife and was now having lusty eyes for his daughter. Cold impotent rage surged deep within him. He now knew his real enemies. They were within, stalking him always, at will. Not here, but back home. They were unrelenting and merciless. The militants were close to desperation. Whoever it was, who was fighting them was a very well trained and brave Indian soldier. They had heard whispered secrets back where they came from, about the resolute and plucky Indian soldiers who waved in to the erstwhile somnolent heights of Kargill, undeterred by the blitz of enemy fire. Militants were now really incredulous about the creation of the free land that they were fighting for. But for now, they had to get the Indian soldier hardly twenty feet away them, inflicting death to their comrades at arms. The militants had fired a hundred rounds in to the tree, flaking off the bark, now shining white, back at them. Of the two remaining militants, one now moved away from the other, widening the arc so that he could fire from flanks. One of them would foil any other soldier moving in to the battle ground. Suraj Singh could now hear only one rifle barking from behind a cluster of shrubbery. His eyes were foggy from the loss of blood. He could not make out where precisely the fire was from, but the fire was directed at his cover preventing him of any movement, as also behind him in the ravine, where his platoon was now positioned. Suraj Singh was not to know that four of his comrades had already been killed and three wounded in their valiant but vain efforts to reach to his aid. Suraj Singh searched methodically in the ground ahead of him looking for the militant now besting his efforts in the quantum of fire. In troubled times methods were more often better than fleeting logic. He was feeling feeble with blood loss. He had to get the militant immediately. He fired in to the bushes desperately. In a fleeting second he saw the flash of rifle fire to his right. He moved a little to his left a tad to get an enhanced angle and shot the fifth militant down. A burst of fire came across his left from a new bush and he responded instantly and returned fire killing the sixth militant. He felt a weighty thud in to his chest, numbing him to prone position. He looked at his chest. The combat dress had grown wet and dark around his chest. He now knew why combat dress is in the colour what it is. One could not make out the colour of blood. He knew death was finally coming. A second coming. It would now take him away from his life and his problems. Forever. He thought of his dear wife and his lovely children. He had never been able to give them any happiness in his life time. His eyes
grew misty and blind with tears. He slipped in to darkness. And then there was light........... Everybody in the army spoke about Suraj Singh with pride. After all he was the valiant soldier who did the army proud. He was s awarded Ashok Chakra posthumously for his act of gallantry. A bust was made in his regimental centre and in his village. The pecuniary benefits would not bring back Suraj Singh to life but it gave a new lease of life to his family. The CO had sent Chandan Singh to Suraj Singh’s village to sort out the paperwork. Chandan Singh had adored Suraj Singh and the way he had managed his family. Now he wanted to become like him. When Chandan Singh met Suraj Singh’s wife, she was in a deluge of tears. Finally the weir of her sorrows had ruptured open. Chandan knew that he had to do a touch more than measly words to the great soldier’s family. As he was about to depart after sorting out the family matters, after a few days, he decided what he had to do. When he bid farewell to Suraj Singh’s wife in presence of her family and his father, he asked as if to everybody in general and nobody in particular. May I marry Suraj Singh’s daughter? A cool breeze blew by. The clouds moved a little hither and thither away in the sky, enough for the thus far concealed Sun, to cast light upon the bereaved family. A second coming.
1971
The little Paingottoor rebel used his earthy conscience and artistic abilities to live life at school, benefiting more from the out of syllabus part of it. Now on the world stage of democracy, Mathai the UN envoy keeps the yahoo group going with regular pearls of wisdom. He is our man in the capital, always ready to host you, with some charming contributions of wife Shoba and kids Shoma and Soumya.
Mathew Dominic
911
Jose Thomas Onattu
912
Address (O) Electoral Consultant, (R) House No:156, Sector 10 A, Urban Estate, Gurgaon, Haryana, 122 001, India,, Ph. 0124 2210517, temporarily residing at B 9, Pandara Road, New Delhi, New Delhi, 110003, India, Ph. 011 23074331, (P) Adukuzhiyil, Paingottoor PO, Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam, 686 671, India. Electoral Consultant, Electoral Missions with United Nations. BCom, CFE. Won prizes in Painting, Mimic & Mono acting, UN Electoral Missions in Cambodia, Liberia, Croatia, Nigeria, East Timor, Guyana, Afghanisthan, Iraq, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands and Sudan.. DOM 03/10/87, Shoba, Under Secretary GOI. Ch Shoma, 10/10/89. Ch Soumya, 06/05/97, Email mathewdominic@yahoo.com, mathewdominic@hotmail.com. Mob 098102 19185
1979
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He preached his way through the tough life at school, while others fixed the jigsaw puzzles he got from Rome. Onatt flew away from the army to land in Las Vegas with wife Jolly and the children Jeffy and Edwin. Still preaches in the forum. Address (O) 338 John Henry Dr,, Henderson, NV, 89014, USA, Ph. 7023823035.(P) Onattu House, Pullurampara PO, Via Thiruvampadi, Kozhikode, India. Aerospace and Aeronautical Logistics support “Tentacle Aerologistix Inc�, Operations, Army, Lt Col (Retd), 31 Med Regiment. BA, MBA., DOM 24/11/86, Jolly, Nurse,NV, USA, Ch Jeffy Mariya., 15/09/88 Joining Podiatric Medicine, Ch Edwin. 17/02/1995, Completing 12th, Email joetom1@gmail.com, jose.thomas@tentacle.in. Mob 7024275826
1979
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Reunion 2039
30 yeas went by in a wink. Another 30 would flow past in another wink. Here is a fast forward scenario. The same luminaries are gathered for the 60th reunion. Ravages of time and distance notwithstanding, the soon to be octogenarians are having a ball. The location is somewhere in Central Travancore in an old age home….an apology for the group housing project that was to be but never really took off. However, some die hard batch mates did the unthinkable. They built this place as a refuge and revenge to the others who did not care to see things their way. It is a tribute to their perseverance that the 60th gathering is being hosted by them and not in any resort. Timing has been changed from September to April since most of the oldies can’t take the rains. It’s a hot and humid day, the only solace being the April lilies in full bloom. The roll call numbers have reduced but the spirit is unmistakeable. Several of the stalwarts are victims of Alzheimer’s. The joy of Alzheimer’s is also that you go back to basics. Some to their child hood memories, some to their chosen professions that they could never accomplish in their real lives. Recession of the early century has brought about revolutionary changes in the global economic front. Fossil fuels have suffered the most with the invention of cheap electric transport that auto charges on the roads. Food industry has shrunk with the onset of formula foods that substitute for cereals and meat. Consequently, shipping and construction has shrunk….Gulf countries are back to small time economies. Surprisingly, Americans are still going strong; China and India are marching on…. It is against this back drop that the gtg is being organised. Some of our Techie friends never lived up to their expectations. Some smart ones changed professions and prospered. As the camera man (yours truly) zooms his self shooting, auto focus, auto edit 3D camera to the scene of action, a crisis situation is visible….. Retired General N Balan, PVSM, GSM, SSKZM has collapsed on to the pool table. He has been laid out straight; in a fashion befitting a great general (missed being chief of staff by a whisker). The immaculate jacket and bow tie are still in place. A great vine root pipe hangs from the left corner of his mouth, still glowing and fuming, the golf cap is intact, the shoes brilliantly polished and the trademark dark glasses still on. On the whole, a well preserved specimen of fitness, except for a protruding tummy that is unduly bloated. How could this happen to a teetotaller? The body is rapidly turning blue and there is a hue and cry for doctors. As we know, there are only two doctor luminaries from the batch. One is a dermatologist and the other a urologist, specialising in, ahem, artificial vaginas. The former is partaking only via 3D tele link and the latter is nowhere to be seen. There are a couple of Honorary Doctors around. Services of both are suspect. Hon Doc SK Tom is available on 3D link from NY. His services are the last resort. Surprisingly, none of the fellow retired generals/Admirals/ Air Marshals have abandoned their bridge table to even spare a glance. They couldn’t be bothered with
