From Humble Beginnings to Inspiring Heights: The Journey of Cressun Roopah

A 90th Birthday Tribute

In the company of family and friends from around the globe, Mr Cressun Roopah recently celebrated a monumental milestone: his 90th birthday. His journey of nine decades is a testament to resilience, unwavering dedication, and an unyielding spirit that has left an indelible mark on his community and beyond.

Mr Cressun Roopah has lived a remarkable life, spanning 90 years, cherished for his boundless energy and numerous accomplishments. He continues to be a beacon of inspiration to his four children, 10 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren, many of whom travel from the USA, Australia, Luxembourg, and South Africa to honour his special milestones.

Born in the village of Petit Paquet, Montagne Blanche, into a humble family of 8 children, Mr Roopah’s upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and resilience. His father, a labourer turned overseer with the Mauritius Government Railway, and his mother, a dedicated housewife, provided the foundation of his values.

Despite facing adversities early in life, including the responsibility of tending to animals and working in sugar cane fields during school breaks, Mr Roopah pursued his education diligently. He began his schooling at Mt. Blanche Church of England School and continued his secondary education at Regent College in Quatre Bornes. The daily journey to Quartier Militaire to catch the train for school underscored his determination.

After completing his schooling and matriculation, Mr Roopah encountered challenges finding employment. Undeterred, he took on various menial jobs to support his family while immersing himself in social work within the community. His dedication and leadership qualities soon became evident, leading to his election as secretary of the Village Council.

Mr Roopah’s contributions extended beyond administrative roles. He established the Social Welfare Centre of Montagne Blanche, where he served as secretary for several years. His tenure was marked by the introduction of numerous sports, social, and literary activities benefiting the village youth. Notably, he founded the Hindu Juniors football club and achieved recognition as the top scorer in the Moka Flacq District, becoming a role model for many.

In 1958, Mr Roopah secured a place at the Teacher’s Training College in Beau Bassin, marking the beginning of his career in education. His first appointment at Sebastopol Church of England School made him the institution’s first Indo-Mauritian teacher, a milestone in his professional journey. Despite lucrative offers, including a tempting position with the Coca Cola Company, Mr Roopah chose to remain a teacher, believing it was his calling to serve the community.

His commitment to education and community service continued to flourish. In 1965, he assumed the role of secretary at the Petit Paquet Cooperative Credit Society, a position he held steadfastly for over 30 years. His dedication extended beyond office hours, as he balanced his teaching responsibilities with leadership roles in cooperative movements and philanthropic endeavours. His generous act of donating land for the society’s headquarters underscored his commitment to communal welfare.

Throughout his career, Mr Roopah’s impact transcended local boundaries. He became a member of the Cooperative Bank of Mauritius in 1968 and ventured abroad for cooperative studies supported by a scholarship from the Israeli Government in 1973. Upon his return, he founded the Cooperative Secretaries Association and collaborated with international partners to establish a Cooperative Supermarket in Quatre Bornes, further enriching local economic landscapes.

Despite relocating to Telfair Avenue, Quatre Bornes, in 1971, Mr Roopah remained deeply connected to his roots in Montagne Blanche. His leadership as Head Teacher at schools like Rose Belle North Government School and the Sir Veerasamy Ringadoo Government School exemplified his transformative impact on education. Under his guidance, these institutions achieved accolades, including consecutive awards for the best-maintained school on the island.

Mr Roopah’s lifelong dedication to social work and cooperative principles extended beyond retirement. He served as president of the Mauritius Cooperative Union and accompanied governmental delegations on cooperative missions to Russia, showcasing his influence in international cooperative movements.

Even after transitioning into retirement, Mr Roopah continued his philanthropic endeavours. He played pivotal roles in establishing the Cooperative Supermarket, Nirvan Society, and the Nirvan Shiv Mandir in Quatre Bornes. His involvement with the ISKCON movement as president of the Hare Krishna Temple in Phoenix allowed him to revitalize temple finances and create supportive networks for senior citizens through weekly yoga and devotional classes.

Mr Roopah’s commitment to physical and mental wellness, evident through his daily yoga practice and vegetarian lifestyle, exemplifies his enduring vigour and dedication to communal service. His contributions continue to be recognized with honours for long-term social service.

Today, as Mr Cressun Roopah celebrates his 90th year surrounded by loved ones from near and far, his life stands as a beacon of inspiration—a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to community. His journey reminds us all of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.

Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 12 July 2024