The House in Hyderabad

Climbing trees, sitting on the swings, or playing under the shade of the mango or guava trees was our afternoon pastime. As long as we didn’t make too much noise no one stopped us. Afternoon siestas were important for my parents. I grew up in one big house with my parents, my siblings, and our extended family. When we moved to a new house our extended family moved with us. I have wonderful memories of my time spent with uncles, aunts, and cousins.

It was in the evenings that the whole family came together. The grownups sat on the veranda and discussed the day's news while they had their chai. Sometimes the children were called to join the conversation if it was relevant to them.

Activities outside of our home were somewhat restricted for the children. Going to the movies wasn’t easy. First, we had to get my father’s permission. Papa wanted to know the name of the movie, where it was playing, and who was going with us. One of my aunts would usually offer to accompany us. Once we had Papa’s approval we would rush to get ready and leave. Not till we were out of the house would we relax and begin to enjoy the prospect of seeing a movie!

From an early age, we were taught the importance of a good education and that we had to make sacrifices to achieve our goals. "No one can take away your degree from you," my father would say.

My parents constantly reinforced the importance of family ties and mutual respect. Above all, we were taught to be genuine and sincere in our thoughts and actions. Superficiality and show were frowned upon. One of my father's favorite quotes was “Sit tall, stand tall, and think tall”. I have never forgotten that.

We were members of the Secunderabad Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in India. It was founded in 1878, located on a huge campus encompassing gardens and trees some of which were over 100 years old. The grounds were serene and peaceful. The club still exists though I doubt it has the same old-world charm.

I went to the Secunderabad Club quite often with my parents and close family friends. I took my first swimming lesson there! My brother, sister and I would come home with stacks of books from the club library. Agatha Christie, P.G. Wodehouse, and Pearl S. Buck were among my favorite authors. I found Wodehouse's Jeeves so hilarious, reading alone in my room I would often laugh out loud prompting my mother to ask what I was reading. The club shop was another favorite stop. I still remember their tasty, fruity, large lollipops, and Cadbury chocolate bars.

At a Christmas event for children, Father Christmas (Santa Claus) arrived at the club in a helicopter with his sack of gifts. I was so excited. A Christmas favorite was the “firecrackers” from the club shop. The crackers made in the shape of a bow, when pulled from both sides would pop open with a flash, and out fell a little toy or a charm. Though many of our friends have moved to different countries we still share our childhood memories. In June 2015 we had a reunion in Toronto, Canada. And sure enough, a friend brought a gift wrapped up like the “firecracker” we used to love! Many of us are in our 70’s now but we haven’t forgotten the wonderful times we had together as children.