FEEDBACK BY USHA ON JUNE 2021 NEWSLETTER (NARASIMHAN)
The entire tribute to Kannan Anna was really moving, from the heart and gripping from the word go. The preface by Chitappa, on treasuring memories, (quoting Prasad’s words written in deep distress at the time of losing Deepu and Shriram) made me realise the value of writing down experiences, preserving scrap books and trinkets. I wish I had done more to treasure my short happy memories because it is overwhelming when I realise that the shattering events of 2006 in my life have overshadowed everything else I thoroughly enjoyed Prasad’s article, it made me go back to those days when teachers were role models, where there were no sharp divisions of caste or religion. Kannan Anna’s tamizh teacher Mr. Deivigasami is etched in my memory now! Mukund’s article was very touching. I think Jagan spent most time with Kannan Anna, especially during his last days. It is evident that all the three kids adored and respected Kannan Anna, he commanded all of it, with his gentle and principled ways. Chooda Mami’s audio was remarkable, especially loved the part on Kannan Anna’s hospitality towards his siblings, his eagerness and joy at meeting his loving siblings. The pain that Kannan Anna underwent in the last ten years has naturally caused emotional pain to all his loved ones. This aspect comes out in almost everyone’s articles/audios I have always heard about the legendary friendship of the three musketeers- Kannan Mama, Kannan Anna. It was nice to hear Kannan mama’s audio, especially on how adjustable Kannan Anna was and how unfussed about food he was. Santhanam Anna’s adoration for Anna sparkles through in his article. I loved his concluding line-not to grieve over his passing but to feel grateful for his life Kousalya Manni’s simple article was very touching. She used the perfect adjectives to describe Kannan Anna. All of us associate him with dignity, fortitude, gentleness and his trademark smile. It is indeed difficult to imagine that the smiling gravitas is not in our midst now. Rahul spoke from the heart, truly Kannan anna meant so many things to everyone in the family Amritha Chitti’s letter was extremely conversational with a wealth of snippets, memories and above all complete devotion to Kannan Anna. The role he played in shaping the lives of all his siblings is noteworthy. Anna was indeed the epitome of the adage ‘simple living, high thinking’ Chitappa’s bookmarks were very interesting. I wasn’t aware that Kannan Anna had been a mentor to him. I can imagine Kannan Anna telling Chitappa with a straight face ‘Amritha is the noblest among the siblings” The last part of Chitappa’s audio brought a lump in my throat and was so poignant. Harish’s round and about had several bits and pieces joined together in a beautiful article. Loved the format of round and about. Aarthi’s article made interesting reading. In all the poignancy and pain of loss of a wonderful human being, Aarthi’s line on how she ‘felt dumb enough to join politics’ brought a smile on my lips! Raghu, Chandra, Hema’s tributes were overflowing with gratitude and respect for the eldest sibling, the father figure, who was always there for them and for everyone else. In all the articles, the role of Rajeevi manni was applauded, her hospitality, patience and care for Kannan Anna shone through. I am sure she must be re-living the better days through this newsletter. Rest in peace Kannan Anna, you leave behind a legacy to be proud of, you will be missed! Usha Murali June 2021 |