By Krishantha Prasad Cooray
It goes without saying that in life we encounter all kinds of people. Depending on the nature and duration of these associations, we are able to judge, to a decent level of accuracy, what kind of individuals they are: their strengths and weaknesses, and their overall philosophies when it comes to general conduct. As such, over time, we are able to distinguish the exceptional from the inconsequential, the loyal from the manipulative, and we decide that so-and-so is such-and-such.
Today, I write about someone less written about but more known, someone who has, in his self-effacing ways, made huge differences to the people he has worked with or associated with: Chandralal Amarasekera.
I first met Chandralal when I joined Richard Pieris & Company as Head of Business Development. He was then serving in the Human Resources Department. Within a few months, I realised that he enjoyed something no title could ever command — the genuine trust, affection and respect of almost everyone across the company. He was known as an exceptionally loyal and committed employee and as a man whose word could always be relied upon. In fact, when Chandralal makes a commitment, he does not merely keep his word. He follows through with a determination and thoroughness that are increasingly rare in this world.
Therefore, when Dr Yaddehige later entrusted me with the responsibility of establishing a newspaper company, Chandralal was one of the first people I wanted by my side. I knew that if we were to build something new and worthwhile, I needed people of ability, integrity and absolute dependability. Chandralal embodied all three. It’s been more than twenty-five years since I first met him, and he has not provided any evidence that he was in any way deficient in these qualities.
Despite his many responsibilities, he always finds time for others. He listens patiently, responds thoughtfully and treats everyone with the same courtesy and respect. His work ethic is extraordinary, his commitment is unique and his sense of duty is deeply ingrained in his character.
He is a genuinely good human being who will go out of his way to help even those he hardly knows. More importantly, he never seeks recognition or credit for what he does. One might even say that people take him for granted. He knows, I am sure, but is not disposed towards harbouring any ill will. Maybe this is because Chandralal is what I would call a true Buddhist. His faith is reflected not merely in words, but in the disciplined, compassionate and principled way in which he lives his life.
Through many challenges and battles in my own life, Chandralal has remained a rock beside me. His loyalty, reliability and strength have meant more to me than words can adequately express. His contribution towards making Rivira Media Corporation a success will always remain fresh in my memory. The new and exemplary initiatives he introduced at Lake House also demonstrated his ability to strengthen and transform an institution.
Whether at Rivira Media or Lake House, Chandralal was among the first people I wanted to consult whenever there was a crisis. He would assess the situation calmly and express his opinion frankly, sincerely and without fear or favour. This is why I can say with certainty that Chandralal is an asset to any organisation and truly an employer’s dream. He works for an institution with the same care, responsibility and commitment he would devote to something of his own.
When I left Lake House in December 2019, following the defeat of the Yahapalanaya government, one of the first things I did was telephone my late friend Harry Jayawardena. I told him that I needed a considerable favour, but that one day he would realise I had, in fact, done him a favour. That prediction proved entirely correct.
At the heart of Chandralal’s life are his wife, Shama, and their daughter. Both possess the same warmth, decency and generous spirit that define Chandralal. He has all that he wishes for, but today, on his birthday, I wish Chandralal a long and healthy life, together with the strength and courage to continue the good work he has always done.
The world remains a beautiful and hopeful place because extraordinary human beings like Chandralal still walk among us, quietly doing good without seeking applause. As for me, above all, I thank God for granting me the privilege of knowing Chandralal so closely and of calling such an exceptional human being my friend.
