As the world celebrated Mother’s Day, the South Asian diaspora spanning across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan, and beyond took to various platforms to express their gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication of their mothers. From North America to Europe, from Asia to the Middle East, and from Australia to New Zealand, individuals shared heartfelt stories highlighting the pivotal role their mothers played in their educational and professional success.
From Struggles to Success: A Tribute to Maternal Influence on Mother’s Day
Before I dive into writing the article, I want to share my story and pay homage to my mother (Razia Malik). I’m reminded of the incredible impact mothers have on shaping our lives. Allow me to provide a glimpse into my journey, one that underscores the profound influence of maternal support and encouragement.
My educational journey commenced at India’s prestigious Bishops High School. Despite the esteemed institution, I faced struggles, particularly upon discovering I had dyslexia. Yet, through it all, my mother’s unwavering belief in my potential remained steadfast. She instilled in me a sense of perseverance and determination, assuring me that my moment of success would arrive.
Though I may not have excelled in academic competitions, my mother’s prayers and dedication served as my guiding light. I never won a single certificate, her unwavering support propelled me forward, culminating in my role as the host of the World’s 1st Muslim Spelling Bee competition. Here, I signed thousands of certificates to the participants and winners. It was her unwavering faith in me that emboldened me to pursue higher education, ultimately earning two master’s degrees and a doctorate in business administration. It also inspired me to establish RiseBack.org, World’s 1st Affordable Edtech platform.
Despite grappling with language barriers during my youth, I’ve since flourished as a professional writer and editor, a testament to my mother’s unwavering belief in my abilities. Today, I stand as a keynote speaker…and invited to speak at Universities and conferences.
For me, Everyday is a Mothers Day
Maternal Dedication: A Driving Force for Educational Excellence
Dinesh Chainani from Ghana reflects on his upbringing, where his mother made significant sacrifices for her family’s future. Despite living apart from his father, who worked in Ghana, his mother remained in India to raise Dinesh and his younger brother. Enrolled in Bishops High School, they received not only education but also invaluable life lessons from their devoted mother, who instilled values of honesty, dedication, and sincerity, emphasizing the importance of being a better human being above all else.
Even now, as Dinesh travels abroad for work or resides in Ghana, his mother’s care and concern remain unwavering.
She continues to check on him regularly, ensuring he has eaten lunch or dinner, demonstrating a timeless devotion that transcends physical distance and strengthens the bond between a mother and her children.
“Behind every achievement lies the unwavering support and sacrifices of our mothers. Their dedication to our education has paved the way for our success,” remarked Fahima Noor, an Bangladeshi American engineer based in Silicon Valley.
Dr. Srikanth Chittarvu, Editor-in-Chief of MAA GULF News, extends heartfelt gratitude to his mother, Chittarvu Leela Kumari, on Mother’s Day. In a heartfelt message, he acknowledges her strength, resilience, and unconditional love as constant sources of inspiration in his life.
Dr. Srikanth expresses profound appreciation for his mother, recognizing her as his unwavering pillar of strength.
He reflects on her selflessness and sacrifices, which have shaped him into the person he is today. Her guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have been instrumental in his personal and professional growth. Through his message, he honors her enduring love and sacrifices, conveying warm wishes for a Happy Mother’s Day, filled with love, joy, and blessings.
Across social media platforms and in personal anecdotes, members of the South Asian diaspora credited their achievements to the sacrifices and relentless efforts of their mothers. Many emphasized the crucial role their mothers played in instilling values of hard work, perseverance, and determination, which propelled them towards educational excellence and eventual success in their respective fields.
A Global Phenomenon: South Asian Contributions Worldwide
Sharique Javaid, a Pakistani-German entrepreneur, politician, and community leader based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, fondly recalls his upbringing shaped by his mother’s selfless dedication. Despite her role as a school teacher, she prioritized her children’s needs, ensuring they had a delicious breakfast before heading off to school, often neglecting her own meal. Her unwavering focus on their moral education and well-being laid the foundation for their success, deeply impacting their values and principles.
Even as his mother enters old age, Sharique continues to be guided by her teachings. She consistently reminds him of the importance of moral and ethical values towards others, urging him to remain humble in his endeavors. As Mother’s Day approaches, Sharique pays tribute to the sacrifices made by mothers worldwide, recognizing their immeasurable contributions to shaping the lives of their children and communities.
Saeeda Ahmed, Vice President of H.H Sheikh AbdulHakim AlMaktoum’s Private Office and the founding director of Education Partnerships UK Ltd (EPUK), emphasizes the pivotal role of mothers in shaping values and providing the foundation for life’s important lessons.
Within their culture, mothers are revered as bearers of wisdom and nurturing spirits who mold individuals into who they are today. Saeeda reflects on her own fortunate upbringing, where both her parents worked harmoniously to ensure the best possible life and future for their children. This commitment extended beyond education and careers, encompassing values and life approaches that contribute positively to the global economy and society. Saeeda acknowledges the significant personal hardships and sacrifices endured by mothers, past and present, in their unwavering dedication to their children’s well-being and success.
