My MOTHERS And Others

Though plagued by relatives out to dissect her motherless existence, Jamuna Rangachari nevertheless found herself nourished by a network of mothers.

- Jamuna Rangachari

When I was just two, my mother Lakshmi passed away due to unknown reasons. I was brought up by my nani-nana (maternal grandparents), aunts, and uncles. I must say I had a wonderful childhood as everyone played a role in bringing me up, and in teaching me many things. The problem was 'the others.'

"Lakshmi's daughter?" was the first question people used to ask me whenever they met me anywhere in our family circle. Some would insensitively add, "She does not have her beauty and colour, poor girl." My mother was a classic beauty in her youth. It is true that I looked more like my father. Even so, there is nothing wrong with my features, but having a dusky complexion is inexcusable in South India.