We are deeply saddened by the recent loss of Equilibrium contributing writer Raja Chinnakotla. Not only was he an incredible writer with an endless depth of curiosity, he was an incredible friend, peer, and person. Raja never seemed to run out of unique ideas and angles to approach writing. Additionally, he was always providing constructive and helpful feedback to his peers. Raja always kept others at the heart of his work and often waited until our meetings were completely concluded to leave. For Raja, Equilibrium wasn’t about the writing: it was about the people and the community he never failed to foster in any environment he was in.
Raja was always searching for a new conversation, new perspective, and loved to share about his family, culture, and hometown. Raja, without fail, always lent a helping hand to his peers and members of the editorial board, even editing his spring article from the airport. He would have done incredible at his exchange year at the London School of Economics. His pursuit of knowledge in the field of economic history will be remembered, as well as his intent on connecting culture to economics.
Raja’s commitment to his work and more importantly, to others, will never be forgotten. His laugh, kindness, and inquisitive nature will live on through all of our writing. May Raja rest in peace: we miss you.