FROM NONE TO THE SUN

FROM NONE TO THE SUN 1
A True Story of the Flight of a Phoenix
DR. AARTI DATAR
p
English Translation
by
Sudarshan Athavale
Rajeshwari Padwal
www.vihangpublications.com
FROM NONE
TO THE SUN

FROM NONE TO THE SUN2
All rights reserved for this edition with publisher except for use in review, the
reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any
electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, is
forbidden without the written permission of the publisher or Author.
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First published in India in October 2013 by Vihang Publications
ISBN: 978-81-88885-45-9
Copyright © 2013 by Dr. Aarti Datar
Woodland, C-51/52
Kothrud, Pune-411038
Mah. INDIA
Cell: 9372441369
Cover-design: Rahul Phatak
Cell: 9623299370
Printed and bound in India by
Repro India Ltd., Mumbai
Online purchase
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Price `200
ii

I dedicate this story with love and respect to my beloved parents
who instilled good thoughts and power of thinking in me right
from my childhood and to the Destiny who provided me the
opportunity to have this unique experience!
iii

Reviews
A Citation given to Dr. Arun and Aarti Datar’s by their closest
friends:
Accolades to a very brave tolerant and patient couple who have virtually
moved a mountain of obstacles to reach the summit of success! Special appreciation
of Prabha’s patience, tireless service - during Datar Sir’s period of immobility -
and her readiness to brave all odds - and that too; with a smiling face and a
benign approach is truly commendable.
While his presence of mind saved Datar Sir from a major catastrophe,
Prabha’s unfailing support and unstinting faith in God, made their progress to
the “Dawn of Success” a little less painful. We have known Prabha for almost
10 years now, but never once did she mention the trials, tribulations and unlimited
pain she had to suffer along with Datar Sir. Our heart swells with pride to
think that we have such precious friends amongst us and they have both shown us
that a “Healthy and strong body will put to shame the ugliest of injuries”, while
patience, tolerance, diligence and complete faith in the Almighty will always take
us to the “Summit of Success”.
Bravo, both of you! Hats off to Datar Sir - a tower of strength and tolerance
and Prabha - an epitome of patience, hard work and affection. (Prabha is Dr.
Aarti Datar’s maiden name)
—Mrs. Lata Dixit
* Your book will prove to be inspirational to the whole society. Your description
of the courageous flight Dr. Arun Datar took, in spite of his wounded leg, is
really unsurpassable! The language of this book is thought provoking even to a
senior literary person. Congratulations to both of you for contributing to the
world of literature by writing such a valuable book.
—Padmavibhushan Dr. Mohan Dharia
* A journey of success and achievement

A true story of the modern day Savitri who stoically stood by her husband -
Satyawan right thru’ his trials and tribulations. The memoirs of a successful
marital co-existence. We at, ‘Gadima Pratishthan’ honour and bestow upon
Dr. Aarti Datar- the authoress of such inspiring memoirs the ‘Gadima - Gruhini,
Sakhi Sachiv Puraskar’ for the year 2012
—Mrs. Sheetal Shridhar Madgulkar
* A stirring memoir
The first part of this Autobiography pertaining to the accident is really nerve
wrecking. The book’s title and it’s cover is very apt, meaningful and unique. This
true story is a potential subject for a ‘moving movie’!
—Prof. Pra. Chin. Shejwalkar
* A book which will leave it’s mark amongst Autobiographical
Writings.
This book has carved a distinct hallmark in the Marathi literature of
Autobiographies. It is extremely good reading, absorbing and definitely not the
type which can be read in a single sitting and put aside. The aftermath of the
trials and the tribulations the couple underwent touches the raw nerve of one’s
depth and makes it impossible to read on for a few moments. It is highly
commendable to put one’s experience in such few words!
—Prof. Dr. Vijaya Deo
* I read your autobiography with happiness and with zest. It was gripping
and I got completely involved in it. The courage, patience, and steadfastness shown
by you while facing the calamity which cropped up unexpectedly in your life, are
really commendable!
—Anu Bhagwat (Social Reformer)
* An overwhelming tale of a loving couple. A humble salute to the amazing
power of your body and mind with which you both walked the arduous, untrodden
path of your never ending journey from ‘None to the Sun’!
—Sudarshan Athavale
* They vanquished the demon of the adverse situation and worshipped the
God of Truth, Purity and Beauty (Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram). With firm

faith in Him, they soared in the sky like an eagle.
—Madhuwanti Dandekar (Renowned Singer)
* This is a passionate and fascinating autobiography. The seekers of true
meaning of life will be inspired to achieve Self respect and Self confidence.
—Prof. Dr. Santosh Dastane
* Dr. Arun’s courage coupled with Dr. Aarti’s love and affection turned into
a melodious symphony. Overcoming all the obstacles in your path and like true
saints, you two together created a happy and harmonious world. Dr. Arun
Datar, the worshipper of the Sun… A Salute to you!!
—Dr. Ajit Kulkarni
* The book is an ‘Aarti’ - an emotional salutation - to the glowing Sun by it’s
true, ardent, virtuous woman worshipper. It enables readers to introspect, think
deeply and get an inspiration to live a happy and successful married life.
—Dr. Subhash Mehta
* A sculpture created through a deep struggle for life.
The cover page of this book is deeply etched in our minds.
—Pustakpremi Mandal (Book Lovers club)
* ‘Untiring efforts, deep understanding and thorough learning make the
impossible possible, the unattainable achievable.’ Your exemplary marital life is
in tune with this Sant Tukaram’s saying and it will serve as an ideal for the
young generation.
—Prof. Dr. Shaila Kalakar
Press Reviews
* Story of strong determination to live
The book is an ascending graph of the triumphs in the battle against all
odds. The young generation will learn a lot from this story of prudent, exemplary
partnership in married life.
—Lina Nigudkar (Senior Press Correspondent)

* When Arun Datar was bravely battling with death, the doctor painted a
bleak picture of his future, saying, “He will be fortunate even if he is able to
walk.” But the joy of seeing Datar, with his courage, tenacity, willpower and
faith, proving medical science wrong and flying high in the sky like an eagle, is
beyond words!!
—Daily Kesari
* Instead of nursing or expressing your grief, surmount it - you will be
successful. An unique autobiographical writing that offers this valuable lesson.
—Maharashtra Times
* An autobiography which will prove to be an ideal and a treasure trove of
experiences for the young generation.
—Daily Sakal
* A true story of courage and perseverance, with the help of medical treatment
and methodical exercises, brought the strength of the leg injured in a fatal accident
back to the original.
—Daily Sakal (Saptarang)
* Dr. Arun and Dr. Aarti Datar have proved that with positive attitude
and strong willpower nothing is impossible.
—Saptahik Sakal (Bookshelf)
* This memoir is a vivid example of purposeful writing to provide inspiration
to readers to live a meaningful life rather than writing merely to satisfy their
liking of reading.
—Dainik Samana
* A rare willpower coupled with a strong sense of responsible marital
togetherness describes the “None to the Sun” A very inspiring and a must read
book for young couples who squabble in life over trifles.
—Amhi Sare Brahman (Biweekly) Maitree Pustakashi
—Friendship with Books

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The original Marathi book received such an acclaimed feedback from
the readers that the first edition was sold out within three months.
So, though a little late, second edition has recently been published…
There was a deluge of spontaneous appreciation. The most
outstanding feature of this positive response was that the memoirs
are highly inspirational and an ideal for today’s youth. Youngsters, in
search of false happiness, run relentlessly after money, power, get
exhausted, worn out in fighting fierce competition. In the process
they neglect physical and mental health, cannot maintain marital and
other relationships, start losing hope, getting engulfed in the
tribulations, and getting depressed due to even minor adversities and
difficulties of their stressful life. This autobiography is a guiding
beacon, a live example of a couple’s noble, courageous battle with
an unexpected major calamity of a near fatal accident which they
fought with the weapons of strong willpower and optimism, unending
love and mature understanding between husband and wife. So it is
necessary that these youngsters read this book, receive inspiration
and guidance to live their life with happiness, satisfaction. However,
it is a hard fact that they are more inclined towards, more comfortable
with reading English books than Marathi. And hence it is in the best
interest of these young children and grandchildren that this memoir
be made available to them in English.
So, here is the English translation for them. It is an extremely
happy and satisfying moment for us.
About the translators - Sudarshan Athavale and Rajeshwari Padwal
- I must tell the readers a thrilling experience of natural catharsis of
emotions I lived because of their excellent, effective, subtle

translation: When I wrote about the true story of Arun’s fatal
accident, I felt a sense of relief and could write with a little aloofness,
without getting emotional, without a tear in my eyes. But when I was
reading the translation of that incident, the most appropriate,
meaningful words and emotional expressions stirred my heart, I could
not control myself and the emotions were hard to contain, they
surged through flood of tears. I have no words to praise and to
thank Sudarshan and Rajeshwari for their wonderful work!
Vihang Publications’ Mr. Rajendra and Simantini Kher,
immediately after publishing the second edition of Marathi version,
also took up spiritedly the responsibility of publishing this English
translation. I must acknowledge contribution of my little friend
Manasi Tatke made in this project with her mastery on English
language.
I and Arun would prefer to be in debt of all these gentle friends.
Both of us eagerly await readers’ views, comments and opinions.
Dr. Aarti Datar
Dr. Arun Datar

