By Lata

It was in 1970 that I first met Beni and Soffie on the P.T. INCO project in Malili.  My emotional and spiritual connection to Indonesia was forged by these two very special individuals. Welcoming, warm and hospitable, they opened their hearts and home to Vishnu, Brinda, Arti and myself and a very precious friendship was born in the most beautiful land of Indonesia. How does one begin to pay tribute to someone like Beni?  Where does one start? Beni, for me was a rare person, an epitome of a realized soul.

His wisdom, his patience and capacity to be an elder brother to all of us who experienced the pioneering days of Malili and later Soroako, as well as his pioneering spirit and visionary leadership has left an indelible imprint on all those who knew him.I have a very special memory of Beni – he brought me a gift – a painting of a young Balinese girl.  He said the young girl in the portrait had large eyes just like me and he had to bring it back for me. Forty years later, I still have that painting and I will never forget Beni’s affectionate gesture.

As memories flood my mind about our ten years in Indonesia, I remember telling Beni that I must have a past life connection to Indonesia, I cannot understand why I feel this way- he agreed and smiled knowingly.  ” Perhaps, who knows” Beni said and proceeded to relate the deep historical, cultural and trade connections to India; we would then talk at length about the epics of the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Beni, I will miss you for eternity, you are such an integral part of my connection to Indonesia, I will feel your absence deeply.

Rest in peace and say hello to your pioneering colleague – Vishnu.

Sampai ketemu lagi, Pa Beni.

Lata