such mundane stuff as a general collapse. Retired Admiral Mookhan, C-in-C of the Northern Naval Fleet is holding forth on the inadequacies of this place. “I had told these chaps to build in Willington and not in this marshland…..you can’t enjoy a decent rum here can you…..look at the god damn weather and the flies…. ” The shippers in the pool seem to be even less bothered. Poor chaps are the hardest hit by the recession. Luckily, all have contracted Alzheimer’s. 898 and 927 are busy playing with paper boats they’ve lovingly built. 888 is playing the Captain! 881 has been asked to watch from a shallow corner….some disagreement with the Captain about his swimming skills, of late! The inmates of the place could be distinguished from their blue and purple striped uniforms, kindly supplied by one CPS Associates from Tirupur… Another table is dominated by General Chatans ( well he didn’t make it to general in real life but what the heck…..right now, he believes he is an active general, all thanks to the lovely Alzheimer’s. He believes he is General KPR, VrC, the chap who took the Drass Sector at the end of last century…..Avid listeners are retired Generals Josey, Jacobs and KPR himself. KPR is scratching under his chin and marvelling at the exploits of this great general. General C who sports an upturned salt and pepper moustache waxed to a point of quivering, waxes eloquent…..holy shit…..could this all be true? Where the hell was I then? Farmer Balraj is in the attached organic garden with Retd Engineers Johny and Kajay who’ve all taken to farming…..checking out the new crops…..trying to come to terms with the melon sized mushrooms they’ve been growing these days. They are not convinced that this is the best thing that has happened to their organic stuff. Out of curiosity they had tried Dr. SK Tom’s organic fertiliser, which he promised was nothing more than cow shit mixed with horse piss, all from animals fed with Viagra laced grass….. Could these mushrooms be the cause of death? Mushroom soup was the last item the departed General ingested… Retd Rt Rev. Fr. Mammen (well that is what he chose to take up after retirement from the bank…..priesthood was always in his blood….) and Swami Chidambaranathan are engaged in a spiritual discourse about the trajectory of the soul once it leaves the mortal remains. While Swami is convinced that from a scientific perspective the soul would have to take a tangential 60 degrees to leave earth’s gravitational pull, Father Mammen is of the humble opinion that the holy scriptures speak of a vertical descent…….even if the soul happens to be that of a Hindu general. Retired Col and now spiritual guru Rajappananda has gone into a trance (induced by rum laced with an unmentionable). He has been guffawing ever since the collapse of the general….. shouting……release, release. Release from what Guruji? Bachaa…. Release from this worldly worries for his soul (and for us from him he he). Some retirees have duly joined him in the guffaws…..thinking this is another episode of the ‘Kinetics’ holistic healing that is in vogue these days… Retd banker Gopi who looks younger and trimmer has quickly accessed the mike to sing a farewell song to the departed soul. Chippie Chippie Muthu Chippie……
1971
History is replete with men who bore the cross for no fault of theirs. Our affable TWA, who ran like an aircraft in flight, took an early flight back to heaven. We are yet to muster up the courage to accept the truth that Ajith left for us, as a question mark.
Ajith Kumar T M
913
Davis P P
914
Academics, Lecturer. MA (Litt). Expired on 7/10/97 at Trivandrum
1979
1971
Davis the mountain man threaded his life at school with silent adventure, city-scape paintings and some Thrissur slang. Aama Davis cracked the obstacle course like a tiger. His climbing craze has taken him to many heights, including the Sudan Block dome at NDA. Still going strong and climbing the army ladder, Davis has motivated Dominic and Niel to don the uniform. Tessina is with our man in Chennai, as our host in the city. Address (O) Brig Q, OTA, St Thomas Mount, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 016, India.(P) Pottakkal House, Khannanagar, Thrissur, 680 309, India, 0480 2731920. Army, Brigadier, 60NDA, 70Reg. BSc. Participated in Five Army Mountainieering Expeditions, viz: Indo-British Army mountaineering expedition to Saser Kangri 1987, Artillery expedition to Nun-Kun 1988, Army expedition to Teram Kangri peak 1993, Leader Army expedition to Leo Pargial 1998,, Army expedition to Stok Kangri 2001. DOM 04/07/90, Tessina Davis, MA ( Economics), Housewife. Ch Dominic Davis, 23/09/91, College of Military Engineering, Pune. Ch Niel Davis, 11/09/93, NDA. . Email poulosedavis@yahoo.com, davispp107@gmail.com. Mob 095000 81414 1979
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(Poor chap he is completely back to his school days and recognises only school chums…..not even his wife and kids) Retired Spy Chief Abraham and ex-KGB agent CID Mathews (so that is what he was up to in the USSR) are examining the general’s shoes and other parts with a large magnifying glass. Sabotage is not ruled out…..it could be a joint CIA, ISI plot…… Stanley, the only sane one around and of course, the Patron and President of the Old Age Home is organising like mad. (There is a rumour that Stan took the collections and Shajilal built the place for free…well to hell with rumours) Nurses are summoned (arousing the immediate interest and something else of some old revellers). Ambulances are called for. Dr. Kurup emerges from a mysterious hiding place and starts prodding in the General’s mouth for tell tale signs of life. He loosens the bow tie but no the pant buttons. I’ve been pushing at this glass door to go closer and get some close up shots….. looks like I’ve had one too many…… can’t bloody open doors, should make it a point not to drink more than three pegs while Shobha is not around….. Hon Dr. S K Tom appears unannounced on the 3D projection screen. He looks younger than ever and looks like he’s had a shower in the office. His young Secretary could be seen smiling at the gathering. By the way, Tom made it big in the US and across the globe with his GM vegetables. A multi billionaire with his patented products that sells like hot cakes across the world. Tom surveys the scene and catches the General on the table. “Well what’s up mates? Looks like myocardial infraction Tom….. pipes up GSK. Bull shit……open up his trousers, he needs some artificial ventilation” orders Tom. The doc does as he is asked. Now hold your hands together and press…. not his chest you good ol’ Doc…. his tummy ……. two three times….OK here we go. One…….Two…… Three stataco bursts are heard from the General’s behind…..the tummy collapses in a heap and lo and behold the General is up and standing. There isn’t an element of surprise or doubt. Puts one hand to his nose and enquires in a general court martial tone…..what smells foul here fellas? Dr. Tom hollers at the General who is a bit taken aback now…..I told you to take only one glass full of padavalanga juice a day….not a bucket full….now don’t become greedy bro……there is only so much one can grow at your age! And that’s when my ear caught this unholy chat from 885 and 900. The MF is alive! Last week mathai scared us too. He should have kicked a long time ago anyway….. that heart murmur he’s had from school, that was by no means easy to carry around. He’s had a long innings……hey hey, wait a minute……I am here chappies, just behind you and how dare you speak nonsense behind my back….. A gentle tap on my shoulders and I turn around. Let’s go buddy. It’s Chokan and Shyam …surprisingly youthful looking. Where the hell am I? Holy shit…but this was not supposed to happen to me….this is against my beliefs…..! Hey, hey wait for me guys….which place is this….heaven or hell…..and then I behold another table in the
air. Some familiar faces. The home nurses all seem to be wearing low cut gowns…. Wow…now now; don’t get ideas fellas….that’s only to accommodate their beautiful wings! Chilled Somras is served. I ask for Sodas….Shaym winks and says….drink it neat buddy…..that’s the best way to enjoy a single malt! The accounts being presented by Treasurer for life, JKu are barely audible…… Confirmed -35 By tele-link-16 Not participating 20 Departed………...12… So long guys. The get together continues……..! Love you all. Mathai 911
Side lights of Gtg 2039 Retd General Poulose Davis was seen hoisting the national flag atop the water tank in the compound. Cowkidar of the compound could be seen running to the phone to call the fire force….cursing….this is the 10th time that foggy fauji has climbed the water tank…..he thinks it is the bloody mount Everest. Crocodile Dundee Varghese Wilson made a flash appearance via three D link, peed in the pool and went straight back into the tube. One venerable lady came over from the ladies section, only to give a twist to the long and reddish ear of a decorated general. The charge was that a home nurse had her lovely bottom pinched by him. He pleaded not guilty. Other fellas at the table were a retired High Court Judge, a banker and a Gandian colonel. All remained straight faced. Later they too received ear twists (in private) from their lovely damsels. At the last minute an Amsterdam based alumni decided to attend. While everyone welcomed the idea, organisers Stan and Jku were troubled. They had to organise a carpenter and a fork lift at short notice. While the General lay in his labyrinth, the Treasurer for Life could be heard asking around, “who will pay his bills? Contractor Shajilal took him aside and put two rupees in his pocket. Strangely, he stopped complaining as if the entire bill has been fully settled. Feel free to add more side lights…… (Writtern in 2009)
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Ismail always smiled, even when he brutally broke his bones in the basket ball court. So silent was his stay in the school that even he himself didn’t know that Ismail was around. The banker is still silent and smiling and so are wife Sherin and the boys Shijin and Shibin. Makes a silent but sweet presence in everything we do.