TRANSLATOR’S NOTE
Aarti and Arun are a very affectionate and humble couple. It is
inherent for them not to accept ‘no’ for anything they want. In brief,
they are ‘go-getters’. They achieve it in a loving and modest manner.
They did the same thing to get their excellent book translated in
English by me!
When I bought and read the book (in Marathi), I was deeply
moved! I wrote the following two lines (in Marathi) on a piece of
paper:
“A humble salute to the amazing power of your body and mind
with which you both walked the arduous, untrodden path of your
never ending journey from ‘None to the Sun’.”
I visited them at their residence to offer my profound appreciation
and obtain their autographs on my copy. During the course of
discussion, we agreed that it is imperative that this inspiring memoir
must reach out to a maximum number of readers and so, it must be
translated in English too. They gently cajoled me to accept this ‘task’!
It was really an honor for me, but I was aware of my limitations. Till
date, I have translated many books from English into Marathi but I
had never attempted translating any Marathi book into English. I
knew I could bring in the correct nuances of the emotions but I was
apprehensive about my ‘Marathi English’. It was, however, not possible
for me to give this excuse to such gentle souls who are a living example
of ‘surpassing all limitations with positive attitude, will-power and
untiring efforts in achieving their goal’ I had to accept it!!
Once I accepted to ‘venture’, the first thing I did was to look for
help to ‘surpass’ my limitation. I approached Rajeshwari Padwal, a
dear friend of my wife Sarita. We were aware of her excellent

command on the language and her vast vocabulary. I requested her
help to ‘Englishize’ my English! She was hesitant at the beginning,
because, one, she is very reserved by nature and two, she had never
tried applying her skills in such translation work before. Then I gave
her the book to read. And it did the trick! She was so overwhelmed
and deeply impressed that she readily agreed to be a part of the
project. So, we both ‘first timers’ took up the ‘task’. Slowly and steadily,
the work progressed and the outcome is presented for you, dear
readers. If you like the language, it is Rajeshwari’s credit.
I truly feel blessed to be associated with the project of taking
forward this inspiring memoir of courage to a wider range of readers
through this English version. I hope the book will be read extensively
and will help a number of people to be inspired and get benefited by
this unique journey ‘From None to the Sun’.
Sudarshan Athavale

SALUTE TO DESTINY
TTTTThis is not a fiction but a true story. A true story of the flight of a
phoenix from ‘None to the Sun’.
Forty years ago he met with a horrendous accident which paralyzed
him from top to toe. He was a youth then, on the threshold of his
married life, weaving dreams with his young bride about a world
filled with colors of love, joy and comfort. The young bride then, is
me - Aarti. Aarti means a devotee’s humble salutation to the Divinity’s
greatness. This book is then the ‘Aarti’s aarti’ of her God - her
husband, the phoenix, whose name is Arun. This is my aarti of Arun’s
phenomenal courage, unfathomable tenacity with which he
surmounted cruel destiny and vanquished Death. This is a day to
day account of his raging battle with Death as witnessed by me all
along as I stood by his side and offered him support. This story with
a happy ending is the unparallel story of his recovery from the
prolonged illness with sheer indomitable will power, strong optimism,
tremendous self-confidence, perseverance and unflagging efforts.
Everyone faces big and small adversities in life and I am sure many
will be able to co-relate with this story. For the weak minded, who
buckle under the physical or mental pressures of adversities, it will
be a source of inspiration to retaliate, gain strength and direction.
When I shared some of the traumatic events of the story with my
closest friends I felt partly relieved of the heavy burden I had been
carrying for a long long time. They too, were deeply moved and
wept. They insisted and firmly persuaded me to write down, not
only those stray incidences, but the entire story in greater detail since
I was physically and mentally involved. Our efforts were crucial not
only to my life but to our lives and our future together. I was fully

aware that writing about it would be a Herculean task for me since
speaking itself was so painful! Once I mentioned to my Guru that
‘we never realized how, after Arun’s fateful accident, we completely
lost the path of our lives and yet at the same time we also did not
realize that slowly but miraculously we were brought back on the
right path! We deeply felt about the following …firstly, the relief
and the joy of finding ourselves back on the right path was much
greater than the pain and the anguish of losing it initially. Secondly,
the constant awareness of the Divine Presence during both the
processes. ‘He’ was with us on both paths!!’ My Guru instantly reacted,
‘Aarti, you were destined to reach Alandi and your Godmother
Dnyaneshwar put you on the strong shoulders of your God Hanuman
and sent you to Pandhari - to Vitthal Rakhumai’s kingdom. You both
are extremely lucky and blessed.’ His inspirational comment helped
me to cleanse my mind and realize the meaning in a far better and
clearer way of our - Arun and Aarti’s - strong co-existence and
togetherness.
In this elated state of mind, I could think positively about giving
expression to the powerful emotions which were crowding my mind
and were ready to emerge. They started prodding me thereby
compelling me to take up the pen and put it to paper. The moment
I yielded to their pressure and started to write, they gushed out in a
torrent and gave the apt expressions to every written word. Memory
pages were revived and started whispering confidently to the pen
and paper. I never retained a separate ‘Memory Book’ in the sanctum
of my heart since it was not any different than my ‘Book of Life!’
All those painful and cherished memories were part of my life like a
lining firmly attached to a cloth. When memories emerged they did
not come alone but brought with them all the values I learnt in my
life, right since childhood. At the same time, the valuable treasure of
thoughts was also converted in words.
Thus, I started the procedure of unburdening the emotions from
my mind by expressing them in words. Slowly they found their
rhythm. I did not intend to voice our suffering and sorrow but, wished
to highlight how we overcame those sufferings patiently and
confidently. We surmounted all the difficulties by putting aside our

sorrows and worries. Ultimately, we defeated destiny and emerged
victorious. We climbed up the steep mountain of success together,
hand in hand, with firm determination. I did not want to highlight
our occasional frustrations or the unbearable stress, but wanted to
emphasize on the continuous satisfaction we experienced with the
strong feeling that we are courageously fighting it out and steadily
progressing towards our goal of winning the war. During this battle
I used to continuously converse with myself and not succumb to
the hopelessness, weariness and depression. This story is probably
the penning down of those ‘dialogues with myself!’
I convey my deep and sincere gratitude to the Unseen High Power,
the Almighty who made me aware of my unlimited inner strength
unknown to me, made me acutely aware of my duties and
responsibilities and also made me abide them with full strength,
sincerity and dedication, did not allow the goodness in me to perish
at any time, despite the flood of wrongs and bitterness which was
trying to take a hold on me. Such huge calamities are the barometers
of our difficult times. They remind us about the presence of the
Omnipotent Divinity and the earnest need to have deep, abiding
faith in Him. Faith, strong belief in God is not a sign of weakness.
It, on the other hand, strengthens us. It makes our lives easy, simple
and satisfying. It teaches us that even adversities and calamities are
part of His plans and therefore should be befriended with rather
than turning back from or run away from them.
Such difficult times bring our minds closer to each other than the
happy phases in life. The relationship grows close, the bonds
strengthen. With the increased strength of love and affection for
each other, together with the hope for happy future, calamities can
be overcome and life’s glory can be brought back. When the calamity
is in the form of physical handicap, the importance of an expert
Doctor, who is also benevolent and compassionate, is fully
understood. We also realized the unimaginable power of positive
thinking. Looking at the slightest positive side of the most negative
condition is extremely helpful, constant thinking and discussing about
the bad things is not. It is nothing but waste of precious time which
can be better utilized on focused efforts. Put aside the evil and accept

the good part. Even a small ant, before picking up particles of sugar,
lightly but quickly removes the soil attached to them without wasting
time in pondering over it. Calamities teach us a lot, lot more than the
book knowledge. Both of us too, during our trying times, learnt to
have a positive attitude and always look on the bright side. So, after
about two and half years of constant struggle against physical
disability, when the Civil Surgeon certified that Arun still has 40%
disability, we were not disheartened. We looked with happiness and
hope at the 60% of ability, which he achieved with efforts from zero
percent and was confident to take it to 100% - FROM NONE TO
THE SUN. We also very well understood that behind everything
that unfolds, God has a definite plan. By His grace, ‘you are not
disabled by the disabilities you have but you are able by the abilities
you have’. We put this hard earned knowledge in actual practice.
Is it not a fact that everyone’s life is a story of struggle? Destiny
or God, whatever you call it, gives us the chance to direct our story
of struggle and also to decide it’s end. But we remain unaware of
this opportunity and do not make use of it. To know the right meaning
of the saying - ‘You are the sculptor of your Life’ and confidently
work on giving right shape to our life is not at all a matter of conceit.
On the other hand, it is to know ourselves and bring about the
changes in us which the situation demands. God makes His every
son and daughter ‘Beautiful’ by instilling in everyone the beauty of
virtues, beauty of goodness and also by leaving a part of Himself in
their hearts. It is then up to us to know and to become aware of
those God-given beauties and feel His presence in us. Once we cross
this important stage of knowledge and awareness, He provides the
right direction to our life. We become fully attuned in our lives. We
get firm grip on it and like an eagle can soar high in the open skies.
Even if the sky falls down, we can still override it and stand with our
head held high and live our life with pride. We must always be grateful
to the Almighty God who gives us the knowledge and also the ability
to use this knowledge at the right time to our benefit. We must always
accept His blessings with humility.
Dr. Aarti Datar

BOON OF BONUS LIFE
IIIIIinherited the zeal or should I say, the obsession, for Physical Fitness
from my father Late C. V. Datar and my grandfather Late S. K.
Wadekar. Being an ardent devotee of Bajrang-Hanuman, the god of
strength, gave me the impetus to devote maximum time available to
physical exercises. As per the advice of my maternal grandfather
Late G. L. Kunte, I joined the Bhosla Military School at Nasik. During
the Military Training at school, I mastered the art of shooting and
horse riding. Our daily routine consisted of rigorous physical exercises
which made me physically stronger. After finishing school, I returned
to Pune and joined M.E.S.College. I had a very rugged built and was
a robust young man. During my college days I achieved notable
success and laurels in ‘Iron Games’ such as Body Building, Weight
Lifting etc. I was popularly known as the ‘Body Builder’.
While I was studying for M.A. in Economics at the University of
Pune, I met Aarti. She was Inter University champion in Kho Kho
and Table Tennis. We met, fell in love and got married. My job at
that time required extensive travelling. I used to travel on a motorcycle.
During one of the official tours, while I was travelling from Sangli
to Ratnagiri, I met with a horrible accident. My right leg was injured
thereby crippling me, right from the waist to the toes. I was at death’s
door. Owing to the Grace and Blessings of Bajrang, I was saved. I
was reborn. In retrospect, that was the turning point of my life. I
have always felt that if that ghastly accident would have occurred
before my marriage with Aarti, I would not have survived. The ill
fated accident after marriage seemed to be a part of the Divine plan.
My wife, Aarti, gave me unstinted support and love. She was like a
loving and fiercely protective mother. Just like Savitri who sought

