Obituary
A Tribute
It would not be wrong to say that PNA – as Amersey Saab was fondly called – was the Godfather of CMAI. He
set in motion several of the activities which succeeding Presidents built on. His conviction that Glamour should
be an integral part of an Exhibition led to the famous CMAI Fashion Shows – which over time attained the status
of a “must do” show for all Choreographers, Models, and other technicians. India’s top most Models would vie
for a slot in the CMAI Shows, often at half their normal charges. Many of them grew into famous Film Stars.
He was also instrumental in the setting up of AEPC, and its first Chairman if I mistake not, or at least one of
the first.
His contribution to CMAI apart – I am told there were times when he paid the expenses of the Association
from his own pocket, when it did not have sufficient funds – PNA can rightly be called one of the giants of
the early years of Indian Apparel Exports. He was one of the foremost exporters to Russia – the Vodka Trail
as it used to be known in closed circles. He was probably one of the first to set up offices outside India, and
introduce Professional Managers in his organization.
A man of indefatigable energy, he continued using his razor sharp mind well past the time other
contemporaries of his had retired. I remember as late as 2017 and 2018, he would often write to me with some
suggestion or idea that CMAI should take up. Never a criticism, always a positive input.
Many thought of him as aloof and distant, but in reality he was a fantastic, fun loving person, always ready
with some joke (usually on Parsees!) or a biting but humorous take on a current event or individual with as
straight a face as possible but with an unmistakable twinkle in his eyes. A late entrant to his circle, I was
fortunate to get his warmth and friendship for many years after he retired from CMAI. Saturday lunches at his
house were a treat I looked forward to, with unlimited Beer and sumptuous Gujju food. So were his slightly
more formal dinners, with the Beers replaced by the finest of Single Malts. He was the only host I knew who
had the audacity to write in his invitations ‘Dinner shall be served at 7.30pm”!!!
Every once in a while he would call me up and say – “Mr. President! We must meet up for a drink at the
Club sometime!” we did… but sadly, his last invitation was supposed to be ‘once things normalize’…. And
unfortunately, that as the last we spoke.
CMAI salutes you Sir. A man of incredible achievements, a kind soul with a great sense of humor, a bit of an
introvert, but gregarious amongst his friends.
Rest in Peace, PNA.
Rahul Mehta
Chief Mentor
4 I APPAREL I August 2020