It is with deep sorrow that Calcutta Rescue shares the news that one of its UK supporters, Kavi Varsani, has died of the coronavirus.

Kavi, who lived in London, was just 22 years old when he passed away in hospital last Monday, April 27.

Kavi, whose father Dhiraj helped found the charity’s British Indian Group, was a much-loved and big-hearted young man who went out of his way to assist others.

He helped out at a number of events organised by the charity over the past few years and took part in our sponsored walk along the Thames in 2018.

He will be sorely missed by everyone.

Calcutta Rescue’s chief executive, Jaydeep Chakraborty, sent a message to his grieving parents along with a video of CR schoolchildren reciting a poem in memory of Kavi.

Jaydeep said: “We are sending you all our love and prayers from Kolkata. Kavi was a lovely man. I remember his bright smile more than anything from our event two years ago.”

Penny Nettelfield, chair of the charity’s UK support group, said: “We were immensely sad to hear about Kavi’s death and send our thoughts and love to his family. Kavi was a loyal supporter of CR, attending and helping out at many events; a cheerful and friendly presence who will be much missed.”

Kavi’s parents, who have been holding nightly prayer meetings for Kavi on Zoom, invited people to make donations to charities should they wish to express sympathy, including to Calcutta Rescue.