Shaji M Ismail
915
Reji Abraham
916
Address (O) State Bank of Travancore,, Perumkuzhi, Thiruvnanthapuram, Kerala, 695 301, India. (P) 31/527, Kalpakassery, Chackai,, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 024, India, 0471 2502177. Bank, Dy Manager. BSc.. DOM 06/08/89, Sherin, SBT. Ch Shijin, 14/04/91. Ch Shibin, 21/09/94, Email . Mob 094478 02454
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Reji came exactly two hundred after brother Saji and a couple of years before brother Sam. He played some games and boxed many of us ripe and raw to finally land up in RAW. Make a trip to Mysore and he will take you bird-watching, without Sindhu, Cyril and Abel in company of course. Address (O) Special Bureau, Govt of India, No.768, 9th Main, 8th Cross, Vijayanagar 3rd Stage, Mysore, Karnataka, 570 026, India.(P) Parayamkuzhiyil (H), Piravam PO, Ernakulam, 686 664, India, 0484 2242361. Govt Service-Central. BSc(Maths), MBA, CUSAT. Best Boxer 1978-79, Represented School in Football Team. DOM 06/05/90, Sindhu Paul K, BSc B Ed, Teacher. Ch Cyril Abraham Thomas, 07/05/91, B Tech. Ch Abel Paul Thomas, 04/06/96,Br’s R No:716 Gp Capt Saji Abraham,R No:1177 Dr Sam Abraham Email rejinoida@yahoo.com. Mob 094494 82004
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Our Son
By Mother of Col M Vinaya Chandran
AWAY
When we owned a priceless treasure By V Krishna Chandran We were overwhelmed with immense pleasure To cherish the small babe with all heart Walking through mist on an overcast day, To bestow concern with all might. Damp and cold, yet I plod away. Saw him with rosy cheeks and all that Away from warmth, from a sunny day, How to put into words our thought Away from home I wander away. Our hearts' joy lost the limits "It's lovely, its fun, the flowers in May," Thy infinite gift, oh God, before us. As I walk away, I can hear them say. It's lovely all right, but try as I may, Time and tide never wait, it's said I'm chilled to the bone, whatever they say. True, we are so full of surprise. Many miles from home, almost light-years away, The child who built the sand playhouse The empty shells his playthings then The mist and the wind, they persist, they stay. His little sister going around him Always the summers are slipping away, His friends two or three of them. Find me a way for making it stay. We couldn't erase from memory We were standing by his side To fix his first star of the Army To see him salute in that dress. Later one day he knelt before us Better half along his side The lovely girl we found for him She stands with him with all support. While he commands the unit effectively Guides the wives, Beena fairly Has two sons who equals him In height, might and brilliance. No effort he spared in service All steps he climbed steadily Serves the country meritoriously Received Y.S.M ceremoniously Praying God we remain here Waiting news of his bright future.
Mumbai Masala
Ramesh Babu (888)
Mumbai has been the nerve centre of the Navy, ever since Royal Indian Marine Force dropped anchor here in 1669. All the Mumbaikars of the batch have an association with the Navy in some way or the other. While three of us have served and retired from the Navy, the fourth guy, Mathan, was born into it! Mathan was the first guy to make the city his home. This may be contested by a guy who uprooted his Mumbai roots in the seventies and left for a greener pasture. He still comes calling, pulled in by nostalgia and whatever is left of the roots to validate his patent rights on the city. Chidambaram was a regular visitor some years ago. Now he is like a flamingo, making a fleeting presence as he flies into the country and heads back to his permanent pasture. Coming back to Mathan, he came into the world, with curly hair, crying in the Queens language, at a flat in the Naval residential area at Colaba. He inhaled Naval air, as he moved around with his father, Commander Varkey, from one naval station to the other, before landing up at Kazhakuttom. There he sang songs and narrated his stories from the Navy, in a language that was strange to most of us. He nurtured a burning desire to take after his father and sail the seven seas. But his eyes ditched him at the SSB medicals and he followed linguistic pursuits after school. He was picked up by Anand Bazar Patrika as a journalist and started his career in the city, in early eighties. As Mathan was settling down in the city, Mohan Kumar, Ajaya Prasad and Krishnan came into the training ship, INS Mysore, berthed in Mumbai, to begin their career in the Navy. Mohan, Ajay and Krishnan were followed by Vinod Kumar, Jyothish, Anantha Kumar and me, six months later. None of us were as familiar to the Navy, as Mathan was. We had come here from our respective villages of Cherayinkil, Nedumkunnam, Parli, Anikkad, Kadakkavur, Chennithala and Kunnamthanam, via Kazhakuttom, without the background that Mathan had. Our information base on the navy was limited to the colour of uniforms that Commander GD Singh wore and the ship models that were shown to us by Mr. Satyanarayana and Mr. Kovoor. So we had to train hard to learn our ropes in the Navy. But we had a fair knowledge of the city, thanks to the stories by Mathan and Chidambaram and also the pictures of Marine Drive on the calendar at the school barber shop. This was updated and refined, through occasional visits to Wadala with Vinod, to meet his brother in law. There have been a few others also, who have made Mumbai their home for short durations. All the naval guys, viz Ajaya Prasad, OP Krishnan, Jyothish and Anantha Kumar, other than the three of us, have had postings in the city and added to its glamour in their own ways. Navy Nagar was a regular place to relive old days, when they were
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Saji holds the record for bunking, having gone all the way to Ernakulam, lured by the mother of all movies Sholay. The student turned teacher took flight to land a plum job in the US. He is sought after for his pharma abilities by the world and by all of us for the kind of advice he gave while at school and after. Anniekutty and the kids Soosan, John and Jeremiah must be the best-advised family with Guru at the helm.
Saji K Thomas
917
Sajeev M T
918
Address (O) Barr Laboratories, 2 Qaker Road,, Pomona, New York, 10970, USA, Ph. 845 362 7991, (R) 88 Greentree Drive, Scarsdale, New York, NY10583, USA, Ph. 914-723-4460, (P) Thelapurathu House, Kallumkal PO, Thiruvella, Pathanamthitta, 689 102, India, 0469 2703963. Scientist, Pharm, Analytical R&D, Manager. MSc(Chem), MSc(Analy.Chem) Long Island uty. Rank holder of Kerala Uni. in BSc & MSc, Served as Chemistry Teacher 1988-89. DOM 04/01/87, Anniekutty T. Thomas, Respiratory Therapist. Ch Soosan A, 28/07/89. Ch John K., 19/05/92. Ch Jeremiah J, 26/08/98. Email sajikt2003@yahoo.com. Mob 914 882 7950
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Sajeev must have trained well at school, in addition to playing hockey and cricket. He did a stint as a trainer in both NDA and OTA , during his army tenure. He continues to nurture HR, now for a bank. Lives in Bangalore with wife Neena and lovely daughters Shweta and Nandita. Address (O) ICICI Manipal Academy for Banking and Insurance, Survey, No 36, Chokanahalli, Jakkur PO, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560064, India, Ph. 080 66021005, (R) Flat No 207, NR Royal Manor Apts, Royal Enclave, Srirampura, Jakkur PO, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560064, India, Ph. 080 23691847, (P) Pratheeksha, Pannianore PO, Thalasserry, Kannur, 670679, India. Bank, Chief Manager, Army, Col(Retd), 17, Raj Rif (Sawai Man), 60NDA. Msc Defence and Strategic Studies, Executive MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur, PG Diploma in Human Resource Management from Symbiosis, Pune. Member of School Hockey & Cricket Team, Served as instructor at OTA Madras, and Senior Instructor and Battalion Commander at NDA Khadakwasla, Member Pioneer Team which established ICICI Manipal Academy, Bangalore.. DOM 12/01/92, Neena. Ch Shweta, 22/07/93, BBM. Ch Nandita., 23/03/99, Class 7. Email sajeevmaniam@yahoo.co.in, mt.sajeev@gmail.com. Mob 097417 11811 1979
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all here. With only Jyothish left in the navy, we will have to await the arrival of the Admiral to visit Navy Nagar again. Wilson the wonder boy of catering in New South Wales, used the Taj hotel as his launching pad. We missed him in the city on 26/11. He could have averted the terror strike using the skills he learnt at SSKZM, if he were still at Taj. Nietzsche was here for some time, when he helped me smuggle fourteen truck loads of gas turbines and accessories, out of the port trust, using his stamp of authority at embarkation headquarters. Mamman was a DM, M and DGM here, working and living in the city. He hosted us at his Kandivli home and honed his skills here as a DM, M and a DGM on his way up dizzy heights as a GM at Ranchi. Raghu started his scientific pursuits in the city and left on discovering that the organization that he joined had more bureaucratic acumen than scientific, though it was meant to be a research lab. Neelakandhan was here for a few years, staying and working almost under our nose. But he managed to stay elusive and left without a trace. There was another banker, who did the shortest possible stint in the city. Ravindranathan was posted here for two hours, and posted out, even before he found his office. Coming back to Mathan, he started his life as a journalist at Chembur. He shifted many jobs and residences, before settling down in advertising and buying his own place at Malad. Life kept him busy as a bachelor and he forgot to get married. He found life interesting, as a loner, and divided it between work at Mumbai and mountaineering in the Himalayas. It was in the Himalayas that Mathan vowed on eternal bachelorhood. I had met my match in Sudha, and moved into the city in 1988. Life started in a rented flat at Powai, with one wife, one mattress, two suitcases, one gas cylinder and a student’s I- card at IIT. The course was in Production Engineering. Though I did not imbibe much of the “engineering” part, I was able to take up the “production” part with ease. Thus came in Anuroop, the first of the Mumbai progeny from the batch of 79. I managed to pass out of IIT, thanks to some divine intervention, infused through a lavish offering of coconuts and some concession from considerate professors. They took pity on me as a student, but prided over my ability to “produce” as a production engineer. I moved over to take on ship repairs, at the Naval dockyard, shifting residence to Colaba, from Powai, via Ghatkopar. By now, Sudha had picked up a job with Air India, elevating my stature as a traveler from rail to air and bringing in the mother in law to Mumbai, to look after the child. Coming back to Mathan, it was in Ghatkopar that we first met, after leaving school. It was Mathan who reaffirmed my capability as a “Production” engineer, when he discovered that the three-month old Anuroop was a chip of the old block; some kind of a prototype. I treated him to a flavor of Rasna, which worked magic on the sworn bachelor. He broke the vow, and announced an intention for matrimony. His only condition was that he would not have a wife from the field of advertising. Certain matrimonial ventures were attempted through good old class fellows. But they ended disastrously, even before they commenced. The issue was finally settled in Delhi where he met and married Alice. She was, and continues to be in advertising. But she was, and continues to be too good for Mathan to resist!
