Navarathri Reflections: Women Who Inspire Me
During my recent trip to Dubai over the Navarathri weekend,
I was handed a pen and a poster with a simple yet profound request: “Write a
few words about a woman who has inspired you.”
As I held the pen, I realized how beautiful this idea
was—especially during Navarathri, a festival that celebrates the strength and
grace of women. Instantly, my mind began to race. Images of women who have
touched my life flashed like a movie reel. I wanted to start writing
immediately, but I decided to find a dedicated space where I could truly open
my heart and pay tribute to the women who have shaped me.
The First Woman: My Mother, Vasantha
Not because she is my mother, but because she embodies
resilience and leadership in its purest form.
I grew up in the suburbs of Mumbai in a struggling household
where survival was a daily challenge. My father worked for a company that shut
down, yet his loyalty kept him working for over 20 months without salary—and
later for years with less than half pay. In those times, the burden of running
the household fell on my mother.
She rose to the occasion like a warrior. From catering and
babysitting to making sweets, snacks and savories, she did it all—often
starting her day at 2:30 AM to prepare orders before my father left for work.
Every rupee earned was managed with precision. She was the CEO of our
home—strategist, financial controller, and operations head—while also teaching
us during our early school years.
Despite the odds, she radiated positivity. Our home was
always filled with people, celebrations, and laughter. No one ever sensed the
struggles we faced. Her lessons in hard work, perseverance, and optimism shaped
who I am today. I often wonder — had she been in a corporate role, she would
have been a world-class leader.
The Second Woman: My Wife, Janaki (Kavitha)
Kavitha entered my life in 2009. She is my opposite—calm,
mature, and assertive. When life threw me off balance, she held my hand firmly
and brought me back on track.
Her strength is quiet yet powerful. She manages our home and
family with discipline while finding time nurturing her artistic side — creating
stunning Mandala paintings, terracotta crafts, and many things innovatively.
She chooses to stay behind the scenes, letting others shine, even though she
could easily be the centre of attention.
People often praise my achievements, but as the saying goes,
“Behind every successful man, there is a woman.” I would never have been
the Ram without my Janaki.
Special Thanks
My heartfelt thanks to Anjana and Gopal Sai for handing me the pen and sparking this beautiful idea. Life moves so quickly that we often overlook the silent strength and sacrifices of the women around us. This moment gave me the chance to stop, reflect, and honor those incredible women who have been the pillars of my journey.
