Reflecting on a College Friend from 2001
by Jeffrey pg.5
by Benjamin pg.2
by Ravi pg.6
In a celebration that promises to be filled with excitement and joy, Rakesh marks his incredible 40th birthday, a milestone that signifies strength, wisdom, and resilience. As we honor 37 years of a friendship that has stood the test of time, his journey serves as an inspiration to not only me but also countless others.
Reflecting on our cherished friendship, memories flood my mind - the laughter, the shared experiences, and the unwavering support. From the mischievous adventures of our youth to the unforgettable moments on the cricket grounds, Hockey/ football fields, and athletic meets to the numerous Annual Prize days and Prefect Investitures., Rakesh has been a constant presence on my team.
Rakesh’s kindness, creativity, and intelligence have shone brightly. His ability to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to challenges is exceptional. Whether helping me navigate life’s hurdles or offering fresh perspectives on difficult situations, his wisdom has been invaluable. I am forever grateful to have him as my friend and brother.
Turning 40 is a whirlwind of emotions, a symbol of the incredible experiences, lessons, and wisdom gained. Rakesh, embrace
A Journey of Friendship, Inspiration, and Endless Memories.
this new chapter with open arms! Your accomplishments are remarkable, and the future holds many thrilling adventures.
As you embark on this new decade, I encourage you to nurture your incredible creativity. Your unique perspective on the world has always inspired those around you, and there’s no doubt it will continue to do so. Pursue passions, explore new interests, and let your imagination roam freely. The world is yours to claim.
Lastly, my dear friend, I express my utmost gratitude for your unwavering friendship. Through thick and thin, you have been a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, and a hand to hold. Our bond has stood firm against the test of time, and I am eternally grateful.
Happy 40th birthday, Rakesh! May this new chapter be filled with joy, love, and endless possibilities. Remember, I am always here for you, ready to support you no matter what. Here’s to 40 more years of laughter, adventures, and cherished memories!
Let the celebrations begin!
Dhanya
O“n this special occasion of Rakesh’s 40th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of friendship that we embarked upon from our 9th-grade days in OOEHS, Sharjah. Rakesh, the epitome of charm, politeness, and dashing charisma, was not only known as the “Golden Boy” and the head boy of our school but also as the first boy I spoke to in school over the phone. Here is a heartfelt tribute to a friend who has been an unwavering source of support, advice, and laughter throughout the years, from school to college days in Chennai and beyond.
*A Memorable First Encounter*
Our story begins in the unique setting of our school, where the morning shift was reserved for girls and the afternoon shift for boys. It was in this divide that Rakesh and I first crossed paths. Our initial interaction was rather unconventional, as he played the role of a wingman ;) , calling me up on the phone to facilitate a conversation with someone else. Little did we know that this chance encounter would mark the beginning of a friendship that would span a lifetime.
*The Golden Boy of Our School*
Rakesh’s reputation as the “Golden Boy” and head boy of our school was well-deserved. He possessed not only a striking smile but also an endearing personality that drew people to him like a magnet. Rakesh’s politeness and charm were not just surface-level; they were reflective of the person he is – kind, considerate, and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Rakesh’s journey to becoming the head boy showcased his leadership qualities and dedication. He was a role model for all of us even with the very little interactions we had due to different shifts, always leading with humility and grace. His leadership extended beyond just school events; it was evident in the way he supported his friends and encouraged all to excel.
*Reminiscing the Moments*
Every moment spent with Rakesh, all the impromptu road drives , the camping and bonfires were always filled with laughter and camaraderie. He is not just a friend but a confidant, always ready to listen to the melodrama of my life (matter of fact with any of his close friends), whether it was the school years, college life in Chennai, or the adventures that followed.
One of the most cherished aspects of our friendship has been the advices Rakesh has offered. He possesses an innate wisdom and the ability to provide guidance that is both practical and compassionate. Whether it was academic choices, personal dilemmas, or simply navigating the ups and downs of life, his counsel has been invaluable.
