Thomas 'Appa' was my eldest uncle and commanded a great deal of respect, authority and dignity went with his position in our big family. His illustrious and impressive career as an educator par excellence in no less an institution as the Indian Institute of Science just added to his aura and it seemed that he was a true giant of a man. He was! I say these things because more often than not, men of his stature tend to be haughty, arrogant and aloof, patronizing and condescending at every turn and with everyone they meet. But, that wasn't Thomas Appa at all. Let me give you just one personal anecdote.
It must have been sometime in January 2002 a few months before a frustrated 16 year old (me), in the 10th standard and busy preparing for the ICSE board exams, was struggling with the Physics textbook. The concepts seemed abstruse, the practical problems daunting and my nerves completely frayed. Mummy called up Manju Aunty and asked if Appa could clarify some 'doubts' for Naveen. And Appa, if anybody knows him at all, very gladly obliged and I found myself, textbook in hand in that beautiful Malleswaram house one Saturday afternoon. As I sat there not knowing what to expect, Appa sat beside me at the dining table and side by side began his lesson. It was the best Physics class I had ever attended up until that point, maybe ever. Using simple language, practical everyday examples, humor and his trademark wit, Appa unlocked that textbook, simplified Physics and sparked a love for science! All in one afternoon! He stressed on learning the principles and 'attacking' (his own words) the problems. He said the theory and description wouldn't be a problem for us English Medium convent school educated city kids going so far as to admit his own struggles as a student educated in Tamil Medium.
This in a nutshell was Appa. A storied Professor in a storied institution giving his time for a very young family member. He came down to my level, ignited the passion for Physics and gently guided me in a way that felt that I had arrived at my solutions without his help or guidance. This was a masterclass in Physics. But, more importantly, it was a masterclass in love, humility and service. I'm sure, in the days to come that there will be similar anecdotes from others that will echo similar sentiments. Dear Leena Akka and Chachi Anna, I don't have to tell you more about Appa! And, to Sophia, Natalie, Divya and Kanchan I do hope you read these stories that will tell you how awesome Grandpa was! My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to all of you. May his memories be a blessing to all of you and May God give you all the strength, peace and comfort in this difficult time.
Naveen
