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Forever Young

The tragic passing of my cousins Ashish and Akshay in the recent Fox glacier accident last month has affected not only me but all who knew them. Till date, I still await the odd email or Facebook message from them. Them not being around is a hard truth that we all are still trying to come to terms with. I was fortunate to get to know them better and share some wonderful moments with them.

 Growing up in different cities (Mumbai and Pune) we hardly ever met, except for the odd family gathering…they moved to Melbourne and I met them after almost 12 years in 2007. They looked very different from the last time we met, and I am sure I would not recognise them if I ever bumped in to them anywhere else. Both were tall and lanky six footers and looked like regular 20 year olds. That evening we discussed family, our plans for the future, sports and even world politics. Ashish was vociferous about his love for cricket and his support for the Indian cricket team, while Akshay defended his favourite team Manchester United and the bad form they were currently going through. It was an awkward, yet fun evening, and since I was new to Melbourne they promised to include me in their plans.

 Christmas 2007, was when we really hit it off and had a whale of a time with family from all over the city who gathered at my brother’s house. The younger members of the family had a singing showdown with the older ones…with Ashish and Akshay leading the youngsters. It was all in good fun, and the laughter and joy shared was the ultimate winner. It was then that they introduced me to their favourite songs ’Forever young’ and ‘Dream catch me’...they sang them like they believed every word of the lyrics (The former is ironically the jingle for the New Zealand tourism advertisement…the country where they did not return from). During this revelry I noticed the sparks flying between Ashish and my sister in law’s cousin. Showing me a good time became their excuse to meet up often after that, but I didn’t mind it…I was having a good time!

 Ashish always passed his plans by Akshay to see if he could join in. It was evident that they enjoyed each other’s company. Their personalities were starkly contrasting yet they complimented each other. Ashish was overt and animated when expressing his views. Akshay presented his case in a more subdued and controlled manner. Both were extremely intelligent and every conversation with them was stimulating and enjoyable.

 I am extremely proud to call them my cousins and must acknowledge that some of their joie de vivre has definitely rubbed off on me. I cherish all the time we spent together and am glad that I got the opportunity to get to know them so well. 

 Ashish and Akshay wherever you are you should know...that I am jealous of the fact that you'll will stay forever young!
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