In conclusion, Rakesh’s 40th birthday is a milestone not only in his life but also in the lives of all those who have had the privilege of knowing him. He remains the embodiment of charm, charisma, kindness and continues to inspire us with his unwavering humility and grace. As we celebrate this special day, I am grateful for this incredible friendship we share and look forward to creating many more cherished moments in the years to come. Happy 40th birthday, Rakesh, my dear friend, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness, success, and
Deepak
My dear friend Rakesh, a man so kind and true. With his shiny bald head, his charm shines through.
Secrets held tight, his shiny head gleams, Car lovers heart, fueled by dreams
His secret to the gleaming dome
Remains hidden , mystery unknown.
In times of need, he’s there to extend, A helping hand , my loyal friend
Happy Birthday, dear friend, forever be blessed May your days be filled with joy and success
uddy Rakesh; you may not want to accept it, but the truth is that you are now 40. And to imagine, the years we’ve known each other totals to more than half of that.
Until time travel is invented, all I can do is look back to those days when we first met and how our friendship grew stronger.
From being college mates to roommates and best mates, through the years listening to ‘Micheal Learns to Rock’ on your stereo, and never truly learning about rock music - we’ve had so many experiences and it is all too much to jot down here.
I have to admit, with age some memories seem to be fading. But what will surely remain is the memory of knowing you. Along with Vijin, we made a great trio. Not knowing you guys would surely have been a miss. Like your favorite singer says - “Those were the best days of my life”
On this special day as you embark onto the next phase of your life, I want to wish the very best of everything for you. You deserve nothing less.
I am one of those who can say that I know you for who you truly are - a gem of a person. My best bud, was and will always be.
God Bless you man!
Hey Rakesh, Happy 40th Birthday! Wishing you all the best as you enter this fabulous new chapter. I still remember you as the head boy with that million-dollar smile, the most decent and sweet boy I knew. And yes, being a Libran does give us an unfair advantage in the charm department
From surviving school shenanigans to embracing the balding journey like a true pro, you’ve aced it all. And knowing you, you’re totally owning the husband and dad role too! Guess what? I’ve moved back to the city, so I’m just a hop away. Get ready for some epic catch-ups. Here’s to a fantastic 40th birthday celebration!
Reflecting on a College Friend from 2001 I
Jeffrey
“n the fast-paced world we live in, true friendships often withstand the test of time. Back in 2001, during our college admissions journey, I encountered a remarkable individual who would become my first college friend. Our bond grew rapidly due to our shared experience as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who had studied in the Gulf. Little did I know then that this friendship would endure through the years, from being college roommates to witnessing each other’s milestones.
As fate would have it, he became my first college roommate, and we embarked on the exciting adventure of hostel life together. From sharing a room to swapping clothes, we discovered a sense of camaraderie that laid the foundation for a lifelong connection. We weathered the challenges of college life side by side, providing support and encouragement to one another along the way.
What truly set my friend apart was his unwavering determination and clarity of purpose. He possessed a remarkable sense of direction and always knew what he wanted in life. He pursued his dreams with relentless dedication, never losing sight of
his goals. His hard work and commitment served as an inspiration to those around him, including myself.
Today, I am filled with immense pride as I witness his achievements in life. He has built a successful career, but more importantly, he has nurtured a beautiful family. Through his unwavering dedication and love, he has become a role model not only to his loved ones but also to the countless individuals who have had the privilege of knowing him.
As I look back on our journey, I am grateful for the friendship we cultivated in 2001. Our bond has transcended time and distance, reminding us of the power of genuine connections. Through shared experiences and unwavering support, we have navigated life’s ups and downs together, celebrating each other’s triumphs and offering solace during challenging moments.
In a world that often seems transient and ever-changing, it is comforting to know that some friendships endure. The bond I forged with my college friend from 2001
Rakesh Nair’s 40th BirthdayADVENTUROUS KIDS EMBARK ON EPIC BICYCLE JOURNEY FROM AJMAN TO SHARJAH FOR A SIMPLE SANDWICH
Young Duo’s Determination and Appetite Lead to Unforgettable Day of Adventure
I“n a heartwarming tale of youthful determination and the simple joys of life, two intrepid kids, dubbed Kid 1 and Kid 2, recently embarked on a remarkable bicycle journey from Ajman to Sharjah – all for the love of a single sandwich. Their journey, which saw them pedal their way through bustling streets and quiet stretches of road, captured the attention and admiration of onlookers as they accomplished a feat that many adults would hesitate to undertake.
