TOI: Shaheen ammi is my angel-Eijaz

SHAHEEN AMMI IS MY GUIDING ANGEL

AS MOTHERS DAY DRAWS NEAR,ACTOR EIJAZ KHAN,OPENS UP ABOUT THE MEMORIES OF HIS MOTHER


My mothers name was Shaheen Khan.She was bed-ridden for twelve years and passed away in 1991.Due to certain family tensions,we could not even visit her during her final days.
I dont think we ever got a chance to forge many memories.But,the ones I do remember have enriched my life more than anything else.In Islam,we believe jannat (heaven) is under our mothers feet.That love and respect was imbibed in us.
Shaheen ammi,thats what we used to call her,was very beautiful.I remember her vividly: she had the longest hair in the family.And she would take a long time to dry her hair and detangle them.We children used to help her with that.Also,she was the most awesome cook I ever knew.Even the simplest food she cooked used to win her fans.She loved papa a lot.I remember her standing near the window,waiting for him to return home.
Later,she developed Parkinsons Syndrome.She lost her balance and fractured her hand.I remember all of us taking care of her and feeding her.After she left us,I remember my dad praying for her soul every night.We used to repeat the prayer after him.And,to this day,I still practice it.She still is an integral part of my life.
I get a little agitated when kids disrespect their parents -- especially their mother.I wish I could make them realise before its too late.I believe most of the good that happens to us is the result of our parents prayers.Every time something goes right,I happen to look up and thank her.I know she is still looking out for me.On Mothers Day,I remember her more.