Godspeed Benjy

Yesterday we bid adieu to one of the most compassionate, kind and gentle souls to have ever graced our presence. Santosh Benjamin, “Benjy” to all of us in great fondness was a personality to be remembered and a human being with values to be cherished. Always possessing a smile that could only be termed infectious, Benjy spread his cheer all around him like an effervescent spirit.
A decade ago in Mumbai, a tall lanky lad walks into the work place with a languid bearing, a proud moustache and the trademark style that would be a hallmark characteristic to all who would be acquainted with him. That very afternoon, Benjy sat on a desk tuned his guitar and in C minor commenced playing a tune lilting in melody. Believe me he did not flatter to deceive and could he play his tunes!!! As and when we developed a bonding, i realised that we had a common taste in music.. From Ramones to iron maiden benjy knew his stuff; we exchanged our collections, and debated about the pedigree and calibre of Hendrix and van halen. We even on an unbelievable day stood in the 2nd row watching iron maiden play at Brixton academy! Anyone who has ever been to a concert with Benjy would not forget his incredible attempts at head banging, a true sight to behold!
Benjy was an absolute epitome of kindness, unflinching in his stand of values and driven only by the element of ethics and impeccable behaviour. He was to simply put, a true role model and if one were to emulate Benjy, he would turn out to be a beautiful human being, if not a perfect one. Benjy never hesitated a jot to lend a helping hand whenever and wherever it was needed and he was proud of the work that he was involved in.
There are only a handful of people who appear into your world, create a lasting influence and an everlasting impression during the course of a lifetime. Benjy was, for me without a doubt an influence, an impression and an imprint. He came, he saw and he definitely conquered and won over every heart that he happened to tug at. Benjy continues to live, love and laugh through our hearts, minds and souls.
Benjy, we love you. We miss you. Your family is in good hands. You have graced our lives more than you will ever know. God bless.