Happy Birthday to My Shrey

Dear Shrey,

Happy birthday to my ray of sunshine! You often ask me whether I love you more and the answer will always be yes.

I still remember the day your mom was rushed to the hospital. We were all anxiously waiting for you to arrive. You came into our lives much earlier than expected and it was sleepless nights for everyone. Your mom and dad acted composed but in reality stressed out and reacting each in their own way, while Ammumaa was calling out to every single god she knew making endless promises for your safety. Finally, two tiny miracles were born you and your sister. But we still couldn’t meet you right away because you were in the incubator, fighting to breathe on your own. I remember crying quietly at work, always putting on a brave face in front of your mom, praying that both of you would be okay and that one day we’d celebrate your birthdays with laughter, cake, and chaos.

And you did fight your way through surgeries and endless days of worry until finally, our Shrey came home, the bundle of joy we had all prayed for. You were a delicate little baby, which is probably why you don’t have as many childhood photos as Arkin does. But that’s only because you were too precious for us to even take our eyes off you.

Over the years, we’ve made sure every special moment with you has been captured - from goofy selfies to those perfectly unplanned candid shots. Each one is a memory we’ll always cherish. Shrey, I adore the fact that you’ve always been the mature, sensible boy the calm center of our little chaos. Of course, a lot of credit goes to your mom for that, but you truly are the smart hero for all of us.

Now, as you step into your teenage years, life will start to change in many ways. You might find us adults annoying or feel like we still treat you like a kid and honestly, we probably will. Because to us, you’ll always be our little boy.

Happy 13th birthday, my dearest Shrey! This is such a special milestone your official entry into the teenage world. May this year bring you endless laughter, new adventures, and the courage to chase your dreams fearlessly. Never lose that kindness, thoughtfulness, and quiet strength that make you you.

As you grow taller, smarter and a little more independent, just remember that you’ll always have a family that loves you beyond words and this Puri Aunty who will always be your biggest cheerleader and your partner in silly selfies 😊. I can’t wait to share your new found passion for books and watch the amazing person you continue to become. Keep shining, keep being your wonderful self and remember no matter how old you get, you’ll always be our baby boy who fought his way into our hearts.

Luv,
Puri Aunty 💛