Uncle was too gentle to be burnt alive

                          By Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai

Month of July has become a month of remembrance for my family after 1983 “Black July”. Among many losses of lives and belongings, I still remember one of our closest family friends. He was a leading Tamil businessman in Colombo until his unfortunate fate took his life in July 1983.

He was on his way to his business in Pettah as usual on that fateful day. He was stopped by the mob, brutally attacked and burnt alive in his car! Uncle was too good to be murdered in such a cruel way. His driver ran away from the scene.

 30 years ago

After the unfortunate and unexpected demise of this particular Uncle, the business was closed down as nobody was there to keep it functional. His beloved wife and daughter have left the country, and have not even thought of visiting Sri Lanka afterwards.

He was a simple Tamil gentleman, who has helped many from his village in Jaffna to get education and find employment. He was generous person, who has contributed to Hindu temples, orphanages and elders homes in the Peninsula. He always wore a white dhoti and a white shirt.

Uncle, 30 years have just flown by, but I can still remember you visiting our home to share my Amma’s delicious meals over breakfast, lunch and dinner, long hours of chat with my Appa, and your precious gifts including beautiful ballerina shoes and fashionable frocks. I will always treasure your love and cherishing memories.

Uncle, May your soul rest in peace.