Safar

By
Mrs. Veena Wadhwa

Chapter 1:- A king is born

Ashok Kumar Wadhwa
16th jan 1943 - 16th Dec 2006

“This is the first time such a thing has happened in our aashram” said Swami Ji. It was rather strange to hear that the child had learnt all the mantras and preaching’s imparted by Swami Sarvanand to the mother while still in the womb.

January 1943. There was a thick sheet of snow outside. The weather was extremely bad and not a single soul was seen outside. A mother was heaving with labor pain while the father was out looking for a doctor or even a mid-wife. The umbrella did not seem to give company either…
Having dug their way out of snow, three people entered the house. The child was delivered under difficult and odd circumstances. It was ten past ten in the morning on Friday. But like a miracle, the weather became fine suddenly. So fine, that it looked amazing to everyone. The family members along with the Doctor and the mid-wife were surprised to see the baby boy. A sweet, beautiful, twelve pound boy he was. The family’s happiness knew no bounds.

Swami Ji was called in to name the child. After going through the celestial stars and charts of the boy, the family was told that the boy would make them proud. He would live like a king. He was to be called Ashok. Partially, also because Ashok Kumar was a popular screen icon at that point of time. Hence a more apt name couldn’t have been thought of.


Chapter 2:- Growing up

A few members of the family were taking the guru mantras from Swami Ji. Ashok, now 4, came and sat there silently. Questioned about his presence, he replied that he too wanted to take the guru mantras. Guru Ji was fascinated with the little boy’s words. He closed his eyes for a moment and announced that this would be the second time the child would be taking guru mantras. All were surprised, Guru Ji told everyone around that the first time Ashok had got the mantras was when he was in his mother’s womb. This, they were told is considered very auspicious for not only the child but the family as well.

After a brief period, the drama of the partition began to unfold. The family had to leave all their assets and shift to Haridwar in 1947.

Ashok was the youngest of the three siblings. His education started at Haridwar but was later shifted to New Delhi, where the family decided to shift as well. In Connaught Place, the heart of New Delhi, Ashok started his life. He was 7 years at that point of time. The Government School near Gole Market was his first school. Bengali Market, Gole Dakkhana and the Birla Mandir were the beautiful places where much of his days were spent frolicking around with friends, going to shops to buy buns and milk and every other thing imaginable that kids that age did. From the very start he was a responsible kid. He used to sit with his mother in the kitchen and help her around with the household chores.

Every day, he would sling his bag on his shoulders and head to school. He was regular and punctual right from a young age. Even at that young an age (he was 9 already by then) he could not tolerate injustice at home or at school. His bravery came through his persona. His education till class 4th was completed at the school in Gole Market, which was situated near Harcourt Butter High School and Birla Mandir.
In 1952, the family shifted to Malviya Nagar in south Delhi. Here they started living in a two bedroom house. They wanted Ashok to study in a school close by. The mother and son went to the senior secondary school nearby to get the forms. The procedure was about to begin when the head of Chirag Delhi School came to the house. The Principal told Mr. Wadhwa, Ashok’s father, that he had come to know that Ashok was a brilliant boy and hence he wanted him to study at Chirag Delhi. Mr. Wadhwa could not help but feel proud of his boy and decided that Ashok would go to Chirag Delhi.

Ashok was an all rounder in school. He used to stand first in class every year. Cultural activities, academics, sports, Ashok was there, topping charts.

In 1953, Ashok asked his father if he could get admission in the Senior Secondary School as he wanted to study till class XII. He was admitted to the Senior Secondary School and his impeccable record followed him there as well. He was the monitor of the class, arranging each and every function held within the school. He also went to the Guide and Scout Camps. He captained the school football team. His academic and social brilliance got him an array of awards and prizes in a score of activities.

Mr. M.L Wadhwa used to smoke, rather he was a chain smoker. Every night he kept his matchbox and cigarettes in a pocket which was hung behind a door. Once by mistake he kept his assortments in Ashok’s school bag. When Ashok reached school and put his hand in the bag to get his stationery out, he was shocked to find the matchbox and cigarettes pack in the bag. He could not muster up the courage to open up the bag in front of his classmates. The very thought of somebody seeing those things did not go down too well with him. When Ashok got back home he was miffed with his father. Ashok also warned him that if he smoked, he would never go to school again. He did not want to face such a situation in the future again. From that day onward Mr. Wadhwa decided to give up smoking. So unknowingly, Ashok became the source of getting his father quit a life threatening habit.

By the time Ashok reached Class XII, his grasp over accounts was very good. One of his father’s friends offered him a job in Sadar Baazar. After school, Ashok used to pedal everyday from Malviya Nagar to Sadar Baazar. A stretch of over 15 kilometers, just to work in a shop and ease the burden on his father.

In 1960, Ashok went to take admission at Desh Bandhu College, Kalkaji in B.Com (Hons.). He deliberately took admission in the evening batch as he wanted to work the mornings. He landed a job for himself at the Indian Air Headquarters. After some time, he was sent for further training. But his luck decided to deceive him here. En-route to Khadag Wasla, with a group of boys, a window pane fell on his hand, seriously injuring him. Travelling further for training with a wounded hand was out of the question. His seniors sent him back half way. Disappointment was written large over his face. He stopped taking his meals, not because of the injury but because of his sadness.

Into his second year of graduation, he got an interview call from Shri Ram Fertilizers. And in 1963 even before his graduation results were declared, he had secured the job.
He joined DCM as an assistant on 10th January 1969. The office was in Jhandewalan at that point of time.

His was very attached with the family. During the same time, preparations for his sister’s wedding were going on. With his first pay-check from DCM, he bought a small radio for the family and kept helping them out in every way possible.

One thing he really enjoyed was his life. Ashok had a lot of good friends. Every year he went out for tours, picnics and outings with his friends. With his own efforts he also bought a Vespa scooter on installments. He was attached to a whole lot of societies as well. He took loans and helped out the family in every way possible. He not only managed to add to the family, financially but emotionally as well. Every tiny affair regarding the marriage was first discussed with him and then implemented.

But no one seemed to be interested in settling him down. No one ever spoke about his marriage. His family members had not taken him seriously as he did not look his age. Even though he was 29 he didn’t look a day over 25. One fine day, Ashok wrote a matrimonial for himself and put it in the Hindustan Times.

