Vijay Goel left for his heavenly abode a couple of days ago. It has taken us a couple of days to post this obituary for him. The reasons for this are two fold. First of all, it was extremely difficult to find a picture of his in the public domain (such was his modesty). Secondly, it was very difficult to get people close to him to reminisce about him (such was the impact he had on his friends). We present below a few memories put together largely by Nikita Kamal with a few additional inputs provided by Uma Relan - Eds
The bridge fraternity has lost yet another humane person. Born in Bareilly ,in an affluent business family. he greatly improved the size of his family business by modernisation , improving the skill level and recruiting more professionals in all cadres. His goodwill and net working capabilities combined with hard work became the mantra of success.
A keen sportsperson he played squash himself created an exceptional sports facility in his industrial complex. He is credited with having nurtured several junior squash players who he supported. In addition to sponsoring many big events, he was also the president of the squash association for many many years .
When he entered the bridge arena, he followed the same pattern; to learn the game, nuture promising players, provide jobs, give financial support and blessings. He played in the Dhampur team for some time and later launched his own team Maya Meera Sneha. Many well recognised players played in his team . He was a great host and a benevolent employer; ever smiling and humble.
For one tournament, Alok Daga and Ravi Goenka had traveled to Delhi to play on his team. When they landed at his house late that night, they were led to his bedroom where he was lying asleep on the floor! When they enquired with his servant, they were informed that some close relative had suddenly requisitioned the guest bedroom. He therefore instructed his servant to give the bed to his guests while he slept.
It is not a very well known fact that he had once produced a movie. It was a women centric tale which also spoke about the Sikh community and its commitment to charity.
Despite his wealth and stature, he had a strong sense of philanthropy and felt the need to give back to society. So much so that one day, he went and donated his kidney to a total stranger. Not just that, he also bore the costs of the surgery
We have lost a good human being and an exceptional business leader. Vijay Bhaiya will be missed sorely. Adieu Vijay Bhaiya, may your soul rest in eternal peace.
Disclaimer : All opinions are entirely those of the author and are no reflection of the views of the BridgeFromHome Team.