Mohan had his first stint in the city, as a naval pilot, onboard a frigate. Then he roamed around different stations, answering the call of duty. But the city of Mumbai stayed in his heart, right next to Gowreesapattam and Cherayinkil. He met and won the heart of Surekha, at Gowreesapattam. Surekha was brought to the city of eternal romance, as part of the honeymoon package. Mumbai won her heart and she vowed to make it her home one day. Friend Mohan did his final stint in the navy at Mumbai; managing admin affairs of half the strength of the Indian Navy, as the Command Personnel and Admin officer. During this period, Surekha taught at the Navy Children School, shaping the present and future of half the naval progeny. He bid goodbye to the multifarious naval life in 2005 and took to his first love, flying. He is now flying for Global Vectra and makes his graceful presence in the city skies, every day. He has found a house in Juhu, right next to the in-laws of Aishwairya Rai. Surekha is proud of Mohan in his new avatar; and also of the in-laws in her neighborhood. Mohan spends most of his time flying. The rest of it is spent hosting friends and class fellows at the Juhu club, practicing Sahaja Yoga and experimenting with his beard. Look out for him in the big-B blog! Coming back to Mathan, he has moved into the heart of the city. He now owns 1400 sq. ft of Mumbai, at Sewri. Typical of him, he has left the humdrum of advertising and elevated himself into a nobler vocation. He works with Give India, a NGO that channelizes corporate funds to charity. He has become a celebrity in the media, thanks to his noble pursuits and good English. During this transition, he befriended my motherin-law and I befriended his mother- in -law. Mathan has a secret craving for typical Malayalee cuisine and he found it in my mother- in-law’s kitchen. I have an announced craving for storytelling and I found a tolerant listener in his mother- in -law. Sudha has found a charming, cute daughter (that she craved for and did not have) in Mallaika and Alice finds our two boys amusing. Our friendship has thus gone well beyond the realm of school friends and now encompasses both the families. Vinod was already familiar with the city, when we came here, thanks to his brother in law at Wadala. He escaped into the brotherly care on weekends, as we, his brethren onboard the training ship cleaned the mast and washed the quarter deck. We were offered the privilege of a lunch at Wadala once in a while. Vinod too did a little going around after training and finally landed up here with the house full. Our young friend had matured into a responsible husband and father of two cute girls when he finally returned to the city. He was the executive officer on a missile corvette in Mumbai. Vinod was always itching to go out to sea, like a blue blooded sailor. But his dream did not materialize for a long while, as he trusted a class fellow in the dockyard with refitting his vessel. So he took up a job as deputy director of shipping. There he shaped the future of the Indian merchant marine, belting many thousand nautical miles and many million tonnes of cargo. Vinod was a welcome change to the meandering maritime bureaucracy in DG Shipping, as he brought in some discipline, speed and sense of purpose. The DG loved him for this and encouraged him to take up merchant marine as a profession.
1971
Platipus stunned and silenced the wit out of Mr. CVSN with a box room episode, in addition to many other stunning achievements winning many feathers on his many jungle hats. Makes his points loud and clear, OT laughed through the army and finally came down to Techno park. Sumam ,Melissa and Vanessa keep our ever-excitable friend sober.
Raju O T
919
G Sathish Kumar
920
Address (O) Head-HR & Administration, GCI Enterprise Solutions Pvt Ltd.,, 5th Floor, Thejaswini, Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 581, India, Ph. 0471 4074200, (R) 11 D, Wind Brook Place, Near US Road, Vellayambalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 010, India, Ph. 0471 2316881, (P) Onattu, Udayanapuram PO, Vaikom, Kottayam, 686 143, India, 04829 227469. Company Executive, LGSC ( Fd ), CMPTRS, Army, Lt Col (Retd), 60NDA. BA, MBA(IIM Lucknow). Instructor in Gunnery, Instructor in Military College of Telecommunication Engineering. DOM 15/04/91, Sumam Raju. Ch Melissa Raju, 02/07/92, NUS, Singapore. Ch Vanessa Raju, 04/03/97, Email otraju@yahoo.com. Mob 098464 17268
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Satheesh followed a philosophy of life, very different from what others followed at school. He pulled through it, playing some hockey and cricket. The reputed Urologist has finally found himself and his dreams in the field of medicine. Address (O) Additional Prof. Urology, Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala, 686008, India, (R) Flat 1 A/1, Touch Stone Manor, Mathurbhumbi Road, Vanchiyoor, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 010, India, Ph. 0471 6458304, (P) . Doctor, Urologist, Andrologist&Transplant Surgeon. MBBS, MS, M Ch(Urology). Represented School Hockey and Cricket team. DOM 01/03/09, L Sindhu, Theater Nurse. Ch Rohan, 13/05/94,. Email drsatheeshkurup@gmail.com, drgsatheeshkurup@gmail.com. Mob 094464 55385
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Vinod left the navy in 2004 and moved into the merchant navy. The change of course allowed him to buy a house in the city. He too owns 1400 sq. feet of Mumbai in the foothills of the Sahyadris. He sailed for a few years and took up maritime law as a past time, whenever he signed off from the ship. He has graduated from a reputed foreign university with flying colours to become the first maritime lawyer of the class. That makes him a class apart and he is now a sought after man in the city for his legal expertise. He frequents the city courts, putting a few sea lawyers in their place. Talking of law, the four of us have become lawful Mumbaikars, with valid domicile in the city. But there are two others, who have other lawful connections to the city. They have their in-laws here, whom they visit regularly. These visits are carried out with stealth; probably to keep out-laws away from their in-laws. But we, “the outlaws”, get to know and often catch these visitors, in the act. Roy too has a law-full connection here, by way of a brother in law, whom he has generally ignored, except while renewing visa for his sisters. Susan has been apprised of this and we hear that trouble is brewing somewhere in the north-east. Some other guys have also visited the city, on purpose. Stan came twice; once for medical guidance and once to buy a luxury car. Prem Kumar has slipped in and slipped out quietly, a number of times. We only heard of him once, when he was stuck in the rains and desperately needed to board a flight back to Goa. Josey is a regular these days. He is paving way for another local rail line, where sardine tins on wheels will run very soon. He has discovered a joint next to his place of work, where they serve sardines in coconut gratings, in a distorted version of Meen Peera. We are often invited there by him. Hari was here a number of times, enroute to his African Safaris. We once had a wonderful evening at land’s end at Malad, organized by Vinod, to host Hari and the man from Myladil, who was also in town then. Thilakan was here for a short while, trying to help the Ambani brothers with something fresh. But they got back to the stale business of family feud and wise Thilakan left them. We hear that Ananthakumar is trying to help them out these days. Goplalkrishnan came here to certify himself as a surveyor. It is our city’s certification that has taken him places. KK was here and we were honoured to host him, as he came to receive the coveted Sena medal for his Kargil exploits. He was his earthly self, and confessed that the art of camouflaging, learnt with the Havildars and perfected in the mango trees of Kazhakuttom had helped him in the face of the enemy. Davis, Ranjith and others have made short visits, with Ranjith picking up short pants in the city for an underwater walk in the Mauritius. Akhil, Dileep’s son, and a second generation Kazak was here recently, doing a course in TS Rehman. Sasi comes in labour once in a while and goes away convinced that the entire city is in good labour. Saji and Chidambaram come here occasionally and spend lesser time than Hilary Clinton. It is said that Ajay Nair had a fictitious membership at the navy mess for some time. Gopi was the latest visitor. He came to collect sponsorship for the “Reflections” and also to extort some of us to write for the souvenir. Hence, it is Gopi who is responsible for the agony that you are going through, reading this piece. There have also been a few other flying
visitors, who have not left any trail behind to record. So they have been left out ,with due apologies. Coming back to Mathan, it is he who has suffered my company the longest in the city. I was fortunate enough to be in the city, through most of my career in the Navy. One fine day they realized that they have had enough, and asked me to get out. Mathan found a way out for me and advised me to join MDL. I found the proposition attractive as I could stay on here and also settle scores with the navy, as this company builds war ships. So I have joined here at MDL, staying very close to Mathan. He is very decent to display his sense of misfortune of having moved a disaster closer home. Life in our city is tough. Fortunately for us, we have carried some of the toughness imbibed at SSKZM and that sees us through. All four of us have also been fortunate enough to have wives who gracefully put up with our toughness and the demands of the city. Alice is the busy bee, always at work in advertising. She brings in capital charm, thanks to her childhood in Delhi. Surekha is full of earthly charm, inherited from the verdant Veli countryside, from where she comes. She has taught in a number of city schools for many years and has finally decided to settle down at home looking after Mohan and the kids and hosting the rest of us when we go calling. Rashmi has perfected the art of being a gracious and caring house wife through the years when Vinod was out sailing. She has run the family all alone for long durations and continues to be completely dedicated to the household. Sudha has been with Air India since we can remember and will continue there, if Air India continues. She shares her birthday with Mohan and also shares an occasional meal with the rest of the Mumbai crowd, when time permits. Though the four families are spread across the city, all the ladies have kept in touch and formed a network of their own, which is caring, graceful, reassuring and not interested in what is happening on our Yahoo forum. So they continue to maintain their sanity and willingly host the villains of the forum whenever they are in town. No Masala would be complete without spice. For us at Mumabi, that is generation next. I take the lead here with Anuroop, a chip of the block producesd while I was doing a course in Production Engineering. The bloke has taken after his father in all respects and is now doing his BTech in Production Engineering. His little brother Ashwin is in eleventh and has inherited only football skills from the father, as is evident from his good academic scores and quiet disposition. They have managed to outgrow their father in size, thanks to the free rations in the navy. While my fellows make up the male bastion, Namrata and Natasha form the daughter brigade. The two of them look after Vinod very well along with their mother; and also play pranks on the male bastion whenever possible. Namrata is doing her graduation in Commerce and Natasha is in twelfth. The chirpy duo is always curios about their dad’s school days and both of them fondly remember their visits to SSKZM. Mohan is the man with the mixed bag. His daughter Aishwairya is in twelfth and she has taken after the father, excelling in football and other games. Aadarsh is an energetic fellow who swims like a butterfly and plays tennis like a bee. He is in the eighth and has a special liking for Hindi, which
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Chandran, the goal keeper, basketball player and cricketer is a gift to the batch, truly standing for our never say die spirit. Rose like a phoenix from the accident that almost claimed his life. Hats off to you our officer and gentleman, and hats off to you Geeta and Anjali.
Chandran V V
921
Prakash Thomas
922
Address (O) 100 GL Sec, HQ 54 Inf Div, PIN 908454, C/o 56 APO, (P) Disha, Cherukunnu PO, Kannur, 670 301, India, 0497 2860442. Army, Col, Jat Regt, 61NDA. BA. Represented School in Football, Basketball and Cricket teams. Prefect Prasad Srs., Instructor - Officer’s Training Academy, Madras 1990-92. DOM 19/07/89, Geeta, MA, Teacher. Ch Anjali, 03/09/00,. Email sskzm921@yahoo.co.in. Mob 096409 12055
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Prakash was too good for the Indian Navy and took an early flight from school to land in the US Navy. The affable fellow keeps in touch and we know him, Stephania, Peter and Philip as good as the rest of the batch. Address (O) 13511, Apache Road,, Poway, CA, 92064, USA.(P) , USA. US Navy, Defence, Modeling and Simulations - US Navy. BS Chemical Engineering - Rutgers University, USA. Captain, US Naval Reserves,Chief Staff Officer – NR CPPD HQ. DOM 25/09/90, Stephanie, Teacher. Ch Peter, 12/11/93. Ch Philip, 22/01/97, Email thebaghwan@yahoo.com. Mob 858 486 5186
1979
73
was not in the menu of his dad in school. He is currently going through the transition to teens and enjoying it. Little Malaika is the darling of the crowd and the most charming ingredient of the Mumbai Masala. She is all of six and beats Mathan hollow in chess. She has just taken the second spot in the Mumbai chess championship in her age. The little livewire is also a budding gymnast who can surprise you with her cart wheels and back flips. She keeps Alice busy with a designer wardrobe and long jump sessions at home. It was in a wet July that the four of us started a journey, along with eighty nine other young boys, marching in unison. All ninety three of us had the same aim, as decided by the founding fathers of SSKZM. That was exactly thirty eight years ago. All of us have marched on, to leave our footprints across the world, except the two who left early for their heavenly abode, leaving loving memories behind. Four of us have settled in the shores of a maritime city, doing four different things. But the string of brotherhood, entwined way back in 1971, holds us together and ties us up firmly with the rest of the batch of 1978-79, even thirty years after the tearful farewell at Kazhakuttom.
Ranjit S
923
1971
Ramachandran K
924
1971
Jayaram R
925
1971
The tall, dark and handsome fellow was too tall for the batch, when he joined. He stayed tall, for as long as he was with us; and left, still tall. Has recently came back into the fold, still tall, now with Sreekala, Kalyani and Govindan in company. Govindan is the youngest of all the children. Address (O) Supdt, Department of Agriculture, Mallapuram, Karala India.(P) Kodivila, Vakkanad, Ezhukone, Kollam, 691 015, India.... DOM ,. Sreekala. Ch Kalyani 10th std, Govindan, UKG Email ranjagri@gmail.com. Mob 093499 55389
1979
He was a spinner who could spin himself more than the ball. Played a baby over at school and went away to play another league. Not traced since 1973.
The soft spoken, slow moving Jayaram went away in a couple of years, so that we could cheat cobbler Murthy with his roll number to ‘buy’ new shoes. He must still be walking around in ‘Vishram’, though out of our sight.
75
1971
The man who devised the perfect banana kick and the flick from the left wing. Koshi was an outstanding sportsman and an athlete who made it to almost all the school teams.. He should have been in the army. The army’s loss in Kerala Government’s gain. Lives in Trivandrum.
