papa 70th birthday issue

PAPA BIRTHDAY ISSUE Issue 70

PAPA BIRTHDAY ISSUE | Issue 70 2

Papa Birthday

Issue

22 May, 2012

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITORS IN THIS ISSUE

Dear papa,

This is a very special issue on a very special day. It is a benchmark because it marks all the wonderful things you have done, all the love you have shared, and all the wisdom you have imparted. From the bottom of our hearts, we are thankful. We could not have asked for a better father, husband, mentor, friend. This is

just a small gesture to show you how much you mean to us and how much we love you.

The Great Things Love can do

Editorial by Mummy, Mutu, Rahul, Nidhi, Bipin, Prabhu and the family


ADVENTURES WITH MUMMY

Love is laughing at his jokes…

Love is that adoring gaze.

See how cute she is J

FAST FACTS

68% Readers who think Mummy is more adventurous than Papa

42% Readers ate Mummy’s kokis before voting J

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Prabhu’s Mummy Propaganda Enterprises

KOWLOON BAY Hong Kong

See (un)biased poll to the left


FROM MUKU

Dear papa,

There have been multiple moments in my life when I have realized how lucky I am to have you as a father. One was when, as a child, you helped me read the library books I brought home every day, instilling a love of reading in me without which I would not be who I am today.

Another of those memories is when I didn’t get into Oxford and you reassured me through my tears that there were other ways of fulfilling my ambitions, and that I still would. Then there was the time you enrolled me into a creative writing correspondence course – just one of the instances when you picked up on my passions and helped me realize and develop them. ‘

There were also the evenings you enthusiastically read my Theory of Knowledge essays, discussing and developing the philosophical ideas in them. And it was you who painstakingly read over my prose and taught me how to write succinctly – ‘Words are precious,’ you said. ‘Don’t throw them around for no reason. Don’t waste them.’ And then there were the multiple occasions you proudly sent me off to Speech and

Debate and MUN tournaments all over Europe.

I value the fact that you have always put us and out needs first, even when it has been immensely difficult for you to do so. The incident I remember as if it was yesterday was my first day of university. You drove me all the way to York and when we got there, you helped move all my things into the dorm room, walked me around campus, checked out the cafeteria with me, and then, unable to avoid the moment any longer, said you should probably be leaving. I remember your voice breaking slightly and the tears in your eyes as you said ‘this is not how it’s meant to be. It’s not natural’ before turning around and walking out of the lobby doors. I went straight to my dorm room and cried – home sick already. And yet, that is how it was meant to be – great fathers give their children the space to grow and learn, even when it means being parted from them. And I owe all my growth since then to your foresight and strength to let me go while, at the same time, letting me know that we were never really parted. The lack of your physical presence has never meant you have not been there for anything and everything I have needed – for all the important moments in my life. You have been there on every birthday, if not in person, then on skype – buying a cake and cutting it with me over webcam. You were there for my Cambridge graduation. You were there with a surprise cake to celebrate my York first class degree. You were there reading up medical research papers and coming up with questions to ask doctors when Rahul had bell’s palsy – so that it was YOU and not the doctors who eventually came up with the correct diagnosis. And, most recently, it was you who sang along with the bhajans over webcam at our griha pravesh.

I love you and could not have asked for a better father, mentor, and friend. Thank you for all that you have been,

and for all that you are.

Love always,

Muku


To my dearest papa, I want to thank you for all your love, guidance and support. I know I would not be where I am now if it weren’t for you.

Thank you for giving me the best childhood anyone could ask for. Not many people can say they’ve been to over 20 countries in their lifetime. I am so proud to call you my papa and of everything you stand for. When anyone here finds out my background, they can’t believe how down to earth our family is and that is purely down to the values you and mummy instilled in us. You made me appreciate how much more valuable the Nissan was than a brand new Mercedes. You taught me the significance of pursuing knowledge, to do what you’re passionate about, to not be materialistic and to shed your prejudices.

Thank you for inspiring me, encouraging me to have dreams and goals. If it wasn’t for that seed you planted in my head to pursue medicine, I know I wouldn’t be a doctor today. You believed in me even when I didn’t. I still remember the long nights we’d spend on the dining table preparing for the interviews. No other parent I know would ever do that. You always were and are fully active in every aspect of my life.

For every big milestone in my life you have been right there beside me, supporting me, from teaching me how to walk, giving me my first sip of coke to taste, teaching me to ride a bicycle, then teaching me to drive, driving me to university, watching me graduate and say my Hippocratic oath, and now very soon getting me married. It has been one amazing journey and while I’m sure there were times where you lost your patience, you never gave up.

I’m about to embark on a huge step in my life, getting married. And while I’m apprehensive, I’m also reassured because I’ve had a stellar example of a great marriage in front of me; yours and mummy’s. I know Mutu, Prabhu and I live our lives in such a way that you would also be proud of us at all times.

For all of these reasons and many more I love you so much. You’ve been the best father anyone can ask for. Happy happy 70th birthday papa!

