His flame of life continues to burn in the hearts of his family and friends
Nothing is going to bring back the ones whom we have lost to fate. But it is also said that no one dies, unless you are forgotten.
So, for those who remember I. Arun Kumar, there is no need to ‘bring him back’ for he has never left; he has not passed away from their hearts. Not a day passes by without them remembering the father, the husband, the son, the friend, the coworker that he was to his family, friends and to all of those who will never forget him. As they note, Arun can never pass away, because no one is ever going to forget him.
Still had miles to go
“Arun is unforgettable. He was larger-than-life and had such a towering presence in our lives,” they tell Black & White. But the timeless character that he was also had a characteristic flaw: he was only human, probably the reason why he went off too early. As one of his friends notes with a certain poignance, “he had miles to go… before he went to sleep!” But he had his reasons and so let him rest.
Journey continues
Another friend noted that Arun’s journey continues through the lives of his loved ones. Look for him in his daughter Niveda Arunkumar.
Arun’s friends in Oman, who spoke about their dear departed soul-friend, poured their heart out in this brief, but telling memoir on his first ‘passing-away’ anniversary. However sad, they agree on one aspect: Arun lived life to the fullest and it was a life well lived. His family would vouch for that.
Excerpts:
Man with a golden heart
Satish Shetty, former colleague at Oasis Water Co. (The first of Arun’s many friends. They met in 1994.):
I was one of Arun’s first friends in Oman. That young, handsome face is still etched in my memory. He was like a younger brother to me; we shared a strong bond. However, after some years we got busy with our own responsibilities, yet, whenever we would catch up, we would wind up together just like old times and with the same fervour and bonding. I remember the times when we used to cook together and I must say he was a foodie and a superb cook. He used to love Mangalorean dishes like chicken sukka, fish fry etc… He was a man with a golden heart, and we had good memories, which will never fade. Arun will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace! Om Shanti!
More than a friend; a family member
Aziz K Baker, executive director, Mastermind Advertising
Arun was family. For nearly three decades; He was more than a friend to me and ours was a close family bond. He was such a joyful person, with a signature laugh and a presence, which always lifted our spirits. Words fail to express me on his first passing away anniversary. I don’t know how to say it: but Arun, you are dearly missed! May you find eternal peace! You have left behind so many good memories to last a lifetime.
He had more miles to go…
Jacob Thomas, former boss/colleague, 1994, Thrifty Car Rentals
Arun started his career in Oman, as my colleague. I still fondly remember him sitting in front of me, with that infectious smile of his. His calm and composed nature were enviable. I have so many memories of him, that I cannot limit it into mere words; he was closely loved by all.
Arun, you left us all very young, you had more miles to go before you went to sleep… God bless your soul, mate!
Wind beneath my wings…
Rila Banerjee, Friend/work associate
I used to perform a song in the 90s – it was called Wind Beneath My Wings. No person has been more worthy of expression that than Arun was to Priya. A loving, committed and supportive partner, a wonderful dad – all accomplished with quiet dignity and an ever-smiling demeanour – that was the Arun I was privileged to know since the mid-90s.
There are no easy answers, but there are heartbreaking questions… and in a tragic situation such as Arun’s, I am seriously compelled to question ‘God’s plan’.
Always helpful and caring
Lucy and Harry Monteiro, family friend and neighbours
Helpful and caring are two words that describe our Arun in a nutshell. He never shied away from lending a helping hand to whoever was in need. All of those who were touched by his kindness will never forget him and will miss him dearly.
Arun, you were part of our lives for over three decades, and you will always remain in our hearts. Keep watching over us all, especially Niveda and Priya!
Role model at work
Abdullah Al Farsi, former sponsor, colleague – IES
Arun was my brother and my friend. I remember, we would always have a little chat after a tiring day’s work. “C’mon, smile,” he would exhort me. And those words alone would wipe away the fatigue from our work. He was my role model at work. He meant a lot to me and even though a year has passed since his departure, I remember him as if it was yesterday. May he remain blessed always!
A friendship beyond boundaries
Dr Ajay Kummar Pandey, journalist, advocate, family friend
It’s been a year since we lost Arun, and the pain of his absence is still profound. Reflecting on our friendship, I realise how much Arun truly meant to me. From the very moment we met, it felt less like the beginning of a new friendship and more like reuniting with a long-lost brother.
When I first arrived in Oman, it was Arun who opened his home to me, making me feel like I belonged. I vividly remember staying with him, sharing countless moments of laughter and camaraderie until my first departure.
