Debroy Left Behind a Legacy of Wisdom and Reflections on Mortality (Image: X/ShamikaRavi)

Distinguished economist and advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bibek Debroy expired at the age of 69 on November 2nd, even though he died he didn’t forget to leave a legacy behind, deluged with wisdom and a profound understanding of life and legacy.

Just four days before his passing, Bibek Debroy sent a column on October 28, to The Financial Express titled “Requiem,” reflecting on the fleeting nature of human existence.

He confronts the prospect of his absence and questions the importance of a life that would leave only memories and perhaps “a few condolences.”

Debroy spent over a month in the hospital, where he observed the world outside through a small window. He saw a monkey climbing a pipe every morning and felt the sun’s warmth.

Debroy wondered what would happen if he weren’t around. Would anyone notice? He joked about a book titled “100 Places to See After You Die” and questioned the meaning of his own life.

He, then reflected on his work, from trade reforms to railway reforms. Would anyone remember? Perhaps a few condolences, a posthumous award, or a mention in an obituary, his retrospection asked.

Debroy also extended his concerns that his passing would primarily affect his wife, Suparna. His sons, living abroad, would remember him fondly, but their lives wouldn’t be greatly impacted, he forecasted.

Bibek Debroy referenced the Ashtavakra Gita, “Give up attachment.” He struggled to detach from his body, acknowledging the difficulty.

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He also questioned the permanence of his achievements, acknowledging the ephemerality of fame. He reflected on his solitude, relationships, and body, describing himself as “a lump of flesh stretched out, stripped of normal norms of shame and modesty.”

Debroy found detachment hard to attain, admitting, “It is easy, easier, but to disassociate yourself from your body? Impossible”. His thoughts concluded with a metaphor of transcendence.

In his final days, Debroy found solace in introspection. He shared his thoughts that may reflect on his mortality and self-fulfilment. Bibek Debroy’s this farewell column, published posthumously remindes everyone to cherish life and legacy.

Sometimes, people can foresee their death; they realise that their time is drawing near. This awareness often provides the strength to express what has been on their mind and to reflect on the fact that, despite all their successes and achievements, life ultimately consists of a fragile body.

Debroy did not forget to leave an indelible mark through his works. However, his last words will always be remembered in history as a reminder of the importance of our lives and the legacy we leave behind.

Also, read| Prominent Indian Economist Bibek Debroy Dies At 69