Kid 1 and Kid 2, whose names are withheld for privacy reasons, set out on their adventure armed with only their bicycles, a sense of curiosity, and an insatiable hunger for the iconic sandwich from a renowned Sharjah eatery. What might have been a mere culinary craving for most turned into an extraordinary quest for these two young explorers.
The journey began in the early morning hours as the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink. With unwavering spirits and a shared goal, the duo pedaled their way along the roads that connected Ajman and Sharjah, navigating traffic, intersections, and changing landscapes with the skill and determination of seasoned travelers. The route, though not overly long, presented its own set of challenges – from the scorching midday sun to the occasional flat tire. However, with laughter, encouragement, and the prospect of a delicious sandwich propelling them forward, the obstacles seemed to melt away.
As they reached the bustling streets of Sharjah, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The eatery, a modest establishment known for its signature sandwich, welcomed
the young adventurers with open arms. Their hunger was not just for sustenance but for the sense of accomplishment that awaited them after conquering the miles between cities.
After savoring the simple yet satisfying sandwich, the kids were brimming with a sense of achievement. With the sun descending in the sky, they turned their bicycles back towards Ajman, their hearts and stomachs equally full. The return journey was marked by tired legs, occasional rests, and the shared stories of the day’s escapade.
As they finally rolled back into Ajman, the evening sky cast a warm glow on their tired but triumphant faces. Friends, family, and neighbors greeted them with cheers and applause, recognizing the remarkable feat they had achieved. The journey wasn’t just about covering the distance; it was a testament to the power of determination, friendship, and the joy of simple pleasures.
Kid 1 and Kid 2’s adventure is a reminder that even in a world dominated by technology and convenience, the spirit of exploration and the thrill of embarking on a journey for the simplest of joys still burn brightly in the hearts of our youth. Their story serves as an inspiration to us all, encouraging us to embrace the allure of the unknown and to find joy in the most unexpected places.
As the sun set on their unforgettable day of adventure, Kid 1 and Kid 2 pedaled home tired but happy, their bicycles carrying not just their tired bodies, but also a memory that would undoubtedly be cherished for a lifetime.
TRIBUTE TO THE MOST SELF-MADE MAN I KNOW
S“o, I was asked to write an article on the person I respect the most in this world, and strangely I have no words. They say, ‘Behind every successful man, there is a woman”. But I would say, in my case that ‘Behind every successful woman, there is a man who pushed her to dream and allowed her the freedom to spread her wings”. That person in my case is my brother, Rakesh Janardhanan Nair.
There is no one I trust more implicitly in this world than him. Being 11 years older than I am he has literally played the role of a brother and parent simultaneously and importantly of a digitally informed guardian. In my teenage years, ‘Evil Genius’ was the name I had given to him. He knew of every weird teenage stuff that I was up to owing to him rigging my computer. He still let me make all my mistakes and intervened only when it was necessary. While I surely didn’t appreciate it then, I appreciate it now.
I would like to thank him for saving me from many face palming moments I would have had.
I think it used to annoy me the most when I would have such a tortured time trying to confess something I did, and once I was done, he would just reply ‘I know’.
And when I had finished making mistakes that are imperative to learn in life, he stepped in and told me one thing, ‘to never settle’. While I pictured myself making enough to get by, he taught me to dream bigger. I may be 28 years old, but I am still the 5-year-old clinging to his pants when I am in trouble, and I guess that will never change.
One of the fond and few instances that I remember is of him dropping me off to school the first day, and then leav-
ing me as he should, to fend for myself. My little mind never felt so abandoned and I immediately started bawling until my teacher who tried consoling me the nice way had enough and asked me to ‘stop crying’. 20 years later, he forced me to take my education in a foreign land, a step that terrified me and in time became the reason for my resilience in life. Both these times, he never really left and stayed close to ensure I was okay. Even now, when I say something that sounds wise and I push someone younger to me to never settle, I know it is from him.
He had always been key to every special occasion in my life. From teaching me cycling to buying me a cycle with his first salary, from teaching me computers to buying me a laptop on his first international trip to buying all phones I have ever owned until now, to educating me and to even finding me a husband.