Love, Nidhi


Papa, Happy 70th Birthday! You have given me the most wholesome, rich, and comfortable childhood any son could have asked for. You have given me the best education, the best food, the best toys, the best books, the best house, and so many travelling experiences and opportunities for personal growth. I have so many fond memories to look back on - how we used to work together on making furniture and how you taught me how to use the tools, how we used to set up the home entertainment and audio systems, how we used to explore the latest tech and gadgets, how you taught me how to drive, how to maintain cars, how we used to go to Saturday market and Rommel market. Even though at the time I’m sometimes dismissive, I love all your quirks; Your silly humour which always results in you laughing hysterically while the rest of us exchange funny looks (Nidhi and Mukti know what I mean), your crazy food combinations and recipes, how you repeat every story every day

because you forget you’ve already told me, your funny taste in clothes and how you wear your pants so high, your countless out-of-this-world business ideas, and so many more! I look forward to the time I develop such rich quirks myself! You have always set me on the right path, providing guidance and wisdom on the way to live ones life for self-growth, but also with constant regard for others. You have instilled within me a code of ethics, intellectual curiosity, and drive towards a more fulfilling life. Your own conduct has taught me the importance of maintaining a down-to-earth demeanor of simplicity and modesty. For all of this I am eternally grateful. We are now embarking on a new journey together and I cant wait. Lots of love, Prabhu

PRABHU AROUND TOWN

From the desk of Prabhu…


Dearest M Uncle,

On this momentous milestone event in your life, I am very lucky (Lakhi) and blessed to have had the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time with you.

My earliest memories of you are at your wedding, with the floral swan backdrop, Rachna aunty glowing in her finery, and me prancing around in a frilly frock as a little toddler. Numerous summers spent in Belgium were spent goofing around, jumping on beds, breaking furniture, being rightfully scolded by you and yummy food by aunty. You have been extremely tolerant, generous, and patient with all of us.

You have been my mode of exploring the world as a young girl during our trips to Turkey, Egypt, Dominican Republic and most recently Norway. Each one has been more memorable than the other and I would love to travel with you more. I promise I'll drive safely. =)

We've grown up being fearful (out of respect) of you. My first taste of alcohol was right under your nose in Cappadocia, Turkey. You were telling us kids that we shouldn't be wasting drinks that we’d paid for whether it was water or coke. I'd ordered a mocktail piña-colada which ended up being alcoholic and I gulped it down, scared, and giggling throughout knowing that I was doing something wrong.

I have been in awe of your ever-growing book collection, including the library you had in Jaipur, your knowledge, your discipline, the well thought-out design of the Schoten house, the father you are, the first computer I had ever seen and used - your Macintosh, and your first car!

You have been an exemplary stalwart and father figure in my life. I have learned from you to follow my passion, to read, to be silly, to be giving, to be loving, to be happy, to be ambitious, to be dedicated, to be a present-involved parent (in the future), to be aware of reality and life, to be curious, to

read the news, to have good hand-writing, to appreciate Pakistan, to be supportive, to distinguish right from wrong, to ponder, to appreciate, to relish raisin bread, to enjoy bikaneri sev parathas, to eat a bowl of salad every meal, to exercise daily, to enjoy olives and pickles, to relish sambalolek, to educate myself, to be foresighted, to be disciplined, to achieve and be successful, to sing along Mohamed Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar songs, to watch Raj Kapoor, Ashok Kumar, and Disney films, to learn, to strive, to pursue, to laugh, to be ethical, and numerous other things.

Because of your immense support, blessings and guidance, I am married to Amit, and have a string of degrees ranging from gemology, jewelry and most recently a masters in finance. You have sacrificed and delayed your personal goals and stood by me, Chirag, and Daddy all the time whether it was spiritually and physically. I can't thank you enough for all that and more.

I’m selfishly looking forward to spending more time with you, laughing at the jokes you share, exploring new places with you, and being guided by you.

Wish you a memorable 70th birthday! May you be forever young with energy and happiness.

Lots of hugs and love always,

PPrreerrnnaa ((SSuummii))

Sumi says…

Dear Moti Uncle,

Thank you for everything you did to help Prerna & I fulfill our goal of being together. I enjoy our intellectual conversations about economics and world events. You are one of the most learned people I know. Thank you also for being a father figure in Prerna's life, and guiding her through life's challenges. Happy 70th Birthday!

I am looking forward to celebrating with you, both your birthday and Nidhi's wedding, soon.

Amit


Rahul writes… [with comments from Goju & Jobi]

My Dear Papa,

Today you are 35.... with 35 years of experience.

For a person who lives in the moment and lives each moment to the fullest, you have shown us that more important than how long one lives, is how one lives -‐ With zest, with a sparkle in your eye, with a silly joke and a smile, with a taste for adventure, with a delicious Schoenaers' cake :), with a thirst for adventure travel, with reading and reflection, with the meeting of minds and meditation, with family, with exercise, with love and with humility.

I am so fortunate to have you as my father, my friend, my doctor, my role model, my baby's hero and most of all, have you everyday in my life. The most important thing I have learnt from you is that it only takes a very few things to have a rich and happy life. Simple living and high thinking. Many a time when I have been stuck between a difficult choice, I imagine "What would Papa choose?" and it becomes easier to see what is inessential.

