by Akshata Virgincar
akshata_25@yahoo.com

My beloved grandfather Mr. Vasantrao Shrinivas Sinai Dempo, popularly known as Bhau, was born on the 4th of March in the year 1916. He was a man of vision and foresight. He was a genius in the sense that he displayed his talent and experience at the very young age of 18 years, when most of people of this age are just completing 12th Std. or first year of graduation. Having had him for a grandfather has been one of the nicest blessings in my life.

Right from my childhood, Bhau supported me in all my endeavors. He was the pillar of my family, on which a castle of love was built. At home, his smile and strictness created a healthy atmosphere of love. One of my most memorable moments was when Bhau was awarded the Padmashree by the President of India for his meritorious service. He was a philanthropist and also a strong believer in God. Even when faced with difficult circumstances, he didn’t lose his faith in the Almighty above. As for me, he was a special person who thought of others first and gave generously of his valuable time and energy, expecting absolutely nothing in return. Bhau was someone who would bring a smile to one’s face or dry a tear or even make a dream come true.

When I was small, I always wanted to be like him and till date I still do. I have been comforted by his faith, inspired by his example and encouraged by his strength. It was Bhau who inspired me to put my best effort into everything I did. His small acts of kindness showed me that he cared. Most of all I thank him for just being there for us, the way he was, for just being his true self. Bhau was like a treasure from above and meant much more than anything else in this world to me. He was gracious and soothing and the one closest to my heart.

The 9th of November 2000, was the day when dark clouds shadowed my path of happiness, the day I lost my most precious possession, my Bhau. He was my pillar of strength, the one on whom I could lean on and be comforted, but now this great pillar of mine disappeared. In life everybody needs a friend; one you can laugh with about everything; one you can cry with without shame; one you can trust completely, the one whom you can turn to.  Bhau had been that friend to me. But even now that he is no more, I don’t have to turn back because I know that he is right beside me, in fact, with me always, guiding me in my times of difficulty.

In a sometimes cold and heartless world, it was Bhau who loved me and always made me feel special. He would never speak out his feelings to anybody, but would express everything through his eyes. He was confident and courageous with firm convictions. He was ambitious and industrious and left no stone unturned to achieve his ideals and goals. Bhau was humble, social and self-sacrificing. To him work was worship and duty a deity. He was a man of patience and had enormous stamina. From his example, I have learnt to live life.

Bhau was my strength when I was weak, my voice when I couldn’t speak and my crutch when I couldn’t walk. I am grateful to Bhau, for his uncompromising love, his loyalty, his trust, and for making me feel good, when my best wasn’t good enough.

Leaves may change from green to gold, the sky from blue to gray.  People change, places change and so do the times. But one thing that remains constant is the love I feel for Bhau. Just as the tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand, and when the sun goes down, it still leaves behind its gentle warmth lingering on the land... just as the music stops, yet echoes on in sweet refrains… for every passing joy, there is something beautiful that remains…the memories. What it meant to lose my Bhau, no one will ever know. If tears could build a stairway, mine alone would be enough to reach Heaven, to bring him home again.

As long as my heart beats within me, Bhau will always be a part of me

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Akshata Virgincar (25) is a totally computer savvy postgraduate, having completed her MCA from the GoaUniversity. She enjoys reading, traveling and listening to music. Over the years, she has written several articles and poems for the Navhind Times, and her writings reflect her love for her grandparents, whom she has always held very dear to her heart.