There were few close friends of his, who tried tirelessly to reverse his decision. Just like us, they could not think of the prospect of him leaving them for good. They argued from every angle and offered him everything that they could, in offer for a compromise and return to fold.
One of them had a slight spiritual connection and he was one capable of taking the subject of spirituality for an argument. I was not present during most of their sessions but I believe they used all that was left in their arsenal to make him think otherwise.
They met him at our home and outside. They came often and sat for long hours. In fact ever since I got back home from the hospital, my brother did have little rest from our relentless persuasion asking him to not leave us.
I remember one of his journalist friend telling me that he is unable to come to the railway station on the day my brother left. He expressed the inability to stand and wave him good bye fearing a complete breakdown.
Many people had opined that if he chose spirituality over any spat at home, job, or any such temporary aversion common in material life, he would definitely come back once he calms down and think. Unfortunately we are aware of no incident or dislike that would have prompted his decision. It looks, he left due to a great adoration for spirituality rather than any momentous issues in material life. That makes the question of a return even more remote to those of us who wish such a miracle.
His friends have often remarked to me that he would make a come back. I have no idea, but just the hope that their dreams come true.