Diwali has always been a special time of year—a celebration of light, renewal, and togetherness. But this year, it has taken on a whole new depth of meaning for me. After spending over two decades in the United States, I returned to India to be with my mother, who faces the challenges of paralysis and Parkinson’s. This journey home has been filled with joy, nostalgia, and unexpected hurdles, all of which ultimately led to giving my mom the greatest gift I could this Diwali: the chance to live once more in her own beloved home.

Returning to Our Roots

Our family home in Jaipur, Rajasthan, has been with us for 47 years. It’s the home my father built in 1976, where I grew up, surrounded by memories, stories, and remarkable visitors, including Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh, whose presence left an indelible mark on our lives. This house, situated near an ancient temple, was not only our home but a space that resonated with history, warmth, and my mother’s lifelong devotion to my father’s vision. It’s also where my mom feels the enduring presence of my father—a bond that’s only grown stronger over the years.

But one of the fondest stories about this home comes from its very construction. Though shorter in height, my father’s elder brother was always there to lend a helping hand. Without consulting anyone, he decided to adjust the door heights to match his own stature—just over 5 feet. This led to countless laughs and a fair share of bumps on the head over the years for anyone taller! To top it off, the entire construction of the home was completed for less than 36,000 rupees—about $500 at the time—with labor costing just 2 rupees per day. These stories, told and retold in my childhood, add a layer of humor and nostalgia that’s woven into the very walls of our home.

Renovating with Purpose and Challenges

Renovating a 45-year-old home to meet accessibility needs was no simple task, especially in a space intertwined with family history. Old houses like ours are blessed with open spaces, thick walls, and ample ventilation—perfect for a different era but less practical for my mother’s needs today. To ensure her comfort and mobility, we needed to make significant changes, starting with the basics: widening spaces, creating ramps, and installing support bars. The bathroom needed a complete transformation to be entirely disability-friendly, allowing her to move around with ease and independence.

The biggest challenge, however, was adapting her favorite parts of the house, like the windows she would peer through daily. These windows let in warmth and dust, and some had to be closed off to provide a comfortable, dust-free environment. Though she was initially saddened by these changes, she gradually appreciated the new look and functionality we introduced to the space. Watching her smile as she explored the refreshed home brought an unexpected feeling of fulfillment, one I hadn’t felt in years.

Overcoming Resistance and Finding Support

The journey wasn’t without its share of obstacles. As renovations began, some local society members and community leaders opposed the changes, voicing concerns over the alterations to our traditional home. This experience underscored just how different life in India can be, especially when transitioning back from the structured systems abroad. Standing by my principles, I engaged local law authorities, who ultimately offered support and helped me to move forward with the renovations. While the process was slower than I’d expected, I came to see it as part of the price I willingly paid for this chapter of my life.

The Gift of Coming Home

This Diwali, as I bring my mother back into the home she has loved for so many years, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. There’s no greater gift than the chance to return her to a place that’s safe, accessible, and filled with the familiar memories she cherishes. Although I took on this journey with a sense of duty, it has given me a profound sense of satisfaction to see her content, joyful, and at peace in the space she calls her own.

For me, Diwali is now a celebration of resilience, honor, and family. This journey back to my roots hasn’t been easy, but it has been worthwhile. As we light diyas in the newly refreshed home, I am reminded that home is more than a physical space—it’s the legacy of love, the honoring of memories, and the shared joy of the people within it.

From our hearts to yours, Happy Diwali! May this festival bring light, love, and cherished moments to you and your loved ones.

मेरा वो मकान रोज़ कई सवाल करता है!

A poem I wrote in the past about this home and making the dream come true for my mother.

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