Pravin is the funniest guy I know. I am so incredibly blessed to have been able to spend nineteen years with him- years filled with memories that I will treasure forever.

Being 17 months apart, I can never recall any childhood memory without him. Every day is a new adventure for him, and he teaches me to live life to the fullest. His life motto is “YOLO,” you only live once. Every time I ask his reasoning for doing something silly, he always just replies with “YOLO”.

My brother is described as funny, goofy, genuine, outgoing athletic, social, protective, energetic and adventurous. His contagious personality was capable of lighting up any room. To those who do not know him, it seems like he has a hard “tough guy” shell on the outside, but once you got to know him, he is one of the most genuine, caring people I was fortunate to know.

Growing up with Pravin was quite the adventure. Not only is he my brother, he was my first friend. Pravin is a very loyal person. Even if something was my fault, he would never tell on me.

When we were little, he would always pull pranks on our sister, Preethi and me. If we got into an argument, even if it was not his fault and we were not on speaking terms, he would always be the first one to forget about the fight and come back to bother us.

That is his character; he could never hold a grudge, he learned to forgive and forget quickly.

We will not stop fighting until we find out what really happened to Pravin. If anyone knows anything, please come forward with any information. Just imagine what it is like being in our shoes. We have found our brother, but not knowing what happened is slowly killing not only me, but my family as well.

Living our life with Pravin’s story as a mystery is unimaginable. We want Pravin’s life to be remembered forever. Of course his family and friends will never forget him, but we want his life to be an inspiration to everyone. We want people to know that they should chase their dreams, and live life to the fullest- according to Pravin, “YOLO.”

At the vigil, a person whose name I cannot remember came up and introduced himself as someone who goes to the gym with my brother. He mentioned that he and Pravin would have random conversations, including some about God.

All I remember is him saying, “Pravin is a good kid. Even if we don’t see him on Earth, we’ll definitely see him in Heaven.”

A conversation with a complete stranger was the most relieving thing I heard during these past few days. We love Pravin so much and we cannot wait to see him again. Until we meet again, little brother, don’t drive God too crazy. I know he already has his hands full with you! But I am sure that you have him cracking up already.

God takes away his bravest soldiers first, and I know that is why he took you away so soon. I can’t wait to see you soon in that beautiful place.

Love you forever and always,

Chech