her Satyawan back from the clutches of Yama - the God of Death,
she too, released me from the clutches of death. I cannot imagine
my fate without her. She was my constant companion, a strong
support during my raging battle with Death. She constantly monitored
my needs to the extent that she would know and plan beforehand
my various needs and requirements. She handled all the situations
that arose in a deft manner. She became my shield, protecting me
from the severe and repeated attacks of all sorts of adversities. Her
love and affection was the most priceless balm for my unbearable
pains and agonies. Sometimes I used to get depressed, frustrated. I
was on the brink of embracing death instead of going through
unending, nerve wrecking suffering. But Aarti’s awe-inspiring and
deep abiding faith in the Divine, her firm determination of
surmounting Destiny by keeping me alive and her sincere, untiring
efforts helped me to banish that thought. ‘I must live for her’ was
always the paramount and important thought. She kept the flame of
hope constantly burning in me.
She taught me to look on the bright side of the tragedy. During
the accident, I was knocked down on the road from my motorcycle.
I was conscious while I was being transported to the Hospital by
total strangers. I was admitted to a private Hospital in Miraj, in spite
of the rules that are mandatory where the victim of a road accident
must be admitted only in a Government Hospital. I was in the hands
of an expert Doctor - Dr. G. S. Kulkarni.
Dr. Kulkarni saved me. After a major emergency surgery, he put a
plaster cast on my right side that covered me from the chest to the
toe. I was lying in the bed on my back, unable to move, constantly
staring only at the ceiling for days together. Subsequently, I had to
undergo many more complicated surgeries. Doctor commended my
strong and healthy physique since I could survive so many of them.
Besides, I know for sure that there was one more reason - our -
Aarti’s and mine - strong mind and will power. As my body became
weaker and weaker, our minds grew stronger.
The sufferings did not remain limited to the physical torment
only, but we also suffered mental, economic and social torment. The
Divine was testing us. He made us to go through severe penances

which fortified us and kept despair, frustration, weakness,
helplessness, negativity far away from us. We entrusted ourselves
completely to my God - my Bajarang, and He provided us with the
strength to fight on all the fronts - physical pain, mental torment
and economic crisis. We fought with honesty, sincerity, integrity. We
never strayed from the path of truth.
It is not that we never got depressed. From time to time, we did
face occasional frustrations. But we meticulously worked on that
with the help of firm determination, tenacity and perseverance. My
injured leg was in a plaster cast for over seven months. When it was
finally removed, I looked at my leg. I was in tears! I could not believe
that it was my leg! It was just a slender bone and skin wrapped around
it - no flesh, no muscles. Where was my strong leg which was muscular
and shapely that was achieved by extensive exercising, by working
hard for more than fifteen long years? Doctor comforted me and
Aarti. He assured me that this is not a permanent condition. It will,
no doubt, need tremendous efforts, hard work but improvement
was not impossible. Aarti and myself, together, brought about the
improvement. The leg did not totally regain it’s original shape and
strength but it improved considerably.
After the accident every day used to bring forth new problems,
new difficulties. This continued for more than two full years.
Problems, difficulties became an integral part of our daily life and
we became habitual to them. That probably reduced their severity.
With Aarti by my side, I faced physical pains and looking at my
efforts she endured a lot of mental agony. We used to tell each other
that changing the past is beyond us but we can definitely build our
future.
After two and half years of unbearable agonies, one day I was
able to stand on my - not one but - both feet. That night, when I was
alone, thought came to my mind that, now as I can stand on my own
feet, I should leave bed and should do something. The Divine must
have some purpose behind giving my precious life back to me. Even
with my severe physical limitations, I must spend the bonus life
thoughtfully and should not waste it lying on the bed.
I, obviously, turned to Aarti for advice. We had a long and fruitful

conversation. We both agreed that it is time to work. We also agreed
that doing an eight to five job somewhere was not my cup of tea!
Aarti was of the opinion that I should teach every member of the
society the importance of taking care of our body, of building it
strong and as the old adage ‘health is wealth’ and ‘a healthy mind in
a healthy body’ thereby living a happy, satisfied life. I should teach
them the daily disciplined exercises needed for that. She explained
to me why she thought this was most appropriate for me and it’s
significance. She said, “One reason that you could overcome destiny
and could stand on your feet is due to your extremely good health
and well built body. It is an effect of your systematic efforts of more
than twenty years. Now, you must spend your bonus life in
propagating the importance of Body Fitness in the society at large.
Moreover that is the area where you have expertise and liking. Your
innumerable prizes and trophies is your identity. You not only
appreciate the art and the science behind it, but it is your passion.
Go for it. You will also be happy, contented and mentally satisfied
for doing something in your most favorite and preferred area which
is beneficial to the society too.” Aarti was right! Exercise, body
building, muscle control was really ‘my’ field. I was more happy and
comfortable in the Gymnasium than at any other place in the world,
even more than in my home. Aarti’s idea of having my own
Gymnasium and of teaching what I know the best to many others
was very sensible and lucrative. I jumped for it. We arrived at a
conclusion that I should start and run a Gymnasium. ‘Working for a
healthy society’ will be the aim of my bonus life. I kept my
impairment, my disabilities away and decided to prove to myself,
more than anybody else, my own abilities, what I can do, how I can,
like any other normal person, do something special, useful, beneficial.
I started working towards achieving my Goal, making progress in
the right direction.
My meeting with death changed my perspective, my attitude
towards life, offered a new meaning, it became much more valuable
to me. It was my new life, and I wanted to live it with real happiness
and satisfaction, which is achieved by living for a purpose, achieving
my goal, a national and social cause: ‘contributing modestly towards

making a healthier, stronger India.’
Today, on looking back after thirty five long years, I really feel
happy, content and proud. We took a right decision, arrived at a
right goal. I worked and worked, with zeal, concentration and
dedication. I did not rest, did not get tired and did not get distracted
due to my few physical disabilities. I was always aware of them but
never made an issue out of them. My Bajarang took care of them
and kept me all the time on my toes. My Gymnasium was my
profession, means of earning money for living, but I never looked
at it from commercial point of view. I never gave undue importance
to money, never compromised my values for it. I considered it as a
social service, service to the nation, my gratitude towards God and
to all those who helped me to be back on my feet. I am deeply
grateful to Aarti for a greater part of this achievement. She
understood me fully, she respected my values, my views. She also
took jobs, worked hard to support the family but never ever left me
alone. She was always there for me. Together and with greater
understanding we progressed in life. We lived with pride, self respect,
confidence and were never ashamed of our actions or deeds. We
kept ourselves away, far away, from greed, hatred, corruption, other
vices and always sought love, respect and satisfaction. My students
were my challenge and also my solace. Their progress and success,
their muscular bodies and healthy minds were my inspiration and
my achievement, an immense source of happiness and fulfillment.
All sorrows, anguishes, pains were long forgotten, they were a distant
past.
I was and am still very clear in my mind about the means of what
I have achieved today in my life. The first and foremost is my utmost
faith and belief in my Bajarang, His grace and blessings. Next, but
not the least, is Aarti’s constant loving and unstinted support and
determination. Then, the economic support from my loving parents,
compassion and expertise of our doctors, assistance from
innumerable friends and also from unknown people, especially the
folks of Miraj.
I followed and continue to follow some rules very strictly,
meticulously, sometimes doggedly: Bear pains, sufferings, and sorrows

silently, do not cherish them, accept them as they are. Do not
complain about them to others and try to gain sympathy. Do not
become piteous, it makes you weak. Overcome pain and agony with
courage, determination with all your might and conquer them. Many
a time, I used to talk to my wounded leg, used to challenge it - ‘give
me as much pain as you want, as much as you can, I am not going to
succumb, surrender, cry, but endure, sustain, fight back and win.’
And my leg used to give in and I used to win!
I have always treated and will continue to treat pity, compassion,
mercy and sympathy as my enemies, impediments in the improvement
and progress. I do not seek help unless it is a must. I never plead for
mercy; keep my backbone straight, stand upright. I think about those
who are in more pain, facing more severe difficulties than I, get not
only very irritated but extremely angry, if someone tries to extend
sympathy. I had decided since the very first day of my Gymnasium
that on account of my wounded leg, I will never abstain from my
duty - daily attendance in the Gymnasium at the given time. I am
proud that I am adhering to that decision till today and without
exception. I had accepted the fact that on some days my leg is going
to pain. I told Aarti too, that ‘she should take note of the same but
should never worry about it. If she does worry, it will upset me a
lot’. I found some difficult but effective exercises to improve the
condition of my weak leg and make it stronger. Some of those are
really, extremely distressing and hurtful. Aarti has been daily
massaging my injured leg for decades. She still does everything
possible, including lot of pampering of my leg so that it should
regain it’s original strength. It is God’s grace that I have Aarti by my
side throughout this severe penance.
Aarti many times used to mention that, ‘one who has, or should
have, lots and lots of patience is a real patient’ and I tried hard to be
one.
For some time before this accident took place, many a times Aarti
used to get upset, restless, anxious with a strong feeling that something
wrong, something inauspicious, sinister is going to happen. Was her
Godmother Sant Dnyaneshwar forewarning her? Many times she
expressed her anxiety to me and on that fateful day of the accident

she suggested, even insisted that I must refrain from going out. But
as my duty beckoned and was important to me, I ignored her gentle
admonition and dutifully went on that tour. Was it a Divine revelation
to her that I am all ready and am prepared to face and override the
worst situation?
The intention behind narrating this story of my accident and my
recovery thereafter is not to highlight my sorrows, agonies to the
readers but very clearly to offer inspiration, motivation to those who
are undergoing some tough times of their lives. To motivate them to
retaliate, not to accept defeat but fight back and surmount destiny.
To convince them that it is possible, to prove them that Aarti and I
were successful. I want to assure them that God supports those who
support themselves, want to boost their confidence, enhance their
determination and will power. Even if one person fights back and
surmounts his destiny, then, my purpose of writing this book will be
fully served, I will feel I am truly blessed.
I pray to God Bajarang to inspire and to ignite the fire in the
minds of the ordinary people to become extraordinary through the
burning passion for the perfection.
Dr. Arun Datar
Physical Fitness Expert, Surya Gym, Pune.

