A name usually says a lot about a person, but in my brother's case, I’m not entirely sure that “deeply tranquil shore” fits. When “Sahil” was bestowed upon him on April 9, 1999, I think everyone hoped he’d be the yin to my yang—balance out the chaos that I brought to the Bandopadhay household. Of course, my brother never went by Sahil. Instead, the anglicised Josh (from “Yash”) was the name of choice, which makes a lot more sense. Yash means success, splendor, majesty, luxury, eminence, and fame—in other words, a name much, much more fitting for a young man as extraordinary as my brother.
Whatever they call him, in my eyes, my brother will forever be Chotai, “the little one.” He will always be the curly-haired, chubby-cheeked baby of the family. He will always be the quick-witted, Kurti-and-Sperry-wearing wunderkind of the community. He will always be the inspring and talented younger brother I am so lucky to have. And he will unendingly amaze me. Truly, I am so very proud—I am absolutely floored by the magnificent young man he has become.
A name usually says a lot about a person, but in my brother's case, it doesn’t even begin to speak. To sum up Sahil Josh Bandopadhay in a single word is futile—instead, here are twenty-six. Granted, that still doesn’t do the man wearing the number seveteen jersey justice. But, it’s a start.
