Paul Pramanand Jaduram will never forget meeting the late Queen Eliza­beth II.

The 82-year-old prominent businessman in Fiji said the passing of such a great mon­arch, who ruled with great wisdom and humble heart, has left many in deep sad­ness.

The father of three children and nine grandchildren recalled how he met the late queen and her husband, the late Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip, at Subrail Park, Labasa in 1977.

“During that time I was the councilor of Labasa Town Council and fortunately, along with my wife, the late Stella Worlow, we had the privilege to meet and greet her,” Mr Ja­duram said.

“The Late Prince Phillip then had a short conversation with my wife asking where she was from and she replied London. Queen Elizabeth II was happy to know and see her dressed in sari and then they departed.”

Mr Jaduram said at that time he was 36 years old.

Then in 1982 he was awarded a medal to signify a Member of the British Empire for his outstanding community service.

Unfortunately he could not travel to Lon­don and the medal was given to him by the late Governor-General then.

“To see and meet such a beautiful respecta­ble person who lived a life of extraordinary selfless service was regarded as one of the great achievements for many,” he said.

“We are grateful indeed for her contribu­tion, who had served as the longest reigning monarch in British history.”

Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj