To dear nana ajoba

In loving memory of my dear Nana, who peacefully departed from us this morning. Although circumstances prevent me from being there in person for his final moments, I find solace in expressing my feelings and paying tribute to him through these words.

In the last few years, as Nana lost his hearing, our direct communication dwindled. Regrettably, I had contemplated writing to him earlier, but life's demands always seemed to take precedence. Today, in the midst of my solitude, I wish to overcome the grief by immortalizing the impact he had on my life.

Nana held a profound influence in the initial 18 years of my life. In my early childhood, his home served as a haven—a place where uninterrupted play, affection from maternal aunts, experiencing the joy of small things and relief from the everyday grind coalesced. It became more than a physical space; it evolved into a sanctuary where I felt both loved, secure and free. 

As I grew older, Nana transformed into my teacher. From guiding me through social sciences to English, his old-school teaching methods, though focused on rote learning, significantly shaped my academic focus. His support during my 10th-grade board exams, where he played the role of teacher and moderator, contributed significantly to my success and earning the 15th rank on the merit list.

Nana wasn't just an academic mentor; he accompanied me to art classes, supported me during late-night dance practices, stood by me during competitive exams, and served as a movie-watching partner throughout my teenage years. His faith in God took us on journeys across India, fulfilling wishes he made for our academic and career success.

Our relocation to a distant new house became a subtle factor in altering our relationship dynamics. Eventually, I ventured out of Pune for my education and career, establishing a new life in Bangalore. As I delved into the exploration of the world, carving out my own path and expanding my family, the time spent with Nana gradually diminished. Subsequently, the direct interactions dwindled further due to the decline in his hearing.

Beyond his positive attributes, Nana, like any person, had his flaws. He could be a bit lazy and slightly clumsy, traits that sometimes irked those around him. However, for me, these imperfections were overshadowed by the overwhelming love he bestowed upon me throughout my childhood.

As I pen down these words, I feel a sense of lightness and gratitude for the happy childhood he provided. Nana may have had his complexities, but to me, he was an Ajoba whose contributions echo through the memories that continue to guide me through life's challenges.

In tribute to Nana, a pillar of my past, whose influence has shaped the person I am today.

Mugdha, 22-11-2023