I know we’re what the world calls the light of her eyes.
Every child is — especially to their mother.
But honestly, in our case, it was her light that did most of the heavy lifting…
and sometimes the light came with power cuts, cold mornings, and perfectly timed life lessons.

Her guidance often arrived in very… creative forms.

Like switching off the fan on sweltering summer mornings —
not because electricity was expensive, but because “ab uthna chahiye.”
Or pulling away our beloved rajais on freezing winter mornings and hiding them deep inside the cupboard,
so that waking up to study or get ready for school became less of a choice and more of a survival instinct.

Her light also hovered loyally over swimming pools.
Three long hours at the Binnaguri Cantt pool, watching us “learn swimming.”
She only left once she was convinced we had turned into mermaids —
her definition being frantic arm flapping, dramatic splashing,
and approximately 80% of the water ending up outside the pool 😆

Dance lessons were non-negotiable.
Kathak. Bharatanatyam.
Whichever guru existed in whichever cantonment — we were enrolled.
Talent optional. Discipline compulsory.

Somehow, through fans being switched off, rajais being confiscated,
and dance steps being perfected,
you made us who we are.

And even now, your guidance hasn’t changed — only evolved into an art form.

“Waise Suvi yaar… kal Ekadashi hai. Bahut badi waali. Very auspicious for fasting.”

That’s it.
No instruction. No follow-up.
Just that tone.
And I’m already mentally planning my fast.

These days, your light shines brightest on your grandchildren.
Same tone. Same expression. Same authority.
The only noticeable difference is —
far less chappal usage 😆😆
(Progress, clearly.)

Happy Birthday, Maa 🤍
We are who we are because you are the lighthouse of our family —
steady, guiding, impossible to ignore…

…and occasionally throwing in fireworks, just to keep life interesting. ✨🧨

Suvi’s Scribbles