“Man proposes and yet again God disposes“ – We classmates were to plan our 50 birthday year together later this year. Who would have thought we would be doing a fundraiser for our departed friend. 

Hemant Chander Malik, our buddy from the Army Public School batch of 1989 was a powerhouse of talent and energy. Be it on the squash courts or his chosen field of work, he was a man who always lead with personal example and empathy. His work ethics and focus on regional growth saw him travel globally with many successful projects. He was at the peak of his career, but fate were to bring its own twist. 

A humble man, ever ready to help the needy, Hemant was also a family man. A devoted son, with the support of his wife and two daughters, he took the call to relocate to India once the pandemic hit and start all over just to be with his aging parents. 

But destiny had other plans. Before he and his wife could resurrect their careers, Hemant got Covid on 14 Apr 2021. Like a true soldier's son, he fought hard while the family struggled to get him a hospital bed. Hemant lost his battle to Covid a few days later, leaving behind his wife and 2 school going daughters. 

Hemant’s kindness and smile is still vivid in our memories. This is a humble attempt to convey to his family that we truly value our beloved friend and get together to help fulfil Hemant's dream of securing his children's education and easing the burden on his wife as she tries to rebuild her life in these challenging times. 

No contribution is too small. And as Hemant said, " Empathy is always helpful as it helps you feel their pain and do your best to solve their problem or give relief in some way.”