The Indian digital and travel community is still reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of one of its brightest stars. Anunay Sood, the acclaimed travel influencer and photographer based in Dubai, passed away on November 5, leaving a void in the hearts of his vast following and close friends. A month after his shocking demise, the pain remains raw, as evidenced by a deeply emotional tribute from model and actor Shivani Parihar, who was rumoured to be very close to him.
A Month of Grief and Unseen Memories
Marking the one-month anniversary of Anunay Sood's passing, Shivani Parihar took to Instagram to share a series of never-before-seen personal memories. Her lengthy, heartfelt caption offered a poignant glimpse into their bond and the profound sense of loss she is experiencing. She expressed how the passage of time has only deepened her sorrow, contradicting the common adage that time heals.
"It’s been a month today. A month since I heard your voice, since you laughed that stupid laugh, since you called my name like only you could," Shivani wrote. She revealed that she often feels his presence, sometimes even feeling his hand in hers, as if he is gently reminding her that a part of him remains.
The Song That Bound Them: A Source of Pain and Memory
In her tribute, Shivani Parihar highlighted a specific song that held special meaning for them – "Tu Chhodiya Na Haath Mera." She recalled how Anunay would randomly hold her hand and sing it to her, often off-key, while she pretended to be annoyed. Today, that memory is a source of acute pain. "But today, I’d give anything literally anything to hear you sing it again. Even for a second," she confessed, underscoring the depth of her longing.
She described Anunay as her "safe space" and "home," a farishta (angel) who taught her to live fearlessly. Her message concluded with a powerful declaration of love and loss, stating she misses him more than she ever expressed and more than words could ever explain.
Respecting Privacy and Celebrating a Legacy
While Shivani's post has given the public a window into the personal grief of those who knew Anunay Sood best, his family has maintained a request for privacy. They have not disclosed the cause of his death and have urged everyone to refrain from speculation during this difficult period of mourning.
Beyond the personal tragedy, Anunay Sood leaves behind a significant professional legacy. He was celebrated for his cinematic travel stories and breathtaking photography, which earned him a massive online following. His impact was formally recognized when he was named to the prestigious Forbes India’s Top 100 Digital Stars list for three consecutive years – in 2022, 2023, and 2024. As an entrepreneur and content creator, he carved a unique niche, inspiring countless others to explore the world through his lens.