Mathew P Koshy
926
Vinod Janardhanan
927
Address (O) Finance Department, Expenditure Section, Govt. Secretariate,, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 039, India.(P) Plavilayil, Erathuchery, Chathannur PO, Kollam, 691 572, India. Govt Service-State. MA (Litt). Represented School Hockey, Football, Cricket, Athletics, Basketball & Boxing team, Kerala Schools in Hockey and Cricket. DOM ,. . Email . Mob 094475 87065
1979
1971
The Malappuram intellect was a pet of the Sanskrit teacher and also of his tailor back home. Went on to be a Naval Architect at Kochi and sailed away to survey in Singapore. Settled with wife Banumathi and kids Abhi and Arathi there, making annual trips to Satyamangalam (Banumathi’s place) and Malappuram, occasionally via Kazhakoottam. Address (O) Ship Surveyor, Bureau Veritas, 1 Maritime Square,, # 09-66, Lobby C, WTC,, 099253, Singapore, Ph. +651 28812, (R) BLK-288 A, #09-226, Bukit Batok, Singapore, Ph. 850288, (P) Sree Nivas, Thamarakuzhi, Malappuram, 676 505, India. Naval Architect. B Tech, MBA.High Course in Naval Arch. at Japan. DOM 08/04/93, Banumathi, Mechanical Engineer. Ch Arathi, 20/03/95,. Email vinod927@yahoo.co.uk. Mob 65985 70849
1979
77
1971
The name was his claim to fame. The Chertala rebel kept a low key, only appearing behind the winner of the long-distance races. Our PTI’s would have been pleasantly surprised to see him under the bar in IMA. Nietzsche bloomed late, but the rebel in him is still alive. Currently a Brigadier and our future General in the Army live in Delhi with Ragini. Arjun is the son.
Nietzsche Balan
928
Harish VH
929
Address (O) Area Commander, Delhi Area, New Delhi, Delhi, 110 001, India.(P) Vineeta, PO Kalavamkodam, Cherthala, Alappuzha, 688 586, India, 0478 2812567. Army, Brigadier, 60NDA. BA, MSc(Defence Studies).Served in Ladakh Scouts,Selected to the panel of GTOs in SSB, Represented IMA in Football, Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card, GOC in C Commendation Card. DOM 17/08/88, Ragini MA, BEd, Teacher. Ch Arjun, 22/07/89,. Email nietzschebalan@yahoo.co.in. Mob 099686 08105
1979
1971
The tiny fellow came to school as Vappa, mounted on a horse that trotted to Trichur slang. Gandhigiri was practiced by him to fanatic perfection, even in emergency. Continues in the Army, though with a PhD, in company of Deepa who too is a PhD. Pranav and young Malu, both with a Trichur slang form the charming gen-next. Address (O) Dy. Controller, CQAL, JC Nagar, Bangalore 560 006. (P) Vilakkath House, Kizhakkumuri PO, Peringottukara, Thrissur, 680 565, India, 0487 2641425, 2641825. Army, Col, 62NDA. BA. House Captain Tagore House. DOM 06/05/93, Deepa Harish, MA Phd, Teacher. Ch Pranav, 20/02/96,. Email vh_harish03@grouply.com. Mob 094835 31962
1979
79
1971
Ananthan, our Kala did not always get a fair deal, but he hanged on to his convictions and emerged the best all-round cadet and school adjutant. Dived deep in the navy with his convictions and emerged as a corporate success story. His convictions guide him and Ananthan, along with Latha and the lovely Malavika and Mythili, is poised to take another bold step.
Ananth Kumar D
930
Ebby Cherian
931
Address (O) Darsana Global Printers, Thottabhagom PO, Thiruvella, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, 689541, India.(P) Karimpil House, Chennithala South PO, Mavelikara, Alappuzha, 690105, India, 0479 2325471. Business, Printing & Publishing, IN, Cdr(Retd), 62NDA. BSc, MSc, MBA. 197879 Adjutant, 1979 Best all round cadet, School Basketball Captain, Member of School Football, Volley Ball, Athletic teams, Commanded aSub Marine, Director of Martime Warfare Centre-Navy, Commendations by CNS, FOC-in-C South. DOM 28/04/89, Latha Ananth, MA, Housewife. Ch Malavika Ananth, 07/03/93. Ch Mythily Ananth, 26/07/95, Email dakmalu@yahoo.com. Mob 9553803344
1979
1971
Ebby had many a trick up his sleeve, camouflaged by his innocent looks. Made good use of the school farm and the movie halls around. Not traced since leaving school, but for a flash appearance during college days in Muvattupuzha to catch up with Mathan and Mathew.
1979
81
1971
Pothen would always be remembered for the plantains and toffees his father served us on the treks to Pothencode, home remedies prescribed by his grand father and the homes he built for friends. The architect who built homes for others went home to Heaven, just as his own home on earth got ready, leaving Uma, Unni and Kannan in our care. He will always be revered for the Stupa of Remembrance and other structures he built for the Alma Mater.
1979
Satish N
932
Mathan Varkey
933
Nandakumar
934
Address (P) Sri Nikethan, Pothencode, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 584, India. Architect. BSc(Physics) B Tech.. DOM 23/04/92, Uma Devi, M Phil, Govt Servant. Ch Mahesh Sarma, 01/11/93, B Com. Ch Umesh Sarma, 01/11/93, B Com. . Passed away on 13/07/2010 at Trivandrum
1971
Good that the Englishmen teachers were not around, when we were at school. Mathan would have given them a complex. The curly haired ‘Anglican’ with an interest in Cricket sang his way into the Prem C household, giving all of us a complex. The journo turned advertiser turned philanthropist is our newsmaker at Mumbai where he stays with wife Alice and our little angel Malaika. Lemon tree and Mathan are inseparable on our nostalgia. Address (O) GIVE Foundation, Andheri (W), Mumbai, Maharastra, India, (R) 1601, Rushabh Tower,, Zacharia Bunder Cross Road, Sewri (W), Mumbai, Maharastra, 400 015, India, Ph. 022 24145464, (P) , India. Advertising, Media Planning, Vice President. BCom, Dip Marketing Mgt. (Jam.Bajaj IMS).. DOM 11/04/94, Alice Mathan, MBA, Client Servcies Director. Ch Malaika Mathan, 21/07/02,. Email mathanvarkey@hotmail.com. Mob 098203 73990 1979
1971
He lived through an occasional tantrum, frequent escapades of the third kind and a typical walking style. Konnan the Doyle has not been traced through three decades.
83
1971
The elder of the Kalarikkal gang of three brothers who joined SSK, ‘Zhames’ wondered to God why it rained and why on earth was he at the school. Others too joined him in the later wonderment. Went adrift, all at sea, through a short stint at NDA where he did not swim. Followed his dad’s footsteps to captain merchant vessels on the high seas. Baffles us with his outlook to life and the barge he owns.
James Joseph
935
Harimohan M G
936
Address (O) Captain, Vayudoot, Varun Shipping Ltd, Ballard Estate,, Mumbai, Maharastra, 400 001, India.(P) . Merchant Marine, Capt. BSc.. DOM 01/04/89, Tiji. Ch Anjaly, 01/12/90. Ch Joseph, 01/09/91. Ch Tiji, 06/06/1998. Email kottayamgolden@asianetindia.com. Mob 098470 56664
1979
1971
The poor guy almost lost his voice and life thanks to an accidental strangle hold. A great Morarji fan, his life at school was otherwise uneventful. Hari Mohan showed much flourish as an army man, even going back to NDA as Squadron Commander. Now settled in Trivandrum with Maya, Naveen and Nithin, providing strategic advice to corporates. Address (O) Rajdhani Group, Pettah PO, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 024, India.(P) TC 28/176-2, Thundathil House, Kaithamukku PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 024, India, 0471 2575354. Company Executive, Army, Col(Retd), 62NDA. BA, PG Dip-Sr Defence Management (Ahilya Uni Indore), MSc (Weapon Systems Tech) Pune Uni, MSc (Defence & Strategic Studies) Madras University. Won first prize in essay competition -, Dogra Regt. Gold Medel, Won prize at NDA and IMA for outstanding performance in Academics-Military Subject.Outstanding performance in academic and service subjects, Advisor/Instructor in Botswana 1997-2000, Instructor at School of Artillery & Sqn Commander in NDA. DOM 07/07/89, Maya S, BSc, Teacher. Ch Naveen Mohan, 02/12/90, B Tech. Ch Nithin Mohan, 11/06/93, Email mgharimohn@yahoo.com, mayaharimohan@yahoo,co,in. Mob 096331 76840 1979
85
1971
The man with many names was up to many tricks at school and took many avatars in life after that. Even tried his hands at acting and found that he is too natural as an actor. Now a sought-after lawyer operating from Trivandrum. Wife Lakshmi is the principal of Kerala Law Academy, a celebrity host and Foodie of cookery shows, kids Parvathy and Vishnu.