His life changed from there. He got many responses to the ad but the girls never seemed to fit his idea of a soul-mate or life-partner. Gradually he began to reply to the matrimonials. After a little effort, he found a suitable girl. She was a teacher in a Government school. Sweet and simple…

4th November. Ashok was going to see the girl, when he got challaned for crossing a red light at Dhaula Kuan. The first thought that struck him was “This is not a challan for jumping the red light, but for life.” Finally, when he met the girl he liked her.

After a few formalities the engagement was fixed. In November 1975, they got engaged. It was this courtship period, from November 1975 to 5th march 1976 that remained most memorable for both of them. It was the happiest, most fascinating and delightful time spent together. They both were happy as happy could be.

During the cold waves of Delhi in December to February both of them were on the road, roaming different parks, visiting different restaurants and picnic places. Their most favourite place was University Garden due to its proximity to Veena’s Punjabi Bagh school.

24th December 1975. Ashok along with his younger brother Rajesh visited Veena’s house for a small get together. Ashok tried his level best to meet her alone but Veena’s father was at his defensive best as well. Veena’s father did not want to give them an opportunity to make any programmes. Like a god send the tentwallah came to Dr. Sahib (Veena’s father) for payments and also asked him to check the preparations. No sooner had Dr. Sahib stepped out that Ashok came up to Veena and told her that he wanted to go out with her for a movie. The movie was planned for the 27th.Both of them had a sleepless night on the 26th as they were going to be together for the first time.

Dharam Karam was the movie running to packed houses everywhere. Ashok reached Vishal Cinema Hall in Rajouri Garden to pick up tickets. There, he was baffled to find out that there were no tickets available for the show. Someone offered him two tickets at double the price and he jumped at the opportunity. Once inside the hall, the usher showed him their seats. Veena broke in to peals of laughter as the usher indicated one seat to the upper stall and the other to the rear stall. Ashok went to the rear stall and exchanged his ticket with another person, saving himself the blushes.

This became an event of historical importance in their lives. Every year they would watch a movie on the same day to mark the occasion, without fail. From then on they were always with each other. Ashok, forever making his plans. Three months passed by and none of them noticed. They were happy in their own dream world. On the day of the wedding, 7th March 1976, the bride groom reached the bride’s place well ahead of schedule. The bride arrived in a car, her beautiful face down, covered with jewellery. The next day they started for Nainital. On Holi day, a group of students came up to them and applied red colour to their face. The boys called Veena, bhabhi. This new word, to her was very thrilling.

After the few blissful days spent in Nainital, they returned home and resumed their work.
On Veena’s first birthday, after racking his brains Ashok could not figure out what to gift. So he wrote the most beautiful four page letter that carried a poem within it.

To Veenu, 18th January 1977

I have very little to give, my dear
very little of beauty and glamour,
very little of riches and glitter
but I can give you, my dear
The most lovely gift in this world,
Gift of someone very near and dear
that can’t be bought or sold,
that glitters more than the riches of the gold.
I offer you roses every day,
to forget the thorns of the hard day,
a smile of pleasure and understanding.
To bring in your life a new meaning,
always a world of cheer and never a tear,
to gather rare flowers while we are together.

A charming smile whenever you pass along.
my true friendship on the path we go along.
My smile of greeting when we meet,
my smile of joy when we are happy,
my smile of passion when you are with me,
my smile of compassion when you are in pain,
my smile of care when you are ill,
my smile of consolation when you need me.

I gave you my hand to hold,
in joy and sorrow.
I give my body and soul,
as my precious gift to you,
I give you everything I have.
Today and every tomorrow
By:- Ashok



One day, Ashok got the news that he was going to be a father and his happiness knew no boundaries. As Veena’s school was far from home, they decided to shift her to a place nearby. One of Ashok’s relative offered them their flat at Ramesh Nagar. In Nainital, Ashok had told Veena that she could ask him to do whatever household work, but nothing in the kitchen. In the new flat, Ashok entered the kitchen like a seasoned chef and made excellent juices, soups and tea for her. Unlike earlier, when Veena used to travel by bus to school, now Ashok would drop her to school every day. Ashok’s interest in law saw him enroll at an evening law college. It was his mother Mrs. Rama Wadhwa’s desire to see her son as a vakeel. So Ashok started devoting time for the fulfillment of his and his mother’s desire. He went to the classes after he came back from work at 05:30 p.m. and return back home at 10:00 p.m. He never shirked away from his responsibilities as a son, brother, husband or as an employee.
He would keep his things neat and arranged and would not be pleased if things were not arranged properly. He was quite famous for his neatness in office as well. Anyone could go to his cabin at any time and demand any document. He would present it quickly as his things were always arranged. He always carried a pen with him also. Anything told to him would be noted in a pad. All the records for electricity, telephone, Income tax, house tax were maintained by him. He was conferred with a whole lot of “Letters of Appreciation” from office.
Ashok was very polite. He would never hesitate to apologise if he said anything rude. Many times while going to office, he would write sorry in large letters on the looking glass in the bathroom. He could not tolerate Veena being sad.

For a long time, his job was full of tours. He was off for tours frequently. Whenever he would return, he would get gifts for every family member. Their stay in Ramesh Nagar came to an end and the family shifted back to Malviya nagar once Veena started her maternity leave.
In April 1977, Ashok became the proud father of a little baby girl. Surprisingly, the day was a Saturday and Ashok was away at office.

His duties were now not only channeled to the mother but to the lovely little baby as well. He would stay up at night and keep a watch while both the mother and daughter would be sleeping. After a few days, both of them decided to name the girl. They already had chosen the name. The first movie they saw after their marriage was Kabhi-Kabhi and Ashok’s favourite actress Rakhi’s on screen name was Pooja. So the girl was called Pooja. She was the best gift that Ashok had ever got.

When Pooja was two months old, plans were made to take her to Haridwar. In Haridwar, they were bathing in the Ganges, and mother Ganges decided to take them, they sunk in the deep waters, there was howling and crying all over, his mother fainted and his dad jumped in to save them. It was a day to remember both as a celebration and a misery , while saving the couple his dad got paralysis which made him redundant waist below. It took him more than a lifetime to fix his condition. But life goes one, and Ashok and Veena decided to celebrate the day as their birthday.

