Bauji : Making peace with the ultimate reality


Bauji, who was nearly 70 years old, had to be administered insulin injections daily. Sushil purchased a new house in Roop Nagar and Babu ji and Chai ji shifted to his house. For the next ten years, Bauji spent a sedentary life and attained his divine serenity, not being upset with any living soul. I visited him daily to seek his blessings.

One morning, shortly after I had met with him, I received a call that Bauji had collapsed and was unconscious. Chai ji was taking him to the bathroom, and he had collapsed in her arms a few steps before reaching it. I rushed to Sushil's house, where Dr. Shrivastava, who had already been called, declared our father dead. I was stunned and called Dr. Gupta, our neighbor, who confirmed the sad news. I called a third doctor, Dr. Manohar, who convinced me to accept the death. It was a difficult moment for me as I had not been able to say my final goodbye.

We performed his last rites, and Chai ji tried to guide me towards spirituality. As part of social customs, I had to take Chai ji to Jaipur to meet her brothers, although it was the duty of Bhai Ajit ji. being the eldest son. Chai ji wanted to go with me instead. For once, the strong woman sought comfort for herself, and I complied.

To this day, I seek blessings from both Chai ji and Bauji daily, in the morning and evening. In my wishful fantasy, I believe they are now avatars of Devtas in heaven and bless our family. Their blessings serve as a high-potency dose of strength for me to get back up after life's setbacks. My beliefs may seem fanciful to some, but they bring me comfort and solace. This is my truth, and it suffices. 

I am very proud of Sushil, For last ten years of Bauji's life, Sushil devoted his energy, time and money to give maximum comfort to Bau ji. Sushil would come home from factory after a long day, and spend an hour every day massaging the chronic pain out of Bauji's legs (a condition called Taange Khusna in Punjabi). No one on this 3-loks could take care of my parents the way Shashi and Sushil did. I salute them. God bless both of them.

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