“ Obaid Siddiqi’s association with TIFR has enriched the Institute in many ways...as a superb scientist, a great leader, a builder of institutions, and a wise and wonderful colleague. NCBS, and TIFR as a whole, owe a great, great deal to him. When I think of him, the picture that comes to mind is that of Obaid in the West Canteen of the Institute – half sprawled on the chair, with the larger part of his ample height accommodated largely under the table, with his his legs stretched out. One heard many stories from him, but the ones I liked best were the ones that concerned physicists...an amusing species of scientist, with pet obsessions. Discussions with Obaid on science over the tea table were always interesting and rewarding. In particular I remember a discussion on the nature of randomness, and the fact that most so-called random events are not truly so (radioactive decay is). I wish I could have been there on this occasion, but though I can't make it, I would like to record my appreciation of Obaid’s great qualities and contributions, and to wish him and Ayse all the very best for the years to come. With warmest regards, ---Mustansir Barma"