A Full Circle of Joy: From My Sister’s Naming Ceremony to Her Son’s

October has always brought with it memories soaked in rain and nostalgia. I vividly remember a rainy day in October many years ago when I was just four years old. It was my sister’s naming ceremony, and the celebration took place at my maternal grandfather’s home in Thottiyam. At that time, it was just my mom, my little sister, and me, staying with my grandparents. My Chitti and Mama — my mom’s brother — were there too. I remember how Mama, due to family responsibilities, had already started working, putting his studies aside to support us all.

In line with tradition, my grandfather bought new clothes for my mom, sister, and dad. But somehow, little four-year-old me was left out. And boy, did that cause chaos! I cried, shouted, and even lay on the road in protest. Everyone in the house tried to calm me down, including neighbors. One lady, whom I always feared a bit, even threatened, “I’ll crush these shallots on your eyes if you don’t stop!” But none of it worked — I was determined to be heard.

That night, with rain pouring since morning, my mama came home. Despite the storm and the late hour, he ventured out into the rain to find a shop that was still open. Most were closed, but somehow, he managed to get me a green T-shirt. It was a deep, vibrant green with an embroidered parrot holding a red fruit in its beak. That little T-shirt became my prized possession, staying with me until second grade, when I lent it to a friend for an annual day dance and never got it back. But the memory remains as fresh as ever.

Now, in 2024, the circle completes itself as we prepare for my sister’s son’s naming ceremony. This time, I’ve taken it upon myself to make sure every detail is perfect. I’ve visited multiple stores to find clothes and gifts, not just for the little boy, but also for his mom and my family. For my sister, I got a pure Tussar hand-loom silk saree, and for the little one, a handful of cozy outfits. I picked a beautiful Maheshwari silk saree for my mom and a matching shirt from Allen Solly for my dad.

I’ve always had a special love for buying sarees for my mom and grandmother, inspired by the grandeur I admired in Carnatic singers and their glittering silk sarees during concerts. It’s always been my dream to bring a touch of that luxury into my mom’s life, especially since she never sought it for herself. This time, though, I didn’t buy anything for myself. Funny how the joy of giving can outweigh the need for receiving.

This little boy has already made a difference in my life. I was never the type to make video calls to my mom, no matter how much she asked. But now, thanks to him, I find myself calling more often, just to catch glimpses of his playful moments. He’s like a power bank, recharging my energy and filling my life with joy.

When it came to naming my sister back in the day, nobody really gave it much thought — the priest decided on the spot during the ceremony. But for my nephew, I wanted the name to carry deeper meaning. I’ve been putting in hours conceptualizing the perfect name that embodies wisdom, strength, and purpose — something that would manifest positivity throughout his life. I even designed the announcement card, hoping to make this event truly memorable.

This little guy has ignited a part of me that wants to provide the best environment and opportunities for him, something I felt was missing at times in my own childhood. I’m grateful to feel this connection and responsibility, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes him — and us.

Stay tuned — I’ll be sharing his finalized name soon!