A kindred spirit with an erudite mind

Shillong, June 22: Professor Monotosh Chakravarty had been an inspiration to his students at St Edmund’s College and a prolific personality, who could be at the helm of social events in the neighbourhood and handle every college programme with aplomb.

With his demise on June 21 in a hospital in Kolkata, Chakravarty left a void in the lives of many of his students, friends and well-wishers. A former student, who currently lives in Delhi, and a friend in Shillong share their memories with Meghalaya Monitor.

Rajdeep Pathak, alumnus of St Edmund’s College

For so many of us who were part of the ‘Edmundian family’, in Shillong, and especially those within the Department of English Literature that he so brilliantly headed, life was never the same. His very presence — strolling across the campus, a familiar figure in the staff room and canteen, cigarette in hand, observing every student who crossed his path — was an intrinsic part of our college experience.

It was Professor Chakraborty who drew me into St Edmund’s College’s debating society, ceaselessly inspiring me to participate in inter-college, state-level competitions, always pushing us to give our absolute best. His classes were never merely lectures; they were vibrant, engaging discourses.

He wasn’t just a professor on the other side of the desk, but a kindred spirit who loved literature as much as he wanted his students to explore its nuances, analyse it critically, and engage in spirited discussions.

His unparalleled role as a mentor never went unnoticed. Whether it was during College Week, various projects both within and outside the college, his zeal and even his characteristic sarcasm were tools he masterfully employed to push students to their utmost, labouring hard to achieve their goals. These moments are truly unforgettable.

Professor Monotosh Chakravarty’s influence extended far beyond the college gates. His engagement in community work and the universal respect he commanded were a testament to his continuous perseverance and steadfast dedication. He was a force, a guide, and an inspiration. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the countless lives he touched and the minds he shaped. He will be deeply missed.

Manosh Das, Journalist

Monotosh-da was a multi-faceted person with an eternal, humane heart and an erudite mind of his own. He was the major driving force behind the oldest running inter-college debate competition in Shillong, organised annually by the Zenith Jubelieth Club, Laban, in memory of my father, Dr MM Das. I have been held in awe for almost three decades of the debate now, at the way the polite professor held sway over the minds of the young debaters with his academic and friendly approach, encouraging them to speak their minds out.

I pay my homage to his eternal memories.