Tuesday, October 24, 2006

Aaji



There are no memories but sunlit photos remind me of a time when I was 5 months old, stretched naked across my Grandmother's outstretched legs, squeeling (in the high ranges I'm told) as she lovingly massaged oil into my body. All those feelings from all those summer vacations spent around her came flooding back as she massaged oil into my skin once more. Y'all better be glad I was dressed this time. ;)



My dad's mom and my only surviving grandparent is touching 90 and still refuses to be a burden, pottering around the familiar confines of her Mahim home in Mumbai. She can still cook up a storm, she can still shoot out a sharp retort and she can still lead her own life with dignity and joy. The obvious frailty of her body is lost on her iron will. I love you Aaji. I'm really glad we got to share this Diwali together. It might have been special for you but it was immeasurable for me.

3 comments:

Sine Qua Non said...

missed my grandparents so much this diwali:(

Hari Adivarekar said...

Yeah there's a certain comfort in being around Grandparents. It's like you're protected. I'm sure they're still watching over you, sending all their love in a manner fathomless by us mortals.

Sylvan Goddess said...

missed everyone this diwali...:( your aaji is too cute, har. look at the two of you! so sweet!