Grandparents play a unique role in our lives, relating to us in a manner no one else does. With their empathy and experience, they know exactly what we need and when we need it, sometimes even before we know it ourselves. During childhood, they fill our lives with little joys — teaching us words, reciting nursery rhymes, tucking us in with lullabies and so much more. Our adolescence and adulthood see them turn into mentors and confidants, helping us wade through every obstacle. The bond we share with our grandparents is irreplaceable and only strengthens with time, as we absorb every ounce of love they shower upon us.
So, on the occasion of Grandparent’s Day (September 11), here are some ideas on how to spend quality time with your grandmas and grandpas, indulging in a few of their favourite things…
Breakfast in bed
When was the last time you woke up before your grandparents? They’re known to wake up before the cock crows, so the answer is probably, never. On this special occasion, get the ball rolling on the day’s celebrations by whipping up your grandparents’ favourite breakfast and treating them to breakfast in bed. Whether it’s aloo-kachori and jilipi or a Continental feast — bring out the works.
#ProTip: If you’re not a great cook, a cup of tea works just as well. Just make sure it’s served with love and sugar-free pellets!
Munchin’ on ‘Calcutta classics’
We’re always introducing our grandparents to the city’s trendiest eateries on family outings. On Grandparent’s Day, however, go back to feast on ‘Calcutta classics’ they introduced us to all those years ago. There’s Peter Cat for Indian delicacies (a buttery Chelo Kebab never disappoints!), Mocambo for its creamy Devilled Crab, Trincas for a jazzy lunch with the Willie Walters’ Jazz Quartet (just like the good ol’ days) and Kwality for its legendary Pindi Chana. Let your grandparents pick their favourite, and devour!
#ProTip: Remember to carry along their pre- and post-meal meds (if they require them). Just reminding them about these things can be a big help, too.
Teach them some tech
Take some time out to explain to your grandparents how they can get the best out of their smartphones. Sign them up for a session at Mobile Pathshaala — an initiative that teaches elderly people the ins and outs of the most common mobile apps. Understanding the basics of applications like Ola, Big Basket and Uber will help your grandparents remain independent, while engaging in social media will help them stay connected to friends and family around the world and take an interest in current trends and affairs.
“Courses on WhatsApp, Facebook, Uber and YouTube are the most popular picks. They are usually one-hour sessions held online on Zoom, but can be carried out in person too, if necessary,” says co-founder Pinki Bhaia. Each course is priced at Rs 500 per person.
Long drives
Over the years, Kolkata’s boundaries have expanded exponentially. Many parts of the city — New Town, Patuli, Ruby and Garia to name a few — are unrecognisable to the folks who were used to the far end of the city being only a short tram ride away. This Sunday, take your grandma and grandpa on a drive through the lanes and bylanes of Kolkata and across its flyovers — they’ll be amazed at the development and you’ll be fascinated by the tales of the localities in their heyday. You could also go down memory lane by making a stop at the addresses they’ve lived in before.
#ProTip: Pick a route that has restrooms along the way.
Shopping!
When do grandparents ever shop for themselves? Take them on a shopping spree and buy them everything they desire. We’re sure you won’t feel the slightest pinch because they rarely ask for much. If your grandparents like books, head to Starmark. For window shopping and much more, South City Mall is best. And if you want to stock up on accessories for the upcoming festive season, try the OG shopping havens New Market and Gariahat. All shopping escapades must culminate in quintessential Kolkata street food so feast on rolls, chaats, phuchkas, bhel puri and momos, while sticking to their dietary restrictions, of course.
#ProTip: They’re likely to tire, so don’t keep them walking for long.
Jam sessions
Spend the evening grooving to the tunes your grandparents grew up listening to — the music of that era is unmatched. Even better, do some research and make them a playlist filled with the greatest hits from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. If you want to score some brownie points learn a few dance moves from the past — the twist, the jitterbug and the lady hop are a few favourites — and you’ll have them up and about in no time.
Once they get their jig on, teach them some contemporary Tik Tok moves! Iko Iko and Jiggle Jiggle, maybe?
Indoor games
Many a childhood has been spent playing tabletop games with grandparents. Relive these memories by spending a few hours playing board games they enjoy. Carroms, chess and checkers or Monopoly, Cluedo and Scrabble, all are equally entertaining and bring on some gnarly competition. Don’t forget to keep score!