Hailing from a family of spiritualists

Yesterday I went to my Aunt's house. This is my 2nd Periamma or Aunt 2. PeriAmma in Tamil literally means Big Mom. She is my mom's elder sister. Since my mom has two elder sisters - I have two big moms. See earlier blog on Aunt 2. They are both repositories of heritage knowledge and beautiful memories of a glamorous past. My two aunts were both married to very illustrious business men in Singapore. My aunts were often followed around by local photographers since they together with my mom were also reigning Indian beauties and fashionistas in Singapore in the 60s. I guess the equivalent of paparazies chasing the Hollywood celebrities LA style. When I visited my aunt a few days ago she started telling me many old stories. Great parties and temple traditions. I asked her for some evidence (being a good lawyer) and old photos. She promptly pointed to a cabinet full of old albums and WOW !!! She had an AMAZING collection of rare photography and soulful images. I was soo deeply touched and honored to see them. It was evident that I did come from a deeply spiritual family and all the stories my mom told me about their deep involvement in the local temples in Singapore and the wonderful celebrations they orchestrated all came alive in the photos spread out before my eyes. I share one photo taken by this very famous photographer PS Maniam on 31 Jan 1961. My grandma, my mom (22 years old), my Aunt 2 and her husband are all lined up in this photo (from right to left). They are surrounded by my cousins - all of them kids then but who are now in their 50s. Devi - the devout little gal in pigtails - at the forefront of this photo is a gorgeous dancer. In fact my mom was her official dresser and stylist and often made her hair, makeup and costumes for all her dance performances. Devi inspired me to become an Indian classical dancer and often encouraged me. Devi's daughters, now 27 and 16, are both great dancers and singers. Beautiful memories and beautiful photos.