Page 14 - Vaidy

One of my most memorable events in CDS was when I travelled with Dr Vaidyanathan and Dr Raj to the former's home in his Fiat car. They had asked me to come with them as they wanted to speak to me about something. I was quite scared as I did not know what this trip was all about. Despite everything, all of us were in awe of Vaidy and Raj! Once at home, beer was served and both of them wanted to figure out why I am not staying on at CDS for my PhD. Drinking beer with both of them at that stage of my career was very awkward but I have cherished that moment all my life. Of course, the fact that they wanted me to stay for my PhD is something any student will die for. To my mind, that kind of personal interest in the research of the CDS students was at the core of the institution building exercise. I shared with them that Jeemol and I plan to get married and one of the ‘conditions’ was to get a job. We all had a good laugh but they still wanted me to reconsider if the two objectives could be simultaneously achieved. Unfortunately, I did not get the chance of continuing my learning at CDS.
After Jeemol and I graduated, we got to know the family well and we have very fond memories of our association with him and his family. The last time we met him was in Chennai in January 2017 when Jeemol, myself, our daughter and our son-in-law visited his home. As usual, he was most affectionate. And like always, in his inimical style, told me what I should focus on in my research on technology! Full of ideas, he also talked about several other areas of research that need to be explored. I called a few of my old teachers last month and have been meaning to call him too. Could not manage it for no particular reason and am feeling quite bad about it now. The loss is entirely mine.
Sunil asked me if I would like to say something during the condolence meeting but I could not put myself together to do so. Listening to all the people during the meeting brought back fond wonderful memories. May his soul rest in peace. My deep condolences to Mrs Vaidynathan, Rama, Radhika and Sanjay.
My fond memories of him will always remain with me. Rakesh
RamachandraRao Kondapally <kondapallysrao@gmail.com>
Regret to know the demise of Prof Vaidyanadhan. CDS and entire research community
lost a great teacher. Condolences to his family members. Ramachandra Rao, K S.
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