After few months Ashok got promoted when he came back, this promotion was credited to his daughter. He considered her his lucky charm. Ashok loved going to the mountains every year. He paid a huge amount to Punjab Tourism and got a lifetime membership. That way he would be able to go to one of the many hill stations every year. He took his yearly leave and went vacationing with the family. He loved being close to nature.

He enjoyed parties, functions and outings, be it in blazing summers or chilling winters. He used to spend whole-heartedly on occasions and never regretted it. Being the honest man he was Ashok was regularly rewarded by his office. Once he got a cash incentive of Rs. 50,000 along with a Letter of Appreciation. He was awarded things for the house, be it an electrical appliance or furniture. His office first shifted to Kanchan Junga and then to Rajendra Place.
After completing law, Ashok was made the legal officer by his firm.

Every year during Shriram Jayanti or Diwali he was made the in-charge off all administration and other important functions. He was completely trusted by his seniors in matters of finance. All the affairs of the company were on his fingertips. He never deceived or disobeyed anyone. He believed in honesty and sincerity. “Man is known by his deeds, not by clothes.” Ranking and positions, flattering and chattering were not in his dictionary.

He was given charge of houses that were being vacated by any official of his firm. Once a group of people came to his office. They wanted to get their building vacated immediately. Ashok was ready with all the papers. The mother and daughter offered him a bag as a way of showing gratitude. The bag was stuffed with Rs. 500 notes and the total amounted to a couple of lacks. He sent them home with due respect.

On 15th August 1978, Ashok and Veena went to Masjid Moth where his brother-in-law used to stay. The Residents Welfare Association invited everyone for a small get together planned. There was a game “Best Understanding Couple”. In this game the male members were to be on one side and the females on the other. They were given a common questionnaire. The questions were related to their personal lives, to check the level of understanding between couples. Ashok and Veena got the first prize and were adjudged the Best understanding couple.
On 11th September 1979 Veena had a slight bout of fever. She was also in her last phase of pregnancy. Veena was in deep slumber. It was Thursday and she slept till 11:00 p.m. in the verandah outside. Everybody had gone to sleep except for Ashok, who was keeping a check on his wife. He was there till 01:30 a.m. During these fateful hours of sleep and fever their child passed away in the womb.

The whole family was sad. Dr. Hingorani informed Ashok that the birth of the child could have been fatal for Veena. It was a rebirth for her of sorts. From that day Veena’s birthday was celebrated on the 12th September.

In 1982 on 12th January, Ashok and Veena were blessed with a baby boy. It was the happiest day of Ashok’s life. He threw a grand party in the office. They got some cards printed along with each slip. Every guest was supposed to write a name on the slip and hand it over to Ashok’s younger brother, Rajesh. At the end, Rajesh was supposed to choose three names from the lot and then finally the mother would get to choose one out of those three. The person whose name would be selected would be given a gift. Ashok’s neighbor, Mrs. Shashi Arora proved to be the luckiest of all. The name was Chandan.

During the month of April 1984, Ashok complained about a wound on his leg. The wound seemed serious. Ashok could not wear his trousers and was on leave from office for 10 days. After the preliminary reports, Ashok was diagnosed with diabetes in June 84..

As Ashok was born in a hill station, he had this urge to head to the mountains for a week every year. That one week was specially marked for the family. They played cards, business, ludo and other games as a unit. He used to totally shut himself from his work and forget Delhi for the time they were on holiday. The week spent in the hill station enabled him to get through the rest eleven months easy. He was wanderlust.

He always wanted Veena to be the Vice Principal. In 1989, Veena finally got her promotion orders. Ashok was overjoyed on learning that. Though everything seemed to be going well the problems at home were increasing. The size of the family was increasing but the space remained the same. It was decided to get a builder to construct a two story house, so the problem of space could be sorted out for the meanwhile. Ashok’s mother did not want him to do that but he discussed it with her and made her see his point. The family shifted to a rented house when the construction began. Asok’s father wasn’t in good health. At times he would lose his mental stability and used to speak gibberish. The Doctors announced that there was little they could do. But Ashok did not leave any stone unturned to get his father back to good health.

It was 1991, when it was decided that Rajesh would be married. Ashok was over the moon. He was more of a father figure to Rajesh than anything else. A good girl was selected from a reputed family and the ceremonies were performed. Due to paralysis, Ashok’s father could not go for the wedding. His mother also chose to stay at home to take care of her husband. All arrangements were in place. Ashok got a car and a driver to take his parents to the wedding. His partying and dancing were a sight to see. He was forever jovial.

He maintained a complete balance between his families. Anyone who wanted advice would go to Ashok for wisdom. Not only legal matters but social and emotional as well. A small problem was erupting with new bahu. Ashok called her and very patiently gave her the important rules and regulations of the family. He told her how his mother had knit this family together. He asked the bahu for her co-operation as well. He united the family together. People were surprised to see the love and feeling of togetherness the family had. Ashok was the pillar of strength behind this all.

Ashok’s 50th birthday was spent near the Taj Mahal in Agra. Veena and Ashok had already planned that they wanted to spend his golden jubilee birthday away from the hustle and bustle of Delhi. After a few months, on 9th May 1993 Ashok, Veena and the entire family shifted to the new house. The planning of the rooms was still left. There were two floors and three families! But without any objection the furniture was shifted. Nobody objected to their decision. Everybody’s faith in him came through. It was decided that there would be only one kitchen.

The family’s joy doubled when Ashok became “bade papa” of a little one year old. Rajesh’s son was called Raghav. This name was given by Ashok’s mother. She had great faith in Lord Ram.
After a few moths Ashok’s mother complained of stomach ache. She was suffering from floating hernia. She was taken to the doctor. She was puking blood. Everyone in the house was worried. Ashok took her to Dr. Sama’s clinic. Her treatment carried on throughout the month of January. Ashok and Veena’s birthday was spent in the hospital. A cake was cut there itself. Everyone in the hospital was surprised to see the love and affection that the family carried. For twenty-two days, mornings were in the hospital. The devoted son stayed the entire period. He announced that he would not leave his mother with anyone and would come home with her. Her condition was worsening day by day. After the gall bladder’s operation, one last operation was left which was not advisable at that age. The puss deposits had collected near the heart. An operation was necessary. The chances of revival, less. Before the second operation, Ashok came home and wept bitterly. Veena had never seen anyone weep like that. Something moved within her and she said that nothing bad would happen to his mother. She gave him a bottle of gangajal from the temple. He was told to give his mother a few drops every time in water. Her belief was firm. Ashok could not help but laugh at the naivety of his beloved wife. The gangajal played its role and she was fine on the third day. Her homecoming was on 6th February 1994. Ashok’s confidence in Veena’s faith increased.