Through your everyday actions which I see from Baby Mutu's pictures (all the birthdays, the proud smile you have with her in your godi, the libraries (both yours and hers), the taste of music and childhood memories she has), the sense of family and the place of family at the top, is so clear. A lot of my life priorities have been formed and reinforced by observing your way of being and the principles you have passed on to Mutu, Nidhi and Prabudh. It is the everyday things I cherish -‐ skype calls, chai time, walks along the streets of Antwerpen, conversations in your study, enjoying Tropicos and Rachel's, listening to old hindi hits, driving through the backroads of the Ardennes, hiking the slopes of Switzerland and driving across Norway.

Kamu didi often jokes with me that I have not got a family of in-‐laws but rather "Outlaws". With her, Gul uncle, Prakash uncle and our American Mom -‐ Nirmala aunty, the closeness of family brings about all the masti and mazaa of life. The pyar Mummy and you shower on us makes everyday more beautiful. Once Prabhu is set, I really want you to make our tree-‐house in Philadelphia your permanent home.

Thank you Papa and here's to the next 35 years :)

lots of love,

Rahul (+ goju and jobi)


A letter from little ickoo Dear Bhaisaab,

As I look back at all the fond memories, I remember all you shared and provided us all. I remember all the coca-cola and cartoons in Belgielei, the Lakhi-bus rides in the Nissan, the blank cassette tapes in Schoten, the trips to the Ardennes, and the birthday cakes shared together. But more importantly, I remember all the guidance and inspiration you have provided too. From decisions on studies, to the importance of exercise, you've always steered us right. Wishing you a very, very happy birthday, and all the happiest returns of the day.

Love and regards,

From your little Ickoo

Ickoo!


Neha & Rohan bring in the cheers…

DDeeaarr UUnnccllee,, TThhaannkkss ffoorr bbeeiinngg aann iinnssppiirraattiioonn aanndd ffoorr eelliicciittiinngg iinntteelllleecctt,, rreeaassoonn aanndd ssiimmpplliicciittyy iinn aallll ooff uuss.. HHeerree’’ss wwiisshhiinngg yyoouu aa vveerryy hhaappppyy sseevveennttiieetthh bbiirrtthhddaayy ffrroomm aallll ooff uuss.. LLoovvee,,

NNeehhaa aanndd RRoohhaann

Moti bhaisaab to me is well - Moti bhaisaab! Nothing like him. Simplicity personified, yet exuding confidence in its most simplistic sincere way. He shows us what it means to be strong and sure from within.

Anuj

Dear uncle, respect and admiration is what we have for you. Happy birthday to you.

We all love you. Manish, Ritesh ,Namrata and Shivali and bacha party.


Dear Uncle,

When I think of you, My brain instantly links it to the wonderful cruise holidays we've been on, the summer holidays spent in your fabulous house, the beautiful sisters you've given us (also Prabhu), the inspiration to read, to be good listeners, the inspirational determination to be fighting fit and many more things!!! (I could just go on and on).

Lots if love to big Nanu from naman and Nanndika

Śuraj and Abhi

Respected Bhaisaab,

Here’s wishing you many more tens of happy and cheerful birthdays.

From all Lakhis around the world.

Your health regime (diet & gym) inspire us,

To be ship shape, Fighting fit, At 70 & onwards.

Deepak, Vinita, Subo, Rahul & Mohit from Dubai


In the oceans of life,

It is easy to get lost

Not finding our way,

Or in the big haze of

What is called life

When we are caught up

In the middle of strife

Or when a thing is lost

And we are searching

Looking here and there

Not knowing what to do

Knowing not where to go

Searching in vast piles of hay

We are looking for someone

To guide us here and there

We look up to you

To dive in deep waters

And come up with

A pearl of wisdom

and put the problem to rest

You are a Moti yourself

Thus living so true to your name

Prakash Lakhi

From Prakash uncle’s pen…


FFrroomm aa 77 yyeeaarr oolldd,, 2277 yyeeaarr oolldd VViippuull bbaabbaa:: Happy Birthday Bhaisabh! I remember when we were in Belgium. Prabhu and I had a dagger RC car and loved driving it around everywhere. Just coz you have an extra 0 in your age than how old we were then, doesnt mean you cant do the same! Except instead of driving an RC car, maybe you can get a super duper sports car instead! I can help you pick one out if you want :) -Vipul

Thoughts from Gul uncle and Kamu didi:

Dear bhaisabh, We wish you a great memorable 70th birthday from all of us. We have lots of fond memories of trips to Paris and Brugge. We wish you a very healthy future for the coming years. - Gul Dear bhaisabh, I remember all your books at home in Jaipur, a collection which brought a whole new meaning to the love of books. You opened up a whole new world to us full of the classic stories of authors like Premchand and Rabindranath Tagore. Oh and not to forget the fabulous memories of watching movies like Casablanca and Gregory Peck's 'Bird Man of Alcatraz.' Thanks for exposing us to all that. Wishing you a very happy birthday and many fruitful years ahead.

Lots of love, Kamlesh

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