Emmanuel Bhaskar’s COVID Stories from India: Mother’s Love is an evocative short story that explores the depth of human emotion and resilience during one of the most challenging times in modern history. As part of his broader series on the COVID-19 pandemic, this narrative captures the complex and layered journey of Aruna, a woman whose dreams of motherhood are threatened by the sudden onset of the pandemic. The story touches on themes of love, family, sacrifice, and the indomitable strength of a mother’s spirit, all of which are intensified by the backdrop of the global health crisis.
From the outset, Bhaskar skillfully weaves the emotional fabric of the story, introducing Aruna—a woman who has endured years of fertility struggles. After years of hoping, praying, and undergoing painful treatments, Aruna finally conceives. Her joy, however, is short-lived when the pandemic emerges, bringing with it a new set of hurdles that threaten her pregnancy and ultimately her dreams of motherhood. The virus, the global lockdown, the sudden shift in healthcare systems—these new realities leave Aruna grappling not just with the health of her unborn child but with a host of questions about the safety of her decision to proceed with the pregnancy.
At the heart of this tale is a mother’s love—unwavering, fierce, and resolute. Aruna is faced with a dilemma that is as emotionally taxing as it is morally complex. Her doctor advises a termination, citing the heightened risks of the pregnancy given the medical conditions worsened by the pandemic. The medical advice is well-intentioned and rooted in clinical wisdom, but for Aruna, it represents a heartbreaking potential loss. Her family, particularly her extended relatives, also begin to pressurize her into making the difficult decision. In this moment, Aruna must confront not only the immediate health risks but also the societal pressures that seek to dictate her choices. Amidst all this, her husband Hari remains steadfast in his support, offering her a grounding presence when the world seems to be crumbling around her.
The author’s portrayal of Aruna’s struggle feels visceral, each moment filled with tension as she balances between the medical advice she receives, her own instincts as a mother, and the judgments of society. Bhaskar does not shy away from showing the painful realities of the pressures faced by women in such intimate and often life-altering decisions. Aruna’s path is not easy, and the narrative ensures that readers understand the magnitude of her decision. Bhaskar highlights not just the physical and emotional toll but also the psychological strain that comes with navigating the uncertainties of the pandemic while carrying the weight of a life-changing decision.
In his portrayal of Aruna, Bhaskar presents a deeply relatable character. Though the circumstances of her pregnancy are complicated by COVID-19, the emotions she faces—love for her unborn child, fear of loss, the desire to fulfill her dreams, and the need to stand firm in her beliefs—are universal. Bhaskar’s sensitivity to these themes shines through in his writing, creating a character who is both admirable and relatable. The emotional core of the story, Aruna’s unwavering love for her child and her determination to give that child a chance at life, serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit, especially in the face of adversity.
One of the most poignant aspects of this story is its examination of the relationship between Aruna and her husband Hari. Hari’s unwavering support is a beacon of stability for Aruna. His role in the narrative is vital, as he represents the power of partnership in navigating life’s most challenging moments. Their bond is not just one of romantic love but of mutual respect and trust, which enables them to make decisions together, even when the world outside threatens to pull them apart. Hari’s character serves as a counterbalance to the societal pressures that seek to impose their judgments on Aruna. His presence in the story speaks to the importance of having a strong support system, especially during moments of uncertainty and fear.
The writing is grounded and deeply humane. Bhaskar, drawing from his own experience as a physician, brings a level of medical realism to the story. His understanding of the clinical and emotional realities of pregnancy during a pandemic is reflected in the nuanced portrayal of Aruna’s dilemma. The medical details, while important, never overwhelm the emotional aspect of the narrative; instead, they enrich the reader’s understanding of the stakes at play. Bhaskar’s background in medicine also informs his sensitivity to the human condition. His experience as a doctor supervising thousands of COVID-19 patients adds layers of authenticity to the story, making it feel both personal and universally significant.
What stands out in Mother’s Love is how Bhaskar highlights the tension between medical expertise and personal conviction. The medical advice to terminate the pregnancy is presented as a logical and responsible course of action in the context of the pandemic, yet Aruna’s instincts tell her otherwise. This internal conflict is portrayed with such care that the reader is invited to consider the nuances of the situation. In the end, it is not the medical prognosis that defines Aruna’s journey but her own courage to trust in her body and her bond with her child. Bhaskar masterfully illustrates the complexity of decision-making during a crisis, showing that while science and medicine play an essential role, human connection, personal agency, and love ultimately shape our choices.
The story does not shy away from the harsh realities of the pandemic, including the emotional isolation and societal judgment that many individuals faced during this time. Aruna’s experience is a reflection of the wider societal challenges faced by many women, especially during a global health crisis that made the act of simply living day-to-day feel precarious. Her resilience in the face of all these pressures is what makes her story so powerful.
In conclusion, Mother’s Love is a deeply moving and emotionally resonant story that captures the heart-wrenching decisions and profound strength that define motherhood. Bhaskar’s storytelling is rich with empathy and insight, offering readers not only a glimpse into the personal struggles of one woman but also the broader societal and emotional context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Aruna’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of love, the importance of support, and the incredible strength that lies within the human spirit. This is a story that will resonate with anyone who has faced difficult decisions in their lives, particularly those related to family and love. Bhaskar’s portrayal of motherhood during such a tumultuous period offers hope and inspiration, reminding us that, even in the darkest times, the love of a mother is a force that can defy the odds.
