Boss, mentor and friend

The year was 1969. My employer, Whittall Boustead Ltd., managing agents for several estates had given me, a mere “podian,” my first charge as “Periya Dorai” on Cobo Estate, Badulla. I made discreet inquiries and found that I had to report to the Director, Mr. Gilbert Paranagama, whom I had never met.

Within a few weeks I was informed that the Director will be visiting Cobo! Just a few days prior notice, trepidation and nervousness gripped me. My first “encounter” with my Director, what should I do? I could hardly think properly.

But my disordered nerves were put to rest the moment I opened the car door for Mr. Paranagama. His smile, his gentle manner as his outstretched hand clasped mine saying “good morning, young man” were magical words to me, so gently said.

From that moment on was born our wonderful relationship of admiration and respect. Mr. Paranagama was not only my Director, he was also my mentor and friend. I learnt so much from him on how to manage life with all its challenges.

Honesty, reliability, responsibility, punctuality, kindness tempered with firmness, understanding concern for others and so much more. In short, Mr. Paranagama put me through the university of life.

Thank you, Sir, for the inspiring contribution you have made not only on my life, but, I am sure, on so many others too through your exemplary life. We can never thank you enough.

Sene Seneviratne