A Choice for Freedom: A Story of Love, Sacrifice, and Understanding

Background:

In a bustling city known for its dynamic lifestyle and rapid growth, life moved at a frenetic pace. The skyscrapers reached for the clouds, the streets were busy with the hum of vehicles, and the aroma of diverse cuisines filled the air. It was in one of these vibrant neighbourhoods that I recently found myself, visiting my beloved Aunt Nitya after her daughter Riya's recent marriage. Little did I know, this visit would reveal a tapestry of emotions and decisions that would shape our family's future.

The Story:

I arrived at Aunt Nitya’s house on a bright, sunny morning. I had last visited them 32 years ago. The house was bustling with activity. It was very neatly organized, had bright colors and had cheerful people most importantly. Yet, i could sense the unease lingering in the air. Riya, my cousin who had recently married, greeted me with a forced smile I had little time to talk since I needed to connect urgently to a conference call. After my call, came to the living room where the kids and Aunt were already sitting. Uncle had gone out for a walk.

As we sat in the living room, sipping tea, Riya asked me this

Riya: “Bro, why did you send Raj’s biodata to us now? You could have waited for another year.”

Me: “The choice to wait was yours, not mine, Riya. I simply provided a biodata. U could have rejected it. I did not recommend it.”

Riya: At that time, I did not understand all this.

Siri sighed, looking troubled. Siri: “Riya, why did you agree so quickly then? U could have waited”?

Riya’s eyes filled with tears. Riya: “Raj was always around, pestering me to marry him. I couldn’t say no. But now... I feel trapped. It’s like I’m in a jail, with so many restrictions at home, in office, in in-laws’ places. I feel I just shuttle between three prisons. I am like a Parrot who has been caged. I have lost my freedom.”

Aunt Nitya listened carefully, sensing the tension. Aunt Nitya: “I asked Riya before proceeding. She said yes. Neither I nor Uncle or any of our relatives see any flaws in Raj’s family.”

Riya looked at her mother, frustration evident in her voice. Riya: “I was just 24, Mom. I had barely worked for three years. I wasn’t ready to lose my independence so soon. Why didn’t u think of me. U know me, I am not the family type. How could I adjust in this family? Didn’t u think from my perspective. I am ur daughter. U know me better. How could I adjust a career woman rikecwith family woman role? I feel my life is over. Look at all those who have not married still. See that cousin of ours, who is still roaming here and there. She is so happy.”

Aunt Nitya’s eyes softened, filled with regret. Aunt Nitya: “Riya, I wanted what I thought was best for you. I have seen enough of life. I have seen the worst of families. I felt that this family would take good care of you. They were so polite.  I didn’t realize how you felt about your freedom and independence.” I watched the emotional exchange, feeling a deep responsibility to offer guidance since I too had played a part in this alliance.

Me: “Riya, sometimes life places us in situations we’re not prepared for. It’s important to communicate your feelings. Have you talked to Raj about how you feel?”

Riya shook her head. Riya: “No, I haven’t. I’m afraid it will upset him and his family.”

Me: “Marriage is a partnership. Raj needs to understand your feelings. Share your dreams and desires with him. You deserve to find a balance between your new life and your independence.”

Riya looked thoughtful, wiping her tears. Riya: “You’re right. I’ll talk to him soon.”

After our emotional conversation, all were hungry and we sat down for lunch. Aunt Nitya made a delicious lunch that I absolutely loved. Her culinary skills never failed to impress, and it brought a moment of comfort to the otherwise tense day.

In the evening, we all decided to go out for Chaat, hoping to lift our spirits with some delicious street food. The bustling streets, vibrant colors, and tantalizing aromas provided a much-needed distraction. We laughed, shared stories, and for a moment, the worries seemed to melt away.

The conversation shifted to a broader topic of the current generation's views on marriage and family.

Siri: “This generation doesn’t even want to get married, let alone have kids. They just want to enjoy life without the responsibilities.”

Riya: “Most of my friends feel the same way. The burden of raising children is too much. We want to live our lives freely.”

I listened to their exchange, reflecting on my own experiences.

Me: “I drove 400 miles just because my daughter wanted to have a sleepover with her classmate. Daughters are difficult but beautiful. A father and a mother would do everything in their possession to make their daughter’s life safer and happier. Parents want a happy and safe life for their kids. But yes, perhaps it was too early for Riya. She could have waited a year longer.”

Aunt Nitya sighed, looking at me. Aunt Nitya: “Have we sacrificed too much as parents? Does it stifle our freedom? Does it take away from our core?”

I nodded thoughtfully. Me: “We do sacrifice a lot as parents. But it doesn’t take away from our core. It adds to it. We grow, we learn, and we love more deeply. Our sacrifices shape our children’s futures. Riya, you need to find a balance. Talk to Raj. Express your feelings. Marriage is a partnership, and both of you deserve to be happy.”

Riya looked at me with a mix of gratitude and concern. Riya: "But what is it that our generation really wants in marriage? Do we even understand it before getting into it? So many of my friends are already talking about divorces. It's like we don't even know what we're signing up for."

I sighed deeply. Me: "Riya, every generation faces its own set of challenges. The key is understanding what you want out of a partnership and being open and honest about those desires. It's about finding common ground and growing together. The institution of marriage is evolving, and it's okay to feel unsure. What's important is to communicate and support each other through these changes."

We had another round of Chaat. In the Initial round, me and Riya ate Panipuris. In the second round, I went for Khakdi Chaat while they went for special Pav Bhaji. We drove back home in my car.

That night, after eating chaat, I prepared to sleep. As I settled into bed, I called out to Riya and Siri.

Me: “I never came to your home since u were born. This is my first visit and don’t know when I will come again. Be happy, kids.”

Riya came over and sat beside me, her face a mix of determination and vulnerability.

Riya: “I promise I will speak with Raj soon.”

I looked at her, feeling a pang of guilt wash over me. Me: “Riya, I feel responsible. I contributed to push you into this marriage. I’m so sorry if I made things difficult for you.”

Riya took my hand in hers, her grip firm yet gentle. She smiled weakly but with a glint of strength in her eyes.

Riya: “It’s not your fault. I made the choice too. I just need to find my way through it. You've lightened my heart today. Thank you, Bro, for being supportive. I guess if I had a real brother, he would have thought about me really. Being elder, I didn’t have someone to guide me, and that cousin of ours who recently got married made me think of marriage too, but I guess it was too early. I honestly do not know, but I feel a brother would have really thought this over. I can’t say this to my Mom and Dad. They gave up all their savings for this marriage. I could have waited one more year, built my assets, and then would have done this marriage with my funds only. This is something I have to navigate, but today knowing that i can seek ur counsel anytime makes it easier. I’ll talk to Raj and find a balance. Thank you for understanding and for caring. Thank you for being a Bro whom I never had.”

We sat there in silence for a moment, the bond between us stronger than ever. I realized then that despite the challenges, the love and support of family could help us overcome even the toughest situations. Blood is thicker than Water. Blood Relations are stronger than Sword. 

Tears welled up in my eyes too. I bid good night to my little sisters. In the morning when I was leaving, my aunt offered to wake them up, but I said, “No, don’t wake them up since it is a Sunday. Let them sleep. I already said goodbye to the kids.”

As I left their home, I felt a sense of peace. The choice Riya made wasn’t easy, but with open communication and support, she has to find her path to freedom and happiness. And as a family, we learned the importance of listening, understanding, and supporting each other through life’s journeys.

Moral:

Two days Later, I came to know that Riya had a heartfelt conversation with Raj. She expressed her feelings of being trapped and her longing for some personal freedom and financial independence. Raj listened patiently, understanding the weight of her words. He promised to support her and work towards creating a life where she could feel free and fulfilled.

Happy Ending:

In the months that followed, Raj and Riya made adjustments in their lives. They both continued their full-time jobs but agreed to allocate time for personal growth and independence. Raj’s family began to understand and respect Riya's need for space and freedom.

Riya learned that while marriage came with responsibilities, it also provided a platform for mutual understanding and growth. Aunt Nitya, seeing her daughter’s happiness, felt relieved and grateful.