I wanted to allow myself some time before paying my respects to a legend. Time to gather my thoughts and allow the family to deal with a sudden loss, a great loss! The passing of Herminder Singh Bhandhair, or as we all called him Muna, on the 13th of April this year, stopped most of us in our tracks in disbelief. The 53-year-old, twice FIA African Rally Champion at the peak of his life, was a kind and principled man. In my insignificant human opinion, taken way too soon from us, but who are we to question The All Mighties will?
From the first time I met Muna back in South Africa, which must have been on a SASOL Rally in Sabie, I got a distinct impression that he was someone who lived and breathed Motorsport, especially his forte, Rally! He was passionate about anything Rally and people. His family. He had opinions, Strong opinions at times that made him a man we all had to take notice of. Whether you agreed with the man or not, you knew you were in the presence of a worthy opponent that will bring his point across, always respectfully!
The last conversation I had with Muna was in 2022 at the Serago International Rally Zambia, next to a stage, keeping a close eye on our young Seth Gomes. Man, he was so passionate, telling me that the kid is good but that we should be careful not to put too much pressure on him too soon. An FIA ARC Champion in the making, those were his words! A calculated observation. The opinion of someone who was preparing for a marathon and not a sprint! He knew that talent alone is not enough, but hard work and perseverance are also key ingredients necessary to make a champion.
Not just exceptionally good behind the wheel of a speeding Rally car, but a renowned organizer and Clerk of Course. Look, the man could tackle anything. Those who worked with him on events knew what was expected. Let’s be frank, Muna had his opponents in life as we all do, but the bottom line is, love, admiration and respect for him far outshone the opinions or actions of his critics.
I do not pretend to say that I knew Muna well, I didn’t. I knew him well enough to know that he was a man filled with integrity and love for his family. Compassion and vision. A drive to succeed and inspire those around him to always be better and aim higher.
Reading all the messages on Facebook to his family, one simply can not disagree that Muna has made his mark in life. He has played a huge role in many lives. He has helped, inspired, taught, loved and motivated so many souls. So many who will always remember him. He has achieved what most of us can only dream of. Leaving a legacy behind.
To Muna’s wife of 32 years, Natalie and children Muna Jr, Jassi, Balveen, Naideen and Jasmeen, I feel your incredible loss. It never leaves you but it gets better with time. May God grant you all his love and comfort.
“Uncle Muna” until we meet again. Maybe in the dust somewhere next to a rally stage, who knows! Rest in peace Champ. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten.
