Jaykumar Gowda

Twenty-eight years ago, I met a very cheerful Hindu man. His smile held the mischievousness of his culture. From the moment we met, a genuine connection bound us together for the rest of his life.

Jay came to Mexico, to my Toluca, to build a paracetamol factory… but we had time to explore several places. He knew my city like the back of his hand. We visited other states, we went to the pyramids, and the monarch butterfly sanctuary.

We talked so much, sharing legends from each other's countries. Seeing Jay was always an adventure.

At night, he would tell me he was talking to a coworker. He said I had caught his eye and that he thought I could be the one for him. So he started looking for makeup and other little things to pack in his suitcase for her. I watched as his love for that friend grew. He told me about Hindu wedding customs, saying he admired how relationships are formed in Mexico. I encouraged him to marry Shaila. We went to the Liverpool department store countless times, where he became a huge fan; he even had a discount card…
He loved Mexican food; his favorite was "pollo di mole," he'd say. On his birthday, we cooked for him and shared it with my family.
He and my dad often agreed to go to the mountains to look for a treasure my grandfather knew about. With my mom, he enjoyed learning "bad words." I'd say "No, Jay," and he'd always smile... yes, yes. He'd tell me...
When the time came to leave Mexico, he had a souvenir for each of his family in his suitcase. His cappuccino gum—he took so many packs that it made me laugh to think he'd sell cappuccino gum from Mexico to India.
I was studying French cooking, and after each class, Jay would give my approval to my dishes. One day, I remember him telling me, "Norma, today I'm going to cook for you. I want you to never forget Jay." He made chicken with yogurt. The saddest moment of my life at that time was saying goodbye to Jay; we became very close.
When he said goodbye, he told me, "Don't cry; one day I'll come back." From that moment on, our parting phrase was "one day"... All these years Jay was present in my life through messages, calls, and sharing life in photos.
He told me, "You're still spoiling students..."

For many years we dreamed of "One day... one day I'm going to return to Mexico and we're going to do so many things that we didn't do on my first trip to Mexico with you..." Now with Shaila Veer and my daughter Damaris.

This year, in the coming months, that "one day" would finally come... At some point during his trip to the soccer cup, my dear Jay was going to come to my home...

A week ago, I know that Shaila mustered the strength to tell me about Jay's departure. My heart clung to a "NO, IT'S NOT TRUE, HE'S COMING..."
I still haven't come to terms with his leaving, but today I know that "one day" I will see him when I arrive where he is.
Jay Kumar Gowda, thank you for such a beautiful friendship, thank you for the beautiful moments and fond memories.
Until we meet again, my dear "Peachboy".

Jay is one of the most pleasant friendly personalities one can ever meet. He was such a good sportsman whether it is TT or Badminton or Cricket. Also highly knowledgeable on many things under the sun. We keep talking about going to Mexico together to have tequila in tequila. Now I can never do that with him. I am sure he is now somewhere cracking a joke. Hmmm..It is very unfair. Wishing his wonderful family the strength to overcome this. Take care.

I have known Jay for the last 25 years. But over the last eight years, he became much more than a colleague, he was a trusted partner and a true pillar of strength, especially during times of crisis. Many complex life-science projects that we designed and executed were shaped under his leadership. His practical wisdom didn’t just solve problems but it shaped the thinking of an entire younger generation.

This is the first time in my life that I have lost someone with whom I worked 14 to 15 hours a day, travelling together, debating together, building together. It is an immeasurable loss for me, both personally and professionally. Jay believed that our place of work is also a place of worship, and that is something I learned deeply from him. His emotional bond with the company, his dedication, and his loyalty are truly irreplaceable. Till his last breath he was working.

Jay’s emotional connection with his family Shaila, Veer, and his parents showed the kind of responsibility he carried beyond his own goals. I learned a great deal from him about caring for ageing parents, about values that go beyond work and success.

The day before I shared my last meal with him a biryani. Sometimes, nature reminds us all that life is short. The time we spend with our family, our colleagues, our friends those moments become the memories we carry forward.

I pray to God to grant him all the credit for the life he lived and to let his soul rest in peace.

Jay will always remain a part of our journey.

Om Namah Shivaya.

I met Jay for the first time on the badminton court and that’s where I came to admire him the most. He was an incredible player and I often found myself wondering how people half his age still couldn’t beat him. Playing over time made me realise the reason and his love for the game.

What really stood out was how seriously he took every single point. He didn’t just play with skill but with sharp strategy always reading the opponent and thinking a step ahead. There was so much to learn just by watching him play.

