My Grandmother to whom i call “dadi”

Dadi

Smita Umesh Shah – The Matriarch of Our Family

Smita Umesh Shah, my grandmother, is the heart and soul of our family. At 67 years old, she remains as active and involved as ever, taking charge of the household, ensuring everyone’s well-being, and showering us with love and care. Her nurturing presence defines our home, and her dedication to her family is unmatched.

The Perfect Caretaker

Smita Shah is the epitome of a perfect caretaker. She has traveled extensively with her beloved husband, Umeshbhai, forming countless memories along the way. Despite having two grown sons, Ankit and Keraj, she still treats them with the same love and attention as if they were children. She has a particularly soft spot for her younger son, Keraj, who often spoils her with gifts—small tokens of affection that strengthen their bond.

A unique aspect of my grandmother’s personality is her self-assurance. She believes she is always right, and even when she’s not, she stands by her opinions with conviction. This has led to a few clashes, especially with my father, but her strong will is something that defines her and adds to her charm. She is a woman of principles and is not easily swayed, which has made her a respected figure in our family.

A Teacher at Heart

One of my grandmother’s passions is teaching. She loves passing on her knowledge of Gujarati and Hindi to anyone who is willing to learn. Her deep connection to these languages is not just about the words themselves but the culture and traditions they represent. Her lessons often go beyond language and encompass life values, making her teaching sessions memorable and meaningful.

I often refer to her as “iPad chor”—a nickname born out of her habit of hiding my iPad whenever she thinks I should focus more on my studies. This playful name is a reflection of how much she cares about my education and well-being, even if it means keeping me away from distractions.

Friends and Conversations

My grandmother has a vast social circle, and she is always in touch with her friends. Her closest friends, like Amita Aunty and Gita Aunty, are an integral part of her life. Despite her age, she receives more phone calls than anyone else in the family, including my father. Each conversation lasts anywhere between one to two hours, filled with laughter, advice, and endless stories.

One of the amusing traits she has is her ability to walk for long distances while on the phone. It’s almost as if the energy of her conversations propels her forward. When she’s chatting away, she can walk up to 120 kilometers if left unchecked, but when she’s not on the phone, even a short 1-kilometer walk is enough for her.

Master of the Kitchen

When it comes to cooking, Smita Shah is an absolute master. She is one of the most efficient cooks I’ve ever known, managing to whip up meals that are not only delicious but diverse. Whether it’s okra, paneer, or other vegetables, she prepares them with love and precision. Her variety doesn’t stop there—she makes all kinds of bread, from chapatis to parathas, naans, and rotlas. Each one is cooked to perfection, often stuffed or shaped differently, keeping our meals exciting.

She also has a talent for preparing different dals, like mixed dal, which we all love. Her expertise extends to rice dishes and dhokla, both staples in our household. And, like any true Gujarati, she has a special fondness for panipuri, which she enjoys both eating and making. Her cooking reflects her love for the family, as she always ensures we have delicious and nourishing meals.

Despite sometimes declaring that she won’t step foot in the kitchen, she ends up there every day, preparing meals with the same dedication she’s shown for years. Cooking is her way of caring for us, and even though she might grumble about it, it’s clear she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Head of the Family

In our family, Smita Shah is the head, and her word is often final. She has a strong personality, and when she makes a decision, everyone listens. Whether it’s about family matters, celebrations, or even daily routines, she is the one who sets the course. Her leadership is subtle yet firm, guiding us with wisdom and love.

However, when she’s upset, we all know to give her space. She expresses her anger by throwing things or shedding tears, but even in those moments, her emotions come from a place of care. Her role as the head of the family means she takes on a lot of responsibility, and sometimes that can be overwhelming. Yet, she never falters in her duty to keep the family together.

A Legacy of Hospitality

One of the things that stand out about my grandmother is her impeccable hospitality. She believes in treating guests like royalty, ensuring they are comfortable and well-fed. Her welcoming nature makes our home a place where friends and family always feel at ease. Whether it’s preparing special meals or making sure everyone is comfortable, her attention to detail is incredible.

My grandmother’s love, care, and leadership are what make our family thrive. Her presence is felt in every corner of our home, from the delicious food she prepares to the wise advice she offers. She is more than just the head of the family—she is its heart, and we are all blessed to have her guiding us.

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