BLESSINGS
TTTTTo narrate, to share with, to talk to someone is man’s nature.
Sometimes one does that, even though he does not have anything
worth telling or narrating. All of us lead our lives, rather our lives
flow according to the set ways, turns and twists and accordingly, we
follow, react, adjust, change, develop our tendencies, behavior and
our mentality. There are, however, some things which cannot be or
we do not wish to express or reveal to others. Sometimes, we tell a
few things to someone and then question ourselves about it’s
propriety, it’s worthiness. But sometimes some people do experience
a strong inner urge to talk about some matters, some unique
experience of their lives and to reach out to the whole world. They
transform this into a ‘message’ or an ‘essential communication’ and
then that urge does not allow them to rest until they talk or write
and deliver it in some effective way to the public at large. When the
expression is skillfully showcased, it becomes a tale, a story or a
legend. It does not remain mere narration of events and incidents
but the raconteur’s views and interpretations enhance them and
people co-relate this narration or story with their respective lives.
All these thoughts crowded my mind because of Dr. Aarti Datar’s
autobiographical book ‘From None to the Sun’. This is the story of
the battle waged with destiny by Aarti and Arun during the early
days of their marriage. This is also the story of the daily battles they
waged within themselves. It is an amazing story. Their love for the
games and sports brought them together but destiny planned a ‘Game
finish’ immediately after their marriage. Their dreams were shattered,
lives were devastated. It is really incomprehensible! But they proved
destiny wrong by their deep, abiding faith in life and it’s creator.

They decided to join hands together in this battle, to accept the
calamity with courage and not to let fear overrule them at any point
of time. And they just did that. With the rich values that were
inculcated in them by their parents, their firm beliefs, strong minds
and bodies, they emerged victorious.
I feel that in this narration there is purity and fearlessness of hearts
which have the courage to accept the call of destiny. Two life partners
complemented each other, provided the strength to each other. They
were always righteous, honest and God fearing. Both of them walked
on the right path and reached from none to the Sun. The Sun still
shines brightly on their path - the path of purposeful, meaningful
life. To keep up the physical and mental fitness is not only their rule
of life; it is their life support system! This book is a testimony of
Aarti and Arun’s trials and tribulations.
The book touches us to the core. But it also tells us that zeal,
courage and purity of mind strengthen and inspire, create an ardent
desire to overcome the odds in order to reach goals. But path to the
destination is never straight, smooth or comfortable. It is rough, full
of twists and turns, uneven and furrowed. There are dangers and
difficulties, calamities and catastrophes lurking at every bend.
Overpowering these demons is inevitable. Sometimes the battle is
with the external enemies and sometimes it is within us. This story
has it all. Aarti was under a constant shadow of profound sorrows
and nail-biting worries. But she took all the possible measures not to
evoke any sympathy or pity for themselves.
Today, when I look at Arun, who is young at seventy years of his
age, and I listen to Aarti’s devout, pious lectures, I find it hard to
believe that only a few years back, Arun was like a skeleton lying in
bed in close proximity of death and Aarti was tormented with never
ending worries. I am very happy to see them happy. They are living
a contented life, in the company of their innumerable successful,
grateful students with healthy minds in their healthy bodies.
I would recommend all to read this moving, touching story and
imbibe from it to lead a focused and meaningful life, in spite of the
tragic calamities.
Dr. Yashwant Pathak

DEED OF FRIENDSHIP
IIIIIt was around 1963. I was studying in the 10th standard. I used to
spend evenings with my brother Sham on the playground of M. E.
S. College. We shared a common interest in swimming, exercises,
long walks in the jungles and hunting. One day Sham mentioned to
me, “Last evening I saw a young man in M.E.S. College. Brother,
what an attractive and strong physique! He looked so handsome. Let
us meet him tomorrow.”
Next day when we reached college, ‘he’ was coming out of a
classroom. I was stunned to see him… glowing complexion, piercing,
sharp gaze, long flowing hair up to the neck, muscular physique,
well toned upper arms visible beneath shirt sleeves and a very graceful
gait. We were greatly impressed. We approached him hesitantly and
introduced ourselves. He was very cordial and warm. That was the
very first meeting we, brothers, had with the expert athlete and body
builder- Arun Datar.
I joined M. E. S. College after my matriculation. The first encounter
with Arun Datar quickly culminated into a close friendship and
remained that way for the rest of our lives. He is a good friend as
well as our role model.
Wherever he used to be, be it in the class, library, swimming pool
or Gymnasium, he used to be always surrounded by boys - his
admirers, those interested in physical fitness, body building. Many
like me used to get greatly impressed by his muscular, handsome
body. We wished to have a physique like him, well toned muscles
and a personality like him. We were his admirers - his followers. Yet,
he neither treated us in a dominant manner nor was he ever arrogant
with us. When he realized our interest in body building and fitness

he started coaching us. He never expected us to address him as ‘Sir’
or ‘Guru’, though that was a very apt title for him. We used to consider
ourselves lucky, rather fortunate to get so closely acquainted with a
person like him.
Arun is respected for his attractive physique as well as for his soft
demeanor and peaceful loving attitude. But his strict discipline and
strong self esteem makes people in awe of him. He is very
appreciative. One can receive a pat on his back from Arun, even for
a little good work. In the beginning, Sham and I always used to try to
attract his attention in the Gym by making deliberate mistakes, but,
he never used to raise his voice or punish us. I have never seen Arun
angry or heard his raised voice. Very soon a close friendship was
formed amongst Arun, Sham and myself. We started addressing him
by his first name, sometimes even by his pet name - Arnya.
I enact single or maximum double role in films and dramas, but
Arun plays a myriad roles in my life. He is not only a good friend but
also a guide, mentor, well wisher and a supporter. Our relationship
has surpassed the borders of words and names, it is well beyond
words. He is my soul mate. In fifty years of our friendship, in spite
of his stupendous success, fame and respect, I have never seen him
conceited or egoistical and I have never seen tears in his eyes.
He completed his education, got a good job and eventually got
married to Aarti. Just as they were settling down in their new lives
together, a life shattering catastrophe struck in a ghastly accident.
Sham and myself are witnesses to Arun and Aarti’s fierce battle with
death and destiny. But, they emerged victorious. Arun, like a virtual
phoenix arose from the ashes and got a new lease of life. Words
miserably fail me to describe the decade of agony, distraught,
financial, social, domestic turmoil Arun and Aarti had to undergo.
Even the slightest recollection of the days gone by sends a shiver up
my spine.
This book is, then, a heartrending account of those years written
with not a view to garner sympathy and is free from exaggeration.
The title ‘From None to the Sun’ is very appropriate, most
meaningful. Readers will realize that while wiping tears after
completing the book. It is not a story form and neither it is an

autobiography nor an eulogy. The intention is not to pay a tribute or
praising one self. It is an honest narration of the experiences of two
warriors. I am sure many readers will be able to co relate and many
will receive inspiration and strength to fight their own battles.
Dr. Aarti Datar is a scholar of literature and has to her credit
various religious discourses written on various Saints. She is also an
experienced Professor with a philosophical attitude. But here she
writes in simple, natural style, easy to understand for any age group.
I think simple writing is more difficult, hence rare. A writer must
have a command on the language, words, and expressions. Aarti writes
fluently. You will feel as though you are reading a novel. Descriptions
of incidences are so vivid, as if they are happening right before one’s
eyes. She has used dialogues as effectively as soliloquies. The pace
and intersperse of light humor makes the book more interesting.
The reader is held in a firm grip as he/she becomes one of Arun’s
and Aarti’s close friend, their well wisher and becomes involved in
their fight, anxious of the outcome. Readers do admire their attitude,
are also overwhelmed with their self respect, and yet do not
sympathize or feel pity for them. That is not the purpose of this
book.
When I read the manuscript of this book, I broke down many
times and while writing this article it is hard to control myself from
weeping. But I am happy that Arun and Aarti - the close knit, loving
couple with the feisty touch- won the battle, Arun was blessed with
a new lease of life. Aarti, his Savitri, brought her Satyawan back
from the hands of Yama, the God of Death. A thought always comes
to my mind: if this accident would have occurred in the present
times, the advanced medical knowledge, modern treatments would
have mitigated Arun’s pains and sufferings to a very large extent.
During the long, fierce battle, Arun lost his physique. His weight
was reduced to half! He almost became a skeleton. Their mental
agonies were much severe than Arun’s physical pains. Their future
was bleak. When I went to meet them after Arun’s accident, I saw
Arun lying on the bed, fully covered in plaster, totally immobile,
staring with blank eyes at the roof. But he had not lost his dignity.
He used to tell us not to worry instead of us telling him. He used to

raise our spirits instead of us raising his. ‘This too shall pass’ was his
motto. He used to smile when we used to be despondent. And his
courage, his perseverance worked. Our friend, ‘the wounded warrior’
became ‘the conqueror’. He won the name and fame, not only in our
nation but in the world, with his great work in the area of Physical
Education. His disciple Mahesh has won the bronze medal in Mr.
Universe competition of Body Building - a great honor.
Our friend is a great sculptor. He has been responsible for
sculpturing strong, beautiful, elegant bodies of his innumerable hard
working students. And he has also sculpted his own body, overcoming
the disability imposed on him by the accident, as you see on the
cover of this book. Remember that he is seventy years old! I am very
proud of my friend, my ‘Guru’; I embrace him with love and salute
him with respect. He is generous, a perfectionist, truthful, a great
teacher and a great student. All these qualities made him stand firm
and erect against the conspiracy of Death and Destiny. Arun and
Aarti together are doing a great social, national work of cultivating
India’s youth - healthy minds in healthy bodies. I sincerely pray to
God that the movement of Healthy and Mighty India initiated by
this idealistic couple continues with more and more vigor.
I always like to, but my busy schedule does not allow me to meet
Arun and Aarti often. But, whenever we meet it is as if we are
continuing from where we left off last. Arun talks about Aarti and
Aarti talks about Arun. Then we also talk about their dear Surya
Gym, their activities, new projects, new successful achievements of
their virtuous students, about Arun’s favorite ‘Trion Art’, Aarti’s new
book or lectures, about Arun’s ninety one years old mother and on
many more subjects. I am fortunate to have such loving friends. They
have their own world but they accommodate many choicest people -
like me - in it too.
I always wonder how I would have endured some of my life’s
phases of physical and mental pains, tensions without Arun’s and
Aarti’s support. I cannot express my gratitude in words for these
two angels and their sincere loving care. The same depth of emotion
motivated my brother, Sham, to go to Miraj and stay with Arun and
Aarti to help, to offer support during their bad days in the hospital.

