The warmth, the generosity, the greatness of a wonderful sportman
This is what I wrote to Dlip Sardesai wife, Nina, and his son Rajdeep and daughter Shonali, today:
I just learned about Dilip, and it's hard to imagine that he'd be gone. I cannot even begin to appreciate what you must be going through, but you must surely know that Dilip made so many friends through his graciousness, generosity and good will -- and that he will continue to always bring a smile to people's faces on account of his enduring warmth and good cheer.
I still remember the sheer thrill of meeting him the first time, after having watched him play cricket so superlatively during my boyhood. I still remember the marvelous anecdotes he spun about his sporting life. I still remember his comments about contemporary players; he was always kind about them, but that did not mean he overlooked their shortcomings. I think that Dilip taught us all that it's possible to demand excellence with a smile, which makes people all the more invested in their own success. I never heard him tear anyone down -- even those who were uncharitable toward him -- but I always heard him boost people's morale.
He certainly boosted mine. There was a low point in my life when I spent a few days in London with him some yers ago. That point quickly evaporated on account of Dilip's unfailing good humor, his optimism, and his indomitable spirit.
A lovely man. A wonderfully sweet man. I consider it a high privilege to have known him, and to have been in his company. When I called him and Nina last February during my Delhi sojourn, I could not have possibly known that I'd never hear his voice again.
I am so terribly sorry, Nina, Rajdeep and Shonali (and Sagarika and Taimur), I am so terribly sorry.
With my prayers, and all my love,
Pranay