In addition to everything he has been to me, he is a role model for what any son should be to the family. Sure, there are moments he says something angrily and then later denies ever having said that, but undeniably he is the head of our family along with dad. In addition to that, he is a phenomenal dad and husband himself.
Lastly, he is a professional to learn from. From acknowledging his team to the diplomatic and calm handling of volatile situations I have sat in awe in many instances. I think everyone who has spent more than one month with me would know who Rakesh Nair is too. So I am still watching and learning bro!
So, on this instance of his Birthday, I just want to say, “You are the best Anna! Wishing you the best, happiest and grandest Birthday of all time! We love you. More than you know”.
I“t was on one of these excursions that I knew Rakesh would be someone significant in my life. After the universe pairing us together at Nissan’s global rotation programme, back in 2010, I never knew that would be the beginning of a long friendship.
You have been there for me Rakesh on some of the significant points in my life. Hell, it was your idea I relocate to Dubai after our stint in Switzerland ended. At the time I did not even know where on the map Dubai was, but you assured me it was a great place to be at. Well, it turned out to be the place where my life evolved into something I could have never imagined. Dude, you even accompanied me down the aisle when I got married. Thank you for that!
Through it all, you have shown up for me when it counted the most and to that, I will always be grateful for.
Happy 40th birthday Rakesh. I am proud to call you a friend.
Shiny
Our dimpled head-boy; always with a smile that reaches your eyes; call-anytime-reliable-friend; I-ROC Concept!; picking you from Ajman; shopping in B’lore; venting about your gf; exchanging notes on working in a Japanese company; getting jealous over your duvet leave; MIA for many years and then to meet your lovely family; rocking your career...you have come a long way!!!
Wishing you all the best life can offer my dear friend. Rock your 40s! Lots of love- Shiny Asma
Sujith
Hey buddy! Wow, you’re 40!! Can you believe our paths crossed 22 years ago ? I want to take a moment to celebrate the great gift you are to all of us - your friends! There’s a shed load of memories that comes flooding to mind - especially 1st year hostel life and 3rd year “Shalom” life. The cricket, the dinners, the chats, the movies! I’ve also got great memories of your rendezvous in London and Dubai ! Here’s wishing you an amazing year, and may the next decade be your best one yet. You must be proud of all you’ve accomplished in your career and your role as a husband and dad. Happy birthday, my friend, and may God richly bless you. Can’t wait to hang out again. Cheers !!
Aisha
B“ack in October 2008 when I started with Nissan and asked around, “Hey does anyone live in Ajman”, they replied “Yes, Rakesh”. Took a week to find out who was Rakesh and then finally I got over the awkwardness to go ask Rakesh if I could get a ride with him to Ajman! Little did I knew back then that this was only the start of a beautiful friendship. 15 years later, I still recall our commutes to work, us not finding good music on the radio, being stuck for hours on road, as it rained and only insane people decided to go to work, asking Rakesh to walk to NGF side in evenings as the lights towards NMEF would go off and lot more recollections….. A lot has happened between these 15 years, but so blessed to have a friend in Rakesh, whom I still bug when work gets to my nerves and I just want to quit, then a wise voice of sanity from the other end, talks me into being more sensible and less emotional!
HAPPY 40th BIRTHDAY RAKESH, MAY YOU HAVE MANY MORE BLESSED YEARS WITH YOUR AMAZING FAMILY!!!!
Vijin
M“y best memories from college were those bus rides we used to take at 11 in the night back to the hostel. Benny, you and I would always sit on those exact same seats in the exact same bus every night and talk about ramdon shit with the wind in our hair. Not to mention the time we jumped out to retreive a little something you let fly out the window. Things have changed, but I still look back fondly at those times. Can’t put a price on memories like that.
40 is a scary number. In fact, the more fun you had in your 20’s the scarier it is. But I can assure you it has its perks. Ibuprofen kicks in faster. There’s more justification for belly fat. Being called ‘uncle’ doesn’t hurt as much. And your role models shift to people like Col. Sanders just because he started KFC at 65.
