I am not sure where to begin.
We met the Tilaks soon after I arrived in Toronto in 1968. I was newly married and in a new country. I was introduced to Manda Tilak through mutual friends, who called her mavashi. I was so captivated with all their stories and their love for new friends. She was so energetic and positive. We soon started visiting each other regularly, getting to know each other, and very quickly Manda mavashi became my mavashi too. After my first child was born, the Tilaks were a blessing for us in every way. Vinaya was one of Bhau’s first patients; and Manda mavashi would happily give me advice and really helped me stay calm as a new mother and a new immigrant to Canada. When we had our first Satyanarayan Pooja in 1970, the Tilaks accepted our invitation and were our “Daampatya” (honoured married couple), we were overjoyed. They remained near and dear to us throughout our lives, and we visited with them regularly and celebrated all of our important milestones with them. Manda mavashi’s saabudanyachi khichadi was a big attraction when we visited, Vinaya has learned how to make khichadi from her, and now she makes it for her family, always reminding them where she learned it. We have so many great memories with both of them. One thing always stayed in my mind – despite being vegetarian, Manda mavashi always encouraged me to cook non vegetarian dishes, and when they would come to visit us. and she would always try a little of everything - she was very adventurous, and encouraged our family to be equally adventurous.
Vasant and I would Manda Mavashi as often as possible. We have so many wonderful memories of her and Bhau. We will miss her deeply.
I cannot believe it is over 50 years now, the Tilaks are part of our family and will always remain that way. My condolences to the whole Tilak family.
