It was a privilege attending the Anniversary Celebration remembering our great friend Dr Harigopal. I was fortunate to him in his last days whilst in hospital. As part of celebration of Harigopal’s life, I would like to share my happy memories. 

I have met Harigopal for the first time in 1967 in Andhra Mahila Sabha in Hyderabad while participating in Mock Assembly. He was Leader of Opposition and I was in the same group. I was impressed by his wit and eloquence in his speech in Telugu. Just to quote an example—-. ……”మన ఆంధ్ర రాష్ట్రానికి పొరుగు మద్రాస్ రాష్ట్రం. వారికి బియ్యం చాలా తరుగు. అయినా వారి పరిస్థితి మెరుగు!మన మంత్రిగారు నూకల రామచంద్రా రెడ్డి గారు అయితే మనరాష్ట్రంలో బియ్యం కాదుగదా నూకలు కూడా సరిపడా లేని దుస్థితి”.

We both came to UK and met socially in 1970s few times. Later we all got busy with exams, careers etc and lost touch. We came in contact again 1996 through Dr Dhanam “Dhanujaya Rao” Kandula, European Telugu Association, Sree Rama Navami etc activities. He realised that I came from his native district Khammam and we made strong bond in so many ways. We all had many an occasion enjoying each others company. His jokes and joke-telling is legendary! 

Contrary to his boisterous attitude of 1970s, he became a mellowed and mature person who would disarm with his charm and wit. Harigopal had an easy demeanour and willingness to help either a person or the community, thanks to his extensive contacts. He is fondly remembered and his legacy lives on.