Firstly, all of you are beautiful beyond words. Not merely in how you look, but in the depth and richness of the world you hold within. This letter is meant to be a lasting reminder of that truth.
Apko idea hi nahi hai, admiyo ka jeevan khud se kitna neeras hota hai. Usme sirf apke rehne se kitne rang bhar jate hai. Only women can bring warmth to a man's life, and that too in so many shades and flavours. Else, they are just grumpy and busy driving a car without the vibe of music that only you bring along.
The best thing to happen to me is to be in the company of all of you. I would go on to say that I have been saved by you. From you, I know that stepping out in a t-shirt full of creases and random shorts is a big no. To apply moisturiser and sunscreen, put on a perfume, groom myself with good clothing, as my charm deserves to be seen in all its glory. I have learnt the importance of not saying "kuch bhi", "chalega", or "tum/aap dekh lo", and having my own taste and choices. I have learnt the value of speaking less and listening more, to hear the seemingly routine but actually amazing stories people have. To be cautious and bring nuance to my words and approach. To not approach life with anger and ego, but with gentleness and empathy.
There have been so many stories. Some where you appeared as the person behind the daily phone calls when I had a heartbreak. Some where I was poured with trust in my abilities when I myself did not do so. Some when you fought with me to put some sense into me. Some when you conveyed with such clarity that not everything is or has to be about me. Some where your emotional maturity turned matters of “grave concern” at the office into dust. Some where I saw the macho man in your life turn pooky. Some where I saw you making your relationship or marriage great and restoring my faith in one. Some where I saw you raising the best kid with the best upbringing.
Sunana hai mujhe, ki yeh dress iss boot ke saath kyu achi nahi lagti, yeh color ghar ki deewar pe kitna acha lagega, kaise rafu karke apne apni jeans bachayi, ki aaj school/office mein kya hua, kis se apka jhagda hua, aaj apko kis baat ka bura laga, apne kya acha kaam kiya, kis se apko tariff mili, apka din kaise gaya, apke bachpan ke barso purani kahaniyan aur kisse. Sunana hai mujhe, sab sunana hai, janana hai, samajhna hai mujhe.
Did I tell you that I am bewitched by your laugh and in love with your smile. I am amazed by your dressing sense and how you carry yourself. I know the time and thought you invest to look your best. I know, justifiably from you, why it is not pink but baby pink. I know why the view outside a flight or train window brings that smile. I know how much you read, learn, and ponder to build a voice of perspective. I hate the world for always making you pause and check if you are safe.
I have some idea about your daily battles. The wish to do something meaningful and of your choice in life. The grit to build your own name. The right to be treated equally and fairly, foremost by the people you call your own. The freedom to dream and live fully.
I will only say this. All of you are fighting your battles well, in your own way. You are doing well in life. Keep going. I walk alongside you as a fellow traveller, not because you need me, or my validation, but because I might learn something while listening to your stories.
I know all women, and men as well, aren’t good. I know the world isn’t a rosy place. Life can be hard and brutal, and sensitivity isn’t always met with kindness. Sometimes the closest people cause the deepest hurt. I know how difficult it is to face generational trauma, while also knowing the responsibility of working through it. Yet, from you, I have learnt that responses to such people and moments can still come from maturity and utmost grace.
There have been moments when I poured my anger on you. Times when I behaved irrationally or unjustly. I want you to know that it never came from a place of harm. On each such occasion, I took time to introspect, to see what wasn’t my best self, and to understand how to do better. Irrespective of intent, I am sorry. I promise to be better.
The year brought me a sense that I have some amazing, healthy male friendships as well. Still though, the year belongs to you. I value my strength and toughness. As a man, ego and aggression are my traits. From you, I have learnt how to tame them. How to use them for the right reason and cause. How not to be consumed by them.
You have shown me how to care. How to truly be there for someone. How to carry responsibility at work, at home, and in the world, with dignity. I have learnt how to place myself second when someone else needs more. And I have learnt how to still be strong, confident, and unapologetic and totally badass, with grace and charm.
Apne jo sikhaya, jo diya, pyaar se, daant se, laad se, sab bahut hi badiya, sab sar aankhon par.
Amongst the many dreams, wishes, and aspirations I hold, two feel important to say out loud. First, the blessings you have bestowed upon me. I hope I build a character and life worthy of them. Second, as a man, a son, a brother, a friend, someone who admires you, is infatuated with you, and/or inspired by you, I hope I can offer you the care, strength, love, attention, and respect that you deserve.
2025 has been a good year for me. The life I have lived so far has been full, with no complaints and no regrets. I know I am unique, and much of what is special about me comes from being surrounded by all of you. As the year draws to a close, I dedicate most of the good that has happened to me to you. I promise to keep bettering myself, so I can be my best for my people, and foremost, for you.
If you haven’t already teared up, then I would give another try by saying, if, someday, the world feels unfair. If you are having a bad day. If someone treats you unjustly. Read this letter. Remember how amazing you are. Remember how deeply you shape our world. Remember how empty our life would feel without you.
Ayush
(Someone in awe of your beauty, in love with the care you bring, and bowed down in front of the goddess you hold within)