Our relation, Vidvan Kanapathypillai, who has died aged 98, was one of the most highly – and affectionately – regarded master at Hartley College during his long and fruitful professional life. Born in Alvai, he spent his early years in India and Colombo. Teaching in Hartley College, he exhibited an unusual genius for local and community involvement in the best tradition of the local “master”. Not just his pupils, but their parents and the wider community, benefited to an extraordinary degree from his unstinting commitment and invigorating presence. As a family, we will never forget Master’s advises and blessings. May God give him eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain. Aum Shanthy!