I strongly recommend this book to everyone. Whenever you are
in trouble and are facing calamity, just remember Arun and Aarti,
their battle and you will draw strength, you will optimistically put in
efforts, you will challenge the destiny and fight. If one person receives
inspiration to endure and fight a crisis of his life and surmounts it,
the purpose of Aarti’s writing, Arun’s fighting will be well served.
I am putting in all possible efforts to become successful in my
career in Films and Theatre in order to earn enough money so that I
can provide the necessary finance to promote Arun’s unique invention
of ‘Trion Art’. I pray to the Divine to grant me the capacity for
helping my dear friend in this endeavor.
However busy I am, never my day passes by without remembering
Arun and Aarti. It happens to me naturally. They have a special place
in my life, in my world, in my heart. I wish Arun and Aarti from the
very depth of my heart all the very best for their future together.
Vikram Gokhale

BATTLE WITH DEATH
FFFFFor two years from 1970 to 1971, both of us were studying at the
University of Pune for our Masters Degree. Arun’s specialization
was Economics and mine was Marathi. The subject was much to my
liking and I had the guidance of learned, knowledgeable professors.
I also headed the Marathi Wangmay Mandal (Marathi Literature club)
and I was responsible for arranging many literary events for the
Mandal. Owing to the good marks scored in the examinations during
the first year gave me the incentive to study more. I was lucky to
have very good friends too. During second semester, the University’s
Annual Social Gathering was to be celebrated. I was elected as the
Ladies Students’ representative. A student doing his M. A. in
Economics was the Boys’ representative.
It was decided that a souvenir be released. Obtaining
advertisements from various people, institutions, and businesses in
the field of education for the souvenir was responsibility of the two
Student Representatives. The Boys’ Representative was not originally
from Pune. Since he was not familiar with Pune, he delegated his
responsibility to one of his friends who was a resident of Pune.
Both of us together, started visiting the potential advertisers, mainly
the Bookshop owners from Laxmi Road, Deccan Gymkhana. Thus,
we got well acquainted with each other during our advertisement
collection campaign. We got a good number of advertisements and
the souvenir was released. The souvenir and also the Annual Social
Gathering were a grand success. I actively participated in each and
every event. During the Variety Entertainment Programme, a
distinctive act attracted my attention. A Body Builder exhibited
Muscle Control. I had never seen such an act before in my life and

was completely awe-struck. My eyes were riveted on the young man’s
agile, muscular, well toned body. There was an unending round of
applause from all spectators. It suddenly dawned on me that he was
the same young man who accompanied me during our advertisement
campaign! He was Arun Datar. By that time, he was no longer a
stranger to me, we had become good friends. We shared a common
interest in Sports and Physical Exercises. For some reason or the
other, we kept meeting regularly. The programme of Muscle Control
added yet another dimension of attraction to our friendship. We
started meeting every day!
Then came the examinations in April and the ensuing summer
vacation. The frequency of our meetings during the vacation reduced
and with that the realization dawned that our friendship had
progressed on to another level. Distance makes the heart grow fonder
and love blossomed! We wanted to be together for the rest of our
lives. Our feelings for each other changed mutually, topics discussed
in our meetings also underwent a change. We started discussing our
future together. Our families came to know about our close
relationship at the right time. After two years, which were difficult
and long, we were finally married on the auspicious day of the Hindu
New Year – Gudhipadwa. We were bound in the sacred relationship
of husband and wife. Hindus have a custom of welcoming the New
Year by hoisting the ‘Gudhi’ - a flag - garlanded by sugar candies and
also begin the first day by eating neem tree leaves which are very,
very bitter in taste. My parents had explained to me the significance
of this custom during my childhood days. This custom is a reminder
to everyone to be ready for another year, like all the earlier years
gone by, full of not only sweet but also bitter events. Now I was
going to experience it in my role as a wife in my newly married life!
I spent first few days with Datar’s joint family - my ‘in-laws’. I
spent some interesting time in getting acquainted with my new family
members, relatives and friends. My parents were also in Pune, I could
meet them too, quite often. But within a short span of time, Arun’s
job required us - Arun and me - to shift the base to Sangli. Arun’s
maternal uncle lived in Sangli. We got a nice little house, very close
to his house. We celebrated Diwali festival - our first Diwali - amidst

our families in our new home in Sangli. After the celebrations, one
by one the guests departed. Arun and I were left alone in the new
house - our new home. We were slowly settling down in the new
town, got some new good friends, and started playing Badminton in
a group. We were enjoying life, days passed blissfully well. But our
joy was short lived as destiny decided to become a harsh taskmaster
and put us through a grueling test. With Sangli as a base, Arun had
to travel around, visiting Satara, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri and Goa. While
travelling to Satara and Kolhapur, he usually left home early in the
morning and returned home by night. But for Ratnagiri and Goa he
had to stay there for couple of days. In his absence, I used to spend
nights with Arun’s uncle’s family at their house. I used to enjoy their
company, especially their two daughters and a son. Arun used to
plan his travel programme for the next month in advance, and used
to get it approved by his head office at Indore.
Accordingly, in the month of December, he was to visit Ratnagiri
on 17th and 18thof December. 19th December is his birthday. I
earnestly wanted him to be with me on his first birthday after our
marriage. I persuaded him to postpone the tour and leave home
only after his birthday. During that period the State Transport Buses
were not operating due to some riots in Belgaum which helped me
in my plan. He postponed the trip till the 19th. But he was insistent
on leaving on the 20th and that too, on the motorcycle as the buses
were inoperative. In reality, I did not want him to travel at all, at least
for some more time, for a totally different reason. For the past few
days I was at unease as a perplexing and an inauspicious thought
clouded my mind. I had a strong premonition of a serious road
accident. Knowing fully well, that Arun does not believe in such
things, I avoided mentioning it to him the true reason of my opposing
his going on the tour. Instead I was trying to postpone it for some
reason or the other. When there was no sign of his relenting to my
further requests, I finally expressed my inherent worry, told him about
my premonition. He tried convincing me saying that “Aarti, how can
I put my duty aside? You very well know how strongly I believe in
‘Duty First and Foremost’. You are also aware that I am the most
cautious driver, I never exceed speed limits, drive very carefully.” I

replied “I know that. But others on the road are not. Please listen to
me, don’t go.”
Finally, though he stayed back till his birthday, he left the very
next day, 20th December in spite of my repeated protests. He was
more stubborn than I. Very reluctantly, I helped him in the
preparation for the trip in the morning. The Bus Service was still not
operative, so he had to go on the motorcycle. At the door, with tears
in my eyes, I made one more feeble attempt to stop him. I said,
“Why don’t you wait for one more day? Bus service will resume
tomorrow, and you will be able to go by Bus.” He deftly concealed
his irritation as he comforted me by saying, “Do not be emotional. I
will be back soon. Nothing will happen to me. Don’t worry.” And he
left home and me, but the nagging worry refused to leave me.
It was difficult for me to concentrate on my routine housework.
There was hardly any cooking to be done for one person. I finished
that quickly. Arun was scheduled to attend a company’s conference
by the month-end at their head office in Indore and he had suggested
that I ought to accompany him then. So I tried to keep myself busy,
though without much success, in preparation of our trip together to
Indore. Finally, I decided to visit my friend Vandana hoping that in
her company my anxiety will, at least for some time, vanish. Her
house was close to Arun’s uncle’s house. I spent a good amount of
time at her place and really enjoyed chatting with her. Around noon,
I heard Arun’s aunt, Arun’s uncle’s wife, calling out to me from their
house. I came out on the balcony. She said, “We were looking out
for you for a long time. I sent Rajesh and Seema (their son and
daughter) to your house, but they found it locked. Then I thought
you might be at Vandana’s. Come quickly, I want to tell you something
very urgently.”
My heart skipped a beat! Something urgent, something has
‘happened!’ I wanted to scale the wall between the two houses to
reach her. I rushed over to her house. First, she asked whether I had
my lunch. Avoiding her question, I insisted on hearing why they
were looking out for me? She finally broke the dreadful news: Arun
met with an accident on his way to Ratnagiri. He returned to Sangli
and found the house locked, so he reached his uncle’s house. His

uncle was away but uncle’s father i.e., Arun’s grandfather, took him
in his car to a hospital in Miraj - twin city of Sangli.
Without a word, I started walking. I wanted to reach Miraj. Being
aware of my condition and also being aware of the fact that I was a
total stranger to Miraj, had never visited the city before, Aunt asked
Yashwant (her servant) to accompany me. My mind rushed to Arun
instantly as the bus took almost one and half hours to reach Miraj. I
did not have a penny with me. Yashwant quietly paid for bus tickets.
Hospital was walking distance from Miraj Bus Stand - we almost ran
to the hospital. Arun was in the X-ray room. I barged into the room.
There he was, lying on the X- ray table - unmoving, quiet ...yet alive!
He opened his eyes and looked at me. I placed my hand on his
forehead. That touch helped me to quieten my mind a bit. Arun’s
seventy five year old grandfather was standing in attendance near
Arun’s bed. He was an Asthma patient, but putting aside his suffering,
he accompanied Arun from Sangli to Miraj, got him admitted in the
hospital and was taking utmost care of him. Arun could get admitted
in the hospital well in time only because of his grandfather. I could
see that he was suffering and was in the midst of an asthmatic attack
but somehow he was holding out well. My heart went out to him
and I suggested that he ought to return to Sangli with Yashwant.
Only after my assurance that I will be able to stay alone with Arun
and will be able to manage on my own, he relented. They both
returned to Sangli.
Prior to my arrival at the hospital, Doctor Kulkarni had cleaned,
dressed Arun’s wounds and supported his worst affected leg with a
splint. Looking at Arun’s face I was certain that he was in acute pain
though he was concealing the same. That was his nature. He would
never show his emotions, especially his sorrow, despair, sufferings,
pains - may they be physical or mental. I earnestly wanted to know
the details of his accident, especially how bad his condition was. I
had a hard time controlling the plethora of questions trying to tumble
out of my mind and to seek answers. I was quiet and Arun could
feel my anxiety. When we were alone in the room for some time,
Arun started talking to me. He described in detail about the accident.
I was stunned! He was talking as if he was narrating someone else’s

