More Than Just a Parent: My Father, My First Superhero.
A recent Bollywood film trailer stirred feelings I hadn't experienced in a long time. It perfectly nailed the wonder and reverence children have for their fathers. To me, my father was more than just a parent; he was my first true superhero, surpassing any fictional character.
Inspired by his academic achievements, I wished to replicate his success. Though I struggled with arithmetic and geometry at first, his narrative about getting a perfect score spurred my desire. I dreamed of matching his achievements and having teachers compete for my attention with them. Even his confident calligraphy set an example for my own. One cherished memory jumps out: completing a tough geometry problem and finishing first in my math class.
More than academics, the joy in my father's eyes—a modest nod, a loving grin—became my most valuable prize.
Despite its inadequacies, the movie trailer struck a chord with me because it captured the common infantile loyalty of fathers. It was both touching and heartbreaking, bringing back memories of my childhood when my father was my hero.
Years ago, I saw the film "The Tree of Life," which examines the fluidity of nature, humans, and the universe. The film portrays the father as an unsung hero, akin to the silent backbone of a family, symbolizing discipline and grace.
In Hindu tradition, the word for father comes from the root "पा रक्षणे," which means "protector." This protection goes beyond physical safety to include the fostering of a child's academic, financial, and ethical growth through discipline, example, and, in some cases, strictness. My father exemplified this philosophy as a true "कर्मयोगी" whose passion was unwavering. I believe that our generation sometimes undervalues fathers, not out of a lack of empathy but because they have difficulties expressing their emotions. So, here's to all the unsung heroes in our lives: fathers who mold us, inspire us, and adore us unconditionally. #Fathers ’day
🙏Harshil🙏