When I returned to Oman, it was Arun again who greeted me at the airport, embodying the true spirit of friendship. He was there every step of the way, right up to the moment of my final departure, helping me pack my cargo with his characteristic generosity and kindness.
Arun was the quintessential friend in need and indeed. Our Friday cricket games at the CBD ground, long drives, and lively parties are etched in my memory. His zest for life and unyielding spirit were evident in everything he did, from his time at Thrifty Car Rental to his ventures in the travel industry, and eventually his return to a conventional job. Arun was always experimenting, always trying new things, and embracing life with open arms.
The best tribute we can offer Arun is to keep his spirit alive here on earth. My wife, Dr Mala, Ananya and Anant, all join me in paying tribute to Arun, a friend whose friendship will be cherished forever as Arun is still alive in spirit.
Knowing him was a treasure
Nabil Al Raisi, business associate
Sometimes words can’t describe that feeling of missing someone! Within a very short period of time itself I realised that knowing Arun was a treasure. He was one of the most humble, transparent and kindest people that I had ever known. And although we knew each other only for a short period, it seems like I knew him for a long, long time.
I miss your sincere advice and honesty, which came directly from your heart, buddy. Why didn’t destiny give us more time to know each other better? We had so many good memories! Everyone who was touched by you will miss you forever.
He was a blessing
T. M. Pillai and family, friend and associate
Arun was a joy to know. He was a blessing and a true, loyal friend.
On this day, we remember and honour your life, you brought so much joy and love into our lives. You are deeply missed. Though you may be gone, your spirit lives on in our hearts. We cherish your memories and hold them very close.
Left too early
Jagdish Bhojwani, former colleague and friend – Al Hajry Group
Arun was the best version of a human being: loving, funny, cheerful and also a ‘google’ of all things… Mind you, when he starts discussions, it will never end. He can argue to a point, rather many points! His love for everyone was intense and everlasting. These days when I hear his favourite song, it is almost like he is just going to walk into the room. He loved life and radiated that energy at all get-togethers. Full of joy and mirth and totally flamboyant. Man, you are going to be very deeply missed! You left too early!
Modest and simple
Glen D Souza, Trade links Oman, friend and associate
Arun was a modest and simple person with integrity. He would always welcome me with his open arms and sometimes we used to have impromptu song sessions. We used to regularly exchange morning messages. He was a very down-to-earth person. All that I can say is that I miss my dear and wonderful friend. I pray every day for his soul to rest in peace!
A dreamer at heart
Nuwanka Kottegoda, work associate, BPOS Global
I knew Arun only briefly; just a few months before his passing. Things that stand out to me, since ours was mostly a professional relationship, was his level of respect and professionalism. He wanted to succeed and develop and in fact was even willing to help me with some of my more outlandish ideas.
A dreamer, at heart, he seemed to want more out of everything he approached… to fully grasp and consume reality. May he rest in peace. And may my dear friend Priya and her daughter be blessed by God and the love of friends and family.
An inspiration and mentor
Prasad Mendon, tour guide, former colleague, MHD group
Arun was an inspiration! I knew him since 1998. He was my guru, mentor, a guide, philosopher and a true well-wisher. He stood by me in my toughest period of life and has guided me to grow, aspire for more in life. There is not a single day I don’t think of him; his calls to me were regular. He never leaves any one behind. Thanks to him, I am most fortunate to discover the length and breadth of Oman, he was very adventurous, every trip to the desert was a roller-coaster ride. May his soul rest in eternal peace!
Will live forever – through his daughter and wife
Suzy Fontes, journalist, family friend
Tracing memories of Arun feels like an attempt to connect some blurry, some vivid dots that are anything but linear. What was he to me? He was my best friend’s husband. He was an enigma. One would always feel that there is more to him than meets the eye; his larger-than-life persona in a way fuelled that image. That’s how I will always remember him. Even the last time I met him at his home, he was busy in the kitchen, cooking up biryani. That side of him was new to me. A year down the line, I know I hardly knew the man who had his own unpredictable ways, but each one was as endearing as the other – that much I know. I also know that he has been instrumental in playing key roles in the lives of everyone that he knew as a friend and I hold on to that memory dearly.
What would I like to tell Arun? Arun, has anyone ever told you that your impish smile reflected your tongue-in-cheek attitude to life? It was a tell-tale sign of the way you commanded your life. You emanated energy, a kind of ‘I-am-special’ vibe that kept people wondering. Well, it kept me wondering, many a times… What makes this man tick? Let me also tell you what you knew for a major part of your life – you were blessed with Priya and Niveda. You will live forever through them.