Seriously though, it’s how you feel inside that counts. As long as you have things to do, people to love, places to see and goals to achieve, life will always be how it was in your 20’s. I hope you have many more fun-filled years ahead. Happy Birthday.
Ajitey
O“h.. 22 years. Adopting to a lot of changes in life. Graduation, Job hunt, Relocation, Marriage, Kids, Schooling of kids, Professional challenges, etc. Over these years, I have seen many faces. Out of them, Rakesh, you are a gem of a person. We started together from day 1 in the class of Madam Yukta Kodwani (I believe the name is spelled right ). Since then, how far we have reached in life. Still, if I’m in need of any support, you are just a call away. I should say, I have seen very few who are reliable this much.
Those days- eda koshy.. enna edukuva, come down in 5 mins, used to be scary. I’m sure no one would have enjoyed it like me. Driving on the Dubai streets crazily wasn’t just fun. It was bond building. Lots to cherish.
Thank you, Rakesh, for always being around. Your advice and thoughts have been vere level bro.
As always, you step onto 40 first. I will follow. Happy Birthday wishes buddy
Rakeeb
Birthdays are a time for celebration, reflection, and gratitude. Today, as we celebrate the birthday of my dear friend Rakesh Nair, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the remarkable journey of friendship we’ve shared since our high school days at Our English High School in Sharjah, UAE. Rakesh has grown into an exceptional individual. Our paths have taken us to different corners of the world, but our friendship remains unwavering.
Our story begins in the hallways of Our English High School in Sharjah, where we met as teenagers navigating the complexities of adolescence and education. Little did we know that this chance encounter would lay the foundation for a friendship that would withstand the test of time. From sharing notes and jokes in class to supporting each other during exams and life’s ups and downs, our high school days were filled with unforgettable moments that have become the building blocks of our friendship.
One of the most special aspects of our friendship is the role I played in introducing Rakesh to the love of his life, his wife. I couldn’t be happier to have brought
A Remarkable Journey of Friendship: Happy Birthday, Rakesh Nair!
together two incredible people destined to be with each other. Watching their love story unfold and witnessing their journey from being two individuals to a loving family has been a privilege and a testament to the strength of our bond. Beyond his professional achievements, Rakesh excels as a family man. He is not just a husband but a loving and devoted partner to his wife and embraces the role of a father with open arms and a heart full of love.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the beautiful friendship we share. From our humble beginnings in high school to the accomplished individuals we are today, our journey has been marked by unwavering support, shared laughter, and cherished memories. Rakesh May your professional endeavours continue to flourish, and your role as a loving husband and father be ever-rewarding.
I am excited to see the incredible future that lies ahead for you and your family. Here’s to celebrating not just another year of your life but another year of our enduring friendship. Happy birthday, my dear friend.
Sunil
H“appy 40th Birthday, Young Man!
As we celebrate this beautiful occasion of your entry into the fabulous 40s, I find myself in a rather unique situation, all thanks to your absolutely lovely wife. She’s given me the task of writing this small letter in just 24 hours, while the rest of the world had the luxury of almost two months to prepare their tributes. Not that - I would have started two months ago, but let’s just say I like to keep things exciting.
But, like always, I have faith that I’ll rise to the occasion.
So, in true Rakesh fashion, I wanted to tackle this task a little differently. While I’m sure the other 39 well-wishers have composed amazing tributes highlighting your exceptional character, numerous achievements, and all the qualities that make you the incredible person you are, I thought I’d begin with something deeper – a profound statement, or some words of wisdom.
Do you remember our conversation in the car today, in Sharjah? You shared that fantastic analogy of life’s complexities being like a juggler expertly juggling glass balls, symbolizing how we all strive to balance our lives with grace. I must admit, those words soared way above my head, and I gladly nodded to end the conversation ASAP.
So please read below with some conviction and do “pause, at times while reading” to feel the intensity of the famous words of wisdom.
“We are born alone & we die alone, & in between, we spend our lives searching for something – like a connection. Sometimes, that’s all we desire….. Occasionally, we find it in the form of a true friend.
