Brigadier (Retd.) Dr R P Kakoti, who passed away on July 12 at the age of 93, left behind a legacy of discipline, wisdom, and a vibrant aura that deeply touched everyone who met him. I had seen him many times before — a tall figure with fiery eyes, ageing hair, and always clean-shaven, maintaining the same upright appearance as in his service days. There was a certain commanding presence about him, the kind that instantly conveyed his background as a man of discipline and duty.I first truly encountered him one Sunday in 2016. At that time, I had just graduated from law school and was fortunate enough to start my practice under the guidance of RP Kakoti Sir, Senior Advocate and the youngest brother of Dr. R. P. Kakoti. That day, while working at the computer, I heard a continuous call, “Vaiti! Vaiti!” I stepped outside to find him, and answered him that my senior had just went outside to take some fresh vegetables. Without hesitation, I invited him inside the chamber and therfater we exchanged only a brief conversation — hardly ten minutes and then we parting ways.
Later, my senior informed me that he was his elder brother, and that after their parents’ demise, Dr. R. P. Kakoti had been a father figure to him, guiding him through life with the same firmness and warmth he had shown in service. It was inspired by his strong, vibrant aura. He carried discipline effortlessly, and whatever one asked, he always had an insightful answer. Another memorable meeting was the day he offered me a lift to Chandmari. I had just finished my work around 1:00 p.m. and was about to leave the chamber when he happened to meet my senior. To my surprise, he insisted I join him. I was astonished by how fast he drove — in mere minutes, we had reached my destination. Even in his 90s, his energy and swiftness were remarkable.
About a year ago, I visited his home to deliver an article written by my senior that had been published in a newspaper. We ended up talking for nearly half an hour. He spoke with characteristic frankness, expressing dissatisfaction over receiving his pension for over three decades after retirement: “I have been making a great loss to the public exchequer. See, I retired 30 years ago, yet the government still gives me my pension. It is a great loss,” he exclaimed. He went on to say how the new NPS system was, in his view, more sustainable. During that conversation, he also shared lessons that will stay with me forever. He told me: “You are in good hands with “Vaiti”. Take as much as you can from his knowledge, and always remain grateful. Be kindful to others; the strength of character lies not in what you achieve for yourself but in what you give back.” His words reflected the values he lived by — discipline, gratitude, humility, and service.In his presence, one could feel the force of his willpower, the sharpness of his mind, and the depth of his experiences. For those brief but meaningful moments I shared with him, I remain grateful. His words and guidance will continue to echo, a reminder of a man who lived a life of purpose, integrity, and strength. My deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to his family. May they find comfort in his cherished memories and the legacy of wisdom and discipline he leaves behind.
— Sanjay Sutradhar, Advocate
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