The 36 years that separates the pictures couldn’t have been better for us. Naturally, there has been happiness and sorrow, agony and ecstasy, much failure, and a few specks of success. To begin with the losses, our parents and some wonderful elders are no more, but frankly, what hurts most is death of friends. It began with Siladitya (Sen) a few years ago.
Suhita (Sinha Roy) lost her brave struggle against complex syndromes in 2010. Then, 19 June 2011 was the happiest day, and the saddest. Our second grandson Toto was born that day, and Joe (Joy Joseph Manimury) died in an accident. Suhitadi and Joe didn’t know each other and were very different individuals. The common things about them were their brilliance, sensitivity, and kindness. Rarely do we come across people with such a blend of head and heart.
Arundhati and me were happy then; we are happy now, with much to be happy about. Our children have grown up into – we think – “good” human beings. Moumita has joined us, and Haroun and Toto have arrived.
The first picture was taken by Damu. Damu and Nandini are one of the finest couples we have been blessed to have as friends. In India, we don’t go to a counsellor when we are down, depressed, or suicidal. We turn to friends. I always turn to Damu when I confront something I can’t handle, and he has never failed me. We have also been fortunate to have friends like George-Molly, Rajagopal-Bhawani, Uma Sankar-Indrani, Gautam-Suktara, Soumya-Ruma, Saswati-Ashokda, Shyama and Santanuda, to name just a few.
In the 36 years that separates the photos, the earth has become warmer, and we, greedier. The earth has also become smaller, but our neighbours have become distant. We no longer visit friends without appointment. New phrases like the Internet, global warming, mobile phones, living together, etc. have come into our language and lives. What will we be after 36 years? And I?
Que sera, sera. What will be, will be. But in 2048, I’ll post another picture of us on my blog. Watch this space, Buddies!
Santanu, reference to me is embarassingly complimentary - Thanks nevertheless. At the cost of being charged with "mutual back-scratching", let me admit that I (and am sure all your friends) would have rarely known a couple who is as content and happy with the world around them, as you and Arundhati. On the Global Gross Happiness Index, I am told, Bhutan is rated the highest. I am certain you two will be a close second, if not ahead. May you both and the children stay that way for ever. Am looking forward to clicking the two of you on the same bench in Trivandrum Museum in 2048 (picture may be a bit shaky, though !). Warm Regards.
ReplyDeleteA brief yet fine piece.I could not but help remembering 'Balika Bodhu' when I saw the picture taken in TVM Museum grounds. The benches are still there...so we can look fwd to the same photographer click once again in 2048.
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It is great to find Syama and me on your "hit list " .Your company meant forgetting that I did not get the promotion due or did not shout back at the man on the street who wrongly hit my rear bumper. You always made it look like it is the other man's problem and in your company we believed it too. A true counsellor you are !
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It is great to find Syama and me on your "hit list " .Your company meant forgetting that I did not get the promotion due or did not shout back at the man on the street who wrongly hit my rear bumper. You always made it look like it is the other man's problem and in your company we believed it too. A true counsellor you are !
ReplyDeleteSantanu da
Santanu da, just to say I love you very dearly ! I'm so happy to get you as my friend, my dada, whom I can, maybe, ignore and take for granted when I'm self-wrapped and can always turn to when I'm in trouble and in need of selfish help !
ReplyDeleteThat walk through the memory lane was precious. Even though i only know you through these digitized words, it was an interesting read. I should go back save those pictures, so i can do a similar post 36 years later (when i am about your age) :)
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