Thank you, Sajani.

When the children were growing up we had two pianos in our house. One was an English upright made by Holden. This was really ancient, but had a very sweet tonal quality. Later we had a Rachals. This was a studio piano. Very classy, and the children, and Bossie, and Daku and Skippy all enjoyed the music. From scales to exam pieces to modern rock. After so many years, I am really happy my children learnt music.

Later, they grew up and left for college. They left home, and I missed their music. They learnt to sing for me, play for me over the phone. Flute, guitar, mouth organ would be played often. Piano ..... sometimes. Shantam would play at Furtado's, Bombay and I'd listen on the phone. For a good half an hour or so. Mostly Bach. Some his own compositions.He would play at the Church, I'd listen on the phone. We all liked it. Birthdays, Teachers Days, Mothers Days ..... the last few years my children have sung to me over the mobile phone. Sajani would often sing the hymn "Fear not, for I am with you". The Loreto Chorus was also a favourite. Shantam without fail would sing 'Words', anytime I wanted it. On Good Friday, he would sing 'Old Rugged Cross'.... because it was Easter,but also in memory of Toro. I loved his version of 'Old Rugged Cross', on the Church piano, in his deepest voice. On 19th January every year there would be 'Amazing Grace' with the guitar and his super-rich voice.

The last year or so, I listen to music with great trepidation.It actually pains me. I missed the phone-call songs. I missed the Furtado's piano, and my child playing B.Joel's 'Lullabye'. I missed the guitar strumming random tunes to which I had to give my 'expert comment'.I missed Sajani singing the Loreto Chorus. If nothing else, the School Song gave us both great strength to face any adversity. Why do I use the past tense .... I still miss this custom-made, call-for-it music.

Today was an exception. Sajani was at Godwin's (C.P.,New Delhi), and she phoned me to hear her play. I have not heard her play the piano for years. Not in the last five years. She has been away from home. Shantam and I lived each others lives through our music.All the time. Songs, piano, homesickness, joys, flute, guitar, anger, trials, mouthorgan..... the piano, and most certainly Bach. Sajani and I share a different kind of music. Today she played Fur Elise, snatches of 'Pianoman', a bit of 'Amazing Grace' , and the hymn 'Make me a Channel of your Peace', and a bit of 'La Bamba'. This ten minute musical medley filled my heart. Made an otherwise bad day come bright and joyful.

I cannot express my joy, my happiness. I can only thank Sajani.

Sajani, you made my day.