It is with deep respect and profound sorrow that we remember Ravi Raman — a stalwart of Indian contract bridge whose contributions spanned playing, teaching, administration, and innovation.
Early Life & Career
Originally trained as an engineer and an IIT/MBA alumnus, Ravi Raman brought precision, discipline, and a systems-oriented approach to the world of bridge following his retirement from a highly successful banking career. His analytical mind and structured thinking found their perfect home in the game he came to love deeply.
Playing Achievements
Two-time winner of the Bridge Federation of India (BFI) Winter Nationals in the Silver category
Two-time finalist in BFI National events in the Gold category tournaments
Semi-finalist in the BFI National Masters event
Teaching, Innovation & Administration
Ravi Raman was a passionate educator and visionary leader:
Founder of the Samadhan Bridge Academy (2010) and Principal of Bridge Pathshala (from 2019), where he aimed to professionalize bridge training. He built a strong core team of coaches and support staff, meticulously chosen to teach both live and online using structured learning materials contributed by Indian bridge stalwarts.
His tireless dedication was evident during the challenging COVID-19 period, when he visited the Bridge Pathshala office at Lokmanya Seva Sangh, Vile Parle, Mumbai daily, personally monitoring classes and promoting the game across the Mumbai region and nearby cities.
His commitment extended beyond teaching — he personally sponsored and supported potential pairs to participate in national tournaments, a gesture of generosity and mentorship that will be remembered with deep gratitude.
Served as Head of the Education Program and Teaching Committee for the Maharashtra Bridge Association (MBA), Vice-President of MBA, and President of the Bombay Contract Bridge Association (BCBA).
Pioneered modernization of the digital infrastructure of Indian bridge, including the creation of a new bridge learning app, launched at the Tolani National Open Masters 2024.
Authored the book “52 Lessons from a Card Deck” and developed the self-learning mobile app “Learn Game of Bridge”, expanding access to structured learning worldwide.
Legacy & Impact
Ravi Raman’s legacy is truly multifaceted:
He began as an inquisitive bridge player eager to learn every nuance of the game and gradually transformed into one of its most dedicated teachers.
He built an enduring learning pipeline for youth, women, and club players, emphasizing coaching, discipline, and exposure — all vital for India’s aspirations to emerge as a global bridge powerhouse.
His leadership at Bridge Pathshala exemplified transparency, innovation, and technical excellence, serving as a model for federations and academies across India.
His reach extended far beyond India, with students from the USA, the Middle East, and across Asia enrolling in his online programs.
Final Thoughts
Though Ravi Raman is no longer with us — having left for his heavenly abode today — his passing leaves a deep void in the Indian bridge fraternity. Yet, his vision, values, and contributions will continue to inspire and guide countless players and coaches in the years ahead.
We honour his memory, his dedication, and his unmatched passion for the game — and we pledge to carry forward the mission he so selflessly championed.
May his spirit continue to guide and bless the Indian bridge community.