Remembering Cho Ramaswamy

I was introduced to Cho and Thuglaq during my teens. I'd seen my Dad religiously reading this thin pulp quality magazine every week and I asked him about "that ugly book"! In reply, I got one important life lesson: never judge a book by its cover (or quality of paper!)
Over the years, I got to know more about Cho, not only through Thuglaq but also through his dramas, articles and interviews. The clarity with which he expressed his opinions, which were well reasoned and impartial, was unparalleled in a world of paid media and sensationalism of news. His witty manner in no way used to hinder his depth and wealth of knowledge in a variety of subjects, including spirituality and philosophy, which one wouldn't normally associate with a comedian turned journalist.
Maybe thousands will not throng his funeral, maybe no official mourning or flags half-mast would tell the world that a great soul has departed this world. But his work would remain a true testament of his wonderful contribution to Indian politics. He was a hero we needed, maybe not the one we deserved.
Thank you for everything, Mr. Cho. We hope to do at least a part of what you wished the common man would do for our country. And yea, I'll continue to wish you a happy birthday every year I celebrate mine (yes, I'm October 5th too)!
Rest in peace, Mr. Cho Ramaswamy.

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