accident. After going through such a horrible ordeal himself, here
he was alive, conscious and talking about it in an incredibly detached
manner. What happened was a miracle! A quiet pride of being wife
of not only a strong bodied but strong willed person suffused me! I
was eternally grateful to the Divine whose Grace saved my Arun
from a fatal accident. I bowed to God with folded hands and thanked
Him profusely.
Arun told me:
“Aarti, you did caution me, but I did not listen to you. I neglected
your premonition and stubbornly left for Ratnagiri. You were right,
Aarti, I should have listened to you. I left home and first went to
Ganpati temple and sought his blessings. Morning was bright. I was
travelling leisurely at a speed of about 40/50 kilometers per hour. I
thought against of going via Kolhapur. Since Vikram was shooting
for his film there and Prakash was also in Kolhapur, there was a
strong possibility of my getting detained there after meeting them
and chitchatting. I did not want to be late. So I took the turn at the
earlier town of Hatkanagale. After about a couple of kilometres, a
cat crossed the road in front of my motorcycle - an inauspicious
sign. Unknowingly, I braked and the very next moment banished
that thought from my mind, recovered myself and proceeded. On
the way to Warnangar, one fellow traveller asked for a lift. He was
Bus Conductor and was working on the bus plying between
Ichalkaranji and Ratnagiri. He said buses had started operating that
morning. ‘Oh!’ I thought, ‘if I would have come to know this before
I left on the motorcycle, I would have travelled by Bus!’ I dropped
him at Warnanagar. I could see beautiful Panhalgad fort on my left.
The road was quiet. There was hardly any traffic - smooth journey.
“After a while, I felt a little hungry. I thought of taking a break
before Ambaghat, the mountain pass. There is a resting place before
the first turn of the pass with few benches and a tea shop. I thought
of the sandwiches and tea which you had packed for me. I looked at
the wristwatch, leaving the handle of the motorcycle for a while.
When I looked back to the road ahead, I saw a State Transport Bus
at a long distance, taking a very sharp right turn on the narrow road.
The bus was approaching me at an alarming speed and that too on

the wrong side of the road. Still there was a distance of fifty to
seventy meters between me and the Bus. I changed gears, reduced
speed and brought the motorcycle completely under my control. All
my actions were mechanical and smooth. Bus was nearing fast and it
occurred to me that the driver was not taking any cognizance of my
vehicle. He was neither reducing the speed nor was he correcting his
course to leave enough margin for my motorcycle to pass.
“I quickly looked for the ways and means to move out of the
narrow road, go to the side to save myself from the head on collision
with the oncoming bus. There were potholes on both sides of the
road. The one on the right side was rather deep. So I chose one on
left which was little shallow and almost stopped my motorcycle just
before the bus roared past me. The corner of the front bumper of
the bus slightly brushed against the end of the crash bar of my
motorcycle. The slight brush from such a big vehicle was too heavy
for my small vehicle and it started slipping. I removed my foot from
the footrest and put my right foot firmly on the road in order to
steady my motorcycle. But the impact of the huge vehicle brushing
past together with my body’s weight on my single foot made it
impossible and I slipped on the road. My right leg was spread out on
the road and my left leg was folded under me. The motorcycle gently
fell away from me. In order to retain my balance I put both my
hands on the road. All these movements took place within a few
seconds. Before I knew what was happening, the rear wheels of the
bus went over my stretched out right leg as though it was passing
over a speed breaker. The pain was excruciating.
“The bus went with same full speed for a short distance and then
came to a halt. I came to know later that some of the passengers felt
the sudden jolt as the bus crossed over my leg, some even saw me
getting injured, and they raised a commotion and forced the driver
to stop the bus. Some of them got down from the bus and came
running towards me. I was still in the same sitting position resting
on my two hands. My right leg was badly injured and was bleeding
profusely. There were no injuries anywhere else, except the right leg.
All things in my pockets were safe, even my sun glasses were intact
on my eyes. The pains from the injured leg were becoming unbearable.

Somebody offered me water.
‘While gulping down the water, hundred and one thoughts crossed
my mind. The foremost were about you, Aarti. What if I had listened
to you and would have cancelled the trip, or what if I had waited for
the buses to operate—what will happen to you when you will hear
about the accident? What will you do? What explanation will I offer?
How will I face my parents—I was hallucinating. Suddenly I smelled
alcohol. The uniformed bus driver was bent on me. He was fully
drunk. Instead of comforting me, he shouted at me, “Can you not
drive properly on the road?” I was very angry. In spite of severe
pains, I shouted back, “You are drunk. Don’t teach me!” But I
immediately controlled myself. There was no point in arguing with
him. Further actions were crucial. Some people were very kind. They
lifted my motorcycle. One enthusiastic fellow tried to start it and to
my surprise it started at the first try. The vehicle was in tact, there
was not even a scratch - a solace in disaster. Some people tried lifting
me up. I, on my own, could not move an inch. Two men put their
hands under my armpits, other two held my feet. When my right leg
was touched I cried loudly in pain. The leg was broken at two places
as the two rear tyres passed over it - one between the ankle and the
knee and another between the knee and hip. My pants were torn,
drenched in blood. The bus was brought back, I was carried in the
bus. They made me lie down on the last single bench. One volunteered
to bring my motorcycle behind the bus. The bus started moving.
While lying down on the last bench, I was thinking about you!
‘We reached a small place called Bambawada. I was not able to
endure the torturous pain which was becoming more pronounced
with every slight jolt. I requested my benefactors to look for a taxi
instead, so that I can reach home sooner and safer. They somehow
were able to arrange for a car belonging to a doctor from that town.
I was shifted once again from the rear bench of the bus to the back
seat of the car ably supported by four people. I, once again, had to
undergo that horrible ordeal. The rear seat of the bus and the people
who helped me were fully covered with blood. It was an embarrassing
moment. I was unable to make any movement on my own.
‘On a brighter side, throughout this entire journey I was fully

conscious, was able to think, communicate, even instruct the people.
In the car, I sat resting my back against one of the doors with my
mangled leg outstretched before me on the seat. With the nerve
wrecking pain I started shivering. I was constantly thinking of only
you, not even of God! The driver was very clever. He took one
person with him as his assistant. Our car journey towards Sangli
started. On the way, when the driver first applied brake, the
unsupported, broken end of my ankle twisted sideways and I felt a
sharp shooting pain. Owing to the traffic on the road, applying brakes
was unavoidable. At every such moment, my broken ankle would
fall and with every moment the sharp shooting pain which was
physically unbearable would make me yell in pain. Later, I requested
the driver’s assistant to come and sit with me in front of my right
foot thereby providing a support for it and preventing it from falling
over the seat. He came and sat just barely touching my right toe. He
was scared lest he hurt me more by doing so. At the next break, the
toe twisted as before. I asked him to sit firmly supporting my foot
by resting against it. But he was still hesitant. I could not bear the
pain and I yelled at him. He was afraid of causing me pain if my leg
got wedged. Finally, I ordered him to press it a little. My idea then
worked. Thus twisting of the unsupported portion of my leg was
avoided and I was able to endure the ‘gut wrenching pain’.
‘The driver stopped the car midway at a tea shop. My throat was
absolutely dry. A cup of hot tea was a boon, it refreshed me. We
were nearing our destination - Sangli. I started giving road directions
to the driver once we entered Sangli town. As we were nearing home,
your thoughts again crowded my mind - ‘How will you react to my
horrible injury, the mangled leg, pool of blood? Will you be able to
face the situation bravely or will you break down?’ We reached home
but found it locked! I guessed you may be either at uncle’s place, or
either of your friends Vandana or Anita. It was extremely important
that I reach a doctor at the earliest. So I asked the driver to rush to
Uncle’s house. He blew horn at the gate. Rajesh came out, saw me in
the car, came near the window and started asking questions - ‘You
went on the motorcycle and how did you return by car and so early?
Did you not go to Ratnagiri?’ I was repeatedly asking him to call

uncle at the earliest but he was wasting time in asking me to come
inside and to have lunch, as Aunt had cooked some tasty mutton.
But suddenly he saw my injured leg, the pool of blood and he was
stunned. He was wide eyed and was not able to utter a single word
for few seconds. He was scared to death. He ran inside the house
and called Aunty and Uncle’s father, Abasaheb. Uncle was not at
home. Both of them were shocked. Abasaheb was quick to recover.
He asked for his coat and shoes, put them on in a minute and joined
me in the car.
“He took me to a local doctor of his acquaintance. The doctor
was kind enough to agree to his request to come out of his dispensary
and have a look at my wounded leg. He wisely advised us to go to
Dr. G. S. Kulkarni at Miraj. We sped to Miraj. Abasaheb went inside
the hospital enquiring about Dr. G. S. Kulkarni. I thanked the driver
and his assistant from the bottom of my heart. They helped me
selflessly. They were my real saviours like many unknown passengers
from the bus. I had Rs.200 in my pocket. I gave that money to the
driver. Abasaheb came out running. The admission clerk asked for
Rs.50 as deposit. Abasaheb, in a hurry, had forgotten to carry his
wallet. So he came to me asking for money. I was penniless after
paying the driver. Abasaheb did not wait even for a minute; he went
inside and barged into Dr. Kulkarni’s cabin. He gave reference of
his son (our Uncle) to Dr. Kulkarni, pleaded with him that his
grandson has met with a ghastly accident and needed medical help
very urgently. He requested him to admit me with an assurance of
paying the deposit later. Fortunately Dr. Kulkarni knew Uncle. He
quickly arranged for my admission. Aarti, in cases of such road
accidents, private hospitals are not supposed to admit the injured
person. Accident patients have to go to the Government Hospital
after the routine formalities like the Police enquiry. We were really
lucky that Dr. Kulkarni admitted me without asking any questions.
A stretcher was sent outside for me. There was no vacant bed in any
of the wards, so they put me on the only available bed in this X-ray
room. Due to so many movements, the pain in my leg increased. It
took a great effort on my part to restrain from showing the pain till
Doctor attended me because I did not want Abasaheb to suffer more

