My granny

When an elderly person passes away – you always think if you want to mourn their death or celebrate their life ….
My nani passed away this week, having led a quiet and fulfilling life. Like most kids my age, I used to spend the occasional summer vacation at my granny’s place. My memories of her of those times were of a soft spoken, bespectacled lady – busy in the mornings in the kitchen dishing out a variety of curries and fried items for the kids and sitting in front of a babble of more kids in the evenings giving them Hindi tuitions.
Hindi teacher – that was how she was know. 20 years ago, when we alighted from our 3 hour bus journey in the small town of Hindupur – all we had to say was ‘Hindi teacher’s house’ and we were taken there. One of the very few ladies of those times who worked for a living. She was a teacher of the Hindi language in the local school till retirement – and she continued to tutor kids of all ages till her eye sight started failing her.
A woman of few words; she lead her life dedicated to kids, especially her own. Ensured a full education for my mother and supported her son in all his ventures emotionally as well as financially. She by no means led an easy life and had her share of ups and downs; but she never let it show in front of us kids.
I saw very little of her in the last 8 years; only speaking to her every time I visited my mother. We would talk for a few minutes and she would always end by a blessing – wishing me and my family the best!
I write this tribute to the woman from whom I probably inherited my patience; a woman of few words; a woman who made a difference to the many that she taught; a woman who was my mother’s confidant; a woman whom I will always remember as my ‘Hindupur aagi’. Today I want to celebrate her life more than mourn her death .. as will many who will pay their respects to their beloved Hindi teacher.