“May the divine light illuminate our intellect.” Those are the closing words of the Gayatri Mantra, a Hindu mantra which was recited and played at Yash’s funeral. To me, those Sanskrit words evoke the essence of Yash’s spirit — illumination and intellect.

Through our many deep philosophical debates and discussion, his inner illumination always shined. Yash’s jubilant personality was complemented by a smile on his face and his passion for the multitude of initiatives he participated in. Be it leading positive change in our community through Youth in Philanthropy, entertaining all of us through his acting in drama, or simply through a conversation, Yash was a catalyst for happiness. Alongside being extremely academically gifted, his wit was evident in everything that he did.

One year on, there’s rarely a moment when his presence isn’t missed. Walking through the hallways, sitting in the newsroom, or in conversations, I often wonder, “wouldn’t it have been much better if Yash was here with us?” Today, he would’ve been The Crusader News’ website editor, my co-leader in Youth in Philanthropy, and spreading jubilance wherever he went. Though he is in a much better place now, he’s also at the heart of the class of 2024. Yash, we remember you and we miss you. You truly are unforgettable.