than he was already suffering. He was very tense and his asthma was
troubling him a lot. He was frequently using his nebulizer.
“I was lying on the bed. The way to the Operation Theatre was
through the X-ray room. I was lying quietly, looking at the ceiling,
listening to the hustle bustle of nurses, ward boys going in and out
of the Operation Theatre. I had no idea about the time. Probably it
was half past one. I requested for a newspaper. A nurse gave one to
me. I wanted to distract my attention from pains. I was reading
newspaper but was thinking of you. After a while, a smiling gentleman
with his two assistants entered in the room from the Operation
Theatre and stood near me. He had a very compassionate visage, his
touch and words were comforting, caring and assuring. He was Dr.
G. S. Kulkarni. While examining my injured leg he asked me smilingly,
“You are quietly reading a news paper - Isn’t your leg paining?” “Yes
Doctor, it is paining. I need not tell you how much, Doctor. You
know better.” I said. “Yes, I know. That is why I am surprised. Your
calm mien is extra ordinary. Any one else would have brought the
roof down with his howling.” I replied, “Doctor, if howling, crying,
shouting could lessen the pains, I would have done so.” He laughed,
patted on my shoulder and said, “Wonderful… Keep up the same
spirit.”
“He asked for dressing material. He had to cut open my trousers.
There were two breakages in the leg bones. The flesh on the back of
the thigh and below the knee was compacted and was full of dirt
and soil from the road. The injuries were rather grave. Doctor
administered me anesthesia. While I was under anesthesia he
completed the cleaning and dressing of the injuries. He also attached
a splint for supporting the broken bones and to avoid movement. I
do not know for how much time I was under anesthesia. Suddenly, I
felt a caring divine touch, full of kindness, love and affection on my
forehead. When I opened my eyes, you were in front of me!”
Arun narrated the whole story in such a way that I felt I was
watching a video film. What a dreadful accident!! While listening to
him, though I felt very proud of Arun’s presence of mind, his calm,
tolerance and grit, I was feeling weak, as if the strength was draining.
Hundred thoughts crossed my mind - what if he would have been

unconscious after the accident? What if the bus passengers would
not have stopped the bus and helped him? It was a miracle that even
after a heavy S.T Bus that ran over his leg, he was conscious. But
looking at him now, I fortified myself. I decisively brushed aside the
weak moments. I wanted to be strong, as strong as Arun was
throughout the crucial period of last five six hours. I wanted to boost
his confidence, his spirits by being brave, bold, firm, tough and yet
kind, caring, comforting, assertive and supportive. I tenderly asked
Arun whether he was in too much pain. He said, “It is subsiding,
don’t worry. The leg is broken at two places. Once they put it in
plaster, I will be alright within two three months.”
We were alone in the X-ray room and it was silent. Arun was lying
in pain, with eyes closed. I was standing next to him, looking at him,
restraining tears, comforting him, caressing his head and leg from
time to time. My mind was taking stock of the situation – the horrible
past a few hours ago and a hazy, adverse future. A nurse came in and
switched on the light. It must be evening. She asked, “Madam, Doctor
is calling you in his room.” I ran to his cabin. I was meeting him for
the first time. He was caring, assuring, smiling as Arun described. I
just stood near his table. “Mrs. Datar?” He enquiringly asked. I
nodded. He said, “Your husband is really very courageous! We will
have to operate tomorrow. Are you alone or is someone
accompanying you? You may need help at the time of operation.” I
listened but did not respond. He waited for few moments and then
said in an assuring tone, “Don’t worry. I will take care.”
I went back to Arun and told him about the operation. “OK” he
said, “Aarti, now we are in the hands - expert and safe hands - of
Doctor Kulkarni. Just rely on him and relax. Our Hanuman will take
care of us.” I was worried, restless, agitated and Arun was
unperturbed, cool. At least he was appearing that way! I ordered my
mind to banish all negative thoughts and think positively. So far,
after that one unfortunate moment of the accident, all things, by
grace of God, had been favorable. I made myself ready to face the
further adversities with deep faith and mental strength.
It is not that I had not seen accidents, breakages, fractures of legs,
hands before. Being a player, they were a regular feature on the

ground, during practice or during matches. I had seen my colleagues
to be back in normal shape and state after casting a plaster on broken
limb for a month or two. Most of them used to move normally with
their plaster casts on. Arun’s leg had two breakages. Perhaps he may
have to carry the plaster for four months instead of two. I started
believing Arun’s assurance that ‘this too shall pass and all will be
well!’ It was eight o’clock. The hustle bustle in the hospital slowly
subsided. A nurse came in and instructed, “Operation will take place
early in the morning. Do not eat or drink water after midnight.”
Hearing her, Arun suddenly felt parchness in the throat. He asked
for water. I was empty handed. I had not brought anything with me.
I requested the nurse for a glass and water and thus quenched his
thirst. I found that the bandages on Arun’s leg were drenched with
blood. I pointed that out to the nurse. She was ready to change it but
Arun preferred not to touch the wounds. He did not want to
experience again the acute pains while changing the dressing. The
nurse went back. Two of us in the cold room and a long long dreadful
night ahead…
Both of us had no food since our morning tea. Constant worry
had kept the hunger away. Arun, however, was repeatedly asking for
water. After some time he needed a urine pot. There was no
washroom in the X-ray room. The table in the room was not a regular
Hospital bed. It was intended for the patients to lie down for a short
time while their X-rays were taken. It was quite hard. Moreover,
rexin on the bed was turning very cold as the cold December night
progressed. Arun was lying on that uncomfortable bed for a very
long time. His back hurt. He was unable to move on his own. Doctor
had warned him not to move to avoid complications in the broken
leg. But now he was unable to tolerate the discomfort of the hard
and cold bed. He wanted to turn on his side to give relief to his
aching back. He told me to help him turn. I reminded him about
Doctor’s warning of no movement. Arun said in an irritating tone,
“He will not know what does one feel when he has to lie down
motionless for hours together on a hard and cold bed, and yes, with
a painful leg too! Forget Doctor. I must turn on my side and you are
going to help me. When I turn on the side, you have to hold my

injured leg and make it turn slowly with the remaining body.” I was
scared, panicked. I did not want to disobey the Doctor and face
complications, but at the same time I did not want Arun to suffer. I
was perplexed, but finally relented to Arun’s request. I held his injured
leg firmly but carefully. I was tense. Arun gripped firmly the two
sides of the bed with his hands for support, gathered his strength
together and started turning sideways. I was coordinating the
movement of his leg with that of the body. There were a couple of
cracking sounds from the leg. Arun stopped. I was frightened. But
nothing happened. Fortunately, I was holding the leg tight enough.
His face was contorting with the agony but he continued turning.
Finally, he was lying on his side. He was panting but his face was
quite relieved. After some time, I could see that he was uncomfortable
lying on the side. He wanted to go back to his original position. We
went through the same ordeal in the opposite direction. This ‘turning
cycle’ was repeated for few times during night. He was thirsty every
now and then and was asking for water. After midnight, he was not
allowed to drink water. But he was insistent and looking at his
condition I could not refuse. Water every half an hour, urine pot
after every two hours and turning sideways and back - this was going
on for the whole night. He was continuously in pains, totally restless,
was not able to sleep or rest peacefully. I was standing by his side
attending to his needs.
At last... the dreadful night was over. At dawn, due to excessive
movements during the night, Arun was completely exhausted, drained
of strength, lying lifeless. He even stopped asking for water. Slowly
the hospital came to life. The hustle of the activities started. Nurses,
ward boys, cleaning staff went about briskly doing their work. A
nurse came in our room. Preparations for the operations started.
She removed the bandages, cleaned the wounds. The leg was shaved
clean. After some time Doctor came in, greeted Arun. He said, “We
will take you in the operation theatre shortly. Surgery will take two
to four hours. We are going to put a plaster cast for the leg. If we
find a vacant room by that time we will shift you there. If not, you
will have to bear with us and be in this room.” He patted Arun’s
shoulder and left.

