A Mother's Unbreakable Strength

Suman lived with her four daughters. She had married at a very young age, and her husband, Vijay, was 10 years older than her. Vijay was an understanding and cheerful person, and together, they built a happy family. Suman's life with Vijay and their daughters felt like a dream. But one day, Vijay’s sudden death changed her life completely.

After Vijay’s passing, Suman was left alone with their daughters—Nia, Meera, Saanvi, and Priya. Her grief deepened when Vijay’s family refused to accept her and the children. All the responsibility for raising her daughters now rested on Suman.

Some time later, Suman found work as a caretaker at the village church. This job became a lifeline for her and her daughters. With the little income she earned, she managed to meet their needs. She enrolled Saanvi and Priya, her younger daughters, in a school hostel so they could get a good education, while Nia and Meera stayed with her at home.

Every month, Suman visited the hostel to check on Saanvi and Priya. During one visit, they sat together in the hostel courtyard, where the warm afternoon sun bathed them in a comforting glow.

Suman asked softly, “Saanvi, Priya, how are things here? Are you adjusting well? Do you miss home?”

Saanvi smiled, her eyes sparkling with newfound confidence. “Maa, the hostel is fine. At first, it was hard being away from home, but we’ve made friends, and the teachers are very supportive.”

Priya nodded. “Yes, Maa. We’re used to the routine now. The hostel food isn’t as good as yours, but we’re managing.”

Suman chuckled. “I’m sure nothing compares to home-cooked food. But I’m happy you’re adjusting. Do you both have everything you need?”

Saanvi held her mother’s hand. “Maa, don’t worry. We know the situation, and we don’t want to stress you. We’re doing fine, and we’re learning to handle things on our own.”

Priya grinned mischievously. “But Maa, if you could sneak in some aloo parathas next time, that would be amazing!”

Suman smiled warmly at her daughters. “I’ll bring parathas next time. Just focus on your studies and stay happy. I know things are tough, but I’m always here for you.”

Saanvi hugged her tightly. “Maa, we miss you, but being here has made us stronger. We’ve learned so much about ourselves. We just want you to be proud of us.”

Tears welled up in Suman’s eyes as she hugged them back. “I’m already proud of both of you. You’ve made my life easier with your strength. No matter how far you are, you’ll always be in my heart.”

After spending time together, Suman waved goodbye to her daughters, her heart filled with both pride and a touch of sadness. Back at home, Nia and Meera were helping her keep the household running smoothly. Meera had started tutoring young children at the church, and Nia had secured a job at an office. Their contributions helped improve their financial situation.

But soon, Nia fell in love with a boy named Rohit, who worked with her at the office.

One evening, while Suman was sitting on the porch peeling vegetables, Nia approached her, nervously fidgeting with her dupatta. Suman noticed her unease and gently asked, “What’s the matter, Nia? Why are you so worried?”

Nia hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Maa, I... I wanted to talk to you about Rohit.”

Suman paused, sensing what was coming. “Yes, dear. Are you thinking of marriage?”

Nia nodded, her eyes searching her mother’s face. “Maa, Rohit and I love each other. But... he’s from a different caste. I’m worried about how people will react.”

Suman set the vegetables aside. “You know how hard inter-caste marriages can be. Society doesn’t accept them easily.”

Nia’s face fell. “I know, Maa, but Rohit is a good person. He understands me, and we’re happy together. I’m just not sure if you’ll support us.”

Suman looked at her daughter with understanding. “Dear, your happiness matters most to me. If you and Rohit truly love each other, I’ll respect your decision. But it’s not just about you two—this involves your families as well. Have you thought about how you’ll handle that?”

Nia nodded slowly. “We know it’ll be challenging, but we’re ready to face it together.”

Suman sighed, her heart heavy. “And what about the wedding? The money I’ve saved may not be enough for such a situation.”

With tears in her eyes, Nia took her mother’s hand. “Don’t worry about the money, Maa. Rohit and I will manage. I just need your support.”

Suman squeezed her hand. “If you’re happy, I’m with you. But remember, marriage requires more than love—it needs respect and compromise.”

Nia hugged her mother tightly. “Thank you, Maa. I can never repay what you’ve done for me.”

Suman smiled softly. “I just want you to be happy. Always remember, your family will stand by you.”

Despite her worries, Suman gave her blessing. Nia and Rohit got married, though Suman faced disrespect from Rohit’s family. She endured it all for her daughter’s happiness.

Later, Suman was blessed with a grandson, Yash. His arrival brought new joy into her life, and she spent her days happily caring for him.

Over time, Suman also arranged the marriages of her other daughters. Meera completed her education and married a suitable boy, while Saanvi became a nursery teacher and married a pastor through a simple court ceremony. Priya pursued nursing and married a South Indian boy. Each daughter found happiness, and Suman, seeing their contentment, finally felt at peace.

Suman had faced many challenges in her life, but she never lost faith. The story touches on important societal themes, such as the difficulties of inter-caste marriage, financial struggles, and the deep bond between a mother and her children. Suman’s ability to support her daughters, even when making personal sacrifices, powerfully captures the selflessness of motherhood. The emotional moments, like Suman’s conversations with her daughters, highlight the tenderness and warmth of familial love. Her unwavering courage and love as a mother guided her through everything. Her story shows that a mother’s strength is unbreakable, and her importance never diminishes, no matter how old her children become.