Mr. Y. V. Pai was a long-time resident of Raheja Residency (RR) in Koramangala 3rd block, and there would be hardly anyone in the apartment complex who did not know him, either in person or through his myriad activities. Affectionately known as Pai Anna to his peers and Uncle Pai to the younger generation, he was an integral participant in the activities of Raheja Residency and the larger Koramangala community.
Born in a village near Udipi, Mr. Pai had a brilliant academic career leading up to his graduation from Madras Christian College, after which he joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1959. While in the IAS he served numerous roles in industrial-commercial assignments. Many of his service years were spent in Gujarat, and eventually he served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Atomic Energy at the central level. After voluntarily retiring from IAS in 1983, Mr. Pai and his late wife Susheela started devoting considerable time and resources to the service of the differently-abled, through Rotary Trust for the Handicapped and Wheelchairs India Foundation, in Hyderabad.
After moving to Bangalore, he spearheaded the formation of the Residents Welfare Association (RWA) at RR and became the first President of its Apex body. Whether in office or not he was deeply involved in helping the community grow, from developing systems and processes for governance to fighting legal battles for the RWA tirelessly and waiting for hours on end at the courthouse. He had a gentle but persuasive manner, and used his acquaintance with Ministers and public officials to resolve many of the problems at RR.
The demise of his wife a decade back was a shattering experience for him and he withdrew from community life for a while, but it was in his nature to be friendly and helpful. So while continuing to grieve he was soon back with the community which was so dear to him.
He led by example and touched the hearts of many. A beacon of light, he was the driving force behind many initiatives at RR – from organizing senior citizens into the Silver Generation Group and youngsters into a Yuva Panchayat, to many charitable activities like the Clothe-a-Child programme, regular blood donation and platelet donation drives. His enthusiasm for community work was limitless, inspiring both youngsters and seniors alike.
As a member of the Rotary Club he did his best to bring to the notice of the RR community the needs of the less privileged.
His Clothe-a-Child programme benefitted hundreds of children and adults of economically weaker backgrounds, while the blood donation drives (organized regularly since 2010 in collaboration with Rotary TTK Blood Bank) helped to provide blood transfusions to countless individuals. His charitable activities continue even after he passed on, as he had donated his body to M.S. Ramaiah hospital.
We could all learn from the example set by Uncle Pai – his iron resolve and dedication, combined with a humility and gentleness that endeared him to one and all. He was a pillar of our community – unbiased, fair and completely straightforward.
He achieved a great deal in life, but remained down-to-earth, affectionate and thoughtful, with a tremendous zest for life. RR will miss his benevolence and serene presence. He will always be remembered as a person of great intellect and wisdom, and above all an exceptional human being. May his soul rest in peace.
In loving remembrance,
Residents of Raheja Residency, Koramangala 3rd block