After a few months on 27th September, Veena underwent a major operation. The whole week she found a lovable, loyal and an affectionate husband in Ashok. He had inherited properties of love, sacrifice and faithfulness. He never hesitated to take the broom or the mop. He never explained what he did for anyone.

June 1995, Ashok’s father suddenly collapsed and passed away. He had been on the bed for fourteen years. That was a great setback for the family. Ever since that day, Pooja started sleeping with Mata Ji. She took great care of her dadi and took charge like her son. She probably had inherited this from her father.

All the festival & functions in the house were celebrated with all the family members. They were filled with traditions and paramparas. Everyone used to turn up when Shanti path and Ramayana were held in the house. All the mantras were sung by each of the family members. Nobody ever seemed to miss those occasions. Sometimes kids were left in the house in custody of either the grandmother or the chacha and chachi while Ashok and Veena went on a vacation. Nothing was ever refused to Ashok. He carried that kind of charisma and persona. Veena would always prepare tea for Ashok on weekdays. His face would glow at the sight of a well presented tea tray. And, he by fail returned this gesture by serving tea to her on Sundays.
Like every father, Ashok too was worried over Chandan’s future. And his delight was out of control when Chandan scored 80%. There was a grand celebration in the house. He even carried sweets for his co-workers. His son had proved that he was capable of achieving his father’s dreams.

In 1998, Veena was taken to the Ganga room for a knee operation. It was her 50th birthday. When she came home, she was unable to walk. Ashok bought a divine mangla sutra for her. He had gone with Pooja and had picked it up as a surprise for her. Veena was again pampered with his hospitality skills as she recuperated in the house.

Pooja joined Mother’s School in 1999. And the same year Chandan also scored high in his class XII exams. He had bagged four distinctions. It was truly a proud moment for the father. Every year on 5th September, he gave Veena a card. This year the card read something different. “To a very beautiful mother teacher who has given me one more teacher”.

On the occasion of Shri Ram Jayanti, Veena got a ticket numbered 0225. 9 was Veena’s lucky number. She told Ashok that she would get the lucky prize that year. Ashok guffawed away as the ten winners were read out. Her faith in the lucky number was just weaning off when they called out a special prize that year. And that was number 0225. Ashok’s face was again filled with pride. Veena got a Prestige Futura cooker. The same time, Ashok also got a long service award. It was celebration time in the Wadhwa household again.

Veena’s school was adopted by Bulgaria and the Russian President along with his team was scheduled to visit. Veena was asked to stay late in school and help out with the preparations. Ashok used to pick her up and drop her at the time of her convenience. He used to remark “it’s less cold in car than an auto.” Ashok’s best friend Arun died on 14th July 2000. That was the day when he broke down. Arun had been his thickest of pals ever since class VI.
The company in recognition of his valuable contribution towards handling a highly successful legal battle sanctioned him a cash rewards and a certificate was also presented to him by the Chairman and the Managing Director of the company.

Pooja had joined Salwan Public School during the meanwhile. She was showcasing all the qualities of her father. Ashok wanted Pooja to be married before his retirement. This was a mutual agreement both the parents had come to. Pooja on Ashok’s retirement and Chandan on Veena’s. So Ashok started finding a suitable match for his daughter and it didn’t take him too long.




Chapter 3:- Of goodnights and good-byes.

It was during the month of March, Ashok and Veena’s silver jubilee. Chandan, keeping the tradition alive, had arranged for a party in Fiesta on Siri Fort road. The couple were thrilled and enjoyed every moment that came along. Ashok used to dance whenever he was in a jubilation mood and as usual his dance was the highlight of the evening. Except for when he gifted Veena a beautiful gold ring.

A respectable and well educated family was found for Pooja and it was decided to hold her engagement on the 11th February. As per the pact, Pooja was supposed to marry before Ashok’s retirement. On 26th April 2002, Pooja was welcomed into matrimonial bliss by Rahul Kandharis. No stone was left unturned by Ashok for the wedding. 31st April 2002, Ashok retired as per his plan.

Chandan was presented a Maruti Wagon R car on completion of his graduation and as a birthday gift by Ashok. He had kept his promise of gifting his son a car once he graduated. During August 2003, Chandan took admission in Wigan and Leigh College for a post graduation course in design. Very often he used to be off to hill stations with his friend. The love for hill stations seemed inborn.

He had provided a car and a driver for Pooja also as her school was far from her house. But she returned the car and driver back after some time.

Once Chandan told his father that he wanted to go to London. Ashok realized that it was his son’s dream and he was right next to him offering support in any form. He helped Chandan open bank accounts, apply for loans and complete other papers.

Chandan was due to fly out of the country in September. Pooja was expecting in October. Chandan desperately wanted to be by his sister’s side and see the baby. Otherwise he felt that he would not be able to face his sister or the child later. As fate would have it, Pooja was blessed with a baby girl on 24th September 2003. Just a day before Chandan was flying away.
Ashok had become a Nana.

Ashok missed his son very much. He used to talk about his childhood, his friends, his old times. One of his friends, Gurbasha was in London and either his friend or his son was in India usually. He used to send Besan ka Laddoo or pinnis to Chandan through these people. Frequently he used to pick up shirts and sweaters to be sent for his dear son. Being the father he was, Ashok used to worry about his son’s well-being. Veena used to assure him by saying that he would manage London as he has imbibed qualities from the man himself. Ashok always knew that his son would make it big. On numerous occasions, Veena was made to go to London and stay with the son.

