Friends; I am deeply saddened to learn that Professor Siddiqui is no more. He was an icon and a pioneer of Indian science, unlike any other. He was an exemplary scientist, a teacher and a mentor for a generation of scientists in India with global influence. He was and is an inspiration to me. May almighty God offer eternal peace to the departed soul, and strength to accept the inevitable to his wife Mrs. Asiya Siddiqui and his family. Narendra Singh (Doctoral student of Professor Obaid Siddiqui 1975-1979) Professor, Department of Biological Sciences Auburn University Auburn, AL 36849, USA