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Patel’s pieces are inspired by an interview conducted with her grandmother (“Baa”), a home practitioner of Ayurveda. The quotes shown are English translations of Gujarati, which is her Baa’s predominant language.
“In India, I learned Ayurveda from my father-in-law and father. They both said, ‘now you’ll do this work’.
Once they left Ayurveda, they didn’t trust anyone to continue their legacy and have faith in Ayurveda.
So your grandfather and my dad told me and not my siblings. They knew that I would do it.”
I awaken I awaken
not from Lord Surya’s
gracious sunbeams
from the gentle ring
of morning puja bells
It is time I am the culmination
of my two fathers’ knowledge.
Bapu ji– my dear protector, your trust in me will never be questioned.
Sasra ji– my newly found father-in-law, my work will continue your legacy.
I am legacy I am chosen
It is time
I awaken to my holistic journey that is ayurveda.