Photo: The invaluable N. Ramaswamy (Babu) in his usual roles, with a volume of Epigraphia Indica in his hand and a camera around his neck, noting down information provided by the inhabitants of a village in Andhra Pradesh in 2018, while helping them understand the importance of the site and explaining the historical context of the remains. It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of N. Ramaswamy, affectionately known as Babu, who passed away in the early hours of 18 December 2025 following a cardiac arrest. Babu joined the EFEO in May 1993 and held a special place in the hearts of all those who had the good fortune to work with him. Always calm, generous and constantly optimistic, Babu was known for his unfailing availability and remarkable ability to find solutions, even in the most difficult situations. With his exceptional knowledge of sites, temples and inscriptions, he also understood the motivations of others and shared fully in their efforts and successes. Starting out as a driver, he became a research assistant through his commitment, curiosity and hard work. He also took on increasing responsibility for the creation and management of our photographic archives. With the advent of digital cameras, he took more and more photos during field missions, establishing himself as an essential reference for those in need of good images of sites, events, religious festivals or iconographic themes. It is difficult to estimate the number of projects to which he made a significant contribution during the many years he worked with extraordinary dedication for this institution. His passing It is difficult to estimate the number of projects to which he made a significant contribution during the many years he worked with extraordinary dedication for this institution. His passing is a huge shock and a deeply painful loss for the EFEO and for all the researchers he supported with such devotion. |
