An accomplished leader with a humane face, Balakrishnan Nair Parambathu played a pivotal role in moulding and mentoring many successful careers in Calicut for more than half a century. His passing at age 93, on the 12th of September 2021, leaves a void that is very difficult to fill.

Scion of the famed Valiyaveetil Tharavadu, the nonagenarian was a highly respected figure whose knowledge, insight and helping nature benefited people from all levels of society. Fondly called “Balattan” he was the legendary elder brother to scores of townspeople, always willing to lend a patient ear and proffer solutions to vexed problems.

Balattan was a teacher par excellence who towered over the educational and social scene for decades. His uncanny ability to feel the pulse of students, their parents and fellow tutors were unmatched. After retiring as the Headmaster of Punnassery AUP School on the outskirts of Calicut, the indefatigable Balattan was one of the Trustees of Higher Secondary School Punnassery Kuttumboor.

“We will miss your wise counsel,” wailed Shri. Rajendran Thannikundummal who is chairman of Nanminda Rural Bank and District General Secretary of congress party, Kozhikode, “You will always remain in our heart.”

Owner of a multi-faceted personality, what made Balattan so special was his selfless service and inborn talents of leadership and pragmatism. He delegated authority to ensure speedy and effective decision-making. His affable character endeared him to anyone who met him. There was never any malice in his demeanour.

As Director of Nanminda Rural Co-op Bank, he was instrumental in uplifting poverty by helping marginal farmers and artisans. His laudable motto was: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

Doubtlessly, his demise has orphaned legions of admirers.

Balattan is survived by his wife Vasumathi Amma, three sons, Venu, Satheesh and Vinod, and daughter-in-law Rita, Bindu Krishna and Sheeja, and (Grandchildren) Nithin, Dr.Anand, Gokul, Vishnu.

Sasi Nair.