Employees and residents of any community cherish a cordial, creative, and constructive environment for personal growth and development of community. In the history of the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), it was Dr. Prasada Rao who created such a healthy relationship and environment and that’s why he ruled over the hearts of each and every person associated with IIP. Still after years when people of that era sit together, we recall those golden days spent under his leadership.
He was a wonderful person. Besides being the head of the Institute, he was a fatherly figure for the residents of IIP Colony. He was always there to help, if required even by going out of way. It was surprising that he not only knew names of his employees, he remembered names of their children and other family members. Whenever there was a social gathering, he himself initiated to go to each and every person and enquired about their wellbeing. This personal touch always touched the heart of others, and that’s why he was so popular.
Dr. Prasad Rao and his wife Sujata ji were always very enthusiastic to celebrate festivals and organize cultural programs. Both of them always encouraged all to participate. Due to this all the children of the community got opportunity to exhibit their talent on the stage. I remember even after his retirement he used to come to attend Diwali program organised by Retired Employees Association.
He was a disciplinarian also. If ever he came to IIP Dispensary, he used to sit to wait for his turn although it’s a different aspect that people didn’t let him wait. He never took advantage of his position.
Hospitality of both Sujata ji and Dr. Prasad Rao was much appreciated. On festivals she used to make so many delicious dishes to serve, though the number of people was huge to come to wish them good wishes. I remember after retirement once we both went to Delhi. Sujata ji was not there but Dr. Prasad Rao invited us for dinner. He took us to ‘SAGAR’ restaurant. He always remained in touch with us.
He invited us for the GrihPravesh Ceremony of the new house of his son Uday and then for ‘RANGPRAVESHAM ‘ of Harita’s daughter. This shows that how connected he was with them who were ever close to him.
His sudden demise was really shocking. Though he is no more with us but his smiling face will always remain fresh in our memories.
– Mrs. Manju and Dr. Ashok Kumar