Apart from parents and close family, that is. Cannot be restricted to a number like 7, but here is a small attempt.
Alok Srivastava- a classmate from engineering, also a friend, philosopher and guide who inveigled me into going for a Ph.D. in the U.S. Helped my brother and me settle in, and improve our research skills. He is no more, but his memory lives on.
Mangala, a senior cousin, who had a family of musicians, husband and two daughters. They were all very hospitable, and I stayed with them multiple times at Mumbai. She was an enthusiastic traveler, and came to visit us in Clemson, USA too.. all 4 of them.
Saumya Sharma, who was my Academic Associate at IIM Indore, and helped a lot with anything I tried- downloading Youtube videos or grading some exams, and so on. Cheerful, and still in touch.
Gadgil/ Vijayakumar/ Dhanapal- We played a lot of Golf together, and therefore the clubbing -pun intended! Great guys, and we bonded over 18 plus one holes. I had my first Hole-in-one at Kodaikanal in their company. Inspiring!
Jogeswari- My student from KIAMS, Harihar who topped her batch of 2001, worked in Google, and went on to her current stint at Golftripz as a Director. A loyal friend. we meet up whenever we can, after all these years.
Savitha, also from KIAMS, a batch senior to Jogi (above). Varied HR stints in multiple companies and one of her own, a foodie and winey (!). Had many good times when we met.
Jayant, a cousin's husband, and a man who stood by his values. His involvement in Hindi films ranged from screenplays (Benaam) to film production (Ankahee). Hosted us at Shrivardhan for many New Year get-togethers in the late 90s. Lost him a couple of years ago, but his wife (my cousin) and her family- daughter, grandson continue to party whenever possible. She's also an actress, in serials and plays.
