A Life of Change: An 83-Year Reflection
Life is a constant process of change, which inevitably shapes one's character and attitudes. Looking back over eighty-three years, my own path has been a testament to this truth.
Phase 1: Cultural Roots and Identity
When I moved from Pavattakkudi to Hyderabad, I was initially compelled to converse in English and Urdu. However, being distant from my native land and language fueled a strong desire to stay active in the culture of Tamil Nadu.
I founded the "Thiruvalluvar Kazhagam" and organized Tamil debates and cultural festivals, notably "Paavai Thiruvizha"—a recital competition of Thiruppaavai and Thiruvembavai among school students in Secunderabad. It was during this period that I earned the name 'Paavai Hariharan.' My name, Pa. (Pavattakkudi) Vai. (Vaidyanathan) Hariharan, reflected this cultural identity. I even published a Tamil magazine in the twin cities.
Phase 2: Professional Ascent and Shift
My promotion marked a complete change in focus. The intense engagement with Tamil language and culture faded as I began concentrating heavily on improving my English fluency and enhancing my professional banking knowledge. When I was transferred to Madras (Chennai), I was ironically speaking more English than Tamil in Tamil Nadu. I was often met with awe for my fluency, and I insisted that my juniors read and speak English, prioritizing professional advancement over cultural pursuits.
Phase 3: Entrepreneurship and Spiritual Rediscovery
Later, as an entrepreneur, my focus shifted again: I drove everyone to improve their professional skills above all else.
A serious health challenge finally initiated a spiritual and cultural return. When I developed blocks in my arteries, doctors like Dr. Balamuralikrishna and Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan advised me to start listening to Carnatic music. This became a passion.
I collected over 5,000 songs and created the blog "arvindsdad.blogspot.com," which garnered over 25 lakh (2.5 million) views and helped me develop friendships all over the world.
Phase 4: Retirement, Love, and Acceptance
Retirement and the arrival of my grandson brought yet another profound change. My life shifted entirely toward love. Having never had a daughter, I found myself longing for a daughter's affection and began loving and mentoring young girls as a father figure.
The Final Takeaway
In my experience, as your life progresses, embracing spiritual or cultural changes means you need not miss anything in life or search for anything externally.
The greatest wisdom of eighty-three years is this: Live your life happily as it happens. Accept the things that come into your life joyfully, and enjoy the present without searching for the past or regretting what we or our generation might be missing.
Do not waste time blaming figures like Macaulay or anyone else for cultural shifts.
Remember always: You are the Master of your own life.
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