My Grandmothers

I am very fortunate to have my grandmothers. My paternal and maternal grandmothers have influenced me in more ways than one. I lost my paternal grandmother more than a decade ago…and almost lost my maternal grandmother recently...almost. As she lies recovering very slowly in hospital, I once again realize their impact on me.

Growing up, I was physically and emotionally closer to my ‘nannamma’ (paternal grandmother in Telugu -my mother tongue). My ‘ammamma’ (maternal grandmother) was more my holiday grandparent because as children we spent quite a few summer vacations with her and a bunch of cousins.

My grandmoms have quite a few similarities. Strong Leo women with a mind very much of their own, they thought way ahead of their time, despite restricted education and exposure to life. Generous to a fault… both continue to enjoy tremendous goodwill in their respective circle of family and friends. They had great regard for each other and were very warm and friendly when they met.

Similarities notwithstanding, they were poles apart as persons. Nannamma was dominating and authoritative by nature. It was hard to miss her presence. In contrast, ammamma is sober and silent…we had to remind ourselves that she was around! If one wanted everything to be done to her specification, the other hardly wanted anything specific for her. Nannamma was more the socialite while ammamma, more homebound.

I was the apple of my nannamma’s eyes. My parents could not even look hard in my direction when she was around me. To her, I was the (goddess)??!! “Lakshmi” of the house and so could never tolerate me crying or upset. My ammamma (maternal grandmother) would instantly light up whenever she saw us ‘display’ our talent. Even a sloppy dance, skit or song as part of summer vacation entertainment by us cousins would make her proud and beaming. She would immediately take us to a corner of the house and take salt drishti / nazar to ward off evil! Such were the moments of fun with my grandmothers – pure and unadulterated.

I was shattered losing my nannamma. I saw her die very slowly and painfully. Strangely after she passed on …I kinda got even closer to my ammamma. We may not have hung out together as much as I did with my nannamma, but, ammamma became a buddy I could share things with. We used to…..and still chat up as often as we can. Ammamma is a great entertainer – loads of her childhood anecdotes, straight faced one liners and gossip really rejuvenate (d) me. She is one exceptional octogenarian who practices the ‘live and let live’ policy. Very rare for a person of that generation.

I was extremely thrilled that my son was born in the same age and time as that of my remaining grandparents coz I believe it is a rarity.

My grandmothers continue to inspire and influence me. Besides, I am grateful to both of them for having given me my dad and mom. Love you ammamma and (late) nannamma.