Restrictions fail to dampen his spirit of social service

Mona

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 15

Life during lockdown is busier for industrialist-philanthropist Padma Shri RK Saboo. Chairman emeritus of his company, Saboo has continued to do what he’s best known for – service to the society. Finding an opportunity of lending a helping hand, Saboo along with fellow Rotarians has zeroed in on places that require funds, food, PPE kits. One of the firsts is the cafeteria at PGI that was not able to cater to junior doctors and nurses.

Tying up with a gurdwara, lunches and dinners are now being taken care of. “It’s with utmost humility we state that we got a chance to be of some service to the big institution in our city and we are very proud of that.”

While earlier work took just about five per cent of the day, the rest was dedicated to social service, most his time now too goes in getting funds and sending supplies where they are most needed. “We are busy coordinating stuff on telephones as dedicated Rotarians rise to meet the challenges of the time,” says Saboo, who now attends meetings through Zoom app.

Lockdown has lead to some disappointments. Not having his daughter- in-law and grandson near is one. “We would have really wanted them to be with us here, but then one got to accept things as they are,” he said. Then there is medical mission that was scheduled from April 15 in Korba, Chhattisgarh, that now stands cancelled. Also, Saboo misses going the Bhavan Vidyalaya. He is happy that staff has decided to contribute to the PM-Cares Fund. The foundation laying ceremony for the new school at New Chandigarh stands postponed too. “But these are few disappointments. One cannot always be the master of circumstance. This is time first to stand with the country, community, city and its people first.”

On the personal front, Saboo is under strict watch of his children. “Me and my wife are now 86 and 85, respectively. Our son and daughter-in-law take utmost care of us. We are fortunate to have a gym at home, so we both exercise. Also, now we sit and watch some films and serials that we haven’t had time for earlier. She is an avid reader,” says Saboo who admits missing his walks on Sukhna Lake.

As soon as the lockdown is over, Saboo intends to get the new school project initiated. “Another is how to bring economy and company back on track. My son and grandson Pranav are already working on the strategy; it would take time to get things back to normal!