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.

Nana had a big impact on the early years of my life. As a child, I felt his love, and as a student, I received his support and guidance in my education. He was always there, sharing in the simple joys of life, like watching movies and having treats together. 

In my early childhood, Nana's home was a safe and happy place. It was where I could play without interruptions, feel the love from my aunts, enjoy the little things, and take a break from the daily routine. This house was more than just a place; it was a safe, loving space where I felt secure and free.

As I grew older, Nana became more than just a loving grandfather—he became my teacher. In my early academic years, from social sciences to math to English, his old-school methods, though focused on rote learning, had a lasting impact on my education. He would accompany me to exams and competitions, always offering his support. During my 10th-grade board exams, he took on the roles of both teacher and moderator, and his guidance was crucial to my success, both then and in the years that followed.

Nana wasn’t just an academic mentor; he was there for me in every part of my life. He accompanied me to art classes, exams, and competitions, supported me during late-night drama practices in college, and stood by me through competitive exams. He was also my movie-watching partner and companion for sweet indulgences throughout my teenage years. His strong faith in God led us on journeys across India, fulfilling the wishes he had for our academic and career success.

Years passed, and I grew into a college-going young girl. My world became more centered around my friends than my family. We moved to a new house further away, and these changes subtly shifted our relationship dynamics. Eventually, I left Pune to pursue my education and career, starting a new life in Bangalore. As I ventured out into the world, carving my own path and expanding my family, the time I spent with Nana gradually lessened. Over time, our interactions became even more limited due to his declining hearing.

I must admit that part of me deeply wanted to talk to Nana more, to share in his moments of loneliness caused by his hearing loss and bring him some joy when I was in Pune. However, exhausted from my work and household duties in Bangalore, I often felt too tired and reluctant to reach out. This selfish side of my younger self prevented me from giving back even a fraction of what he had done for me.I hope that, if such situations arise again, God forbid, I will be able to be less selfish and more sensitive.

Nana, like anyone, had his flaws. He could be a bit lazy and slightly clumsy, traits that sometimes annoyed those around him. However, for me, these imperfections were overshadowed by the immense love he gave me throughout my childhood. And of course, as a child, I didn’t have to worry about compensating for these flaws, so it's easy to see things that way.

As I write these words, I feel a sense of lightness and gratitude for the happy childhood he gave me. Nana may have had his complexities with others, but to me, he was an Ajoba whose love and influence continue to resonate through the memories that guide me through life's challenges.

In tribute to Nana, a pillar of my past, whose profound influence has shaped my life.

Mugdha, 22-11-2023