A joint-family imposes many responsibilities and people to answer. Your movements are restricted and your options are limited trying to cater to a common good.
Dubai was a festival every day. I rediscovered my zing to sing and on most of the days music blared across my house. I could sing at the top of my voice without disturbing anyone. My husband who I always thought a little conservative had no qualms about this new way of life. He too seemed to enjoy the freedom from the yoke of responsibilities and social engagements that bogged him down in Mumbai.
When I think of how life would have been had I not moved, a silent shudder runs down my spine. I go back to Mumbai each year and spend time in the monsoon. I have a house of my own in Mumbai too, but Dubai, still is my home. This is where I feel my marriage was realized.
When we moved from our one bedroom to a two bedroom, we got friends to get their cars and help us move. We did hire a van and a few helpers but having a showcase shattered during the process left me unhappy.
In early September 2018 we moved from our two-bedroom apartment to my new palace in the sky and this time I took no chances. We got the E-Movers team to help us move and they did this in a single day. A sweet Nepali lady helped me pack my kitchen while my bored husband twiddled his thumbs having nothing to do. It took about 12 hours to pack, move, unpack and set-up home again thanks to a very experienced and organized team. And yes, nothing was lost or broken.
As I look out from my balcony watching the fireworks lighting up the sky above La Mer in Jumeirah, I know how Dubai changed my life and I appreciate the freedom it gives me. My mother-in-law visits regularly and has her own room, but I am a free bird with wings of my own. No more supervision, but only a pleasure to keep her happy.
This is my home, my way, my life. Dubai, I love you.