Off the court, Jay was the complete opposite. Calm and jovial. He was always present at our family celebrations. He loved sharing stories about his travels watching the Olympics in Brazil and exploring different parts of the world. His passion for life was easy to see and he had plans to do so much more and was really looking forward to it. His sudden loss has still not sunk in and I spoke to him just 10 mins before he left from the badminton court and was unhappy, telling me, "aaj bahut sloppy khela, kal unko harayenge". I got to know 15 minutes later that Jay is no more with us and couldn't accept it :(

Jay will always stay in my memory as a true champion on and off the court. You will be missed Jay.

My heatfelt condolences to Shaila aunty, Veer and the entire family.

Jay- a Good Friend, nice Neighbour, an acquaintance ? Never got to say any of this. We just knew each other, we didn’t meet each other often, but still everytime we met, we picked it up from where we had left last and he was so full of warmth and just made it so at ease that it seemed that we would meet often. I wish I had though :(
3 days before the unfortunate morning, Jay said that nobody knew him in Malhar…who would believe that? He has touched upon so many around.

He called me an influencer and I teased him to be not at all updated and was as bad as me not knowing the current trends.
I said I at least knew one has to be having Instagram account, have thousands of followers etc to be called an “influencer “

He argued…”but everybody in Malhar know you, that’s an influencer !
I settled for that compliment.
Jay , a fun loving, good story teller, passionate sportsman brought warmth and kindness to all around him, will be missed immensely.
Sometimes we tend to go into that loop of thoughts of what , why and how it happened ….
Then I drive my thoughts towards something I read last week where the physicist-Brian Cox says

“The Moon is not merely a light in our sky; it is a surviving fragment of Earth’s violent birth.
In its quiet presence, we see evidence that even destruction can give rise to stability, beauty, and a world capable of wondering where it came from.”

My first conversation in Goodearth was with Jay back in 2016. Even before we moved into Mosaic, I remember being in the backyard deweeding when Jay walked over to say hello across the wall. He jokingly pointed out that our backyard light had been shining steadily for six months since our last visit. We quickly bonded, pleasantly surprised to find we shared mutual connects in Muktha and Nikhil.

The 2022 World Cup remains a standout memory with a wonderful dinner and screenings hosted by Shaila and Jay. Even though his beloved Brazil didn't take the cup, he was so happy to see Messi’s "last dance" end in victory. I truly wish he were here to root for them one more time this year; I know he’d be wearing his Brazil colors with pride. Brazil has lost one of its most devoted fans, and we have lost the man who set the stage with his pre-game music. Rest in peace, Jay.

—

To Shaila, Veer, Muktha, Nikhil and his family,

The joy and smiles Jay brought to every interaction is something we will never forget. We fondly remember his jokes, the stories from his travels and the zest for life he carried. We feel lucky to have known him, and we are holding you close in our hearts.

Mahesh & Aparna

This is back in 2002 Jan. I had not met him. I was desperate. I called Shaila asking her to stay overnight at hospital to help my mum, who was operated for pituitary adenoma. It was not easy. Every 5 min, she had to be given water. To my surprise, Jay accompanied Shaila and both took care of my mom. My family is always grateful. There is more to share.
Today, life is unfair. A good human being was taken away from us.
I wish Shaila, Veer and her family to cherish his memories and hold together. The loss is irreplaceable. I really don't know how to deal with his absence.

"In loving memory of Jay Kumar.
​A man of integrity and warmth, Jay lived a life that resonated with those around him. As the beloved husband of our friend Shylaja, his influence was felt through the happiness they shared and the home they created. While he has left us too soon, the footprints he left on the hearts of his loved ones will never fade. Rest in peace, Jay."

Vasu Doraiswamy

Jay was someone you simply could not argue with in a negative way; every conversation with him turned naturally toward solutions and positivity.
I still vividly remember the first time I met him as our customer, along with Satish. Within minutes, his simplicity, warmth, and friendly way of resolving issues made an instant connection.
As destiny unfolded, we moved from being on opposite sides of the table to building engineering teams and greenfield capabilities for Kewaunee, side by side. Those countless trips to Tumkur for our first greenfield project were never just about work. Our conversations flowed from projects to life, dreams, hobbies, and everything in between, and time always seemed to pass too quickly in his company.With Jay, there was never a dull moment. He had a unique gift: he could take the toughest, most stressful situation and explain it with such cheerfulness and clarity that your anxiety would melt away. His energy was infectious, his outlook on life unwaveringly positive, and his magnetic smile could light up even the heaviest of days.
I will miss you deeply, Jay. Take your rest, my friend. You have left us far too early, but you leave behind a legacy of kindness, optimism, and strength that will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.

My dear Jay,

I am still living in disbelief. Why so soon buddy? You were supposed to come to my house and we were going to watch WC soccer here in Santa Clara. This is not fair.

We shared a special bond right from 2nd year college in Tumkur and I was so fortunate to have you as my roomy for 2 years. I still remember my Rasayani trip trip your place and we had a great time. We shared a special bond, fun times, late nights, Bangalore trips which I will cherish for the rest of my life and meeting with you each time I visit Bangalore was even more special. Your free spirit and bindaas attitude was your strength.

Wherever you are.. you will always remain in my thoughts and memories. Missing you a lot . Rest in peace buddy.

Shaila, Veer aunty and uncle… my sincere condolences .. please stay strong and please do not hesitate to reach out for any help anytime

Veer please reach out if you need anything anytime here in the US.

Yours rommy,

Murali

Hi Shaila
I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart truly goes out to you and your family.
I only had the chance to meet Jay a few times, but it was clear how much he meant to you and how loved he was. He always came across as a kind and genuine person. It was obvious how important his family was to him.
Please know that I'm thinking of you and your family. Sending you so much love and strength during this incredibly difficult time.
Preethi

Dear Shailaja and Veer,

I was heartbroken to hear about the sudden passing away of my dear friend and ex-colleague at such an early age.

He was not just a remarkable professional completely dedicated to his work but also a wonderful friend whose warmth and kindness touched me each time he used to call me “Raoji”. Its still ringing in my ears.

Jay accomplished so much and inspired many with his passion and dedication and he had many more to be achieved. Its a huge loss to Koncepo too.

It is difficult to comprehend such a sudden loss and my family and self will keep him in our prayers . Our thoughts too are with you and family members during this incredibly challenging time.

Please let me know if in any way I can support you in your difficult times . Pl do take care.

With deepest sympathy,

SSRao (Ex- Strides)

ஜெய் எனும் அழகன்

பணிமாற்றத்தின்
பலனாக
உன்னோடு
அன்றாடம் பேசுவது
களவு போனது
அவ்வப்போது காண்பதும்
மில்லிமீட்டராகக் குறைந்தது
ஆனாலும்
என்னிடம்
நிறையக் கதைகள் உண்டு
உன்னைப் பற்றி
சொல்வதற்கு
நினைவிருக்கிறதா ஜெய்
பிரன்ஹாவைப் பற்றி
ஒருமுறை
பேசிக்கொண்டிருந்தோம்
சட்டென நீ ஒரு
நிழற்படத்தைப் பகிர
நான் அதிர்ந்தேன்
அது அமேசான்
நீர்வளப்பகுதியில்
பிரன்ஹாவோடு
நீ எடுத்துக்கொண்ட
நிழற்படம்
கால்பந்தாட்டத்தைப் பற்றி
நாம்
கதைக்காத நாளில்லை
ரூட் கில்ட்
லோதர் மாத்யூஸ்
ரொபர்டோ பாகியோ
என
நமக்குப் பிடித்த நாயகர்களை
நாம்
கதைக்காத நாளில்லை
அண்டத்தைச் சுற்றி வருவதில்
ஜெய்க்கு அலாதி பிரியம்
இயன்றவரைச் சுழன்றான்
அலுவலக
உரையாடல்களின்போது
நீண்ட நெடிய
மகிழுந்து பயணத்தின்போது
உன்னோடு
கதைத்துக் களித்த
சிரித்து மகிழ்ந்த
பொழுதுகள் எனக்கு
பொக்கிஷம் எந்நாளும்
உடைந்து நொறுங்கிய
உன் ஓவியம்
எனக்குள்
உடையாதிருக்கிறது
மிகத் திருத்தமாக
நீ விட்டுச்சென்ற
அழகான உன்‌ புன்னகையை
என் கண்களில் ஏந்திக்கொள்கிறேன்
இளைப்பாறு நண்பா
இருப்பதைப் போலத்தான் இன்மையும்

Can't believe Jay is gone. He was such an ambitious man. A go getter. Enthusiastic. Always wanted to be at the fun places. He knew more than us as to what activities was happening in and around town. We didnt spend much time with all of you, but little we did. It was awesome and fun While you all were in South Africa. Our hearfelt condolences to you Shaila and Veer. And families. May Jay's soul rest in peace. Deepest sympathies from Sonam and Karishma too. Never forgetting fun times in our home.

RIP

I used to fondly call him ‘Jay’- can’t believe he has left us so soon …we were Engineering college (SIT) buddies, know him since 1990 - although we were in different streams of engineering then, we somehow connected, maybe it’s his personality Or his warmth - professionally we were in similar field which helped us connect with each other from time to time, will never forget the 2 day buddies trip to Chickmagalore a couple of years ago, venue was planned by him, he had a class in his planning - Jay we will miss you dearly Bro - Om Shanthi 🙏💐

Jay was a person of smile and energy. We were not too close but not too far away. Whenever we met , there was positivity. A good badminton player....I am shocked to know...विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि और परिवार को सहने की शक्ति मिले।
अनूप कुमार , जमशेदपुर , झारखंड

In my engineering class few guys use to speak very good English and use to ask lot of questions in class. One of them use to say SORRY after coughing in the class. A smart and intelligent person who use to play badminton. I was in contact with him even after college, few chats on Facebook too. He was Jay Kumar Gowda.

Really sorry to know what has happened. May his soul rest in peace and God gives courage to family to bear the great loss.

We use to talk about him, was talking about him after knowing this unfortunate news. Will keep on talking about him. He was one of the best person of our class. RIP Brother.

Feelings....

A sad moment in life is this...
Very tough to pass through this phase
I don't know what to say, i was feeling this for shailaja, veer & the family.

ಈ ದೇಹದಿಂದ ದೂರನಾದೆ ಏಕೆ ಆತ್ಮನೆ ?
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ ?,
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ ?
ಆಧಾರ ನೀನೆಂದು
ಈ ಲೋಕ ನಂಬಿದೆ
ಯಾವ ಪಾಪಕೆ ಸಾವು ಕಾಡಿತೊ
ಪರಮಾತ್ಮ ನ್ಯಾಯ ಬೇಡವೆ

ಏನು ತಪ್ಪಿದೆ ಹೇಳಬಾರದೆ
ಸರಿಯೇನು ಮೌನವೇಕಿದು
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ ?,
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ?
ಆಧಾರ ನೀನೆಂದು ಈ ಲೋಕ ನಂಬಿದೆ

ಶಿವನಾಮ ಮಂತ್ರವೊಂದೆ ಅಮರ ಜೀವಿಗೆ
ಪರಮೇಶ ಪ್ರಾಣ ಜ್ಯೋತಿ
ಮರಳಿ ತಾರೆಯಾ
ಮರಳಿ ತಾರೆಯಾ,
ಮರಳಿ ತಾರೆಯಾ
ಪರಮೇಶ ಪ್ರಾಣ ಜ್ಯೋತಿ
ಮರಳಿ ತಾರೆಯಾ
ಮರಳಿ ತಾರೆಯಾ...
ಈ ದೇಹದಿಂದ ದೂರನಾದೆ ಏಕೆ ಆತ್ಮನೆ ?
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ ?,
ಈ ಸಾವು ನ್ಯಾಯವೆ ?

ಓಂ ಶಾಂತಿ
@ ವಿ ಬಿ ಎಸ್

I didn’t have the good fortune to know Jay on a personal level, but my involvement with conducting a short course Veer attended put us on each other’s maps. I remember visiting Veer at home for what was meant to be a short idea-exchange, but it quickly turned social once Jay and Shaila joined us and we chatted for a good while. On and off I would see him play and at social get togethers. The last time I hung out with him, Jay was as he always was — radiant with energy, fiercely proud of his son and a warm beacon of light who enjoyed being around people.

I’ll never get the chance to deepen this friendship, but the little that I had revealed a person who was kind, quick to seize on opportunities for a laugh and valued the humanity in others. The kind of person this world needs and is lucky to have had.

Veer, Shaila and all the rest of the family, no words can do justice to this loss. But perhaps knowing the depth of the wake he leaves in so many groups of people shows that he was cherished by many and lived fully. And not all of us can say as much. My love to all of you.

Om Shanti 🙏💐

I still remember the day I joined Kewaunee in 2017 as a Junior Safety Officer at the Sovizen Project, Jigani. That was the first time I met Mr. Jaykumar Sir. His words, guidance, and leadership left a deep and lasting impact on me. He didn’t just lead a team he shaped people with discipline, respect, and strong values.

Some leaders command by authority, but a rare few lead by values, discipline, and example.Jaykumar Sir was one among those rare souls.

Today, it is truly painful to receive this news. We have lost not only a great leader, but also a wonderful human being. Though some people may leave this world, their teachings, principles, and memories remain forever alive in our hearts.

May his noble soul rest in eternal peace, and may God grant strength and courage to his family to bear this irreparable loss.

Gone from sight, but never from our hearts.
Your guidance will continue to light our path. Really we miss you 🙏

In Loving Memory of Mr. Jaykumar Sir
A True Leader • A Great Mentor • A Noble Human Being

I still cannot believe that we have lost him. The passing was very sudden. Every time we meet it use to be full of warmth and affection. His personality was very impressive. We always use to meet abroad at many occasions at the CPHI. May his soul RIP

A friendly, down-to-earth, and an optimistic person.

Every interaction I had with him was focused on moving from point A to C or D, or atleast point B.

Despite the breadth of knowledge he had, his demeanour was that of a curious student keen to learn more.

A person I cherished meeting, interacting, and exchanging notes.

Om Shanthi

A Tribute to a Dear Friend and Neighbor

We often talk about neighbors as the people who live next door, but Jay was so much more than that. He was a fixture of my daily life, a constant source of humor, and a man who mastered the rare art of being "there yet not there." He never intruded, yet he was always a steady, quiet presence—a friend who looked out for you without ever making it feel like a chore.

The Sunday "Noiseless" Renovation
Our bond really began with a moment of friction back in 2015. I was getting my interiors done and, in my infinite wisdom, I scheduled work for a Sunday, thinking it would be "noiseless." It was, of course, a cacophony. I knew I had pissed him off, but Jay didn't do grudges. Instead, he promptly called me over for a cup of tea. That was his way: he’d rather share a drink and a laugh than hold onto a grievance. That afternoon was the true start of our relationship.

The Predator of Opportunity

He was a master of the "tease." He was a predator of opportunity when it came to my mistakes or quirks, never missing a beat to poke a bit of fun. He didn't just laugh at the world; he invited you to laugh at yourself.
Yet, beneath that teasing was a neighbor who was incredibly dependable. Whenever I was away, I would ask him to take my car out for a spin so the battery wouldn't run out. He’d do it gladly, and every so often, I’d get a message from him saying he was using my car for this or that purpose—a simple, honest way of keeping things running for me while making use of it himself. It was that perfect balance of being helpful and being family.

The Lasting Sweetness of Sharing

We all know his love for sharing, especially those specific sweets from Bombay he’d bring back and share with me. But my most cherished memory of his generosity happened during my very last visit to his home before I was set to travel.
He rose to fetch me something to eat, and I protested, "Look, I’m not willing to eat anything now, I’ve already had my dinner." But he wouldn't hear of it. He insisted and brought out some chocolates. And oh boy, did I eat them! They were lovely. That was him….always eager to share, always ensuring you left his presence a little bit happier , a little bit fuller than when you arrived.

A Zest for Life: Thailand and Malta
He had such a renewed zest for life lately. He was so excited narrating his first-ever solo trip to Thailand. His office mates teased him, asking what on earth he’d do there by himself, he said and then he just smiled and told me how much he truly enjoyed the quiet. He didn't need a crowd to have a good time; he was perfectly content in his own company, exploring a new corner of the world on his own terms.
He was already looking toward the next horizon. In his very last message to me, he suggested that Gopal and I catch up with him over the weekend to plan a holiday to Malta for Christmas and New Year. He was a man of plans, dreams, and enduring friendship.

A Quiet Legacy
Jay taught me that you don't have to be loud to be impactful. He was a man of quiet strength and incredible warmth. I’m going to miss the well-timed joke at my expense , the sweets ,the sound of his car pulling back into the drive but mostly, I’m going to miss knowing he’s just on the other side of the wall.

While we didn't get to make it to Malta, I find comfort in knowing his last thoughts toward us were about shared journeys and future celebrations.

Rest in peace, my friend.

It is still very hard to believe that Jay is no longer with us. His passing was sudden, shocking, and has left a quiet emptiness in our neighbourhood that words can barely fill. Jay was more than a neighbour or a friend — he was someone you could rely on, someone whose presence made everyday life feel steadier and warmer.

I remember one Diwali so clearly. Veer and Jay were outside bursting crackers with great enthusiasm, while my son Mehul was hesitant and didn’t quite want to join in. Jay didn’t push, he didn’t rush — he cajoled gently, encouraged patiently, and before we knew it, Mehul was out there too, smiling, laughing, and fully in the spirit of Diwali. That was Jay — someone who knew how to bring people in, make them feel included, and turn hesitation into joy.

Jay was an ambitious and deeply caring father. He was always thinking ahead, wanting to do the right thing for his son, researching thoroughly and seeking the best guidance for his education. We had many conversations about future studies and counseling , and I remember sharing an Excel worksheet regarding Uni admissions/procedures that my son Mehul and I had worked on together. Jay looked at it with such interest and seriousness …not just as a neighbor, but as a father who truly wanted to get things right.

Weekends in our corner of Resonance will never sound the same. Saturdays were unmistakably Jay’s…. the lilting melodies of 60s and 70s Hindi music would drift from his home, crossing into ours, and somehow putting a spring in my step too. By evening, you’d know he was settled in, enjoying his time in front of the TV, fully embracing his well-earned rest.

He was also a deeply loving son. Jay took great care of his parents, always attentive, responsible, and present for them. And of course, there was “auntie,” whose conversations with me were always lovingly peppered with, “Hamara Jay hai na… humara Jayu hai na.” It really was Jayu all the way …deeply loved, proudly claimed, and cherished.

When I was renewing Mehul’s passport and needed a witness, I asked Jay and without hesitation and just as expected, he was there…promptly, without fuss, right on time quietly helping, as he always did.

Jay lived as a dependable friend, a caring father, a loving son, and a wonderful neighbour. His kindness showed up not in grand gestures, but in everyday moments…. the kind that stay with you long after. He will be deeply missed, but remembered always, in music, in laughter, in shared conversations, and in the gentle ways he touched our lives.

May he rest in peace, and may his family find strength in knowing how deeply he was loved and valued by all of us.

I met jay and shailu in south africa . Both of them were damn nice with us. Jay was so lively ,always happy smiling full of life. He was a happy soul. We spent most lovely and unforgetable happy moment in south africa. He was an inspiration to live a sportive happy life. Cant believe he is not with us. I alwqys remember his cheerfull smilee face. He loved nature and photography . Truly miss you jay. Matte hutti banni.

I had a privilege to Work with Jay sir,he is the one who interviewed me for Kewaunee , we met in coffee day at Bangalore those days around 2013. We worked very close around 2013-2014 for Food park - Tumkur project where Kewaunee first green field project. We delivered with in short timelines where PM modi ji inguaraated that facility. Every week two days he use to come for site for us and take me to nearby hotel for snacks , he use to ask Raj what u cooked and cherish the food what I use to make . He encouraged me to mingle with everyone and asked to me to control the emotions while working with team . We worked for 5 years day in and out for projects dept . He is a good counselor and ready to help always . His beautiful smile always make us to forget the hardwork done. Under his guidance learnt a lot,how to handle the team . Apart from work he is a good humanbeing and friend of everyone. Hardly I seen he is loosing temper in any situations. We miss him always .last time I met him is Kewaunee 25 th celebrations ,he is discussing with Subrato sir about his son Veer and I said hi sir , how are you ,he smiled ,he told will talk to you,that is the last smile seen from Jay sir.We miss him for this life time . May he encounters us in next life somewhere in this globe . Wish jay sir ,take rest for timebeing as deep sleep . May his loving family lives with his memories as he left lot of good memories, situations , impact on everyone memory walls. Bye Jay sir for this life.We remember you always .

I met Jay for the first time on the badminton court, and the last time I saw him was on that very same court. The last game, the last rally, the last memory—one I know I’ll relive forever.

He was more than just a player. He was a mentor, a coach, and a guide. We spoke endlessly about travel, sports, and life. He was a master of the game—always knowing exactly what to do, and why. I played with him for nearly two years, and the way he mentored me, shaped my game, and shared his wisdom will always stay close to my heart. Those endless conversations—full of joy, passion, and heart—meant more than he probably knew.

It’s still so hard to believe that he is no more. How does someone who played with us, did a proper cool-down right in front of us, and walked off the court… leave us within just ten minutes? How?

Badminton will never feel the same without him. I keep replaying everything in my head—his shots, his movement, the way he played, served, smiled… and how he’d always get a little angry when he lost. That was Jay, as I knew him. It all keeps coming back. Gone far too soon.

He was mad about sports and travel. Just a week ago he told me, “Eshant, I’m going for the football World Cup—you should join.”
And I replied, “Okay, I’ll try. This time, for sure.”

The Hindi he spoke—with that unmistakable Mumbaikar lingo—the flair he brought onto the court, and the passion he put into everything he did… it was impossible to miss.

Jay, the morning group without you just doesn’t feel the same. Playing badminton without you will always leave a void—one that can never be filled.

Shaila & Veer, my deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time.

Wherever you are, you are a champion—both as a player and as a person.

You will stay in my heart forever, Sir.
RIP.

Good human

2013 Jan @ RBI layout

I had the privilege of working with Jay from 1998 to 2001. During those years, he was not just an exceptional colleague but a true friend—someone whose warmth, sincerity, and easy laughter made even the toughest days lighter.

What makes that friendship even more special is that it never faded with time. We stayed connected for over 25 years, meeting and reconnecting on various occasions, always picking up right where we left off. Jay would fondly call me “Machan”, a simple word that carried so much camaraderie and closeness.

Today, I truly miss him. His cheerful spirit and the joy he brought into every interaction will always stay with me. Jay may no longer be with us, but his laughter, friendship, and the memories we shared will remain in my heart forever.

I was fortunate to have him as one my dear colleagues at Strides Pharma. Always smiling, fun loving, committed, target oriented, loved by all his colleagues. We continued to be in touch though we worked together more than twenty five years ago. I will always remember him. I wish his family all the best. We will miss you my friend.
May His Soul Rest in Peace. 🙏🏻🙏🏻.

Dear Shailaja

Dear Shyla,
You always praised Jay,such a compatable joyful family..
Met you & jay with Veer at my grand daughter 's function...have the pictures too..
God takes away the good ones soon.
I am now in somnath temple, Gujarat.
Will pray strongly ,that God gives you &Veer to move on...
Will come and meet you once I am back..
Hugs and prayers will be from me always.

Dear Kumar,
I still cannot bring myself to believe that you have left us for your heavenly abode. As I write this, my eyes are filled with tears and my heart refuses to accept that you are gone.
I fondly remember your visit to my place in May 2025, when we relived our childhood memories—our classroom mischiefs, our teachers, and our dear classmates. We laughed and smiled as we spoke about our days in the HOC township, Rasayani where we spent such a beautiful part of our childhood.
Hearing the news of your passing late on the night of 22 January 2026 left me numb, unable to comprehend that it was real.
Shaila, Veer, Uncle and Aunty—my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you. I know no words can ease the pain of losing someone so dear, but I pray you find the strength during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, dear Kumar. You will be remembered always as a person who was full of life, enthusiasm and cheer. You will be missed more than words can express.

Kajal Bhambhani (Kumar knew me by my former name Ratna Manglani)

I met Jay last week during a walk. He said a big hello, and promised, now that he was back, to help the Resonance Association with the installation of the Fire Alarm and other such issues. He spoke about his lovely holiday in Malta and I asked to see pictures. I was surprised by how his distinguished grey hair was suddenly pitch black. I knew him well enough to ask for pictures from his holiday, but not enough to ask him why he had dyed his hair.Even before I reached home, some lovely pictures arrived and we chatted a bit.

I will always be grateful for the support we got from Jay and Shaila, and the evening we spent talking about things 2+ years ago when Shashank left us. I am really feeling like I have lost yet another member of my family. Hope you are at peace, and laughing away somewhere, Jay.

Kumar bhaiya was my neighbor in Rasayani and the keeper of so many childhood stories about me—stories I didn’t even remember myself.
After 18 long years, we reconnected in August 2025. I got a call from an unknown number, and the voice on the other end said, “Shruti, Kumar bhaiya bol raha hoon.”
In that one sentence, I felt like I was transported straight back to my childhood.
We met the very same day, and it never felt like there had been a gap of 18 years. We laughed about our good old Rasayani days. I tried very hard to prove that I was an innocent little girl back then, and he just smiled and said, “Chal jhooti, you were always naughty… aur tu drama queen thi homework karne ke liye.”
That was Kumar bhaiya—always teasing, always warm, always family.
We were already planning to meet again this summer. I never imagined that our reunion would be so short-lived.
Even now, I can’t believe you are no more.
Thank you, Kumar bhaiya, for carrying pieces of my childhood with you and returning them to me when I least expected it. Our 18-year gap disappeared in one phone call, and those memories will stay with me forever.

Dear Jay,

We are missing you a lot.
My birthday and your birthday fall on the
same date — only the year is different. Every year, this reminds me of you.

