My great uncle, NRD Abba, as we lovingly refer to him, has always shown his love through quiet acts of generosity. When I was in college, he went out of his way to make ordinary days feel special. He helped me get tickets for Rajnikanth’s movies during the first week, first show, something every fan dreams of. He would personally call the theater next door and make sure my friends and I were taken care of. He would tell them, “My granddaughter needs to have a wonderful time today. Please make sure she and her friends are treated well.” To him, this was no big gesture. To me, it meant everything. My friends were equally touched by his kindness.

He also let us park our scooters and bikes in his already crowded office parking lot without a second thought. He knew how difficult and unsafe it would be to find parking at the theater during a major movie release, especially for a group of young medical students. By doing this, he protected us and made our lives easier. That small act reminded me I was always welcome and supported. He never expected thanks. He helped simply because he cared.

These moments reflect who he is. Thoughtful, generous, and deeply kind. At one hundred years, his life shows that true kindness does not need attention or recognition. It lives on through the people who remember how he made them feel. I feel grateful and proud to celebrate him today.