Love in Full Bloom (Part-2)
By Lokanath Mishra
Radhika and Rupesh’s life in Hyderabad was filled with happiness. However, when Sulata turned 7, Rupesh’s job required him to relocate to the USA for a two-year stint. To maintain family unity, it was decided that Sulata would accompany him on a dependent visa, while Radhika would join them on a visitor’s visa, taking temporary leave from her job in India.
As planned, the family relocated to the USA, but Radhika’s stay was punctuated by regular trips back to India every five months. During these visits, she would spend a few days at her job, before returning to the USA on unpaid leave. This arrangement continued for two years.
While Sulata thrived in her new school, making friends and enjoying her time in the USA, Radhika struggled to adapt. Despite being surrounded by her loved ones, she felt isolated and alone during the day, battling depression. The USA, which brought so much joy to Sulata, held little appeal for Radhika.
As the two-year period came to an end, Radhika’s longing for India grew stronger. She had struggled to adjust to life in the USA, feeling isolated and alone while Rupesh was at work and Sulata was at school. Despite the comforts of their new life, Radhika couldn’t shake off the feeling of depression that had settled in.
Radhika pressed Rupesh to return to India, but he was hesitant. He had settled into his new job and was enjoying the opportunities that the USA offered. Sulata, too, had grown fond of her school and friends, and the thought of leaving behind the life she had built was difficult for her.
Rupesh’s visa period was extended as he joined a new American company, and he seemed more inclined to stay in the USA. Radhika felt torn between her love for her family and her desire to return to the familiarity and comfort of India.
As the days turned into weeks, Radhika’s feelings of isolation and discontent grew stronger. She knew she had to find a way to make peace with her new life or convince her family to return to India. But for now, the decision seemed to be out of her hands.
As Sulata grew older, her priorities shifted. With school and vacation classes demanding her time, she found it increasingly difficult to visit India during her breaks. Radhika, too, faced challenges in traveling to the USA, struggling with the long, grueling 16-hour flights.
Rupesh, wanting to spend more time with his family, urged Radhika to join him and Sulata in the USA permanently. However, Radhika was hesitant, having established her life and career in India. Despite Rupesh’s persistence, she refused to relocate.
The distance and differing priorities began to take a toll on their relationship. After much contemplation, they mutually decided that separation was the best course of action. They opted for a divorce, prioritizing their individual happiness and well-being.
Rupesh and Sulata continued to reside in the USA, while Radhika remained in India, focusing on her career and rebuilding her life. Though the separation was difficult, they all strived to move forward, acknowledging that sometimes, difficult decisions are necessary for personal growth.( to be continued)