After Ashok’s retirement, he joined Shroff Eye hospital as legal and administrative officer. As it was a charitable hospital, he devoted his maximum time and efforts to it. He used to travel to Alwar, Jaipur and other cities with the employees of the hospital. The affectionate staff had seemed to enamor him. He was also respected and loved a lot by the staff. He was much appreciated by his Boss and he never hesitated to go to the hospital during odd hours. He once quit the job to go handle a construction company but soon the hospital was calling him back. He was allowed flexi timing. He could come and go at his will. Work could be completed from home. During the two years of his employment at the hospital, he was hale and hearty. He came to know everything about eyes. His colleagues named him Doctor Wadhwa. He was self taught doctor to the entire family and friend circle. Ashok never shirked from his duty even if it required him to travel to Daryaganj (where the hospital was located) late at night. All matters concerning anything were solved with his expertise.

Once a patient jumped out of the window and died. The hospital authorities were blamed by the parents of the patient. Doctor Wadhwa got into his garb as a legal eagle and submitted his report. According to the report, no beds near the windows were provided to operated patients, the guy had switched beds with someone and had jumped as he was dissatisfied with his financial situation.

The matters in the Wadhwa family were solved without any outsiders or even relatives getting a whiff of what was going on. At Prisha and Aditya’s birthday Ashok seemed to miss Chandan. It was written large over his face.

On Karva Chauth Ashok took Veena to a jeweler and bought a tulsi mala made of gold beads. He also bought her two sweaters on her birthday that year. When questioned on what he wanted for his birthday, he replied “Nothing, I have all that I want. If I feel the need for something, I shall have some gift from your side.”

November and December were filled with memories. Good and bad. Their marriage anniversary and Veena’s father’s death. Chandan was coming to India in 2006. Ashok and Veena wanted to change the look of the house before the son came trotting along. On 26th January, the carpenters worked through the whole day till 10:30 p.m. Both, Veena and Ashok settled the house after that. The drawing room was cleaned and the waste material put into Chandan’s room. Around 12:00 a.m. both of them had dinner and were about to retire for the night when suddenly they got a call. “Mama”, shouted the person on the other end. The phone got disconnected. The phone rang again. “Mama, I’m calling from Deepak bhaiya’s phone! I’m at the airport and we are on our way back home.” shouted Chandan. Veena and Ashok were shell-shocked and started running around the house. The pile of waste that had been kept in Chandan’s room sometime back, all came out to make space. New bed-sheets adorned the room. A quick dinner was whipped up. Ashok’s face was lit up like never before.

It was Anurag’s (Veena’s nephew) wedding in February and Veena was down with a severe bout of viral. All that she wanted to do for the homecoming of her son could not be arranged. Ashok as usual played the perfect husband while Chandan took care of the marriage preparations. Towards the end of February, Chandan had to go back. The parents hoped that he would be back after a few months, forever, at least they hoped so. May was approaching and so was Ashok’s vacation time. Veena and he used to play cards every evening, sometimes even during the day. Records were kept and whoever won the game treated the other to dinner. Though Ashok used to invariably end up footing the bill all the time, the restaurant was chosen by Veena. During his vacations, a trip for Nainital was planned. A car was hired and they set of for Nainital on 22nd June. The week was already packed. 16th was Mr. Wadhwa’s death anniversary and 20th was Madhav’s birthday. Ashok took the kids to the market and gave them liberty to pick up anything of their choice.

At Nainital, they could not get a room at Elphinstone Hotel. So they stayed in some other hotel and revisited their memories of the past 30 years once again. The places seemed to have changed, but the love remained eternal. The weeklong stay had revived the memories of yore. They sat on the same bench, ate lunch in the same hotel, had steaming boiled eggs at the same corner.

Back in Delhi, the same routine started for Ashok. But somehow the joy and enthusiasm from Ashok’s face was missing. Veena was unable to understand. He frequently complained of pain near his naval. A clinical check up was done and the reports indicated an all clear. But he still was not comfortable. He underwent an ultrasound also, but the reports indicated nothing to worry about.

Veena meanwhile wanted a transfer to a school nearby as that would save the hassle of disturbing Ashok early in the morning. As luck would have it, a teacher from a close by school called Veena for a transfer as well. She jumped onto that.

Ashok used to walk regularly, but his stomach kept bulging out. His whole body seemed to be normal but the belly seemed to be bloating. Rahul took Ashok to a specialist Doctor, who informed them that there was a swelling in the intestine. This swelling could be cured by medication. A colleague told Ashok that the belt and the wallet were pressed in a particular manner while driving and that was the cause of pain. He removed the belt and wallet while driving and he was fine. But he was still far from happy. It appeared as if something was wrong somewhere. In October there were a string of birthdays and festivals. Ashok’s complaints resurfaced. He felt as if he was eating to satisfy the need of the body. He wasn’t hungry. He wanted to try out homeopathy so they got specialist doctor Nandini Sharma to help him out. The prescribed medicines seemed to work wonders. After two days Ashok had a hearty dinner. That day he asked Veena to prepare his favourite baigan ka bhartha for him.
But that was temporary reprieve for him. He came back from his usual walk and complained about his bulging stomach. Even on Rajesh’s birthday, he wasn’t his usual self. On Diwali he chose to stay at home and called everyone home unlike before.

During this phase of his ailing, he never missed work. He would perform his duties with aplomb. He would go to courts, attend cases, visit different places on behalf of the hospital and do everything that he was required to do. Work remained top priority. Veena and Ashok visited her brother in DLF on the occasion of Bhai Duj. He appeared very happy that night and had a light meal. Everyone sat around discussing the days gone by and Ashok also joined in with his stories. It was Veena and Ashok’s nephew, Deepak’s birthday. For the first time he did not go to the first floor dining room for his meal! His dinner was brought to him. And he ate quite less as well. Next day he went to Dr. Sama’s Clinic at Siri Fort road for a diagnostic check-up. The reports, as usual were promising. But on Ashok’s insistence to the Doctor, he was asked to get himself admitted to the hospital. Due to some pending commitments, Ashok could not go to the hospital the following day.

2nd November 2006. Ashok was admitted to Dr. Sama’s Clinic. All the. ECG, ECO, TMT, Kidney and all the blood tests were conducted. The results seemed positive and satisfactory. The whole family was present at the hospital. There seemed to be some kind of fluid in the body which prevented him from doing a number of physical tasks. Rest all seemed good. The Doctor informed them that there was just the CT scan remaining. The family decided to schedule that for the next day.

