He is path setter, celebrity, famous anchor, has interviewed "who's who" including ‘President Abdul Kalam’ ! There was so much of excitement
about meeting ‘Sudhirji
Gadgil’ in person to invite for parent’s golden anniversary.
Location for Sudhirji’s residence seemed tastefully chosen; cool
breeze from nearby water body and positive
vibes from adjacent meditation center were enhancing the serenity of the place.
Door to Sudhirji’s artistically decorated sweet home was already open & we
were welcomed with warm “Namaskar” (greetings) as if we were old friends.
Sudhirji was multitasking - discussion with colleague, playing
with Neel – his bubbly grandson, ensuring comfort of guests who had gathered for
family function, receiving successive work related calls involving leaders from
politics and industry - all simultaneous
activities. Sudhirji seemed habituated to note all information in his brain. His
driver acted as backup arrangement by reminding about important activity when
missed.
Plan for next day’s Mumbai tour after previous day’s Ratangiri tour
showed his high energy levels that he claimed to receive from his bond with people.
Sudhirji shared another secret of his health & energy as early morning walk
in Saras Baug.
We were introduced to all family members - eldest Mom who is
active in nineties, youngest grand daughter who is just 2 months old,
architect son, charming daughter-in-law, advocate daughter & techie son-in-law.
Sudhirji’s better half was smiling at us from photo decorated with fresh
flowers. Her presence was felt more from
Sudhirji’s fond memories.
Each memento in the home had interesting story to share. 'Punyabhooshan Award' (Jewel
of Pune) represented historical incident about Pune inception by King Shivaji.
Awardee for Punyabhooshan are generally leaders from respective fields; in
Sudhirji’s case, he is not only leader, his field of 'compering'
itself is initiated by him. Sudhirji is lucky to be able to take up hobby of ‘people
interaction’ as profession. Though being qualified in finance field, Sudhirji
took bold step of choosing journalism. He thanked his soul mate & thoughtful Mom for being supportive in his
decision.
“You ought to be
deserving person if you are interviewed by Sudhirji” these words engraved on copper plate
by ‘Shiv Sena’ founder 'Balasaheb Thakre' say it all.It was surprising to see drawing personally made by legendry
writer and humorist 'P. L. Deshpande'. There
were precious photos too – one sitting next to 'President Abdul Kalam' and another
with singer queens 'Lataji' and 'Ashaji'.
We felt honored when Sudhirji accepted to accompany us to our
parent’s place. Sudhirji’s humble nature surprised us when he bowed to our
parents as mark of respect. He immediately created bond with father as both
were N.M.V. alumni. Association with various social organizations, Madu friend
circle from his BMCC college, knowledge of various food joints being foodie himself
helped to strike the chord further.
Sudhirji sat with our family for
interesting discussion about various topics. We like “Indian Common Citizens”, were
eager to know his judgment about current politics. It was interesting to get
few pointers about his information network. He shared innovative ideas about own shows like 'Varasa' (Inheritance)
that brings successful successive generations on one dais and also about family
documentaries that were admired by TOI under series ‘Packaging
Grandpa’.
He shared many anecdotes from
his wide experience of being editor, advertising slogan writer, show producer
at Doordarshan, other TV channels and organizations like Hyderabad’s Ramoji
Film City etc.
We shared nostalgia with old memories about Babasaheb Purandare's live shows portraying King Shivaji at 'Renuka Swaroop' grounds and Sudhirji Phadke's 'Geet Ramayan' at 'New English School' grounds. We Puneites laughed at ourselves referring to famous 'Puneri Patya' (Suggestion Boards) & 'Puneri Bana' (Attitude).
We had always admired Sudhirji’s knack of pulling leg without
offending others. After noticing my ignorance in handling new gadget, Sudhirji
seriously asked, “You are an engineer, right?”. I joined others in laughter.
We felt this meeting should continue for some more time but
Sudhirji had an appointment at his favorite meeting joint 'Roopali'.
We bid him good bye. We are looking forward to watch his
program 'Mulkha
Vegli Manse' (Path-breaking Personalities) and benefit from his rich
experience and high energy levels.
Hats off to you Sudhirji.
