Niranjan & Swaroopa.
Ever the optimist, Thatha taught me to "Never say die" and to work the hardest, in everything, and every time, because hard work is necessary and sufficient for success. He never stopped encouraging me, and his pep talks were stern and to the point. Be it during my school days, at University, or in the final challenging months of my PhD, they made a difference. But it was also the little things...
The electric train rides in Mambalam, when he would lift me so I could hold the suspended handles.
The chess games, where he would let my Queen "jump over" pieces like the Knights.
The walks in the hot Kodambakkam sun, where we would walk slower in the shade of trees, and faster where there was no shade.
That smiling cringe when my violin would make a false note, which would egg me to play better.
The satisfaction he would get when his plans of secretly celebrating a birthday or an anniversary were a success.
The nicknames and abbreviations he used for people, along with their hilarious etymologies.
His penchant for good sambar and filter coffee, and yet, a matching enthusiasm for croissants and soups.
These memories and more, are priceless, and I will cherish them forever!
I love you Thatha, and will miss you. With Love, Niranjan & Swaroopa.