It’s been one full year since you left us, Tatha. It doesn’t feel at all like you are no more. I still feel like you are at your home in Hyderabad, probably doing your favourite hobby, gardening. It always feels like you are still around us, laughing and smiling all the time, making everyone’s day. You were the one who truly cared for people from the heart.
One of the best memories of my childhood would definitely be coming to Hyderabad during the summer holidays, playing chess with you, and going to the park and community hall together. I still remember how you used to fill the whole table with our favourite snacks. You were always positive about everything. You had the unique quality of always praising people for their good qualities. No one could ever replace the way you motivated us and kept us positive about things, and somehow I feel that no one ever can.
Amma has missed you boundlessly all these days. All she says is that she lost both her father and her best friend that day.
Whenever Nanna achieves anything, like an award or a new job, he always says that the happiness doesn’t feel the same anymore because he cannot share it with you.
Bhaiya was like your shadow throughout his childhood. I don’t think he has words to express how badly he misses you.
Whenever I think of you, all I feel is that I should have spent more time with you. You were the best Tatha. No one can ever replace the love you gave us. There is an empty feeling in the heart, as if something is missing.
At times, it feels like a betrayal that you left all of us so suddenly, without any prior notice. Everything happened so suddenly that all of us have been in shock since that day. But I am also happy that you did not have to suffer for years before you left us, Tatha. I am happy that you did not have to go through months of pain in a hospital.
I will always keep your photo in my wallet forever, Tatha. I was lucky to find this passport size photo of yours last year while cleaning your cupboard.
Now I just wish that wherever you are, you are happy and healthy.
I want you to be my grandfather in the next life too.
Your presence will always be missed, Tatha.
I love you, Tatha.
Leave a Reply