Today, I received the profoundly unsettling news that my friend Siddharth Chaudhary has passed away at the tender age of 34. He succumbed to Covid-19, a virus that has mercilessly claimed countless lives and the weight of his loss feels particularly heavy considering several of my family and friends have died from it.
Just a few months ago, I spoke with Siddharth about his aspirations to relocate to the United States and compete in Mr. Olympia. His fervor for bodybuilding was palpable; he was always eager to delve into discussions about the latest supplements and training regimens. He wanted to move to Boise because he knew that’s where the Bodybuilding.com headquarters was. It’s jarring to juxtapose the vibrant, ambitious individual I knew with the stark reality of his abrupt departure. Especially from something that seems to be taking over the world right now.
Siddharth was married to a dear friend of mine, who is also the cousin of my ex-boyfriend. Their marriage, while not without its challenges, was a testament to resilience and commitment—a rarity in today’s world. They navigated their difficulties with a determination that many couples struggle to embody, proving that love can indeed prevail against the odds.
What haunts me most is the indiscriminate nature of Covid-19. Siddharth appeared to be healthy yet the virus killed him in a few days. This tragic reality serves as a grim reminder of life’s unpredictability and the fragility of our existence. It forces us to confront the uncomfortable truth that even the seemingly invincible can be brought low in an instant.
While I cannot speculate on whether Siddharth used anabolic steroids or what substances he may have been taking, I do know he had an intense devotion to his physique. His wife once confided in me about his unwavering commitment to maintaining his body, often prioritizing it above all else. She said he loved his body more than anyone. This obsession, while admirable in its dedication, also raises unsettling questions about the lengths we go to in pursuit of an ideal.
Living in India, where pollution levels are alarmingly high, I sometimes wonder if environmental factors played a role in his untimely demise. Yet, to dwell on speculation feels inappropriate. Instead, I choose to honor Siddharth’s memory by reflecting on the remarkable person he was.
Tonight, I will light a candle in his honor, contemplating the joy he brought to those around him and the void his absence leaves behind. Siddharth Chaudhary was a brilliant light in this world, and his loss is a profound tragedy. Jai mata di. Rest in peace, my friend.
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