Exhibition World adds its condolences to the family and friends of Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) president Mr S. Balasubramanian (Bala) who passed away on 10 May.
The IEIA issued a short obituary on his “sad and untimely departure due to Covid-19”.
The notice read: “Bala became the president of the IEIA in 2019 and successfully led the association during the most critical Covid-19 times.
“In his professional capacity, Bala was the executive director and chief operating officer of the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturer’s Association (IMTMA) and Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC).
“Bala spent over two decades in the Indian exhibition industry and was associated with IMTMA/BIEC since 2007, heading the tradefairs division which organises IMTEX and regional machine tool shows across various cities in the country and operating BIEC – India’s leading green exhibition facility. Prior to joining IMTMA, he was associated with Informa Group, Intech Trade Fairs and Wisitex Foundation.
“Bala is survived by his wife and two sons.
“A gentleman to the core and with an affable ever smiling face, it is not possible to fill the vacuum created by his untimely departure. He will be missed by his family, colleagues and the exhibition fraternity in India and abroad.
“The entire Indian exhibitions industry stands together with Bala’s family in their hour of tragedy. We pray for the eternal salvation of the departed soul.
“Any messages for the family can be sent by email to ed@ieia.in”.
UFI MD and CEO Kai Hattendorf paid tribute, writing: “R.I.P. Bala. The world has lost a fantastic colleague, a unique professional, and an amazing human being. Our thoughts are with all those left behind. UFI, and our whole industry globally, have lost a great person.”
V. Anbu, director general and CEO IMTMA and BIEC added: “Bala was a great person and loved by everyone in the industry. We pray God to give his family the strength to bear the loss. May his soul R.I.P.”