Nair Ajay Krishnan(Bobby)
937
Jiji Mammen
938
Address (O) NAK Associates, G.Krishnan Nair Road,, Vanchiyoor PO,, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 035, India, Ph. 0471 2468912.(P) Plot No. 44, Padma Nagar, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 023, India, 0471 2450082. Advocate. BSc, LLB, LLM.. DOM 07/05/88, Lakshmi LLM, Principal, Law Academy. Ch Parvathy, 04/05/89, B Tech. Ch Vishnu, 26/11/92, Email nairajaykrishnan@gmail.com. Mob 098470 61350
1979
1971
Mammachan came with a new devotional song from Naranganam, after each vacation and sweetly giggled through the term in between. The NABARD honcho is the highest placed banker of the batch and still giggles. His youthful exuberance and love for the batch are both earnestly supported by Anitha and chirpy daughters Nileena and Aleena. Address (O) NABARD, Regional Office, 3, Nehru place, Tonk Road, Jaipur, Rajastan, 302015, India, Ph. 0141-2740821, 2743416, (R) Nabard Staff Quarters, Balaji Road, Jagatpura Road, Maviya Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302017, India, (P) Kalathoorsaji Bhavan, Naranganam West PO, Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta, 689 642, India, 0468 2216503. Bank, Development Policy Department - Non Farm Sector, Chief General Manager. MSc (Agrl), LLB , CAIIB. Won Gold Medal from MP Agrl University Rahuri for stood 1st in BSc Agrl.1982-83. DOM 30/07/87, Anitha, MA B Ed, Housewife. Ch Nileena Ann Jiji, 23/09/88, B Tech, Masters in Urban Planning from BIT, Mesra. Ch Aleena Susan Jiji, 04/06/93, Doing CA. . Email jijimammen@rediffmail.com, jijimammen938@yahoo.co.in. Mob 095877 77090
1979
87
1971
Ramesh as the NCC Chief Instructor’s son, had a natural military mind that the Police dept now puts to good use. Though with us only for a short while at school, he is in touch with batch mates. He stays at Sreekariyam with his wife Sheelakumari and daughter Reshma.
Ramesh Kumar S
939
Jiji Mathews
940
Address (O) AR Nandavanam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695033, India .(P) Janaki Mandiram, Cheruvikkal, Sreekariyam PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695017, India. Ph 0471 2590097. Govt Service-State, Kerala Police. DOM. 22/11/92 Sheela kumari S Ch Reshma S R, 8/9/93, Engineering Email . Mob 9447553658
1979
1971
CID alias Poochaji was on low profile until he started running around the dormitory and revising Math lessons, to emerge as a cross country runner and Arithmetic wizard. The Chartered Accountant has gone places along with Chartered Accountant wife Shirley and the kids Justina and Philip, still calculating. From tiny tot to a six footer, is the guy who grew up the most after school. Address (O) Partner, Oxford Business Information Services, PO Box 45962, Sharjah, UAE, Sharjah, UAE, Ph. 971-6-5749519 / 20, (R) Flat 205, Saleh Bin Lahej Building, Buheira Corniche, Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE, Ph. 97165759676, (P) Kinatukara House, Chengaroor Post, Tiruvalla, Pathanamthitta, 689 594, India, 0469-2688185. Chartered Accountant. FCA., ACS, LLB.. DOM 26/08/91, Shirley Mathew, Chartered Accountant. Ch Justina Mathew, 05/08/93, 2nd Semester of Electronics & Communication in CEG, Anna University, Chennai. Ch Philip Mathew, 08/09/97, Grade 10, Delhi Private School, Sharjah. . Email smat@eim.ae, oxbis@emirates.net.ae. Mob 971 508613200
1979
89
1971
Kattumakkan came in an ill-fitting pair of silver grey socks, all the way from Vellathuval, even before his village was discovered. High jump and basketball came naturally to him but could not match up to him in height. So he trekked the High Ranges on the few vacations he went home, taking batch mates along. The Myladil man served Indian Army with a smile to retire and join the corporate sector. Still smiles, stays at Chennai, leaving Gitanjali, Gayatri and Joseph behind in Bengaluru.
Johnson M T
941
Gopikrishna K S
942
Address (O) Consultant & Head of Planning,Llyod Insulations India Ltd,Chennai, Haddows Road, Nunmgambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 034, India, Ph. 9840924259-Official, (R) S/23, Kristal Tiara, Off Sarjapura Road, Belandar PO, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560 037, India, Ph. 080-41534527, (P) Mailadil House, Kuthupara, Vellathuval PO, Vellathooval,Idukki Dt, India, 486476309. Engineering Project Management, Project management, Army Col (Retd), Corps of Engineers, 60NDA. BSC, B Tech (Mech), Advance Electrical and Mech. Engineering, Post Graduate Diploma in Construction Management,PMP. Ist in Quiz, Ist in Highjump, School Basketball team, House Capt. Ashoka Sr, Green card in Academics, Executive Producer of English Feature Filim “Manaasrarovar” and “Blueberry Hunt”. DOM 02/09/89, Gitanjali, MSc, Teacher. Ch Soorya Gayatri, 09/03/91, BDS,RV College,Rajiv Gandhi University of health Sciences,Banagalore. Ch Joseph, 27/12/93, II PU(commerce),Christ College,Bangalore. . Email johnygita@hotmail.com. Mob 099005 13466
1979
1971
The charmer with a child like heart, Gopi sang his way into everyone’s heart. He has followed his fathers ways to be an organiser; the chief patron of the batch and the promoter of its unity and brotherhood. An integral part of the OBA for over a decade, now, Jaya, Gayathri and Gokul have to share him with a host of his batch mates at Bapuji Nagar, whenever the banker finds a little time to be at home, free from his Officers Association activities. Address (O) State Bank of Travancore , Head Office, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 012, India, (R) BN 423,Sree Lekshmi, Babuji Nagar, Medical College P O, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695 011, India, Ph. 0471 2550539, (P) 802, Prasanth Nagar, Medical College PO, Thiruvananthapuram, 695 011, India, 0471 2441558. Bank, Asst Manager, BA. Won several prizes in Malayalam and Hindi Light Music Competions from std V , Adjudged Best singer for three years-1977-79, OBA Treasurer from 1997-2000, Vice President from 2000-2003, Treasurer 2003-2006, Former Youth co-ordinator for Peoples Forum for Development, an NGO working for empowerment of women. Secretary of Thanam Music Society for the Development of Music and Musicians., Was a core member of the Discovery Trek- a program for widening the horizons of students., Secretary Staff Recreation Club - 2007-8, President Staff Recreation Club 2008-9, Treasurer ABOA - Unit SBT Officers Association. Director Bank Officers Cooperative Society. DOM 07/05/89, BS Jayalekshmi, B Tech(Elec), PGDCAMM, Teacher. Ch Gayathri G Krishna, 11/12/90, B Tech. Ch Gokul K Gopikrishna, 24/02/00, Email gopikrishnaks@ gmail.com, gopikrishnaks@ yahoo.com. Mob 094464 88815
1979
91
1971
Panicker Saar as we called him, with due respect to his stature as one of the biggest boys of the batch, sailed through school and sailed through Navy to the Merchant Marine. That he went back to college with his kids to complete his LLB and become a Maritime Law expert, speaks volumes of his determined self. Wife Rashmi daughters Namrata and Natasha.
Vinod Kumar M S
943
Jacob G Cherian
944
Address (O) Asst. Director General Shipping, Jahaz Bhavan, Ballard Estate, Walchand Hirachand Marg,, Mumbai, Maharastra, 400 001, India, Ph. 022 2265 1296, (R) 1101, Huhi, Jal Vayu Defence Enclave, Sector 20, Khargher, Navi Mumbai, Maharastra, 410 210, India, (P) Mulluvarath House, Anickal PO, Kottayam, 686 503, India, 0481 2551049. Merchant Navy, Gunnery, IN, Cdr(Retd), Capt, Deputation to DGS, 61NDA. BSc. Represented School Basket Ball team. DOM 07/07/89, Rashmi, Housewife. Ch Namrata, 09/07/90. Ch Natasha, 09/03/92, Email vinodkumarms2002@yahoo.co.in. Mob 098200 96088
1979
1971
He lived joyously through the life at school bearing the pain of losing his young brother. Gave a scare to the teachers with his pranks, that included a gold finger and a speeding car with Jacob behind the wheels. Generally cut off for long intervals, he has been traced again. Address (O) , India.(P) 153/8, Hill Crest, Kottayam, 686 027, India, 0481 256580, 2567880. Business... DOM ,. . Br Late Roll No. 1138 Joseph Cherian Email . Mob 09443403643
1979
93
1971
He missed the train on his way to join the batch and ended up joining as the last boarder and got a roll number much below his entrance exam ranking. Silently struggled through the physical part of the curriculum, egged on by batch mates and little brother Praveen. From his appearance and lineage, Naushad should have been a writer. But he chose chemistry and found his chemistry in Cheryl, half way around the globe. They have set up an American Variam, alongwith Celina and Jasmine.
