In a heartbreaking incident that has left the community in mourning, 25-year-old B. Aravind Pillay, a Singaporean student, was fatally stabbed in Brussels, Belgium. His body was returned to Singapore for a wake held at his family home on November 10, 2024, where friends and family gathered to pay their respects.
Aravind had been studying in Belgium since November 2023, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation, but preliminary reports indicate that he was approached by two 18-year-old men who, following an argument, attacked him. The motive for the confrontation remains unclear, and both assailants have been identified by local authorities.
The wake was attended by numerous former schoolmates from St Andrew’s Secondary School and Nanyang Polytechnic, all of whom shared fond memories of Aravind’s kindness and warmth. Mohammed Afraaz, a former classmate, expressed his disbelief at the tragedy, stating, “This is not the kind of fate someone like him deserves.” Just days before the incident, he had planned to invite Aravind to his upcoming boxing competition, highlighting the suddenness of the loss.
Aravind’s cousin spoke of his approachable nature, noting, “He was always ready to help, no matter the situation. Even if you hadn’t seen him in years, he’d treat you like no time had passed.” His aunt, visibly emotional, recalled their close bond, stating, “He was very close to all of us, always offering his help. He even spoke with me just before he left for Belgium.”
In the wake of this tragedy, Aravind’s family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support from friends and the community. “The fact that so many have come to see him shows how loving he was,” they remarked. His father also thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Belgian authorities for their prompt assistance in repatriating his son’s body.
On November 11, Aravind’s body was cremated, leaving behind a grieving family that includes his father, mother, and older sister. The loss of such a vibrant young life has resonated deeply within the community, prompting reflections on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones.
As investigations continue into the circumstances of his death, the community remembers Aravind not just for the tragedy of his passing, but for the warmth and kindness he brought to those around him. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him.