Remembering Zulfi Tyebjee

Family and Friends of Dear Zulfi

Its been around 45 years now for most of us classmates, that we first got to know each other at Cathedral School. Some of us even before that. We were born 5 decades ago as dear Zulfi was on May 25th 1964. And now to think that he will not be with us in person any more, will take a while to settle in.

Zulfi was creative and a non-conformist. We shared a common view that friends & friendships were a very important aspect of life, which must be worked on. We were both average students and by and large simple kids. He was mischievous and I was relatively `seedha'. But to my good fortune, I learnt a bit from him over the years and  have thus enjoyed life and enjoyed knowing dear Zulfi.

When we were approaching the year 2001 and were preparing for our first reunion, having completed 20 years of graduating from class 10 at school, Zulfi made great efforts at working on building our class list. The INTERNET in India was only a couple of years old then and we had to do the job without any fancy social media platforms. His zest and drive were a big source of strength and motivation to bring our class together. Further, this converted to driving me to play a larger role for the Alumni Association of Cathedral School, which comprises of a robust network of ex-Cathedralites.

Zulfi and I met from time to time or spoke on phone. We often argued and disagreed. But very specifically reminded each other that we loved one another and that our friendship meant a lot to us. This is something important that he has left behind for me to cherish as also the memento he made for me called the `Toos Trophy for Friendship'.  

Thus, it is important to express our affection for each other as friends, as most often, modern day schedules and pressures make us complacent towards this.

Thanks to Zulfi we know his family, his mother Zubi aunty, brother Kumail, wife Shernaz and daughter Leia whom he has left behind as friends for us to love, respect and appreciate.

My dear Zulfi. You have left us way too soon. If this was not a formal memorial and condolence gathering, then just as other friends of yours, I too would have expressed my displeasure at your untimely departure, with a stronger sentiment, as often exchanged between us. We are indeed very sad that you have left us but do believe that in our minds and hearts you will live on forever. I will not refer to the `spirits' aspect as this is not the occasion to do so. But do urge you, our friend, to rest in peace, well assured that we will always celebrate your life and our friendship with happy memories. May God bless your soul. To all of us here today, may God give us the strength and fortitude to bear your sad and sudden departure from our midst. 

(At the condolence meeting this evening)