And Bro, I found that connection with you…. Many friendships come and go, like fireworks, but some are rare and precious, lasting a lifetime. The connection we have – I will take it till the end of time…”
When I first heard this, my thoughts immediately turned to you, and I felt compelled to express my gratitude. Our journey began in 8th grade during a moral science recital, and later, we found ourselves both crushing on the same girl – of course, I gracefully stepped aside when you shot gunned her. Over the years, we cycled along the coast of Ajman Beach, graduated to riding motorcycles in the rain back in Chennai and the roads of Dubai, and narrowly escaped a head-on collision with a transport bus, thanks to my daredevil driving.
We even worked together in the same company for a brief stint, and when the automotive industry beckoned you with open arms, we had to devise a strategic exit plan. And then, you took on the role of a wedding broker, persuading my parents to marry me off with your diplomatic charm. Let’s keep our secret, shall we? Your persuasive skills certainly left us all bewildered.
You attended my wedding and stood by me and my family when my dad ascended to the heavens above. Even today, you patiently sit by my side, explaining the cosmos with your infinite wisdom. You’ve been there with me through the happiest and saddest moments of my life. I sincerely wish you a
lifetime of good health and longevity, forever and ever.
May your two little angels grow up to be just like you, or perhaps an even better version of you and Monica. I firmly believe in the saying, “Lions can only breed Lions.”
I am in awe of the challenges you took on at such a young age and the responsibilities you bore, caring for Amma, Acha, and Paaaaruu. Your resilience has always inspired me and countless others, especially when I was inclined to be childish and immature.
So, my dear big brother, I wholeheartedly wish you a lifetime filled with success and happiness.
May you be around to celebrate Sia’s 50th birthday and many more joyous occasions together.
A Neema
s they say, if your New Age is Hard to swallow- just add some Tequila in it!! Vayassaayi Mone!
I still remember meeting you for the first time in Nissan on my first day at work with complete strangers around – at the Canteen and you graciously offered me a seat next to you. I instantly made a mental note that , this is someone I can be friends with! Now friends for life – now this is something I DID NOT expect. You are still the same person with the same warmth and kindness, no matter how you’ve grown. Everytime I see your name in the papers , I glee with pride to see how you truly made your
Hemu
ambitions come true. It purely attributes to your hard work and the Person you are. I was just telling Moni the other day, how of all places , I got to meet you in Switzerland and I still have a pic of you holding the “Paris Mug” .
@Monika : Please show him that picture in which he looks like he’s in his 20’s. It’s a good reminder of how old you’ve got Rak!!!
Jokes apart, On this Milestone Birthday ,I wish you Loads of Happiness , immense Wealth , good Health , true Wisdom of knowing yourself better & I am so glad that we could extend our friendship beyond work. I am truly honoured that I could be part of many milestones in your life.
You Totally Deserve a KICK ASS birthday for you are truly One of a Kind Happy 40th Rak…. Have fun Celebrating YOU!
With a leader’s gaze and a friend’s warm smile,
He’s walked life’s journey, mile after mile.
At forty, he stands, not just in age but in lore, Rakesh, our mate, forever more.
To the boy who led, and the leader so grand, Raise a toast, for his legacy, both firm and grand.
A man in my life..A Love in my arms..
Takes my breath away whenever he comes along..
His stary eyes leaving me yearning till dawn..
Dimple on his cheek makes my heart beat strong..
When he holds my hand a smile tags along..
While I sit, read, compile and push all your buddies to be part of this celebration, I realise that the ‘’HERO’’ here is mine..all mine..forever mine and just like an old wine mine mine. It’s bizarre as I am formulating ideas to celebrate the man who is so loved, cherished, respected, looked upon, followed and the list can keep going..that suddenly I am filled with all the more pride and gratitude to have you. Its almost rare to find a man like Rakesh Nair, so let’s begin with a big cheers to wish you a very happy birthday..to thank the universe to bless me with a companion like you and most importantly bless us for eternity
Each year I run out of ideas to make it special and worthwhile for you..
how do you thank the guy who makes it all worth it..
how do you celebrate him enough..
how do you relay to him that my English is not as high funda as him but my feeling for him he cannot beat..
For many you are a friend, philosopher, guide..for me you are and will remain to be the ladder to riches
So lets do it kaa style..
Mujhe kahan fursat mein mausam Suhana dekhu.. main aapki yaad se niklu toh zamana dekhu..
