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Monday Musings: Civic activist DVR Rao, exemplary karma yogi
Enveloped as we are by corruption, political and bureaucratic apathy, Pune and other Indian cities need as much public participation as it can get.
The world knew Major (retd.) Damerla Venkata Ramana Rao by his initials DVR Rao and those close to him fondly called him ‘Nani’. When DVR passed away on March 21 at age 82, Pune- and especially the localities of Aundh and Baner- became poorer by the loss of this valuable voice of a much-respected citizen-activist.
The news of DVR’s demise came all of a sudden to those in the media and social activism because he had been routinely connecting with people throughout last week. What was striking about him was his passion and energy for the things he took up.
A prolific writer and an author of fiction and non-fiction, DVR never ceased to use the internet to the hilt to communicate with others; express his views on national issues and take up issues of civic activism within his circle and with the local authorities.
I had communicated with him on numerous occasions through the previous months and was deeply touched when he once insisted on visiting our office at the other end of the city from where he lived. One afternoon, many months back, I saw him attentively taking notes during a public meeting organised by the Aundh ward office on a local issue. He was clearly the oldest person in the room by age, but also among the youngest by his inspiring zest and presence.
Enveloped as we are by extraordinary corruption, political and bureaucratic apathy on critical city issues, Pune and other towns and cities of India need as much public participation as it can get. This is why civic activism matters, especially when people with high achievements and capabilities, and without any political ambitions, volunteer with their time, money and efforts to make our cities better than before. DVR was one such gem who contributed his mite to the fullest extent possible.
An IITian in electrical engineering from Kharagpur, DVR served the Indian Army for 21 years in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, before joining Tata Motors (then, TELCO) in Pune in the ‘warranty department’, as a friend recalled.
In the initial months itself, he dropped his ‘Major’ rank when he was mistaken as a security officer, because most of the ex-Army personnel were security or admin officers at the company!
DVR took to civic activism in Pune through the local groups with the single-minded thought of giving back to society. In his own words: “I see myself in the role of giving back to society after a life time of benefiting from the society, even if it was for work done or services rendered. I believe in a law abiding society and to fight corruption at an individual level by not paying bribes, even if the required service is delayed. I dislike selfishness and lawlessness, which sadly is rampant in our country now. I am satisfied with what I am now and what I have been able to do with the abilities and talent I have. I am content with my lot and am completely at peace with myself.”
Very inspiring words, those. May his soul rest in peace.