More of a brother
Mohammed Rashid Al Badi, friend and work associate
Arun was more of a brother than a friend. And I remember him with affection. I have known him for many years; He was much more than a business associate, very kind, helpful and personally supportive in all ventures. He will always be missed. He was always a call away. We are still shocked that he is not amongst us today. May his soul rest in peace!
Left his footprints in the sands of time
Dr Deepak and Dr Anupam
Life is like a journey starting at our birth and ending at the final destination with the creator. What matters most is how we take this journey and what footprints we leave behind in the minds and thoughts of those whom we know and the society.
Dear Arun, you were such a joyous soul. You will always remain in our memory as a person full of life, who lived each day to the fullest and brought cheer and optimism to the people you met. The resilience you showed even in the last few days is a measure of how much you loved life. You will be forever missed.
Charming and cheerful
Vetrivel Mani, friend and work associate
I think it was in 2008, I was introduced to Arun through a mutual friend; I found him charming and cheerful. Arun is a hard man to forget because he was full of life and most often, he spilled that good cheer on us!
Machan, may God give you peace and happiness up there; your friends, family and colleagues miss your presence da!
Lived life to the fullest
Prasad Abraham, former colleague, Azaiba United Group
I have known Arun sir for over 24 years. I attended my first job interview in Oman with him. Since that day, Arun has been a mentor, a guide to me in all my endeavours. I have no words to encapsulate my years or experiences with him. He took care of me. He was a man full of life and cheer; a party person, living life to the fullest. I can only remember him with affection and I miss him so very much.
Motivator and leader
Sowmya Kiran, friend and work associate
Arun was a motivator, leader and an affectionate and inspiring mentor, who touched the lives of everyone he met. His unwavering support, wisdom and kindness were the guiding light for many of us. His unwavering guidance and support will be missed every day. May his soul rest in peace!
Lasting impact
Rahila Anjum, friend/work associate
His words, “it is good to help others, but always put yourself and your work first, no one will blame you for it” keeps ringing in my ears. Arun sir’s guidance and support shaped my career and life path. I will always remember and cherish the impact you had on my life. May your memories remain with us and inspire us all.
Mischievous, adventurous
Rajkumar, Elsa, Hari and Giri – family friends
Adventurous Arun – and adventures in Oman with Arun! Give him a 4WD and he will take you to the remotest place in Oman. Camping with the turtles at Ras Al Hadd; dune bashing at the Wahaiba (Al Sharqiyah) sands; overnight land trips, Sur, Sohar, Wadi Daikkah, Jebel Akhdar, Misfat; the ostrich farm at Barka, boating picnics from Qantab beach, late night BBQ dinners… memories with Arun meant memories of Oman. He took us and the family all around Oman.
Though I had landed in Oman in 1982, it was when I met Arun in 1995 that we started seeing the real wonders of Oman. We saw Oman through his eyes. Arun was in the tourism industry those days and overnight camping was his forte. Our family albums are filled with rich memories of many decades and so are our hearts. Arun was and is family. He will always be remembered with a smile for his mischievous ways, compulsive discussions; his ‘attempts’ at cooking and the affectionate signature handshakes. May his soul be blessed always!
Spreading cheer
Prem, family friend
Arun was one of the most joyful, fun-loving people that I had ever met. He had a knack of spreading cheer all around. I have known him for over 15 years here. There are not many who can remain a source of cheer all the time. It is difficult to think he will not be around us anymore, but his memories will remain etched in our hearts always. May his soul be at peace!
Strong, confident, great sense of humour
Lakshmi Kothaneth, journalist, family friend, neighbour
Arun was a family friend. I remember him as a strong and confident person who loved life. He also had a great sense of humour. He liked details and was methodical. He would take energy and effort in charity projects as much as he would in work. Arun visited me last when I was ill. His joy for life was infectious so much so even the ones who are sick tend to cheer up in his presence. Sadly, I couldn’t return that favour and had no words to tell him when I visited him at the hospital bed. I could only stand silent by his side.
What would I tell him? I would say I am sorry because it was all so sudden. I know that wherever he is, he will be celebrating. But surely, I will tell him you are missed by your family and friends. Arun, your energy and enthusiasm were at a different level. Prayers!
Energetic, focussed
Raman Kumar, family friend, events’ associate
Arun Kumar: energetic, focussed, fitness freak, hardworking… I can go on and on. It was not an age to go away, but destiny has other plans. He must be wishing the family all good from a better place. May all the best be showered on the family.
