Kushal Aluru, Rutgers student and JPS alumnus, dies at 20

By Alvin Wu
Domestic Affairs
Kushal Aluru, Rutgers student and JPS alumnus, dies at 20

Portrait of Kushal Aluru. ASIAN INDIAN FUNERAL SERVICE/Obituary

EDISON, N.J., July 24 (ZFJ) — Kushal Aluru, 20, a Rutgers student and J.P. Stevens High School alumnus, died on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

Aluru was majoring in cell biology and neuroscience and minoring in chemistry at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. He had a stated interest in neurobiology and glial functions, conducting research in the lab of Professor Peng Jiang since 2023, and intended on pursuing a combined medical and doctorate degree program to become a physician and scientist.

In J.P. Stevens High School, Aluru was known for his immense love of science. He was adept with science questions, even at nationals level academic competitions. He participated in Quiz Bowl, Science Bowl, and Science Olympiad, earning numerous awards.

He also greatly loved classical music and was a talented violinist for the J.P. Stevens orchestra.

Aluru graduated from high school in 2023. He continued playing quiz bowl and the violin in university, joining Rutgers Quiz Bowl and Rutgers Sinfonia. He additionally joined Model United Nations and participated in various conferences.

“To his friends and family, he was a brilliant, ambitious, and kind person,” said Sophia Pan, a high school classmate and fellow club member of Aluru. “His quirks and humor made him a great conversationalist and could make anyone light up and laugh.”

“He had an incredible curiosity for the world and was inspiring to many for his breadth of knowledge in multiple disciplines, including science, history, philosophy, and the fine arts.”

POOJA AND VISITATION - Holy Cross Burial Park & MSLM (Crematory), 840 Cranbury South River Road, Jamesburg, N.J. 08816

  • Friday, July 25, 2025 - 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Update 2025-07-26, 23:25 - Added statements from friends.

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