In the evening everyone was sitting and talking in the ward when Rajesh entered. Rajesh seemed worried. Even though the results weren’t out he told Veena that the doctors believed that there was something wrong and the possibility of a tumor were high. This infuriated Veena. She wasn’t ready to believe what Rajesh was saying.

The next day Dr. Sama along with another doctor entered. Everyone went out except for Veena. In very clear and harsh words he told Veena “Mr. Wadhwa, the report has come. Unfortunately it is cancer and it has spread so an operation is no longer possible. To Veena it seemed as if someone had put molten glass in her ears. They pained like hell. She got hold of her senses and asked the doctor if any treatment was available for cancer. The doctor nodded and told her that they’d try chemotherapy. Chemotherapy could take up to six months, had after effects and wasn’t a guarantee either.

Veena’s outburst led her to the bathroom as Rajesh went away with the Doctor. She locked herself up and wept bitterly. All sorts of questions arose in her head. She questioned god. She was questioning her faith. She did not want to come out but she had to… She already had a thousand questions to answer. As she stepped out, Ashok was about to knock. He wiped her tears and held her.
“Abhi se?”
And Veena broke down again.
That day nobody came near the couple. It seemed like every one knew their need to be together that day. Veena cried the entire night. Her tears didn’t want to stop flowing.
“I misunderstood my Veena to be a brave lady, I have limited time to live. You want to spend that time in this manner? If you keep weeping in the same manner I think my time….” Before Ashok could complete the sentence Veena had kept her hand on his lips and forbade him from speaking anything further. Veena realised what Ashok said was true. Time was of essence. Her beaming smile lit up the whole room.

They both sat chatting, watching television and eating fruits. Letting the moment sink in. Deep within they both knew the future. That night they didn’t slept. Veena’s pillow and sheet were soaked with tears. It is often said that life is full of worries. Ideally Veena would laugh on that but now she was living that.

All the remaining major tests were completed. According to doctors before chemotherapy began all the organs must be healthy and disease free. So the heart, kidneys, lungs and all the organs were tested. All the reports were perfect. The fluid was taken and sent for a test. The report said that malignancy was present in the pancreas and not in the fluid. This information wasn’t sufficient enough for doctors to start treatment.

Doctors from Apollo said that if they were given in writing that the family was willing to take responsibility towards the outcome of the results, they were willing to start chemotherapy.
Batra Hospital said unless the report gave 100% malignancy, no doctor would start treatment.
Ashlok Hospital’s Dr. Aggarwal gave a different opinion. He said that there was too much fluid present, not allowing the cells to show up in the reports. He said the only option would be to operate and prick the pancreas to get the required cells. That could make it clear whether the cells were malignant or not. They started preparations for the treatment but later backed out when Dr. Aggarwal confessed that no doctor would be willing operate as it would endanger some organ.

All the doctors had an emergency meeting to discuss the case. They decided for an MIR as the final option. In this a long needle would be inserted through coloured CT scan and the position would be clear. This report would be considered final. Ashok was taken to Ganga Ram Hospital for this critical test. Life doesn’t leave us with too many options, does it?
Veena was sitting outside the room, imagining the troubles being faced by her husband. Her questions seemed to increase.

Ashok was asked to come for the procedure on an empty stomach. After the test he was given a glass of orange juice by the doctor, as a result of which his blood sugar levels rose to 400! The pancreas were disturbed. A diabetic doctor was called and he started by injecting insulin. Another problem was added to the never ending pile of problems. Before every meal an insulin injection was to be given now.

On 8th December, a little light of hope shone. The family found out about a few people who had suffered the same problem andt chemotherapy had been able to treat them of the ailment. Treatment is available, they were told.

People at Dr. Sama’s Clinic told them about the heavy usage of powerful chemicals in chemotherapy. These chemicals were injected into the body through intravenous drips. As the chemicals remained in the body to kill cancer cells sometimes they killed live cells as well. Different people held different views.

The fluid in Ashok’s body was steadily increasing and it became very difficult for Ashok to sit or even eat sometime. Life had become very uncomfortable. After two days the results came out. There were two reports. One refuted cancer and the other said suspicious malignancy. The doctors seemed to be confused as well. The doctors were in a fix as the patient could not be sent home neither the treatment could be started. A question of a treatment did not arise if the symptoms weren’t clear.

The doctors at Rajeev Gandhi Hospital also seemed in agreement with the report.
Within this Dr. Nandi at Fortis Hospital, Noida was referred. After going through the reports, he said “the reports are sufficient for me to start treatment.” So on 17th November Ashok’s treatment was started at Fortis hospital.

The room allotted to them was nothing less than a five star suite. A room full of all luxuries imaginable. Everyone forgot that it was a hospital. Tests carried on throughout the night. Four bottles of fluid was taken out and albumen replaced that. The results were given immediately. Everyone seemed impressed. The whole day a bunch of doctors and nurses were present. In the evening they were shifted to room number 13. Veena did not want that room. But due to unavailability of the other rooms they were given that as a temporary substitute for a few hours. During these few hours, we received the lab report. At around 07:00 p.m. Dr. Nandi came in the room and said that the report was positive. That meant that cancer had been fully detected. The treatment was to start the next day.

Chemotherapy began on 19th November. For 22hours non-stop different medications were given to Ashok intravenously. The entire family was there. Ashok was active and alert after the chemotherapy. He was comfortable throughout the process. What he had realized was that that was the beginning of the battle. A battle to be fought against an unknown opponent. A battle with himself for his own victory.

Once while the treatment was going on, Ashok did not pass motion. The doctors gave him an anti dose for constipation and dysentery. Next day the medicine continued but to no success. The doctor advised for enema. And it worked. Everything seemed to be going on smooth. The doctor discharged Ashok and asked him to be brought on 27th for the second dose of chemotherapy. The family decided to stay the night at the hospital before taking him home. Next day the doctor’s took the fluid from his body and let him go.

