Om Vyoman Arvind

As I struggle to articulate the life that was and the life that could have been, one fact remains blindingly clear - we are extremely proud of our son, Om, and the principled young man he became and all the lives he touched in incredibly meaningful ways.

And, before I get too far, his godfather, a writer himself, said recently: “[our] young man was one hell of a writer. … what control he had over structure, at ALL levels - word,

sentence, paragraph, narrative, theme.” I agree. Wholeheartedly.

Through his evocative writing, Om pioneered a new kind of women’s soccer coverage, holding himself to extremely high standards of journalism and analysis. He definitely had an impact in helping grow the popularity and recognition of women’s soccer worldwide

and was a true champion of the women’s game. (Here’s a paean to Om penned by a fellow

Madrirista, Gabe Lezra —

https://www.managingmadrid.com/2024/5/30/24167759/remembering-and-celebrating- om-arvinds-work-and-legacy-at-managing-madrid.)

CR7 Om was (and, still is) much beloved by his Madridistas.

Even as a kid, our dear Om would pace any room he was in, thinking, gesturing with his hands, analyzing the world around him; attempting to make it all fit, make sense. Once he got hold of a concept, he wouldn’t let go of it until he fully understood it, fully “felt” it

with all his being.

To catch a glimpse of Om's essence and relentless commitment to doing what's right, delve into this article he penned at the tender age of 19.

https://medium.com/@supersain5/on-ronaldo-mayorga-the-rape-allegations-the-issue- with-idolization-ba6891bda340

In my subjective view, it epitomizes self-reflection and shows Om to be a man of standards, for himself above all others. A man of ideals. A man of principles.

I'll let you judge for yourself if that is true.

Om always fought for social justice, defending the oppressed, and speaking up for injustice wherever and whenever he encountered it.

And, yes, he could be a difficult person to connect with - he was wise beyond his years, sometimes quick to anger, but his heart (his soul) was always searching for answers to life’s, and the world’s, most vexing problems; and, he probably felt like he was some times the only “voice in the wilderness” speaking up to injustices happening around him.

He was however selfless in giving his time and energy in helping others (based on the numerous personal messages we have received from those he helped). But, ultimately (unfortunately), couldn’t ask for help himself.

As we continue to grieve our darling Om, we thank you all for your support, love, words, hugs, and prayers. We are deeply comforted by the fact that we are part of a large and

loving global family. We remain in your embrace.

The GoFundMe campaign to honor Om’s legacy and benefit women’s soccer now stands at almost $21,000 with 260+ contributors from all over the world. Thank you. There’s still time to make a donation in Om’s memory at: https://gofund.me/efda8946.

We have another sizable monetary gift from Om’s beloved aunt that will benefit an animal rehabilitation center (rescuing injured wildlife) and DC Central Kitchen (an iconic

nonprofit that combats hunger and poverty) — both causes very dear to Om’s heart; and, to GMU’s Center for Community Mental Health, providing evidence-based, accessible,

affordable, and culturally sensitive therapy and testing services in northern Virginia.

Our family (including Om’s dear grandparents and his cousins) also intends to establish a scholarship fund at Illinois Central College in Peoria, Om's hometown, aimed at supporting underprivileged students pursuing studies in emergency medicine. Please let me know if

you would like to be part of this …

The other day, Prasanna and I were listening to one of Om’s Managing Madrid podcasts discussing a 2022 Real Madrid v Valencia game, where he states, rather presciently:

“Modric was floating everywhere and being hyper aware; he kept going for 45 minutes like he had to win or his child would die or something; I don’t know if we fully understand the mental and physical toll it takes to go, go on and on … to do that.” Om certainly did. For over 8 years, he poured his heart and soul into soccer, becoming a fierce advocate for the

women’s game while becoming an acknowledged global expert in analyzing and reporting on the sport he loved so much.

In my mind and heart, Om will always be best described by Gore Vidal’s enduring words: “I have always wanted to know everything. To be everything.”

We are deeply comforted by the fact that Om really did live a whole life in just 26 years. A whole life. Learned more, knew more, did more, understood more, and experienced more than most people do in a life that is two or three times longer.

He came from nothing

He sought everything at once He vanished into …

Om, you are now one with the Universe. Back to the cosmos, whence you came. Star dust to star dust.

I will always cherish the memories of watching IPL cricket with you and celebrating wildly when our favorite team, the Chennai Super Kings, won; seeing you and mom

huddled in the kitchen cooking up some delicious paneer makhani; and, looking over and seeing you and Hansin playing Xbox.

Ultimately, I find solace in Gail Godwin’s words: “No, you’ll never get over it, but the time will come when you will be glad you can’t get over it because the loved one remains alive in your heart as you continue to engage with the who and the why of him.”

I will leave you with the words of one of Om’s closest friends which seems to capture our son’s spirit — caring, mercurial, forthright, cerebral, stubborn, and big-hearted. Much

love.

“Your son was an incredible human being. He left a lasting positive impact on so many people, including those he knew personally and even complete strangers. Many of his classmates and teachers from over a decade ago still remember him fondly for his sharp sense of humor and unparalleled knowledge of world history and politics.

His influence extends far beyond his immediate circle; he is revered by thousands in the Real Madrid community for his insightful tactical analyses and writing prowess. He was also one of the most generous people I have ever known, never hesitating to empty his wallet whenever we walked by a homeless person.

To call myself a friend of someone as intelligent, compassionate, and selfless as Om has been an absolute honor.

Moving forward, I will strive to live my life as Om would have wanted, focusing on kindness, generosity, and making a positive impact on others. He always showed immense compassion and selflessness, and I am inspired to carry those values

forward in my own life. Whether it's through small acts of kindness or more significant efforts to help those in need, I will honor his legacy by trying to make the world a better place, just as he did. I hope that one day, when my time comes, I can meet him again.”

May peace be upon Om, may his memory remain a blessing, and may his light shine on brightly! Om Shanti.