සිතුවිලි රුදාව

( Written a week ago and published today which marks the first month since Anuruddha's untimely departure) Anuruddha, It has been three weeks since you departed. As I write this, the world around us is slowly adjusting to the harsh reality that you are no longer a part of it. A truth we must all bear as we move forward. With the emotional toll subsiding a bit, we find a moment to reflect on the unique circumstances surrounding your departure. On the 15th of September at 7:50 AM, you, the safest driver among us, were navigating an intersection when a speeding blue ute, ignoring red lights, collided with you with the full brunt of its engine at over 100 kmph. In that split second, the Subaru SUV we knew so well was transformed into an unrecognizable wreck. The mere sight of it gave instant indication of the fate of its driver. Not just a statistic on the news, but a cherished son, brother, father, husband and friend. Upon collision, the vehicle was so much in a terrible state and non...