Everyone at home was glad to see him. The doctor had ordered caution against all types of infection. 21st, 22nd and 23rd Ashok remained home. He ate his meals as usual. New saucers and tea cups were bought for him as Veena knew he liked having his tea properly. ON 23rd night he could not have dinner. He was unable to feel any movement. He was unable to eat liquids and khichri even. Doctors were called and enema and insulin injections were given to him.

Food charts, medicine charts and B.P and sugar test charts were made. Everything was taken care of. But nobody knew how the body was responding. On 23rd night, Dr. Nandi called Veena and asked the family to visit the hospital in the morning.

Veena had an important seminar in school to attend, which she obviously did not want to attend. She had to force herself just because of attendance. From the seminar she reached the hospital in the afternoon. She was shocked to see Ashok in the emergency room. An oxygen mask and long respiration pipes were inserted in to his nostrils. Medicines were also being injected intravenously. His eyes spoke of loneliness and helplessness…

Rajesh arranged for a room in the hospital hurriedly. The situation was brought under control but Ashok still had difficulties speaking and breathing. The next two days were spent in the same condition. X-rays, ultra sound were being done. Doctors were called. Strong enemas were being given but to no avail. Ashok’s condition was worsening. He did not want visitors coming into the room. He was never helpless when he was young and he would not want to be in a situation like that this time as well. For a few days he did not eat any food. Veena ate her food away from him. She had to keep strong.

On 27th, he was not feeling well and Veena did not want Rajesh to go. She asked him to stay the night along with her and he agreed. But due to some work he went home at around 12:00 a.m. Ashok did not seem normal to Veena. He was staring with wide open eyes and not even moving his brow.

“Are you okay?”
No reply. No reaction.
“I am going to change.”
No reply.
“Should I sleep? Are you all right?”
No reply
“Should I call Rajesh?”
He moved his head. Negative.
Veena panicked and called Rajesh. She asked him to get to the hospital as soon as possible.
When Veena entered the room, she saw the doctor and the nurses checking his condition. Veena requested them to give Ashok oxygen as he was not breathing properly.
The blood pressure and the respiration levels were very low.
The oxygen mask was put on.
He took two breaths…and threw his neck to one side.
He was gone.
Veena was crying, hysterically asking people to give Ashok oxygen. She went berserk. Throwing things around helter-skelter.
The nurses finally caught Veena and eased her. Within minutes the entire staff reached the room.
“Mr. Wadhwa, Mr. Wadhwa… Open your eyes…”
Veena rang her brother Subhash, Pooja and Ruby to come to the hospital as everything was over.
The entire unit rushed Ashok to the intensive care unit. The doctor assured Veena, everything would be fine.
He was breathing.
He was actually breathing. He had been saved.
Within no time the whole conglomeration of relatives had gathered. No one was allowed to enter the I.C.U. They had timings. Everyone had to wait if they wanted to see Ashok.
When Veena went into the I.C.U she was relieved to see him. He was breathing. Machines had been attached to his body. The machines were everywhere. When the doctor called out to him, he opened his eyes and gestured with his eyes, welcoming Veena. She stroked his forehead. He wanted to hold her hand too. He seemed upset and uncomfortable. Something was going on in his mind which he was unable to disclose. He tried removing the wires from his hand. It was as if he wanted to remove them all. His pain and anguish was coming through. Veena could not stay and be an onlooker to that. She ran out of the room. Crying…
In the evening, swelling had begun to set in. Ashok’s whole body had doubled up. The doctor said that Ashok’s entire system was wired to the machines as his body was unable to function. His condition was critical. Earlier, food particles had entered his lungs. That was the reason his breathing stopped. There was a 5% chance of reviving his lungs. Only a miracle could save him through this stage.

Veena came out of the I.C.U. and walked out of the hospital. She wanted to go to a secluded place, far from there, where she could have her conversation with god. The time had come. Her questions needed answers. Why was a person who was always ready to help others, a person who never hurt a tiny creature being made to suffer? He believed in helping people, honesty, hard work, selflessness. Ashok put others ahead of him. Everyone was treated equally. He was one of the few people in the world who did not have a single enemy. Was he paying the price of being good? Why was someone who took pains to wipe other people’s suffering, going through tremendous physical and emotional agony? Her eyes were filled with tears as her conversations with god came to an end. She was looking for a miracle with tear drenched eyes…

Next day Ashok was being shifted to the normal I.C.U from the critical I.C.U. It was a miracle. The doctors couldn’t believe it. Ashok was not critical any more. Was that an answer? Veena thanked god.

Slowly Ashok came into his senses. The big and bulky machines were removed. The next day he had a small oxygen mask and respiration tubes in the nostrils. He wrote “wife” in the air. He told all the nurses about Veena. He responded to queries by smiling. He asked Veena to pay his phone bill. He also asked her to complete a few banking transactions. His mind was sharp as ever.

Veena used to go to the Sai Baba temple. She managed to sneak in bhasam without the knowledge of guards. She applied that on his forehead and stomach. He never objected to his wife’s beliefs. She also burnt some paper after she had circled it over his head a few times. He let everyone do whatever they wanted. No questions asked. It appeared as if god had saved him. But his intentions were still not clear.

Ashok remained in the I.C.U till the 4th December. Even though every organ was functioning properly, stool was not being passed. Ashok was later shifted to a room. His condition was much better. He could eat and drink now. On 5th, he ate a hearty meal of parathas and vegetables. He was eating a full breakfast as well. Veena gave Ashok a few drops of castor oil mixed in water. Immediately the next day he passed stool. All seemed happy with Ashok’s progress. His hands appeared much stronger now. The oxygen mask and the respiratory pipes were taken out. His voice had the usual strength again. He told Veena “You will lose something very important and costly.” He asked her to keep all the important documents relating to property, banks, FD, gold etc in a locker. He reasoned by saying that when a person is in a hospital that too far off from his own house, somebody might be watching the house. So the need to always be on guard arose.

Veena immediately did the required next morning. Throughout this time Chandan was with Ashok. The son was not bothered about his office or job. For him the prime concern was his father.

