In Loving Memory of My Best Friend, Dr. Autar Mattoo

I had a friend so close and dear, Dr. Autar Mattoo, who was more than just a companion – he was my best friend. Our journey began in Rainawari, where we spent our formative years together, sharing countless memories that shaped an unbreakable bond.

Life took Autar to Australia for further studies and work, and later to the United States, where he served as a distinguished research scientist for 44 years, including the last 30 years with the Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture. Despite the vast distance of five decades spent apart, our friendship remained as strong as ever.

In July 1976, during one of his vacations, I chose the date for my wedding to ensure he could attend. Autar, keeping his promise to be there, traveled all the way from Australia to be part of my marriage ceremony. Over the years, as technology evolved, our connection adapted seamlessly – from handwritten letters to landline calls and eventually to mobile phones and video chats.

The unfortunate migration of our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters in the 1990s meant that Autar no longer had immediate family in Kashmir. Yet, whenever he visited other states of India to see his relatives, he made it a point to return to Kashmir to meet me. He prioritized our friendship, keeping it alive and vibrant.

Autar often expressed his regret about missing my son’s wedding. However, during a visit to Kashmir University with his cousin and my dear friend, Prof. Zutshi, he met my daughter-in-law and grandchildren. From that moment, a beautiful bond was formed. Autar cherished them deeply, and they, in turn, looked forward to reconnecting with him whenever he visited.

In recent years, Autar faced significant health challenges but bore them with incredible strength and resilience. Despite his struggles, he never let on any anguish during our conversations, always maintaining his characteristic positivity. Our last video chat in November 2024 was no exception; he appeared determined and full of life, just as I had always known him to be.

A few days ago, I received the heartbreaking news from his brother and my dear friend, Mr. Ashok Mattoo, that my best friend had left for his heavenly abode. The physical distance that separated us for decades never mattered in our friendship, and even now, in his absence, he will remain forever in my heart as my closest companion.

Autar was a friend who epitomized love, loyalty and kindness. His memory will forever be a part of my soul and life’s journey. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find the strength to bear this profound loss.

A S Dar is a retired Superintendent of

J&K Police