Tribute to Brothers

To a young boy growing up with his siblings his elder brother is the World. Traditionally in our culture this all-in-one important young man is very lovingly referred to as Dhonbe. This beautiful term of endearment automatically gives the bearer of this sweet title, a special position in the family. Perhaps that is our way of grooming this young man into adulthood.

But the role of this elder brother or Dhonbe is literally countless. At an age and place where the father has to work at two jobs or has to be completely away from home for most of the year, this is the young man who ushers his little brother into the world. A father may teach his son to swim, but who accompanies the eager swimmer on Friday mornings? That is non other than this champion of a brother.

What does a brother do in a boy’s life? He is the one who makes the kite, who lifts the airborne toy up into a safe distance and let his younger brother glow with importance! And when the wind is mischievous, whose assistance is sought? Yes, he is the guy who helped to lift it in the first place! Who helps with computer problems? Who helps with Algebra and also shares ‘cool’ computer games? Is it the Dad who does the settings on a new mobile? Dad has no clue! It is the big brother of course! And this Big Brother is a kinder & gentler BB than what George Orwell had in mind when he wrote his masterpiece "1984" !

Do brothers fight, argue of hurt each other, you might ask. Yes and No, the English has invented a lovely word for these trifles. Siblings just 'squabble' and it is a healthy disagreement in normal circumstances. Mock fights are the way cubs of all species learn to face the world. The role of the elders is to be the referee and make sure that the rules of the family are respected.

The famous British actor and writer, Sir Peter Ustinov’s loving words come to my mind: “Our children sometimes disobey us, for we are the bone on which the puppy sharpens its teeth” ( I swear that is how I read them, but when I checked this before writing here, I stumbled upon various forms of these gentle and loving words!)

What loving words! If our children do not squabble or argue or stage mock fights at home, or stand up for their rights at schools, how can they as adults stand up to injustices of the society?

Thank You!