PATAUDI- NAWAB OF CRICKET is an anthology of essays on Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. This brilliant anthology is put together by Suresh Menon, India's best sports writer and Journalist.
"Turn the Lights off" by Soha Ali Khan is an essay in this anthology in which she recapitulates the fond memories of her father and his love for her. she feels privileged to be loved by such a wonderful father. Words seem to fail her as she tries to describe her feelings for him. She recalls that her father loved to lie down in front of the picture window overlooking trees and birds, reading books or browsing the net. where the family members travelled, they always knew that Abba was ta home sitting next to the telephone. He had a love-hate relationship with the telephone, and kept a close watch on it even though the ringing sound irritated him. She refers to him as the "rock" quietly supporting the family at all times.
Abba led a very simple life without luxurious cars and expensive brands. He was frugal and thrifty and preferred to get things repaired rather than go for new ones. The yellow posters which read "Turn the lights off" seen everywhere around the house showed his sense of frugality.
Soha considered her Abba as a role model in her life. She was inspired by the way he taught everything by example. She believed that her Abba taught her the essence of happiness.
The author saw her Abba's determination and fighting spirit when he was hospitalised. Despite his illness the way he tried to comfort everyone taught her many virtuous qualities such as patience, endurance and tolerance. He was courteous and compassionate to everyone in the hospital despite his discomfort. He never demanded respect but commanded it. Never once did he raise his voice or demand attention. They celebrated his 70th birthday in Pataudi. Eight months later he succumbed to a severe lung infection. Sitting by his grave, she would read books and they would talk to each other. She found that, she derived strength from these conversations as he, "Abba" was the rock of their lives.
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Good review
ReplyDeleteTHANKS FOR STOPPING BY
DeleteThere are so many stories on Pataudi. It is good they have combined it together in form of a book. Will check it out soon.
ReplyDeleteI am surely checking this book out. Sounds good and I enjoy reading real life stories.
ReplyDeleteNice to know
DeleteI love how you talk about Soha's essay in the book. It has intrigued me to check out the book. Thanks for the recommendation
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by
DeleteI would love to read the story of their lives. It is a love story and a good parental advice kind of book I'm sure.
ReplyDeleteI am interested in this book. Will read soon to know.
ReplyDeletethank you
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