In the United States, where the South Asian community continues to grow and thrive, data from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals a significant increase in the South Asian population over the past few decades. According to the latest available statistics, there are over 5 million South Asians residing in the United States, with Indian Americans comprising the largest subgroup within this demographic.
Behind every achievement lies the unwavering support and sacrifices of our mothers,” remarked Fahima Noor, Managing Director at Asian Nursing College.
She emphasized the pivotal role mothers play in facilitating their children’s success through their unwavering dedication to education. Fahima observed the deep concern of mothers for their children’s welfare, highlighting their relentless pursuit of their children’s success.
Personally reflecting on her own journey, Fahima expressed gratitude for her mother’s unwavering support in advancing her career and achieving her goals.
With heartfelt sentiment, she concluded by expressing her love and appreciation for her mother, affectionately addressing her as “Ammi.
Similarly, in Canada and the United Kingdom, South Asian communities have established themselves as integral components of multicultural societies. In Europe, the South Asian diaspora contributes to the cultural and economic fabric of countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France.
A Testament to Sacrifice: Mothers as Architects of Success
Yogi (Yogendra Puranik), renowned as the first Indian/Asian-origin Assemblyman, the first foreign-origin Public School Principal, and the first Indian-origin Gazetted Officer in Japan, attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his mother, Rekha Puranik. When Yogi expressed his desire to run for elections, his mother’s response was simple yet profound—she asked if he believed in his decision. With her reassurance, she stood firmly by his side throughout the campaign. The moment of victory was shared joyously between mother and son, marking a profound milestone in both their lives.
Rekha Puranik, a dedicated mother, balanced her roles as a seamstress and teacher while supporting her son’s aspirations. Yogi reciprocated her support by founding the Indian Home Food Restaurant Reka in Tokyo in February 2013, aiming to introduce authentic Indian homestyle cuisine to Japan as a social venture. Together, their journey exemplifies the power of familial support and entrepreneurial spirit, forging paths of success and cultural exchange in Japan.
“My mother’s unwavering belief in education transformed my life. Her sacrifices laid the foundation for my journey from a small town in Pakistan to a successful entrepreneur in Dubai,” shared R Muralitharan, a Sri Lankan expatriate in the United Arab Emirates.
Importance of Mother in South Asian Culture
Amidst these achievements, the role of mothers emerges as a cornerstone of community and nation-building. The sacrifices made by mothers to provide their children with access to quality education and opportunities for growth have a ripple effect, leading to individual success stories that contribute to the overall progress and prosperity of communities and nations.
Satish K Nair, founder of Anshira Ventures, a global consulting company, credits much of his success and attributes to his mother, who provided him with constant motivation to study and excel. Her unwavering support and encouragement served as the driving force behind his pursuit of excellence, instilling in him the determination to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals. Satish recognizes his mother’s pivotal role in shaping his work ethic and values, highlighting the profound impact of maternal influence on his professional journey.
In South Asian culture, the role of a mother is revered as paramount, embodying qualities of love, sacrifice, and nurturing. Mothers are regarded as the cornerstone of the family unit, responsible for instilling values, traditions, and cultural heritage in their children. They play a pivotal role in shaping the moral compass of their offspring, imparting teachings of respect, humility, and resilience.
Beyond their role within the household, mothers often serve as pillars of strength within their communities, offering guidance, support, and wisdom to those around them. Their unconditional love and selflessness serve as the bedrock upon which South Asian families and societies are built, fostering bonds of unity and resilience across generations.
In South Asian culture, the reverence and appreciation for mothers extend beyond mere acknowledgment; they are celebrated as embodiments of divine grace and nurturance, revered for their unwavering devotion and endless sacrifices in the journey of life.
Amidst these achievements, the role of mothers emerges as a cornerstone of community and nation-building. The sacrifices made by mothers to provide their children with access to quality education and opportunities for growth have a ripple effect, leading to individual success stories that contribute to the overall progress and prosperity of communities and nations.
As the South Asian diaspora reflects on Mother’s Day, it serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact maternal influence has on shaping lives and shaping the future. From humble beginnings to towering achievements, the dedication and perseverance of mothers continue to inspire generations and drive collective progress on a global scale.
About the Author
Dr. Tausif Malik is a social entrepreneur, publisher, and academician, renowned for his innovative ventures. He founded and publishes The Desi Buzz, GCC Startup News, Startup Berita, and Halal Biz News, amplifying entrepreneurship globally. Dr. Malik also spearheads AIMBSN, Halal Angels Network, and Startup Villages, fostering startup ecosystems. His groundbreaking initiative, RiseBack.org, offers affordable edtech solutions, providing Indian university programs starting at $50 per month and professional IT courses priced at $250-$350. Through his diverse endeavors, Dr. Malik empowers individuals with access to education and opportunities.
