The boy who made us smile...

"My name is Chinmay Aniruddha Barve," said an enthusiastic young voice in a pure Maharashtrian  accent. 

The place: London

The year: 2010

His eyes twinkled with mischief as he displayed a set of perfect white teeth with that winning smile of his! These are my first and everlasting memories of the boy who had a voracious appetite for life. The boy who truly wanted to experience every waking moment...

He wanted to sample every dish of every cuisine in the world and invent a few along the way! He loved the chemistry of alcohol and could be found mixing magic potions trying to come up with his own brand of booze! He wanted to be the most famous name in the wine industry and worked tirelessly to educate himself on the intricacies of wine making. 

Always ready for an adventure, he was our go-to guy for spontaneous trips to Bournemouth and midnight escapades on the streets of London! Our little Chinu, the boy who never let us touch our wallets because, well, that's just how largehearted he was! He worked at one of the finest restaurants on Baker Street and taught himself the etiquette of running a premium eatery. After hours, he would be as much at ease in the local rundown pub trying to convince the DJ to play Armin Van Buuren. He made us listen to Paul Van Dyk and insisted we love him as much as he did! 

He could wolf down a whole pizza and then get right down to marinating chicken to be eaten a couple of hours later. 

Chinu, you taught me that life was about laughter, it was about being proud of who you were and powering through the biggest obstacles. Your smile, your generosity, your values on friendship and relationships and your optimism are what I'll always remember you by.

CC & Chinya ...unforgettable times...

I guess I know why God made you such an  unforgettable human being. It's because he knew your purpose in your unfairly short life was to spread joy! I hope He up there realises He's in for unbelievable adventures with you around...

I'll always have fond memories of you, my fellow Taurean...You, with the voracious appetite for life. The boy who truly wanted to experience every waking moment...

I salute you Mr.Chief Sommelier! You will forever be thought of with a smile, I promise you that. Rest In Peace, Chinu.

Much Love and Respect,

TD for CC...