Farewell to a Pioneer
๐ฑ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ ๐ป๐๐๐๐๐๐
Today, we bid farewell to a stalwart of Sai Society, affectionately known as “Uncle Karan” – Bro. G Karunakaran, who has ascended to the lotus feet of Bhagawan on the auspicious day of Bheeshma Ekadashi. Uncle Karan was not just an office-bearer; he was one of the pioneers of the Sai Society, standing as a pillar of strength for over two decades.
Hailing from Kerala, Uncle Karan embarked on his journey to Singapore as a teenager. He dedicated his professional life to serving the Singapore Government in its Public Works Department. However, it was in his retirement that he truly found his calling, devoting the next 25 years to the service of the Sai Society in various capacities, notably as honorary treasurer and honorary secretary.
Uncle Karan was renowned for his unwavering honesty and principled approach. He meticulously laid the foundations of a robust Sai Centre, implementing stringent financial discipline and core processes that endure to this day. His insistence on accountability was legendary; he famously sought justification for even the smallest expenditure, earning him the endearing moniker ‘Money Karan’. Thanks in part to his financial stewardship, the Sai Society was able to acquire its own premises, the “Sathya Sai Baba Centre” on Moulmein Road. Drawing upon his expertise in public works, Uncle Karan oversaw the construction of the present building, leaving an indelible mark on our physical space.
Despite his official retirement, Uncle Karan’s commitment to service never waned. He spent countless hours at the Centre, attending to administrative duties with the diligence of a full-time professional, all the while remaining steadfastly behind the scenes. Even after relinquishing his formal roles in 2004, he continued to offer his invaluable guidance and support to successive generations of leaders, embodying the true spirit of selfless service.
Today, as we reflect on Uncle Karan’s life and legacy, his dedication, integrity, and discipline serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his presence will be deeply felt, and his memory cherished within the walls of our Sai Centre. Uncle Karan, we will miss you dearly, but your training will continue to guide us on our journey forward.
Sairam
Your dedication to Swamiโs work is what we, the next generation are enjoying . I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the foundation you have laid in Sai Society ๐๐ผ
Uncle”Money” Karan and my relationship goes a very long time. I remember an incident when we wanted to place a key Telephone system for moulmein Sai Centre. Uncle Karan had entrusted me with the job as I was working in SingTel at that time. I got a quotation for around SGD2300 dlrs from Bro Augustus who was working in NEC at that time. When I went to him for the money, he told me to seek donations for it. In a month I was able to raise only SGD 300 only when Uncle Karan asked me. While we were talking at Mandapam, a lawyer devotee overheard our conversation and approached me. He asked to see the invoice. Seeing the number “23”on the invoice he told me to see him the next day for a donation. Both Uncle Karan and myself thought the donation would be either SGD23 DLRS OR SGD230 DLRS.
The next day when I went, the dobation cheque given to me was for the full amount of SGD2300. As usual Uncle Karan wanted a statement of accounts. After paying for the KTS System the balance 300 dlrs was enough to get the telephone lines installed with cabling within the building with a final figure being zero. Uncle Karan then told me it is the work of Sai to get the system for the centre. I then got the nickname of SingTel Gopi after that incident and Bro Augustus became a devotee.