Pahalgam terror attack: Loss of Bharath Bhushan dims lustre of group of friends in Bengaluru known as Seven Colours

Bharat Bhushan was a key member of the Seven Colours, a tight-knit circle of friends who maintained a strong bond despite being spread across the globe.

The vibrant bond among a group of seven friends known as the ‘Seven Colours’ dimmed tragically on April 22, following a brutal terror attack in Pahalgam in Kashmir. Bharath Bhushan (41) lost his life when terrorists unleashed a hail of bullets on unsuspecting tourists. The attack has left his friends, family, and community in utter shock and grief.

Bhushan was a key member of the Seven Colours, a tight-knit circle of friends who maintained a strong bond despite being spread across the globe. Four of the members, including Bhushan, are based in Bengaluru, while the other three live abroad. WhatsApp is their primary mode of communication to plan meet-ups, share memories, and support each other through life’s many twists and turns.

Srujan, a founding member of the group, told The Hindu, “Bharath was the heart of the group — charming, lively, and among the brightest of us.” The bond between them was forged over 15 years ago during their early professional days at the Infosys campus. Though life had taken them to different cities and countries in search of better opportunities, the camaraderie remained unbroken. Just 10 days ago, on April 14, Bhushan celebrated his birthday — never imagining that it would be the final memory for the family.

Srujan recalled that Bhushan was in a transitional phase of his life. While still employed in the private sector, he had been preparing to take a leap into entrepreneurship alongside his wife, Sujatha Bhushan, a medical practitioner. Sujatha had recently opened a polyclinic, and Bhushan was planning to support and expand their joint venture. He had always embraced challenges with determination and optimism.

A few years into Infosys, Bhushan had taken a break from his corporate career to pursue an MBA in Mysuru. Passionate about social equity, in 2014 he launched a start-up modelled on the lines of online job portals, focusing on job placements for blue-collar workers. His initiative, driven by concern for the underprivileged, garnered attention and even attracted funding.

Umesh, another member of Seven Colours, shared fond memories of Bhushan’s adventurous spirit. “He was an excellent swimmer and had personally taught many of us, including Srujan. He lived life fully and gave generously,” he said. Just a year ago, Bhushan had joyfully celebrated his son’s second birthday — a moment etched in the hearts of his loved ones.

His friends and family are struggling to come to terms with the loss of a man who brought colour and joy into their lives.