I have always understood Valentines Day as a day for lovers of the younger generation. And I am not from the Kuch Kuch Hota hai period! Nevertheless, on my daughter’s urging, here
is my story.
Ours was a very traditional marriage. Jaya’s parents invited us to their residence. The year was 1961. Jaya still makes fun of me saying that during that first meeting, I did not look at her directly, but only kept stealing glances, while she was looking at me straight in the eye!
But only I know that it was love at first sight for me, when she sang “e mere janam maran ke sathi”- a beautiful bhajan in her mellifluous voice.
There was a gap of few months between that first meeting and our wedding day. Jaya knitted a woolen sweater and sent it by post. I was overjoyed to receive it, but was too shy to acknowledge my gratitude! Even today Jaya makes fun of me for this!
Was it a bed of roses all through? Not at all! We have had our share of trials, tribulations, storms and testing times, as in anybody’s life. But we have managed to face it together. This togetherness and commitment to each other, perhaps, is the essence of “valentine’s day”.
In the twilight of our lives, our bond only grows stronger. Our four daughters, grand-daughter and sons-in-law, make our life complete. Nearly 10 years in Palms now, we cherish being part of this lovely and lively community, and count our blessings each day!
by R.S. Vaidyanathan (Flat 801/ Tower 7, Palms)