‘Bhai’ had a solution for all problems
Mohamed Sherif (Jasim) and family, garage owner, Wadi Kabir
‘Arunbhai’, that is what he was to all of us. A brother to all — to guide, to help and celebrate as the occasion demanded.
Arunbhai was a very caring and smart person, who treated everyone with respect and regard. He always had time for my calls, whenever and wherever.
He was like a rock, full of support. He has known us as a family and was dear to my father too. He had a solution for every problem, and greeted everyone as if they were long-lost friends… not just our garage, he was popular in the whole line of garages and shops in our lane… He will be missed every day by everyone who has ever known him. May his soul rest in peace!
Forever smiling in my memories
Bejoy Koshy, friend, Realtor ® Keller Williams Louisville East
I met Arunkumar, aka Arun, during my early days at the Times of Oman and Al Shabiba. As an advertising executive, I was working on an advertising supplement for the rent-a-car industry in Oman and thus visited Al Haditha Group of Companies, the exclusive agency for Thrifty Car Rental. Arun had just joined this organisation then. Since I was working for a newspaper, Arun approached me, introduced himself, and enquired if Times was hiring as his wife, in India, was in the same line. I gave him our editor’s contact and a few weeks later, I was surprised to see Arun at our office along with his wife, Priya, who had landed a job at our publishing house.
Arun was an enterprising young man; he started an inbound tour department at Al Haditha Group and headed the operation. Thanks to him, my wife, Julie and I and our office mates had the opportunity to experience a full-fledged and memorable desert safari.
As Priya and I coordinated our highly popular Times of Oman quiz shows, Arun, as the dutiful husband, would always be there to lend a hand. I moved out of Oman in 2003 and left many good friends behind and Arun was one of them. It is hard for me to think that I will not meet him again in person, but his smiling face will always stay in my memories. I will miss and yet not miss you too Arun because you are still alive in my mind. May your soul rest in peace!
Perfect – with minuses and pluses
Amardeep Singh Chadha, friend
Arun Kumar was more than just a friend to me; we have known each other for over 19 years. We have shared nearly two decades of moments and have been there for each another, especially when it was most needed.
We have had our share of disagreements, arguments and even friendly fights and brawls sometimes but nothing took away the deep connection between us. They say friends complement each other, we both did, took our shortcomings and goodness in a sportive manner, guided each other at all times. I would not call him perfect, but he was Arun, perfect with his minuses and pluses. He could argue to any point, but we have always agreed to disagree.
Dear friend, you will be deeply missed and your memories will be forever cherished. May your soul rest peacefully!
Planning his next move
Surender Motiani, family Friend, chess mate
Arun was a loving friend, full of joy and mirth and excellent company. He could talk about any subject in the world and expressed himself in a very forthright but cheerful manner. He was my chess mate and we would play for hours, losing every time, but coming back for more! Actually, he was a good chess player! Arun, wherever you are, I am sure you will be planning your next move. May your soul rest in peace!
Will miss the sparkle in the eyes
Jasfan Abdul Kareem, TodayOman – DoOdleZz Advertising
It’s been a year since we lost Arun, yet the smile he left behind still touches our hearts. So many special moments to remember with him —at the events organised by Black & White: Muscat International Film Festival, Open Minds, Yanni in Oman twice, and BoneyM Live in both Oman and India, and countless others. He radiated a different kind of vibrant energy and his constant motivation were truly inspiring to me and others. We even shared the same flu during one of those trips, blaming each other for spreading it.
Dear Arun, I’ll forever miss that sparkle in your eyes every time you looked at your daughter Niveda and the laughter we shared with Priya, Adarsh and the complete team. Why did you have to leave us so soon? You are deeply missed, my friend!
Part of the team; story
Nikhil Raj, former colleague, Atlantic Constructions LLC
Arun worked with us for only a few months, but his impact on the team was significant. On the first anniversary of his passing, we reflect on him as a colleague who was briefly – yet integral — part of our journey. His unexpected passing away highlights the delicate nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment and every individual in both our work and personal lives.
Arun, even though you were with us for a short time, you were part of our team and our story. Your passing made us realise how important every team member is and how much each person can contribute, even if they were with us only for a short time. We hope you are at peace now, and we will continue with a deeper appreciation for life and our colleagues.
*(Arun’s last work stint was with the Atlantic Constructions LLC, in 2024, when he left us all.)
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