Kazhak: A Bond Forever

Before I share my poem, I would like to explain what inspired me to write it. Over the years, I have been blessed with countless moments that reaffirm what it truly means to be a Kazhak. These are not isolated incidents but cherished experiences that have convinced me that being a Kazhak is a lifelong bond that transcends age, rank, profession, and geography.

Here are just a few unforgettable moments:

• A Warm Welcome in Jaipur: Lt Gen Cherish Mathson (1976 Batch)—a senior by 15 years and then the GOC-in-C, South Western Army Command—hosted me, my wife, and my son for over an hour in his office. We had never met before. I had simply sent a text saying I was visiting as a tourist and would like to say hello. His warmth and hospitality left an indelible impression on me.
• Instant Camaraderie at Work: During the National Technology Day celebrations at L&T in Coimbatore, the chief host was Maj Gen V. N. Prasad (1974 Batch). I didn't know him personally, but there was an instinctive feeling that we shared something special. I walked up, asked if he was a Kazhak, and from that moment, I knew I could walk into his office not as a stranger, but as family—even to discuss business.
• A Proud Parent Moment: When my son was receiving the Alagappa University Gold Medal for his B.Des programme, parents were expected to watch on a television screen from another room. Deeply disappointed, I reached out to the network and was connected to Kazhak ’81 Prins (SD PRO to the Governor of Kerala), who spoke to the ADC to the Governor of Tamil Nadu. On the day of the ceremony, my wife and I were the only parents seated in the third row of the main hall, proudly watching our son receive his award.
• Moving a Train for Family: I needed to bring my 89-year-old mother-in-law from Coimbatore to Bengaluru on the Vande Bharat Express. The scheduled platform lacked an elevator or escalator. I reached out to Hari Varma (1984 Batch) in the Railway Commercial Department. He contacted the Station Master, and that day, the train departed from Platform 4, which had full accessibility. A seemingly small gesture, but one that made an enormous difference to us.
• Hosted on a Naval Ship: During a family holiday in Goa, I merely informed the Kazhak group that I would be visiting. The result? Commander Jayesh (2008 Batch)—the Commanding Officer of a Naval ship and a junior by 18 years—hosted us for lunch on board along with two other young Kazhaks and their families, making us feel completely at home.
• Global Support: Before a family trip to the Andamans, a simple WhatsApp message ensured that even though Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan (then CINCAN) was away, every arrangement was made so we had contacts for any assistance. Whether traveling to Dubai, the United States, or anywhere in the world, a fellow Kazhak is always ready to host, guide, or simply make you feel at home.

Then there are the reunions and chapter gatherings. The sheer joy, warmth, and camaraderie at the Chennai chapter meets, or the Bengaluru gatherings under the patronage of Air Marshal Radhish and now Maj Gen Mathew, are experiences words can scarcely describe. Every meeting feels less like an event and more like a family reunion.

What amazes my colleagues even today is that I remain in active contact not merely with a handful of school friends, but with more than 80 classmates from Class VI, alongside an ever-growing global network of seniors and juniors. To them, it is unbelievable. To me, it is simply what being a Kazhak is all about.

It is these extraordinary experiences of brotherhood, trust, affection, and lifelong friendship that inspired me to write this poem. Every line is a tribute to the unique bond that only a Kazhak can truly understand.

Here is the poem inspired by this Kazhak Spirit:

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The Kazhak Spirit

In hallowed halls of Sainik's pride,
Where Kazhak's spirit does forever reside,
A bond so strong, a tie so true,
Uniting hearts, through and through.

From nineteen sixty-five to twenty twenty-five pass outs,
A legacy that lives, a spirit that thrives,
Senior or junior, no matter the test,
Kazhak's bond remains forever best.

Across the globe, wherever you roam,
A Kazhak's home is another Kazhak's home,
Reach out, and hearts will open wide,
A brotherhood that time and space cannot divide.

In times of need, we rush to aid,
A helping hand, a bond that's never frayed,
Our proactive hearts, a beacon bright,
Guiding each other, through the darkest night.

From classrooms to the field, we learned to lead,
With grit, grace, and a warrior’s creed.
Moulded in spirit, resilient in fight,
We face life’s battles with all our might.

With love and respect, we bow to our guides,
Who lit our paths and walked by our sides.
Our hearts swell with pride as memories call,
Their wisdom and warmth — the greatest gift of all.

In defense, in governance, in every sphere,
Kazhaks excel, with honor, pride, and cheer,
Our achievements, a legacy that stands tall,
A badge of honor, for one and all.

Today we reunite with Kazhaks so dear,
To relive moments we hold so near,
Sharing stories, laughter, and memories old,
And making new ones to forever hold.

May the Kazhak Spirit forever grow,
A mark of solidarity, that will eternally glow,
Proud to be a Kazhak, indeed we say,
Forever in our hearts, this spirit will stay.