Maya Rahi, an acclaimed Sahitya-academy-award-winning author, has written numerous stories and poems in Sindhi and Hindi. Her books have been read, appreciated, applauded, and enjoyed by many readers!
A partition survivor, Maya Rahi was born in Quetta, Balochistan, on October 10th, 1939. She and her family were forced to migrate to Free India in 1947 during Partition, leaving behind her home, her belongings, her life, and perhaps, even her identity. Starting afresh in a new 'country' meant that life was a struggle, and like many, she had to adjust and adapt. She did that in a remarkable way by getting educated, raising a family, and by becoming a teacher and writer.
This book, Ordinary People, Extraordinary Dreams was originally published in Sindhi under the title, Desi Lok, Pardesi Sapna in 2016. Barkha Khushalani's translation of the short stories from Sindhi into English has given the words a new voice in a different language.
It is a great honor and a privilege to write a foreword for Mrs. Maya Rahi, a remarkable woman who is my idol, friend, philosopher, and guide, with an indomitable spirit and a never-say-die attitude, who also happens to be my mom!! Here is another feather in her hat, with the publication of yet another collection of short stories, Ordinary People Extraordinary Dreams,' which reflects her zest to understand life and all its intricacies in the people, situations, and events around her! It is always awesome and a wonderful feeling when she comes to visit us (me and my sister) in the US. These stories have been an outcome of how she saw life in and around my house in the US. They are honest, and simple casual observations which one can easily resonate with and identify as happening to any of us! Mom has the gift of turning everyday occurrences into something major and relatable. Like the story "The Best Laughter,' she admits to reading the newspaper daily as a good habit, and this is from her value system of gaining more knowledge and to learn something new even if it challenges or 'confuses' her! The perennial problem almost all women around the world face is about balancing the home and work life!! We haven't found any satisfactory answers and as of now we are 'managing!'
Job security being any employed person's nightmare has affected millions not only in the United States, more so if you are an immigrant, but being a global phenomenon due to the difficult times we are in. She addresses this issue in her story 'And Life Goes On...' in a practical way and a realistic approach.
They say you can take an Indian out of the country, but you cannot take India out of the Indian!! So true, which is evident in the story titled 'Be Positive!' Most Indians look forward to celebrating the first festival in the year with the advent of Spring (Phagun) as they say back home. The riot of colors and the array of mouth-watering delicacies and sweets is a sight to behold, not to mention the Bollywood song and dance items, laughter and bonding taking place even with low temperatures! Mom has understood the fact that weather conditions can decide if one goes or doesn't go to attend such festivals and has touched upon this eloquently here.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist