Arpit, you were always there for me and my family at every moment that mattered the most in my life. We met as young teenagers in college and I was fortunate to have your friendship for the rest of my adulthood. I have been always grateful for this and internalized this gratitude even more when you moved out of Cali to start a new chapter of your life. I remember vividly the day I hugged you at the airport and said bye. That was more than a year ago and who would have imagined that it would be our last hug. A new chapter of your life was the deal brother, not the end, not this way Arpit, no!

When I look back and think about all the times we spent together from the Christmas holidays to new years, birthdays, concerts, vacations, house warming, baby showers, weekend lunches, dinners, movies, Diwali celebrations, you were there. No matter what happened you made sure that you were always there. You spoiled us with your love and care. I am so sorry that I started taking your presence for granted. Everyone whose lives you touched will miss you. Nothing will be the same forever.

You meant so much more to my kids. I cannot forget how my little girl would run to you and hug you every time she saw you. There were times when she only wanted to be held by you. You both have a special bond that’s beyond this world. It is unimaginable how she is going to miss you. I am sure she will cherish these sweet memories when she grows up, but your absence will be felt.

You are a superhero for my son and will always remain one. He is crazy about cars just like you and thinks you are the coolest person in this world who has a fancy sports car. I can only try, but don’t think that anyone can come close to your panache. I really don’t know how I will fill this void that you have left behind.

The thought that you are not here and you won’t be here with us this summer, this winter or the next summer or the next winter or when the kids grow up, is something that hurts deep.

You brought tremendous joy and love to me and my family. Thank you for giving us your love, for making such beautiful memories with us and for just being in my life. It’s going to be tough for me to accept the fact that I won’t be able to relive the good times with you. For this, a part of me will forever be buried with you 💔. But your friendship will inspire me to be a better person and a better friend. The time spent with you will always bring a smile to my face.

I hope you Rest In Peace now! Goodbye Arpit until another life, another place, another world 🙏

Love,

Aggy

Dear Arpit, 

I am going to miss you so much! As I struggle to accept that you are not going to be around to make any more memories, I want to make sure that I always remember you with a smile. In my eyes, this is who you were -

- You always spread Love!

No matter what you were going through, you made sure that you put others ahead of you. You checked on us, cared for us and spread your infectious laughter. You made my kids feel so loved. There were days when Kriti only wanted to be held by you, and would only let you rock her to sleep. All those hours you spent reading books to Aarav are etched in his memories forever.

- You were a true Feminist!

No wonder you were so popular amongst women. When I first met you, I couldn't stop telling Abhi how chivalrous you were. As we grew close and I got to learn more about your life experiences, I understand this has a lot to do with the two strong women in your life, your mom and sister, who raised you to be the wonderful person you were. It's still striking to me how well you treat the women around you, every-single-time, and for that I have immense Respect!

- You were truly There!

No matter the day or time, you were always there for me and my family. I still remember, during my pregnancy, in a room full of people you would spot from across the room that I needed water, or a hand to get up, or a blanket. You were so sensitive to the needs of everyone around you. You would pause your life in a heartbeat, to just be there for all of us.

You were the best Arpit! You were like my little brother. You are family! You were so ingrained in our lives, that every restaurant, every getaway, every place in California reminds me of you. Even eating a simple meal reminds me of your favorite achar, and a drive in the car reminds me of your favorite music. I cannot bring you back, but I can keep you alive through my actions. I promise to spread love, and be there for people, like you did.

I hope you have found the happiness and peace you were looking for. Until we meet again...