King's Mother

In the sultry afternoon of 1936, as the war-weary world began to rebuild itself, a woman stepped off the rattling steamship onto the bustling shores of Port Klang, Malaysia. Her name was Rajamma, a woman of strength and resilience, with a heart full of hope and a belly swelling with new life. Beside her clung a child named Pattu, wide-eyed and innocent, unaware of the tumultuous journey that awaited them. She clutched the worn photograph of her husband, Gopalan with desperation etched deep lines on her face, but determination glimmered in her eyes. From Port Klang to Mentakab, ended up in Renggam, her journey continues.

Gopalan had been sent to Burma as part of the war effort, to work on the notorious Death Railway. As the war ended, communication became sporadic, and Rajamma lost touch with him. With a heavy heart, she embarked on a perilous journey across oceans to find the love of her life.

Malaysia welcomed her with a chaotic symphony of languages, aromas, and vibrant colors. The colonial architecture and dense tropical foliage created a tapestry of contrasts that mirrored Rajamma's own turbulent emotions. With limited resources and a language barrier, she faced countless obstacles in her quest to trace Gopalan.

Months turned into years, and hope began to wane. Rajamma, however, was not one to be defeated easily. She rented a modest house in the heart of Renggam and took odd jobs to make ends meet. She gave birth to a lovely little boy and named him Subramaniam, honoring her ‘isthe theivam’ back in India. The locals, intrigued by her story, extended their kindness, offering assistance and guidance in her tireless pursuit.

As the years passed, Rajamma's search yielded no results. Yet, amidst the heartache, she discovered a profound strength within herself. She began to forge a new life in Malaysia, embracing the culture and its diverse tapestry. Pattu and Subramaniam grew up immersed in the rich blend of Malaysian and British influences, their laughter mingling with the call of exotic birds and the distant hum of street vendors.

Then, one fateful day, a letter arrived from a distant relative in Burma. The news was grim—Gopalan had succumbed to the brutal conditions of the railway. Rajamma's heart shattered, but she found solace in the love and resilience of her children. Faced with the harsh reality that her husband might never return, Rajamma made a brave decision. She found a small, welcoming community in Johor and decided to build a life there. As the months passed, she embraced the challenges of a new culture, language, and way of life with her kids.

With time, Pattu and Subramaniam got married with their suitors, and Rajamma became a beloved grandmother. She poured her strength and wisdom into ensuring their success, instilling in them the values of perseverance and compassion. Unfortunately, Pattu died at early age, resulting the responsibility of raising 5 children lies with Rajamma. However, Rajamma didn’t hesitate at all and ensured that 5 grandchildren will be raised well, fulfilling the promise that made to her daughter. The family prospered, its roots deeply entwined with the soil of Malaysia.

As Rajamma aged gracefully, she reveled in the accomplishments of her grandchildren. 4 of them had settled down and secured their future in Malaysia, while another migrated to England, reflecting the testament to her unwavering determination and the sacrifices she made for their future.

Rajamma's journey had taken her across continents, through despair and triumphs, leading her to a place she had never imagined. In the heart of Malaysia, she found not only a home but also a legacy that would endure for generations—a testament to a woman who turned adversity into a tapestry of love and resilience.

On this Women's Day, we celebrate my great-grandmother’s Rajamma's legacy—an example to the strength of women who face adversity with courage and resilience. Through the trials of war, loss, and the challenges of starting anew, Rajamma's story echoes the indomitable spirit of women who shape the destinies of generations. Her legacy lives on in the success of her son and 5 grandchildren, that carries forward the lessons of their grandmother, a beacon of strength in the face of life's storms.

Happy Women’s Day