Obituary to Prin. Dev Raj Gupta

Prin. Dev Raj Gupta, Ex-Local Secretary of Dayanand Institutions, Solapur expired on 6th June 2009. He was 87.

He worked as Principal of the oldest and reputed college of Solapur viz. D.B.F. Dayanand College of Arts and Science from 1977 to 1983. He continued to be Local Secretary from 1983 till 2008.

He was able and tough administrator. His administration and method of work was transparent. He was always punctual and arrived in his office sharply at 10.30 a.m. He used to take important decisions after verifying all related facts and figures. Once a decision was taken, he never changed that decision even if heaven may fall. He had chaired hundreds of interviews for the selection of various posts from peon to Principal. He used to ask appropriate and pointed questions to select a right candidate. He had a vast knowledge from various faculties to his credit. He used to understand the body language of the candidates and employees. He freely praised sincere, hardworking and honest employees including Principals and he never hesitated to punish dishonest employees. At times, he used to take the hand of the Principal in his hand to convey his sincerity of purpose and to develop a close relationship with the Principals.

He was a great philosopher. When in good mood he used to say thoughtful shero-shairi. He also knew Urdu well.

He was never afraid of death. He had said that he was prepared to welcome death at any time.

While being Local Secretary, he had sent, on his personal grounds, his resignation few times to D.A.V. College Managing Committee, New Delhi. But the D.A.V had great faith in him and insisted every time to continue to remain on the post. This fact itself proves his honesty and capacity towards his work.

In this video-clip, taken at Pune, he is saying “Bus, Ho chuki Namaj, Musalla Uthaiye”. He means to say his work is over, his prayer is over, his reason to be on this earth is over and he may be relieved of his existence now by granting him death! What meaningful words!

He was a saint. Just like lotus flower, though in water not touched by water; he also remained on this earth without any attachment and bondage.

May his soul rest in peace!