Naushad K V
945
Revathi Srinivas
946
Address (O) , USA.(P) , India, 0487 2381172. Engineer, Demo Application & Processing. MSc (Chem) IIT Delhi, MS & PhD (Chemical Engineering).. DOM 28/02/92, Cheryl Wolff-Variam. Ch Celina Variam, 26/10/94. Ch Jasmine Variam, 16/09/99,Br R No:1073 Dr K V Praveen Email naushad123@msn.com,
nvariam@comcast.net. Mob 1 978 985 8468
1979
1971
The Principal’s daughter left us in a giffy, leaving an enigmatic image of herself in our midst. Revathi teacher, wife of Srinivas Venkat and mother of Pooja and Prerna, is the long-lost girl friend missed by 93 greying, balding boyfriends. Watch out Srini!!!! Address (O) Vice Principal, New Generation School, 34, Kanakapura Road, Basavanagudi, Bangalore., Karnataka ., 560004, India, Ph. 080 41307786.(P) No. 2., 8th Cross, 3rd Main, 266/11,, Hanumantha Nagar, Bangalore, 560 019, India, 080 26604454. Academics, Teaching in Schools, VicePrincipal. M Sc (Home Science), B Ed.. DOM 14/10/87, Venkat Srinivas, Principal Facility Planning Consultant [ for Setting up of New Hotel Projects].. Ch Pooja Srinivas, 28/02/89, Ryan International School, Gurgaon, Haryana.. Ch Prerana Srinivas., 31/10/91, Ryan International School, Gurgaon, Haryana.. . D/o Gp. Capt. K.H. Jagannatha Rao., Ex-Principal, SSKZM. Br.Roll No:510 Cdr. Arun J Rao Email revathis@hotmail.com, venkats311@gmail.com. Mob 097408 11825
1979
95
1971
Eldest of the Vitekar clan, Madhuri came into our midst like a ‘Mor ka Pankh’, our very first Hindi lesson at school. She would have won it, if there was a prize for the best-turned out cadet. Madhuri won some prizes and broke her own tooth, enjoying her ‘day-scholar’ status. The Micro-biologist lecturer is in Latur with kids Apoory and Amey; and husband Mahendra the engineer lecturer is in Pune.
Madhuri M Ranjekar
947
Rema Devi P C
948
Address (O) , India.(P) 26, Sneh Nagar, Old Ausa Road,Near Shastri School, Latur, 413531, Aurangabad, 431 005, India. Academics, Lecturer. BSc, MSc (Microbiology).. DOM 11/05/86, Capt Dr Mahendra K Ranjekar, Professor(Biology), College of Engg, Poona. Ch Apoorv, 10/01/1988, M.Tech(Nanotechnology). Ch Amey, 09/10/1990, B.Sc.(Microbiology). . D/o M.B.Vitekar, Retd Master SSKZM. Br’s R No:1058, 1534 & Sis. 2011 Email mranjekar@gmail.com. Mob 098900 99912
1979
1971
Though a day-scholar, Rema was a thoroughbred Sainik, graduating from Sainik LP to Sainik School. The chirpy girl cadet stood up to the rest of us, beating us in debates. She chose banking, as a profession, like many of the batch mates. Rema has been the most in touch, amongst the three girls and Dr. Radhakrisnan and son Rejath are great friends of the batch. Stays in Thripunithura and works in Ernakulam, keeping secret accounts of some batch mates. Address (O) RMPB, State Bank of Travancore,, Palarivattom, Ernakulam, Kerala, 682 024, India, (R) Surabhi, TLRA 30, SN Junction, Tripunithura, Ernakulam, Kerala, 682 301, India, Ph. 0484 2777612, (P) Surabhi, Poochakkal PO, Alappuzha, 688 526, India. Bank, Manager. MA (Litt). Won many prizes in Debates in English & Malayalam. DOM 11/05/86, B Radhakrishnan, MD, Doctor. Ch Rejath R Krishnan, 30/08/88, B Tech. . . D/o Dr CKC Nair, Retd Master, SSKZM Br.1056 Dr PC Reteesh, Sis. 1461 PC Reshmi Email rksurabhi@yahoo.com. Mob 094465 12506
1979
97
A Newspaper Cutting
Captain puts together some ‘cadet tales'
S. ANANDAN Short stories are not long stories cut short. They are vortices of emotions encapsulated in crisp, forceful lingo close to human heart — a point amply proven by ‘After You Sir', a collection of stories written by former Indian Navy Captain Ramesh Babu, drawing upon incidents from the school life of generations of cadets at Sainik School, Kazhakuttam. Release today To be released by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at the closing ceremony of the golden jubilee celebrations of the school on Saturday, the anthology, the author says, is a tribute to his alma mater. Hailing from a high-range village in central Kerala, Mr. Babu studied at the school between 1971 and 1978. However, he interacted with over 100 old boys of the school across generations over the past one-and-a-half years to gather enough ‘experience' to put together the volume, the proceeds of which will go to the school's Students' Scholarship Fund. Mr. Babu was instrumental in setting up the fund for less-privileged students in the year 2000. The stories, mapping many facets of childhood at a boarding school, cobble together a collective autobiography of the school's student life, the spirit of which remains largely unchanged till date. Based on actual events, the stories are punctuated with a range of teenage emotions and deeply felt experiences — from homesickness and volatile relationship with parents to surrogatemothering by matron, boisterous and secretive teenage adventures and heart-breaking tragedies, as Captain G.R. Gopinath, who introduced low-cost flying in India, observes in his foreword to the book. (Captain Gopinath is an alumnus of Sainik School, Bijapur.) Sample this for the measured writing of Mr. Babu: “We were born in different Indias. Elsamma was born in pre-independent India and I in independent India. She was born 18 years before me and could well have been my mother, considering how early women were married off in those days. But Elsamma is my sister, my only sister, and I am her brother, her only brother. This is our story. It could also be your story,” is how he opens a story. ‘After You Sir' is the result of a collective effort by the school's alumni —united under the Old Boys' Association — with tasteful illustrations by Mathew Dominic, editing by Soni Somarajan, design by P.N. Shanavas and its website, ‘afteryousir.in' hosted by Ajithkumar, all proud old boys. The book, published by the Mumbai-based ‘Fortytwo Books Galaxy', has already won the applause of authors like Shobhaa De, Shashi Tharoor and Rashmi Bansal. It is a tribute to his alma mater Sainik School, Kazhakuttam, on its golden jubilee.
1971
Sanjeev, the Headmaster’s son exhibited excellent linguistic skills by mastering Malayalam in its sleazy version in quick time. Made his mark in academics and drill at school in his short stint and brought glory to the batch by winning the President’s Gold medal at NDA. Left the army to join the corporate world. Lives in Pune with wife Binny and daughter Kehkasha.
Sanjeev Sehgal
1422
Address (O) CBRE, 705 Nucleus, Church Road, Poona, Maharastra, 400 001, India, Ph. 20406190100, (R) Flat 101, Radiant Terraces, Ramtekdi Rd, Hadapsar, Poona, Maharastra, 411013, India, Ph. 020 32335398, (P) , India. Administration, Engineering, Army, Col(Retd), 61NDA. BSc, BE(CIVIL), MSc(Def Studies), MDBA(Pers). Green Cards in Academics, Represented School in Hockey, Cricket, Passed out First in overall order of Merit at NDA, Winner Presidents Gold Medal , Commanded Passing Out Parade., Commissioned into Corps of Engineers, winner of Pollock Medal at IMA, Participated in Sailing in National Games and at National Level Yatching Competitions. DOM 06/07/88, Binny, Teacher. Ch Kehkasha, 01/08/89,. S/o Lt Col SD Sehgal(Retd), Ex-Headmaster SSKZM; Took permature retirement as a Colonel after 26 yrs in 2008. Email sanbinny1@yahoo.co.in, sanbinny@gmail.com. Mob 097652 96578
1979
99
30 th GTG at Uday Samudra, Trivandrum - 2009
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