A condolence meeting in memory of Dr. T.B. Nair, former Executive Secretary of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association, was held on 14th July 2025 at Aditya Bangalore Institute of Pharmacy Education and Research (ABIPER), Yelahanka, in the indoor auditorium from 11:00 am onwards.The Programme was anchored by Mrs. Bharathi Kalyan, who welcomed all dignitaries, staff, and students gathered to pay tribute. A brief speech was delivered by Dr. Sowjanya Battu,highlighting the immense contributions of Dr. T.B. Nair to the pharmaceutical profession, his dedication towards professional upliftment, and his memorable guidance to pharmacy institutions and students across the country.A video bite of Dr. T.B. Nair sir showcasing his professional journey and messages to students was played, evoking deep respect and emotions among the attendees. This was followed by two minutes of silence observed in his memory, praying for his soul to rest in peace.Later, dignitaries, Principals of AGI, and Two student’s representatives offered flowers as a mark of respect and tribute to Dr. T.B. Nair sir. Later, all dignitaries present gave speeches one by one, sharing their memories, experiences, and heartfelt tributes to Dr. T.B. Nair sir.Dr. K.E. Shenoy, (Senior Associate, Lachman Consultants, Former Director – QA, RA, and Patient Safety, AstraZeneca, Former President, IPA Karnataka State Branch) opened the session by expressing his sincere gratitude to Dr. B.A. Viswanath for organizing this important tribute. He fondly remembered Dr. T.B. Nair as a helpful and humble person, always contributing selflessly to the profession. Dr. Nair was described as someone who preferred to work silently behind the scenes, ensuring that events such as the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress (IPC) ran smoothly. His contributions were quiet yet impactful. Dr. Shenoy concluded with a heartfelt Rest in Peace (RIP).Dr. M.D. Khalid Ahmed Khan, (Deputy Drug Controller, Karnataka State) extended his condolences on behalf of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA). He referred to Dr. Nair as the “backbone of the IPC,” acknowledging his immense behind-the- scenes contribution to the success of various pharmaceutical events and initiatives. Dr. Khan also expressed his appreciation to Dr.B.A. Viswanath for organizing the condolence meeting.Dr. Suresh Khanna, (Founder Chairman, M/s Stabicon Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd. Former Secretary General, IPA) described Dr. Nair as a hardworking and dedicated professional. He noted that Dr. Nair’s presence was felt at every IPA meeting, consistently contributing to the association’s objectives with great sincerity. His work ethic and quiet leadership were acknowledged as inspiring. Dr. Khanna concluded with words of deep respect and a final tribute: Rest in Peace.Mr. Jatish Sheth,( Director, Srushti Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore) Sheth reflected on a two-decade-long friendship with Dr. Nair, describing him as more than a colleague — a mentor. He recalled Dr. Nair’s active contributions during the last IPC held in Bangalore, highlighting that his work was noteworthy and impactful. Mr. Sheth humbly urged the IPC organizing team to consider honoring Dr. Nair’s memory in future congresses, recognizing his legacy and dedication to the pharmacy community.Mr. C.P. Bhothra, ( Chairman, Lyrus Life Sciences, Former Chairman, Stabicon Life Sciences)described Dr. Nair as a very polite and great human being. His words reflected personal respect and admiration, emphasizing the gentle demeanor and professional values that Dr. Nair consistently upheld throughout his career.Mr. Sunil Athavar,( Founder, Group Pharmaceuticals,Banglore) shared his heartfelt memories and credited Dr. Nair for guiding him early in his career. He highlighted how Dr. Nair mentored him in following protocols and offered guidance that shaped his understanding of pharmaceutical professionalism. Referring to Dr. Nair as a great soul, he emphasized the moral integrity that Dr. Nair demonstrated — noting that he would not allow anyone to occupy the stage without merit, saying, “The stage was made of gold, and he wouldn’t let me sit there unless I earned it.” These words illustrate Dr. Nair’s principled nature and high standards for the profession.Dr. V.B. Desai,(Former Drug Controller,Banglore) shared that he had known Dr. T.B. Nair for over 30 years and considered him a very close friend. He described Dr. Nair as honest, sincere, and hardworking, playing a critical role in organizing IPA and IPC activities. He was remembered as a key contributor, always working behind the scenes to ensure the success of events. Dr. Desai concluded with heartfelt condolences and a respectful “RIP.”Dr. Ramesh,( Principal, Karnataka College of Pharmacy) Ramesh conveyed his condolences on behalf of the institution, honoring Dr. T.B. Nair’s contributions to the pharmacy field and his connection with academic institutions.Dr. Amit Kumar Das(Principal, ABIPER ) shared a personal connection, noting that he and Dr. Nair’s daughter lived in the same residential area. This proximity added a deeper dimension to their relationship. He remembered Dr. Nair with great respect and offered his condolences, noting the loss to both the academic and professional pharmaceutical communities.Dr. T.V. Narayana,( Immediate Past President, IPA) recounted his first interaction with Dr. Nair during the 1997 IPA Convention in Chennai. He described Dr. Nair as a mentor who encouraged youngsters and was deeply committed to the professional development of the IPA. Even after relocating to Bangalore, Dr. Nair would personally call and ask about non-participation in IPA events, showing his dedication to inclusive engagement.Dr. Narayana highlighted that Dr. Nair’s dream was to build IPA’s own building, and that dream was eventually fulfilled. He recalled that even during his illness, Dr. Nair remained concerned about the functioning and future of the IPA. Dr. Narayana extended his condolences to the family and expressed his desire that IPA Karnataka Branch should do something meaningful in memory of this great man.
Dr. B.A. Viswanath,( Chairman, Aditya Group of Institutions ) extended his gratitude to all the dignitaries who paid homage. He shared that he had been associated with Dr. T.B. Nair for over 20 years and was a longstanding member of IPA. Their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries, having been regular lunch companions for two decades.
Dr. Viswanath fondly recalled how Dr. Nair used to call him “Vichu” and always replied to his messages, emphasizing the warmth and humility that defined Dr. Nair. He recounted a moving moment when he met Dr. Nair in Bangalore and requested him to introduce IPA into his college (ABIPER). Dr. Nair readily supported the idea and helped make IPA Bangalore Branch a part of ABIPER. Upon Dr. Nair’s passing, Dr. Viswanath shared that he keeps a message on his phone where he expressed how much he was missing him. On behalf of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association, Mrs. Bharathi expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who joined in paying tribute to Dr. T.B. Nair.The meeting concluded with the National Anthem, followed by floral tributes offered by all faculty and students of ABIPER as a mark of respect.The condolence meeting not only mourned the loss of a visionary and gentle leader but also celebrated a life devoted to service, mentorship, and professional excellence in pharmacy. From senior consultants and regulators to academic leaders and young professionals, Dr. T.B. Nair touched countless lives. His integrity, humility, and passion continue to inspire the Indian pharmaceutical community.