On this International Women's Day, I write about a simple unknown personality, whom I luckily happen to know very closely ......

MY WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE

Achievers there are hundreds, doctors, engineers, astronauts, chartered accountants et al

But the woman of substance I admire most is, my very own Austi Jerbanu

A great person, a dedicated teacher, who actually lived by the principles she taught

A teacher who just didn't teach; she actually practised every word that she preached

Life tough was when suddenly at a tender age of six, from rich she became very poor

She lost her father; and the family its riches, within months, almost simultaneously

Kids had to go to orphanages, she went to Avabai Petit as Maayji couldn't their fees afford

Clever n outstanding in Studies, they sponsored college which she graciously declined, due to responsibilities at home

Did her teacher's training, remained unmarried to bear the responsibilities of mother n her grandma

Once an accomplished teacher; she brought a niece n nephew to this city, for education better

Along side, she knitted Kusti, n woolies, embroidered sari borders, to well educate the kids

Gave tutions to only two as per rule; but taught a dozen or so kids free

Educated her niece to a prominent surgeon become; n her nephew to a MBA become.

Then came a Bombaite, pampered by her parents, to live with her, as her niece in law

Thus grew my relationship with her into a strong bond, making her my soulmate

Soon she became my very own Jer Mummy, my treasure trove, which she will eternally remain.

Learnt I, so many things from her, but most importantly, the true values of a simple life.

My Shez n I grew up under her wings; she groomed n blossomed us, into beautiful roses

She definitely is the one, n always will be, our all. The one we love, admire and passionately adore.

MY WOMAN OF THIS CENTURY, WHO INCULCATED SO MUCH, SO SELFLESSLY, WITH HER UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. "MA WE LOVE YOU".

Armin Dutia Motashaw