Remembering Mom.

Got up by about a half past 4, sleep wasn't forthcoming and therefore, recited my prayers. Was up at 6, lit the lamp and opened up the house. The caretaker and the driver, Kannan helped me to put the packed stuff into the car. Lekha's early morning cup of tea was invigorating. We, finally, left Raj Nivas for Pidavoor. 

Today was Mom's 5th Remembrance Day as per the English calendar. Had spoken to both Dad and Mom while spending time at their cremation spot.

Met up with Rema, Padmakumar, Ramachandrettan and Aji. Rema gave us a nice breakfast of idlis and sambar and soon after, Rema, Padmakumar, Lekha and self left for Vazhuvelil House to bid adieu to Murukesan. His elder son and family had touched down at Thiruvananthapuram at 6 and reached his house at Kottarakkara before 7. 

The body was brought in by 8 and by the time, we'd reached there Murukesan was lying in state quite at peace at last. Joined in the ceremonies as directed by the 'thirumeni'. After the completion of the full set of ceremonies, the body was moved into the ambulance for its onward movement to the Polayathode crematorium at Kollam.

Adieu Murukesan! May you be granted eternal peace. Interacted with his elder brother, Sekhar and sister, Maada among many others.

Wonder whether Murukesan was sad that he wasn't being cremated within the family's estate. It rained rather heavily for over 15' around that time. We, too, took leave soon after, dropped Rema and Padmakumar at their house, had lunch and set off on our return to Guruvayur.

Traffic was very, very heavy where we got stuck at a few chokepoints like Palarivattom, Aluva though Angamali was smooth. Told Kannan to drive via Aluva to avoid the crowded Kodungalloor route. We'd made about three stops, at Guruvayur to facilitate Lekha in buying stuff that she required.

We reached The Quarterdeck by 8 o'clock and went about the process of unpacking. All the windows of the first floor were opened. Padmakumar was informed of our arrival.

It was a quiet evening thereafter. 

Tailpiece.

Kannan is a good driver. Matured and quiet, though thoroughly inquisitive and I did explain the significance of certain of the spots that came enroute. And wasn't he thrilled?