– 18 July 2023
For Sonal…
by Rupda
Dear Sonal,
I still can’t believe you’re gone. It feels like just yesterday we were sharing stories and going on walks together.
I will never forget the long talks we had and your infectious laughter. Your smile was also something to behold. It lit up your face and anyone who knows you, knows what I mean. You could see it in those eyes, glowing and radiant…
I remember when we were kids in the commune, we used to play together and often would go into Buddha Hall to see Osho together. We had fun trying to find seats up close before he came in, and when he did arrive, we would sit next to each other with our eyes sealed tight, and every-now-and-then sneaking a peak at one another to see who was ‘really’ meditating.
I had the privilege to know you for over 40 years and in that time we had many journeys and experiences together. You taught me many things, Sonal, your wisdom, self-reflection, rebellious spirit. I always looked up to you. You were a brilliant inquisitor with an insatiable curiosity and wonderment for the world. We spent hours staring at the stars and talking about the mystery of life. I will eternally treasure that time spent together.
I know this life wasn’t easy for you. I know that you sometimes didn’t know where you truly belonged. I wish I had the answers.
Perhaps your early departure gave you the true relief you sought. You are free now, Sonal, and you will always be with us and we will always be with you.
You live in my heart and I know that your light lives in the hearts of many around the globe. I will miss you dearly, beauty.
Your friend,
Rupda

Forever loved
by Kendra
Beloved Precious Sonal,
A week has passed since you took the jump to your death…
I have had the privilege to have known you for over 40 years. In our Poona One days and onwards. Our paths crossed from time to time over the years, always with such sweet connection and familiarity.
Trying to spend more time together when we saw one another, while living in different states or parts of the world, was difficult. But we managed to start off where we left off. Time did not seem to bother us as the connection of the heart was always there.
Now all I can do is remember You and how you made me feel with your Love, Light and Laughter for all these years. You touched all of our hearts in your simple presence.
Your natural intelligence and ability to be so present for everyone and give your all. It’s hard to imagine such a soul as you, who was suffering so deeply inside.
I am sorry I was not enough there for you when you needed it the most. Would it have changed anything? I don’t know, But I would have been there for you. All I can do is reflect and learn from you; to be more aware when a friend is in need. You have taught us all from this experience. Maybe that is what was needed.
Hopefully you have found peace from the mind that was haunting you and you are Free at last.
I will miss you dear heart. Forever loved.
Kendra
Thanks for photos go to Kendra and Rupda
More Tributes
Sonal,
News of your death hit me hard.
I remember you as a radiant light on the Ranch. You were probably just becoming a teenager.
Once you asked me to play guitar for you and Gayana as you two rocked out singing “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” at a party night at Magdalena’s. You were so excited. Simply adorable.
Just today I googled you and found out you had become an Acupuncturist and had your own business.
Your death is a wake-up call and a reality check that, I believe, we as a community bear a responsibility to the generation of Sannyasin kids. I know many of them have found it difficult, or even impossible to live a happy, balanced life. Many of them struggle with the crushing weight of traumas experienced in our ashrams and communes.
Sonal, I’m sorry for that. I love you and hope you are back home into bliss.
Nigama
I was sitting on a bench in Rajneeshpuram and you and one of the boys were sitting behind me. It was nighttime. You were discussing life and the universe. I guess you were fourteen and I remember thinking how wise you both were. Age had nothing to do with it.
Nityamo Lian
You can leave a message / tribute / anecdote, and send a photo, by writing to web@oshonews.com (pls add ‘Sonal’ in the subject field). Your contribution will be added manually, typically within 24 hours.
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