My maternal grandmother (Nani) was one of the gentlest, most loving ladies I have ever known. Her unwavering faith in God, as well as her kind, compassionate, and caring nature, truly defined her as a person and made her the beautiful human being she was.
The oldest of seven siblings, my Nani was a pillar of strength for her sisters and every member of her family. Not only was she a loving wife and mother, but also a large-hearted human being who always had a kind word and a helping hand for anyone in need. In the time I got to spend with her, my grandmother taught me many life lessons that I remember and practice to date.
7 LIFE LESSONS LEARNED FROM GRANDMA
Looking Back
- During my growing years, I eagerly awaited her visits, and during my summer holidays, I would visit her. Spending time with her was always a learning experience, as she recited amusing anecdotes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Geeta.
- She would often say that there are many diseases, but only one true physician: God. She taught her daughters always to trust in God and his ways.
- Nani was a natural at seeing the good in any situation. Even when her health was deteriorating in the later years, she chose to look at the brighter side of things – a true example of an unwavering optimist who would say – This too shall pass.
- She believed in simple living and high thinking and practised it too. Whenever she had something extra (food or clothes), that she thought she did not need, she would give it away to someone less fortunate, without thinking twice; while wearing a simple cotton sari herself.
- Nani loved cooking for her family. She was adept at dishing out tasty Indian recipes. She believed in cooking food with love, and her good vibes always turned anything she cooked into a delicacy.
- She cared for people and didn’t shy away from doing something special for those she knew. During her younger days, she often prepared some of her signature dishes and desserts and sent them over to her acquaintances and extended family members without any desire for recognition.
- Unlike most of us today, she never bothered about how others behaved with her. She only concentrated on what she could do for others. She was childlike when it came to the nitty-gritty of life.
ALSO READ: THE CALL OF THE CAULIFLOWER, MUSING ABOUT NANI | 3 THINGS BEING AN AUNT TAUGHT ME ABOUT LIFE
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Though it’s been many years since she left us, I still reminisce about those precious moments I got to spend with her and thank God for them. I will always cherish the life lessons learned from Grandma.
Do you share a special bond with your grandparents? Have you learned some amazing life lessons from your grandma? Tell me about it in the comments section below.
Last Updated: 24th March, 2026