When I joined Strides in 1998, I was the junior-most in the project team. You used to come on your Suzuki Samurai and often dropped me at Bannerghatta Road. You taught me how to ride a bike and even took me to MG Road. That was the first time I ever visited MG Road, and you offered me a beer — my very first experience.

After I resigned from Strides, the first two-wheeler I bought was a Suzuki Samurai, simply because of those memories with you.

We had a great time working together.
Later, when you were with the GMR group in Hyderabad and I visited the city, you took care of me so well. I will never forget your amazing hospitality.

Once in a while, you used to call me to discuss project matters. Those conversations were always special.
And every birthday, I remember you.

Jay, I am missing you a lot.

My dear friend Jay. This was a very special friendship which I will cherish for my life. I met Jay six years back when we moved to Malhar on the same badminton court which was the place I met him the last as well. In between there are unforgettable memories of camaraderie, intense badminton rallies and lot of friendship. Our morning badminton routine had been so much a part of our lives, with his passing we the morning group has not only lost him but a part of us. We were so much a unit that one of them missing for a few days would make us feel so much incomplete. Now for the rest of us it is such an unbearable loss and we can’t comprehend that we lost him so suddenly. It was just a few minutes since we exchanged the routine ‘well played, see you tomorrow’ that I got to know he has left us. Especially last few weeks I had spent so much time with him in planning the TriArena tournament which was his brainchild. Jay was a treat on the badminton court. He was fearsome as an opponent and so focused on winning every point. For sure he elevated the game quality of all of us who played with him in the morning. He was so keen to improve the game that he would observe and point out the improvements right after the session whether you are a partner or an opponent. He was so passionate about sports that he used to participate in any tournament within the community whether it is cricket, badminton or TT and he had won most of them. His spirit of competition will be dearly missed and it will not be the same if at all we pick up those badminton rackets again. Dear Jay, though we grieve your physical absence in this world, we certainly will cherish the memories you have left us with. RIP my friend!

Jay, it’s hard to grasp that we were among the last people to jam with you. That evening was everything you represented: music, masti, and pure magic.

You were one of the rare ones—genuinely kind, effortless to be around, and completely pure at heart. To know you was to know a friend who lived with joy.

While you’ve left us far too soon, I’m find comfort knowing our last memories together were filled with laughter and song.
Wherever you are, I know you’re bringing that same peace and light to everyone around you.

Rest in peace, my friend.

I wrote this the day he left us.


We played this morning.

Four games. Nothing dramatic about it. No final rally. No foreshadowing. Just the usual grunts, complaints, arguments over line calls, and Jay checking the shuttlecock the way he always did - tossing it up once before the first serve. No one else was allowed to touch it after that first toss. It was his ritual. Untouchable. Non-negotiable.

Ten minutes after he went home, he was gone.

That sentence still doesn’t sit right in my head.

Jay and I played together for almost five years. Badminton partners by arrangement, temperament, and stubborn compatibility. He was particular about the game. Particular about winning. Particular about how the game should be played.

I discovered early on that the best way to manage our partnership was reverse psychology. Whenever I messed up, I’d shout at myself before he could. Loud. Overdramatic. Public.

And something strange would happen.

Jay would calm me down.

“Relax,” he’d say. “It’s okay. One point and we are on.”

We figured each other out, the way doubles partners sometimes do not by becoming similar, but by learning where to stand when the other person lunges too far.

He dyed his hair pitch black. Religiously. I made fun of it, of course. I called him Black-headed Jay, after the bird. He pretended to hate the nickname, which meant he secretly liked it.

We were six of us. Three teams. A closed ecosystem. Tight for years. We didn’t let people in easily. You had to be good to earn your way into that circle not just skilled, but committed. Morning after morning. Same court. Same faces. Same unspoken rules.

Now one of those faces is missing.

And suddenly, I’m not just grieving a person, I’m grieving a rhythm.
Right now, I don’t know if I even want to pick up a racket again. I don’t know if I’ll ever find another partner who makes sense in the same strange, functional way. I don’t know if some games are meant to end without a replacement.

What I do know is this:
Jay showed up. Every morning. With his rituals, his obsession with winning, his black-dyed hair, and his insistence that the game be taken seriously, because he took it seriously.

This morning, we played four games. All 6 of us after a very very long time. Like it was meant to be.

If that matters to anyone, it would have mattered to him.

And for now, that’s enough I guess.

To Shaila, Veer, Uncle, Auntie and everyone else in the family, we mourn this loss with you.