Bridge in general, and Pune Bridge in particular was dealt a cruel blow with the passing away of Dr. Rajendra Behre earlier today.
In our friend circle he was always ‘ Raju’ for us. Handsome but soft spoken, he used to always be dressed in a full suit for major bridge tournaments.
He has played the role of secretary/ treasurer of PRBA (in committee along with Appa Karamarkar, Suhas Vaidya and yours truly) for several years.
For any live tournament, be it local or state level or National and International, Raju was one of the most important organising cog in those wheels. Ready to carry out any kind of assignment depicting highest degree of responsibility, we conducted so many tournaments as an example of tightly knit teamwork.
Raju always fared in the top echelon in all major local tournaments, but usually shied away from outstation tourneys, for the reason best known to him.
An ardent fan of Mohd. Rafi, he had a musical ear beyond par. When he crossed three quarters of century, defeating the age as a number & celebrating his reposed youth at Deccan Gymkhana , we are the witness of that fine evening & still remembering it.
Son of gigantic personality, Shri Ga. Va. Behere, a great Hindutvavadi author of yesteryear’s, Raju never let that legacy come in the way of being extremely approachable to everyone. His friendly gestures, smiling face & humble etiquettes, both on & off the table made him extremely lovable.
Now Rest in Peace my friend, your untimely departure has left unhealing scar on all your friends & family member’s hearts. OM SHANTI !!