It seems an Era is over. Dr Aryabala Prasad was the last living sibling of my mother's generation. I share the same birthdate (Nov 30th) with her. Probably that is why I was so dear to her. My memories of her since my early childhood has been one of almost maternal affection. I never missed a chance to visit her in Michigan while I was doing my PhD in Stony Brook, New York half a century ago. Those were the days when there were no cellphones. Nevertheless, I called her often from Stony Brook. It is quite impossible to describe the happiness I experienced when I flew from New York to Detroit. She was always there at the airport to receive me. Every visit entailed animated discussions on many topics from family matters to high politics. I had the good fortune of visiting her several times in the past few years. She was always very caring. Even till date, she would worry about my well-being, she would call to check on me. I was planning to visit her last week. She very lovingly checked my choice of food and made arrangements. Unfortunately, I missed the last chance to see her. I will miss her very much!
Memories
Arya Mausi(Auntie) as I fondly address her, was a very affectionate person.
My association with her began in January 2005, when I landed in Detroit for my first overseas assignment. She welcomed me with open arms. She showered me with so much love and care, it did not feel like I was meeting her for the very first time. For the first few days I did not have a cellphone. One weekend there was a forecast of a snowstorm. She drove up to my apartment that Saturday morning and took me home, declaring "I could not leave you alone during a snowstorm". We barely made it home on time before the snow showers began. She risked driving in the snow to ensure that I am with her over the weekend. She was 77. She would invite me home every weekend. She would say "I know you must be homesick. I don't want you to be alone over the weekend". She would cook exotic dishes for me and make sure I am well fed before I go back to my apartment.
Good things seldom last long. In a few months, my job took me away from Detroit. But we were bonded for Life. She always found time to call and check on me. She would never miss calling on my birthday and each of my kids' birthdays. We talked quite often. We had long talks about kids, profession, recipes, and Life. I have learnt a lot from her. I will always miss her. I will miss her voice calling me "Gargi". I will miss our long afternoon calls filled with narratives from her childhood and younger days. I will miss sending her flowers or treats and her gleeful voice on the other end of the phone, having discovered the surprise. I will miss her a lot.
I have never come across anyone as affectionate and selfless as her. Heaven is richer and Earth is poorer today!
Nana was an absolute powerhouse, a matriarch whose legacy will live on in her family and those of her many patients. Even though I only spent time with her a few times in person, it was clear that she was an incredibly smart, strong, loving, and kind woman. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to know her and become part of the family.
I miss my Nana. I will forever cherish our time playing Scrabble and card games, drinking tea, and cooking with her. She was one of the strongest and smartest women I knew. There was no doubt of the love she had for her family. She was the best Nana I could have asked for. I love you and miss you.
I wish we would have had more time together but I feel blessed for the time we had. You treated me like your own grandson. I will miss talking to you about food, speaking Bangla together, listening to your stories, and losing to you in Scrabble. You were such a strong, educated, sharp, and kind person. I really miss you Nana and hope you are spending quality time with Papa.
Dr. Prasad was a quiet dignified presence in church for many years. She exuded calmness and faith. I am so much better for having known her.
Dr. Prasad delivered my daughters, Rachel and Sarah (1988, 1990). She was a wonderful doctor. A strong woman who shared that with her patients. Peace to your family.