Hyderabad: Dr Lalji Singh always strove for excellence while at work, at times toiling away till well past midnight in office, recalled his former colleagues at CCMB in Hyderabad. He was a very friendly and approachable person who always sported a smile. Dr Mohan Rao, who succeeded Lalji Singh as director of CCMB from 2009 to 2016 recalled his association that dated back from 1987 when he joined CCMB on the request of Dr P.M. Bhargava. Dr Lalji left his teaching job in UK to join CCMB in 1987 and later served as its director from 1998 to 2009.
According to Dr Mohan, the demise of Dr Bhargava and Dr Lalji in the space of four months this year had come as a big blow to CCMB, as the two contributed a lot to bring the research institution national glory with their pioneering work. While Dr Bhargava passed away in August, Dr Lalji died on December 10. CDFD ex-director Dr Gourishanker said Dr Lalji got them the best of infrastructure and facilities for research activities while he was at the helm of affairs. He had a strong feeling that India could be a world leader in science with its wealth of numerous hardworking and brilliant minds, he said.
Dr M.R. Vishnupriya, who worked in the renowned scientist's team during his stint in CCMB, said he was a kind person. “Many subordinates and young scientists drew inspiration from Dr Lalji’s commitment and dedication towards work. He used to stay up till late-night to finish his day’s task. Unlike other institutions, staff here don’t pack up and leave office at 6 pm. They stay back if needed without any fuss, and credit for this attitude goes to Dr Lalji Singh,” she said.
P. Rajalingam, who is closely associated with Dr Lalji’s family for the last 20 years, said the scientist’s last rites were perfomed in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Dr Lalji is survived by his wife Amravati Singh and two sons, Abhishek Singh and Praveen Kumar Singh. Abhishek Singh works in a private firm and had been living with his father in Kothaguda. “Although Dr Lalji shuttled between several cities for work and lectures, his family has made Hyderabad their home for last 30 years,” he said. Last rites performed in Kalwari village in UP on Monday. Lalji Singh was a humble and friendly person.