Rajesh was staying the night over at the hospital.
“I don’t want to live this life. Take me and throw me in a park somewhere. Is this a life to lead, where someone comes and changes my diaper and do as they feel like? Am I fit enough to lead a life like this?”
This worried Rajesh and he quickly called Veena. In front of Veena, the outburst never happened. He was silent.
Veena’s and Ashok’s niece’s husband Kamal came to visit him the same day. Ashok had an outburst that time as well.
“I had gone… But Veena pulled me by my legs and dragged me back. Why did she do this?” Ashok started crying.
“What will she do with me in such a condition? What use am I?”
“Mama Ji, you should consider yourself lucky and be thankful to your wife that god has sent you back. Respect god’s will and your wife’s efforts to save you. Have the will to live for her!”
With this answer Ashok felt silent and agreed with Kamal.
That night as Veena lay on the sofa in the room, she could see the silhouette of his face. His eyes seemed half open. His breathing appeared a little restless. He seemed to be mumbling something which was not very clear. A visibly upset Veena wept and prayed to the all mighty. She could not see him in such horrible pain. She had decided that if nothing happened by Monday, she would go home and consume alprose with water and sleep. A peaceful lasting sleep. The second way was to take some money from home and run away to an unknown place, to live an unknown existence. She did not know when she dozed off.
The next morning Veena went back home. At home, Veena received a call from her school principal informing her of complete medical reimbursement. This came as a big relief to Veena as the Fortis Hospital bill had been increasing steadily since day one. Ashok had asked her about the bill several times and she had replied, “Don’t worry. Everything would be alright.”
Chandan brought his marriage card, through which Veena was planning on withdrawing some money from the G.P fund. He was very happy to see the card. Pooja and Rahul also came that day. He looked well throughout that day. Reminiscent of old times…

His legs, arms and breathing exercises were going on twice a day. Next day the physiotherapist made him walk a few steps. And on 12th, he was taken outside the hospital in a wheelchair where he drank some piping hot soup.

The next day, Veena noticed a little blood in his spit. Immediately the doctor was summoned and an X-ray of the chest was called for. He was unable to exercise that day.

14th December, he was talking vaguely. He told Veena that the television was moving on the wall. He enquired about their granddaughter Prisha. He was talking about some files lying on the shelf and a host of other irrelevant things. Veena called Dr. Nandi, who came and checked Ashok. Everything seemed normal. The brain was functioning fine, no sign of depression but they took six bottles of fluid from Ashok’s stomach. After diagnosing the belly, Dr. Nandi informed the family that the cancer had spread a lot.

It was Rajesh and Ritu’s wedding anniversary on the 15th. Veena called them to the hospital, where Chandan brought a cake. Ashok gave everyone a piece of cake and wished the couple luck. That night, Ashok slept with his eyes open, fighting a case in the court. He argued the case. There were expressions of anger, happiness and surprise on his face. But he was still in deep slumber. Nobody could disturb him. According to the doctor that was a mental outlet. The stress had to come out.

Once Ashok had reprimanded a nurse as she was unable to give him an insulin shot. He told her that she needed training and she was incapacitated to handle the patient. Ever since that day. He started taking the shot himself. But on 15th when the nurse came for her shift, he folded his hands and apologized for that day. The nurse started weeping and she said that it was a part of her job.

That day Chandan and Ritu were sent back home. Deepak and Ruby, their nephews were supposed to come and stay the night.
08:00 p.m.
“Veena, is this our bedroom?”
“Are we married?”
“Is this the time to sleep?”
Veena could reply with a feeble affirmation.
“Why are so many people there in our room?”
“Only Rajesh is here.”
“What is he doing here? Ask him to go. We need to sleep.” shouted Ashok.
Veena remained by his side. She held him in her arms and made him feel like home.
“Finish your kitchen work and change then come back here.”
Veena stood up and came back. He asked for tea. He drank half the cup and asked her to have the rest.
10:00 p.m.

Veena put him to sleep. But Ashok did not feel like sleeping. It was as if he had guessed something. May be Veena as well… She had a keen desire to hug him. She went across the bed and planted a mild kiss on his forehead. His eyes spoke an unspoken language. Veena told Ashok that she had to go home that night as arrangements had to be made to shift him to Batra Hospital the next day. He appeared happy.
“Right, tomorrow by all means we shall go.”
11:30 p.m.
Veena was leaving.
“Tell me if you want me to go. I can stay if you say so.”
“No. We have to go tomorrow.”
Standing at the door Veena saw him smiling and waving his hand. Something moved within her. She ran back to him.
“Shall I leave?”
He nodded and smiled. Little did the lady know that it might be her last meeting with Ashok. It might be his last farewell smile. The last departing kiss.

Like the smile, the hands waving goodbye became an everlasting memory. He wanted to leave Veena with these. And he wanted to take her smiling face as a memory. This was the first time neither Rajesh nor Veena was with him. Maybe he did not want a repetition of events. Ashok asked Deepak to connect him to his didi ji, jija ji,veer ji his elder brother, bhabhi and mataji. He spoke to everyone and then had a glass of milk. His mother always told him that milk should be taken before the commencement of any journey. The journey becomes peaceful and easy.

Everything had been worked out in his brain.

The journey that started on 2nd November with the entire family ended alone on 16th December. He had pushed Veena out of the last chapter of his life.Some people live and die for other sake.

It is said that people who die all of a sudden are the happiest as they do not feel the pain or suffering that death brings along. They die peacefully but people closest to them suffer a lot. Can it be branded as happiness? Is that not selfishness?

Ashok kept Veena waiting for 44 days. He had suffered a lot within that period. Emotionally, physically and mentally. He used to console Veena by giving her confidence. He said “I am always with you.” Perhaps these words gave Veena the strength to face such a harsh reality.
The 44 nights Veena came home to the empty house she had hope and a desire to go see Ashok the next day. Ashok had made her an expert in handling everything relating to the house that she had never done before. Veena struggled with life but she never realized the reality that Ashok had in mind.

Veena’s deeply believed that nothing would happen to them. She always thought that woman’s guess was more accurate than a man’s certainty. She had confidence in her gods. But all these faiths, beliefs held no value once the heart wrenching news was broken to her. She had been left alone with a bag full of belongings and of memories.

A piece of paper left for her asked her not to remove her bindi, instead to make it smaller.
Ashok remains with Veena always. In her memories and in her heart. He shall remain with her not only for today or tomorrow but for centuries to come.