Umesh Shah
My Grandfather: The Heart and Soul of Our Family
### Dadu – A Life Full of Lessons, Laughter, and Love
I call my grandfather “Dadu,” though his full name is Umeshbhai Chandrakantbhai Shah. Born in 1952, he is currently 72 years old, yet his spirit remains as youthful and energetic as ever. His journey has been filled with stories of struggle, hard work, and eventual success, making him the incredible person he is today.
#### Early Life and Career
Dadu started his career as a clerk at the Bank of India (BOI), where he worked for over 20 years. His position at the bank came with certain perks, which he enjoyed thoroughly. One unique advantage was that even if he didn’t show up to work for six months, all he had to do was respond to a letter from the bank asking him to return. This kind of flexibility gave him the opportunity to focus on family and other pursuits, yet he always took pride in his work.
In his early years, Dadu had to face many financial challenges. He wasn’t born into wealth and had to work his way up. In fact, he used to sell blankets just to make ends meet. It’s hard to believe that the same man who once struggled so much is now the successful, respected individual we see today. But those struggles shaped him into a person who values hard work, humility, and perseverance.
#### A Life of Travel and Memories
Dadu’s career at BOI also gave him many opportunities to travel. He has explored numerous places <Places Name>some of which we still talk about at family gatherings. Wherever he went, he carried a small diary with him, jotting down his experiences and thoughts. Over the years, he has filled more than 20 diaries with his travel stories, personal reflections, and even meaningful poetry called tripadis—three-line verses that capture deep thoughts in just a few words. Dadu’s ability to express himself in both Gujarati and English is truly admirable, and his command of the English language often impresses everyone around him.
He is also a man of many friendships. Some of his closest friends include Mr. B.M. Shah and Pradip Uncle. His friends have always been an important part of his life, and their shared experiences add to the rich tapestry of his past.
#### The Present Day: Simplicity and Joy
Now, in his 70s, Dadu is as enthusiastic about life as ever. One of the most fascinating things about him is how he lives so simply, despite his success. He fits for the Quote, “જુવાર બાજરો ખાવો,” which means to live like a poor person, no matter how much wealth you have. True to his words, he often eats just one simple dish, even when there’s an entire feast on the table. He prefers wearing old clothes, especially those given to him by my grandmother, or “baa” as he lovingly calls her.
Their relationship is a charming one. Dadu loves teasing her, and their playful banter always keeps the atmosphere light. While Dadi has a strong, authoritative presence, Dadu takes it in stride, often following her lead with a humorous touch. Despite her strict ways, he knows how to navigate through her commands with a mix of affection and wit.
#### Exploring and Bonding
One of the things I cherish most is the time I spend with Dadu. Together, we’ve explored many places that I would never have gone to on my own—Kankariya and Science City are just a few of our favorite spots. He also loves spending on me, treating me to new experiences and adventures.
Our shared love for books is another bond that brings us closer. Dadu holds a perpetual membership at the “Maneklal Jethabhai Pustakalaya” library, and we often issue books together. He’s a voracious reader and also an excellent teacher. His command over the English language helps me immensely, and he often sits with me to explain difficult words or concepts.
One of his favorite pastimes is solving Sudoku puzzles. He can spend hours working through them, his mind as sharp as ever. He’s also a gifted speaker. Whenever there’s a gathering or a function, people almost force him to take the stage because of his eloquence and charisma.
#### His Escape to Mahodyadham
During Paryushan, the Jain festival of forgiveness and spiritual renewal, Dadu always heads to Mahodyadham. It’s his way of escaping from Dadi’s constant orders and demands for a little while, and it’s something we all find amusing. He finds peace there, a place where he can relax, reflect, and rejuvenate before coming back to the hustle and bustle of family life. He has been going there since last 12 years .
#### A Man of Simple Pleasures
At his core, Dadu is a man of simplicity and wisdom. His life has been a testament to the fact that happiness doesn’t come from material wealth but from meaningful experiences, relationships, and staying true to your values. Whether it’s his love for old clothes, his humble meals, or his desire to share knowledge, Dadu has always been a role model for me. His presence in my life is a gift, and I’m grateful for every moment I get to spend with him.