The usual pre-surgery paper work had to be done and an assistant
came in, asked me to fill up a form and sign. By the time I returned
the form duly signed, four ward boys brought in a movable bed,
shifted Arun onto that bed. Arun was in deep pain, I comforted
him, stroked his head. As he was being wheeled in the Operation
Theatre, I took his hand in mine, pressed gently and assured him
that ‘everything is going to be alright’ and that ‘I would be waiting
for him’. He wanted to say something but could not. His eyes spoke
a thousand things. He waved to me and next moment he was gone -
as the doors of the Operation Theatre closed on him. I was alone -
after spending more than fifteen hours with Arun in the X-ray room,
constantly on my feet - I was alone. I realized that I was exhausted,
my feet were aching and I wanted to sit down. There was no chair in
the room. I went out in the passage to find a seating place - a chair,
a bench. But it was fully crowded. All seats were occupied. Many
people were standing. I could not ‘stand’ that crowd. I came back in
the room and just rested against a wall. I was alone. Negative thoughts
tried to take hold of me but I resisted. I closed my eyes shut. After a
while, my mind started replaying the video of Arun’s accident in
front of my closed eyes.
For every scene, my mind was asking questions, raising doubts,
thinking of the ifs and buts. A bus full of passengers crushed Arun’s
leg under its rear tyres. Leg bones broke like a sugarcane stick, blood
flowed profusely. But still Arun did not loose consciousness! Was it
a…miracle? His physical strength? His mental strength?
Determination? Whatever it was, it was admirable, commendable!!
What would have happened if he was not conscious? What if the
bus would have not stopped and he would not have received timely
help from the kind passengers? I thanked those unknown angels a
thousand times over, who helped my Arun, lifted him up, gave him
water, put him in the bus, even arranged for a car!
I also thanked the car driver, his prudence to take an assistant
with him as the passenger was injured. If the man had not supported
Arun’s broken leg in the car, it would have probably got severed
after repeated brakes of the car!! The person who rode Arun’s
motorcycle behind the bus must be a devout man. He could have

easily got away with the motorcycle! But he drove all the way right
up to our home in Sangli! Really, my sincere admiration to that person
for his sincerity, honesty and goodness! Then, Doctor Kulkarni, too,
admitted Arun in the hospital neglecting rules and regulations, even
waived advance payment! What if all these God’s good people were
not there? We really owe a lot to all these known and many unknown
people. They saved and gave me back my husband. I thought of
Abasaheb, Arun’s grandfather, who did not think of his old age, his
old malady - asthma and brought Arun to this hospital, used his
presence of mind and the goodwill of his son, Arun’s uncle
Ganapatrao with Dr. Kulkarni and got Arun admitted without paying
any money, since both Arun and he did not have any with them at
that moment!! How and why all these known and unknown people
came in at the appropriate time and helped selflessly to save Arun?
We must have been bound by some ties, probably in our last birth. I
earnestly wanted to meet all those good hearted, righteous strangers
and bow in gratitude.
“Aarti—” somebody was calling me. I woke up from my thoughts.
I saw Arun’s uncle, Abasaheb’s son, Ganapatrao standing in front of
me. His noble and pleasing personality gave me some relief. He
enquired and I narrated the whole story. He wanted to meet Dr.
Kulkarni. I told him he was operating upon Arun in the theatre.
Then he asked me whether I had tea, breakfast in the morning. My
silence told him the truth. He suggested we go out to a nearest eating
place. I did not wish to go. What if they bring in Arun while we were
out? He assured me that we would return at the earliest. While I was
eating he discussed something with the owner of the restaurant. We
came back in time. He apologized as he could not wait till Arun’s
operation was over as he had to go out of town urgently on business.
He told me that he had arranged with the restaurant, we just visited,
to deliver simple food for us twice a day. That was, indeed, very
touching. It left an indelible impression on me of his quiet, thoughtful
and helpful nature. More deeds, less words…
I was waiting. Four hours had passed since Arun was taken in the
operation theatre. Why was it taking so long? Were there any
complications? What exactly do they do on a broken leg besides

putting a plaster cast? The Doctor did not explain the procedure to
me. Why? Was it because I was alone or because I was a lady, a weak
minded one? Why did I not ask him? I would have asked all the
details. I decided not to repeat this mistake, but to ask the doctor a
lot of questions and understand the reality. Yes, I must be aware of
everything related to Arun’s leg, his health, his future, everything. It
was important. I must know the risks, the ways and means to avoid,
override them. Death was nice and kind to me, he spared my husband.
I thanked him for that and vowed that I would not ask him another
favour!
Two O’clock! Doors were still closed. No news! Was it that no
news is good news or something very wrong? There was nobody to
turn to. I was waiting. It was 4p.m.! I lost my patience. I decided to
barge in the Theatre. But before I could attempt that, the Doctor
came out. I rushed towards him. He said, “Congratulations! Though
it took a little more time, the operation went very well. There is
nothing to worry about. Your husband was very very cooperative.
Everything is fine.”
Before I could ask him any more, he was gone! I was relieved. I
went and stood near the door and was eagerly waiting to see Arun.
But I had to wait for one more long hour. At around five O’clock,
there was a lot of activity and suddenly — there he was! But where
was he? There was a body fully wrapped up in white plaster brought
out on the wheeled stretcher. Yes, I could see his face, which was the
only uncovered portion. He was Arun! ‘Oh My God!’ I gasped. I
was shocked and stunned!
There were six people - one was holding a saline stand, one was
carrying the oxygen cylinder, three people were holding down Arun,
one his injured leg, another one his two hands and the third his
shoulders. Sixth person was directing the group. They had replaced
the hard bed with a regular, soft hospital bed with fresh linen. They
carefully shifted Arun on to the new bed. Arun was just coming out
of the anesthesia, his eyes were closed but he was trying to move, to
get up. The plaster covered him right from the chest to the foot.
Unbelievable! Why? When only his leg was crushed and two leg bones
were broken, why should there be plaster from the chest down? Was

there more than I saw or knew? I must enquire. The ward boys who
brought Arun in the room left immediately. One of them stopped
near me and said, “Madam, your patient is really brawny. He survived
this big operation due to his strong body. He will come around within
the next half an hour, take care of him.” He did not wait for my
response and left.
Two of us in the room - a statue of Plaster of Paris and a stunned
spectator! I was speechlessly looking at Arun’s face, which was the
only open portion of his body.
Shortly, he called me - ‘Aarti, Aarti...’ His speech was blurred. He
was trying to get up. I was confused and perplexed and was stopping
him by placing my hands firmly on his hands. He was asking me,
‘Aarti, where am I? What has happened to me?’ His speech was slowly
becoming clearer, ‘Aarti, give me water, put a pillow under my head...
I want to get up ...’
His efforts to get up became forceful. He started moving his hands.
Saline needle was inserted in his left hand. There was a risk of the
needle being dislodged on account of his excessive movements of
that hand. If I tried to hold the hand, he would try to pull the needle
by his right hand. If I held both his hands firmly, he was lifting the
upper portion of the body - head and shoulders. Movement of the
neck was causing him nausea which was making him breathless.
Plaster was probably too tight on the chest making breathing difficult.
While cleaning him up after a bout of nausea, he used to lift the left
leg which was partially - from the knee down - free of plaster cast. It
was just impossible for me to control his strong movements. My
two hands were not enough. I started talking to him in a gentle tone.
I said, “Listen Arun, do not try to get up. You will not be able to
do that because Doctor has cast plaster right from your chest to the
toe. So, be quiet. Just lie down quietly. Relax.” I kept talking to him,
comforting him. After some time he started understanding, slowing
down movements, becoming quiet. The nausea continued as he tried
to move the free limbs - two hands and the left leg. While I was
coping up with the difficulties in controlling him, our landlord came
in. I welcomed him but could not talk to him much since I had to
control Arun from time to time. He understood the difficult situation

I was in and left saying that he would come later.
Slowly Arun was coming out of the anesthesia. Nausea, too, almost
stopped. His throat was, however, completely dry. He was asking for
water every now and then. But at least for an hour he was not allowed
to drink water. He was thirsty and I was not able to give him water. I
was very upset looking at his pathetic condition. I started wiping his
face with damp cloth and wetting his lips every few minutes. He was
little relieved. A nurse came in, replaced the saline bottle. She talked
to Arun, asked him how he was and told him that doctor will be with
him very shortly. When I told Arun about the large extent of the
plaster, he was also surprised. Somebody came in and switched on
the light. I realized that it was dark. The whole day passed in the
operation! Doctor came in the room. He talked to Arun, assured
him that the operation went very well. He told him that he could
now drink water, saline would have to be continued throughout the
night. We asked him the question which was nagging us - why the
plaster was not limited to the injured leg? He explained: the right leg
was slightly dislocated from the hip joint. It was properly located
during the operation. But any undue movement at the joint could
prove fatal. Therefore plaster was cast right from the chest to the
toe. It was also necessary that the two legs must be kept apart from
each other. So a bar was inserted between two legs to maintain the
desired distance. It was Spica Plaster and it would ensure that there
would not be slightest movement of legs and waist. Thus by ensuring
no movement at all, the pains would reduce quickly and recovery
would be faster. Doctor smilingly patted Arun on his shoulders and
said, “Well, you made us work real hard! It was really exhaustive!!
But everything went very well and you were very cooperative, as
always! Do not worry, take care.”
Though we listened to the Doctor very carefully, we did not clearly
understand everything he told us. But one thing was very clear to us
- Arun would have to lie down, would be immobile for a very very
long time. There would be lots of restrictions on the movements.
He would need constant assistance for each and everything, he would
be totally dependent. The situation was not short and simple but
long and tedious. We were in deep thoughts when a nurse entered

the room and said, “Patient can have tea, if he wishes.”
That was good news, a welcome relief. I was not aware where and
how to get tea. I befriended the nurse by asking her name, enquiring
about her and asked her whether she would be able to arrange for
the tea. She willingly agreed. Arun was quick enough to add a request
for a cup of coffee for me. Tea and coffee really refreshed us. The
nurse also became friendly. I then asked for a chair which she readily
arranged for. After two long days, a sleepless night, I sat down! I
pulled the chair near Arun’s bed, sat down and touched his forehead
and kept patting.
I wanted him to take rest, sleep. But he enquired about me - ‘what
did you do when I was being operated? Were you alone all the time?’
He was in pain, he underwent a long tedious operation, he was
still under the effect of anesthesia but yet he was worried about me,
cared about me. I was overwhelmed. I told him briefly about visit of
Ganpatrao, his uncle, his graciousness of taking me for breakfast
and then arranging for a tiffin from the nearby hotel and also the
short visit of our landlord in the morning. I asked him to go to sleep
but I could see that he was not going to. Both of us were quiet,
thinking. Our lives were taking a new, different turn. We were in it
together!! Our relationship was strengthened by his weakness. It
acquired a new meaning. I would not be only his wife, his life partner,
but will have to be his mother, his caretaker. We were wife and
husband but henceforth we also would be mother and child. He was
going to be a husband who would need constant companionship,
advice, support, encouragement from his wife but was also going to
be a child who would need motherly love, affection, understanding,
care. I was making myself ready for this double role and dual
responsibility. I would need a lot of strength and stamina as the
situation demanded and of course deep faith in my Godmother
Dnyaneshwar and the Divine.
The night ended. Next day was Saturday. Dr. Kulkarni visited in
the morning and gave us detailed information on the surgical
procedure. It was essential to transfuse blood during the surgery.
Since the matching blood group was not available at that time, they
took the risk of proceeding without it and totally depending on Arun’s

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