Dear Jai
I knew Meena all my life as we all grew up together on the same street in Jamshedpur. I am so very sorry for your loss and sorry that Meena is no longer with us. I can just hear her lilting voice and always animated expression listening to me and my ideas. We talked at length in October for which I am so grateful. Take care and be safe as so much else is going on in the world at this time.

Much love

Deepa

I have a vivid recollection of connecting with Meena Aunty at a hair salon in Jamshedpur where we ended up speaking of everything under the sun (such was her gift, she could put anyone at ease and draw them out) - from motherhood, our professional careers and varied research interests (she succeed in inspiring me tremendously with her accomplishments), to women empowerment issues across the world! Credit to her, I had left feeling I had made another friend in that short hair salon chat…

What stayed with me also was how her eyes shone when she spoke of moving closer to her son upon returning to California - saying that was ultimate bliss for her.

I will always regret not being able to re-connect with her when she contacted me during her visit to Zurich in Sept last year. When I explained I was juggling my 2 year old daughter plus part-time work/studies and didn’t have a breather, she responded in her most pragmatic/positive way - “never mind, we shall catch up at the hair salon in JSR again”!

Gone too soon Aunty, I had really hoped to have another chat - whether a cafe soiree in Zurich or at a hair salon in JSR. Will hold fond memories of your ever-smiling face, radiance, energy, brilliance and the unique ability to have an impact on just about anyone you met. Here’s hoping you are in eternal bliss.

My fondest memories of Meena are many: when we delivered a workshop together at uChicago in Delhi, when we had a blast with the other butterfly girls at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore , when the butterflies visited Josie in Perth, and many more. I still remember the first time that I met Meena when she was new to Singapore...she was something of a Luddite then and was getting used to a new BlackBerry. I received many "butt calls" for at least a month! We had many laughs over that. I’ll also remember her for her intellect and those leadership experience cards that she developed when at CCL. I still use them and will think of her each time that I use them. Meena was taken too soon , but what a life she had- with friends all over the world who loved her, her wonderful Jai ...... she had a great life. Will miss those butterfly calls Miss Meena.

Jai, please let me know how to reach you. I am so sorry and my heart goes out to you. Your Mom was a special and accomplished person and a dear friend.

Jai, your Mom was special to so many people. Her smile lit up every room she entered. I have such fond memories of when you guys first moved to Greensboro and you were starting out at GDS. What a first-class professional, but more importantly, first-class human being. I will be holding you in the Light, Jai, during this difficult time. Your Mom thought the world of you.

Jai, I am so very, very sorry for the loss of your dear Mom from our earth. Her spirit, love, and kindness has touched so many of us through the years - I am lucky to have been one of the people to work with, know, and have a friendship with Meena. So many memories and good times. And a few pictures to share! Do you want me to email them to you?

Such a courageous woman on so many levels. She is now wrapped in the arms of our God and still smiling.

Jai, it is true that Meena's smile was everywhere AND no more so than when she was talking about you! What a blessing you were to you her! I am sending you much love as you deal with this transition. I cannot imagine! Big hug!!!