On November 10th, we lost a dear soul—Devkumar Vaidya, or simply, Devkumar to most, but to me alone, he was affectionately known as Papi. At 59, he left this world, but his impact, like his laughter, will echo in the hearts of everyone he touched.

Devkumar often said he was born with a golden spoon, and indeed, that was true. But he was a man who created his own path, a self-made spirit who lived with unfiltered curiosity. He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a fascination for everything life offered—travel, cuisine, airplanes, cars, motorcycles, watches, singing, musical instruments, shoes and even politics. There wasn’t a topic he didn’t have a story or insight about. Devkumar could hear a song once and know the lyrics, and with effortless joy, he’d pick up a guitar and start singing or sit at his piano, filling the room with music and laughter.

In a world filled with facades and masks, Devkumar was refreshingly transparent. His love for Neena was as pure as it was endearing. He loved being with her and would grow restless if she wasn’t in sight. His childlike heart craved her presence every moment, and if she happened to wander away, you’d hear his voice calling out, “Neena, where are you?” He had no filters, no hidden agendas—just a big heart and a laugh ready to be shared with everyone around him.

Devkumar’s daughter, Sanjana, was the light of his life, his pride and joy. He cherished every accomplishment of hers, no matter how big or small, celebrating each step she took toward her dreams. He was endlessly proud of her independence—her bravery in traveling alone, the life she built in New York, her dedication in earning her MBA, and even the way she brought music to life on her drums. I wish I could tell my Papi, Rest easy, she’s going to be amazing. She’ll carry forward the love, kindness, and strength that you gave her, honoring your legacy every step of the way. And, dear Papi, know this: we’ll be here for her, loving her just as fiercely as you did. Both her and Neena (a joke he will understand : ben nee jem).

Devkumar’s love for people and his ability to connect across borders shone brightly during his travels. When he and Neena went to Colombia for 14 days, he left his mark there as well, making friends everywhere they went. Colombia’s vibrant, spirited culture seemed to match his energy, and he finally found a place that was as lively and spontaneous as he was. I must say, though, I’m his only friend who shared that journey with him in Colombia, and that memory is something I’ll cherish forever. Everyone has their own unique stories to tell about him, but I feel incredibly lucky to have shared that experience.

One of my favorite memories of him was the night he came to receive me and my son at the Mumbai airport—not in any regular car, but in a big bus! He thought it would be more comfortable for everyone, with plenty of space for us and our bags, for the late-night ride home. It was a whimsical gesture, both thoughtful and uniquely “Devkumar.”

And then there was the time he threw a yacht party for my son’s girlfriend’s birthday in India. In typical Devkumar fashion, he rented a yacht without a second thought, simply to make her day extraordinary. He never flaunted his wealth; instead, he used it quietly to create special moments for those he loved. What you saw was never a display of status but the depth of his kindness.

Devkumar even took to the skies in his signature style—literally. One time, he insisted on flying me to Kolkata on his private jet, only to drop me off and pick up sweets for the journey back. Another time, he arranged for my son to have a special ride on his jet, complete with a customized chocolate bearing his name. These gestures were pure Devkumar: personal, unforgettable, and filled with warmth.

In any setting, Devkumar could effortlessly connect with people of all ages. He had the rare ability to make everyone around him feel comfortable and cherished. Once, while at a Cuban restaurant we often frequented, the lady at the counter asked if he was my papi (it means dad in spanish). Instead of taking offense, he joined in on the joke, and from then on, “Papi” became our inside nickname, a playful reminder of his charm.

I’m going to miss his Akuri (a Parsi dish that only he could make just right), his spontaneous singing sessions, his booming laughter, and those absolutely ridiculous jokes. The moment I’d arrive in Mumbai, he’d start rattling off the silliest jokes with the biggest grin, as if he’d been saving them up just for me. Half the time, they didn’t even make sense, which made them even funnier. He really was a big kid in a grown man’s body—a walking, talking, joke machine who somehow always knew how to make people laugh.

With his heart full of love, laughter, and boundless generosity, Devkumar was a rare soul—a child in a man’s body, yet a giant in spirit. He brought joy to everyone he met, and he gave without expecting anything in return. His legacy isn’t measured in wealth or status, but in the lasting memories, smiles, and laughter he shared with the world. He taught us that life is best lived openly, with sincerity and humor, and to cherish every moment we have with those we love.

As I reflect on the ways he brightened the lives of everyone he met, I realize how blessed I was to call him my Papi. Devkumar was someone who celebrated life fully—whether it was gathering friends for a spontaneous adventure, delighting in a silly joke, or filling a room with music that lifted everyone’s spirits. He could connect with anyone, transcending age, distance, and differences, because he saw the world with a pure, unfiltered heart.

In his short time with us, Devkumar left a legacy of warmth and kindness that will live on in each of us. He showed us the beauty of a life lived without reservations, one that overflows with generosity and genuine connections. I want him to know that he will always be remembered and cherished, not just for the grand gestures but for the small moments, the laughter, and the love he shared so freely.

To my Papi, I promise you this: we will carry forward your spirit, honoring you by staying connected, living joyfully, and supporting one another with the same selfless love you gave us. Your presence may have left this world, but your heart will stay with us forever. Rest in peace, dear Papi, knowing that your legacy will carry on in our hearts, just as your laughter echoes in our memories.

We’ll miss you, Papi, and your big, beautiful heart.