Krishna Pujari
61 years, Manager, Al Reef Manual Carpentry, Dubai Daughter: Sneha K. Pujari, 30 years
In my childhood, it was my mother who shouldered the responsibilities of raising the five of us – my three sisters and a brother. We hardly saw our father who lived hundreds of miles away, working hard to meet the family’s needs. To ensure that we lived well, he had to sacrifice his precious time with us. In the process, what my siblings and I lost out on were the love, discipline and everlasting bond that a father’s presence at home would have given us.
As the eldest son, I believed I had a duty to help in the upbringing of my siblings and so I moved to Dubai 30 years ago. The initial years here went ensuring that my family was well provided for and it was only when they were all settled and independent that I began to think of having a family of my own.
Knowing well the emotional pain and profound effects of growing up without a father, I was keen not to inflict the same on my family. I wanted to be a pillar of support and strength for my wife, Shyamala, and two daughters, Sneha and Sweta. All that I had missed in my childhood, including the joy of living as a family unit, has now been fulfilled thanks to my loving family.
I strongly believe that a family is the most valuable gift we can ever receive in our lives. I was keen therefore to inculcate in my children the importance of nurturing strong bonds with each other and their extended family.
I have given my daughters the freedom to pursue their passions and blaze their own paths – but also making them aware of the limitations of that freedom. My daughters have brought so much joy and love into my life. They have grown up into fine young women – loving, compassionate and responsible; and I am blessed to be their father.
SNEHA: When I think about my father, what instantly comes to mind is the picture of a person who shoulders responsibilities ably and willingly but without taking any credit for it. The choices he made and how he stood by his family has taught us about unconditional love, the importance of giving, and the simple concept of placing your family’s needs first.
Dad is also very patient and composed, and these are his major strengths – to be who he is in any situation. He also thinks deep before taking a decision. Even today, I go to him for advice. He offers me answers but lets me make my own decision. I hope that someday, I can do this for my daughter too – be ready with answers and guide her in the right direction.
I’ve given my daughters the freedom to pursue their passions and blaze their own paths