My Grandmothers: Heroes in My Heart

Introduction

Generations of stories and traditions are like chain letters, passed down through families, enriching our lives and adding depth to our identities. Two grandmothers have left indelible marks in my heart—my paternal and maternal grandmothers. Each one of them, in their unique ways, has taught me valuable lessons and instilled in me the importance of resilience and optimism in life.

Daring and Optimism on the Eve of Partition

On the eve of Partition in 1947, my grandmother on my father’s side showcased a dare-devil attitude that I deeply admire. The partition of India and Pakistan was a tumultuous time, with rumors of division rampant but hope still lingering. Despite the uncertainty and fear, my grandmother insisted on not leaving her 5 kilograms of gold behind, even though she was only moderately pregnant. She skillfully stashed the gold in a homemade bra with pockets sewn into it, demonstrating not only her practical wisdom but also her unwavering faith in the integrity and safety of her family.

The journey that followed was arduous, fraught with danger and uncertainty. Traveling through unfamiliar and sometimes hostile territory, my grandmother and grandfather endured for months, dependent on bullock carts and horse-tongas. When they reached Fazilka near the Indian border, they experienced a moment of horror. The house they considered settling in was drenched in blood and had walls stained with red, making my grandmother physically and emotionally ill. She refused to stay, and so began the search for a new home.

Optimism and Resilience

My paternal grandmother embodied an unwavering optimism. She believed that necessity was the mother of invention and viewed challenges as opportunities. For example, whenever it rained, she would jokingly remark, “The farmers must need it,” thus finding a bright side in every situation. She was a person of great joy and positivity, a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.

Resilience and Toughness of My Maternal Grandmother

My maternal grandmother, Nani, remains one of the most inspiring figures in my life. Despite limited formal education, she possesses a profound depth of knowledge and a rich inner life indicative of a learned individual. Reading books is a daily ritual for her, and her voracious appetite for learning endures even to this day. She demonstrates an unparalleled toughness, handling all tasks with grace—whether in the house, tending to the garden, or engaging in community work.

Devotion to her faith and unwavering belief in gender equality and other traditional values distinguish Nani. She is the epitome of a good human being, her selfless care for others resonating deeply within me. Her integrity and dedication are a source of inspiration, and her stories of survival and endurance have instilled in me a deep sense of respect and admiration.

A Winter of Childhood Curiosity

A winter day in my childhood stands out as a poignant memory. My grandmother and I were watching the snow through our front window. Inquisitive as a child, I asked, “Grandma, what makes it snow?” she simply replied, “God makes it snow, honey.” When I naively inquired, “Is God going to clear the driveway?” she smiled and said, “Not in this raw form, little one, but you can always ask Him to bring sunshine instead.”

Conclusion

My grandmothers taught me invaluable lessons, instilling in me a sense of courage, optimism, and resilience. Their stories are not just fleeting memories but deep, rooted examples of the values that we should cherish and uphold. As we navigate through life, their enduring legacies continue to guide and inspire us, reminding us of the strength within us to face any challenge with grace and positivity.