An itinerant streak, a passion to espouse causes relevant to women and a penchant to pursue academics… That, in a capsule, describes Sushma Pandey, wife of H.E. Indra Mani Pandey, Indian Ambassador to Oman.
While her itinerant streak found a perfect foil in her diplomatic status in her 20s, her all-embracing drive to give back to society got fostered early on by her altruistic father, who said he saw God in everyone. Pan to the present and Sushma finds, rather create avenues to demonstrate her potentials through her engagements with women in her capacity as a wife of a diplomat. The recently held ‘Glimpses of Indian Women Through the Ages’ and the previous ‘Indian Ethnic Saree and Bridal Wear Show’, have proven her skills at conceptualising and organising cultural shows. She also conducted a workshop on Yoga and Ayurveda a year ago.
Sushma’s life as a diplomat’s wife began after her first year as a student of law. Saying ‘yes’ to the proposal from the young diplomat meant a hasty stop of her plans to pursue a career, but the ideals she shared with her husband-to-be and his broad-minded nature won her over. It was, however, not easy to come to terms with the fact that she would have to abandon her dream of having a regular career. “At times, I do feel that by choosing the option of marriage, I took an easy way in life. It has made me feel desperate at times; it has ebbed my self-confidence…” she reveals.
It was in these circumstances that she discovered the liberating power of books on history, art, fiction… She realised the importance of finding one’s inspiration and courage within oneself and became a voracious reader. “It made me better understand my surroundings and I began to appreciate the opportunities that I had of visiting so many countries and exploring their history, culture and understanding their ways of life,” notes Sushma.
Today, her strength lies in her belief in herself and her abilities to rise above any situation. As the wife of an Ambassador, her role is equally huge. “I too am representing my country. It’s a big honour and privilege but also a huge responsibility,” she notes, explaining that the job entails serving India’s interests, expanding cooperation and exchanges with Oman while promoting brand India.
Her travels as a diplomat’s wife have taken her to Egypt, Syria, Cyprus, Turkey, Israel, Lebanon, Islamabad, Switzerland, France and China, before coming to Oman. And every place visited has been a learning experience, making her grow into a true global citizen, which her 16-year old daughter is also emulating.
“We all want to be happy and successful in our lives but it is up to us to discover what gives us happiness and define what success should mean to us. I have continued to evolve in my own life, with all the varied experiences that I enjoyed. They have made me more open-minded, tolerant, patient and self-confident and enhanced my understanding of the world around us” states Sushma.
The home I grew up in… I have had no permanent home, which is why I tend to accept people easily.
When I was a child I wanted to… I always wanted to travel the world.
The moment that changed me forever… It was more a series of things that began with my opting to study literature. I guess that made me evolve into what I am today.
My greatest inspiration… My father; He is a very altruistic minded person. The more he can, the more he helps people.
My hero… Again, my father.
If I could change one thing about myself… I do not want to change anything. I have been blessed and I thank God for the life he has given me.
I dream of… A time when women realise that proving themselves is about understanding themselves.
What I see when I look in the mirror… I see the impact of time. I think it is a great realisation that things will not remain the same and that one should adapt. But I still feel very young and I can still visualise myself as a 9-year-old or a 15-year-old.
It’s not fashionable but I like… To follow my comfort dictates, even if it is something from the 70s. I have never wanted to keep myself up with the trends. I should feel confident in what I am wearing and that applies to colours, styles and even hairstyle.
My greatest regret… That I could have pursued a career in academics or civil service.
You may not know it but I’m no good at… Singing.
You may not know it but I’m very good at… Dancing.
If I have time to myself… I would sit by a window with a book on philosophy; reading and contemplating on it.
My house is… My refuge; it is my familiar space.
My favourite haunt/holiday destination… Although I love to visit as many places as I can, France is my favourite destination. Since I also speak the language, I feel very comfortable there.
My favourite weekend spot in Oman… Is the Corniche. It is a nice confluence of the sea, the mountains and the old world charm of Muttrah.
I will not leave my house without… My smile and attitude.
Things I like about Oman… A number of things: people, the peaceful coexistence of different communities, cultural affinity with India, family values, warmth and hospitality, not forgetting the tolerance for different religions with temples and churches… It demonstrates the broad vision of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.
A book that changed me… I have been influenced by many books: ‘The Waste Land’, by T. S. Eliot, ‘Heart of Darkness’, by Joseph Conrad and ‘Siddhartha’ by Herman Hesse.
On top of my wish/bucket list is… Travel to Latin America to visit Brazil and Mexico.
My success mantra is… Put in 100% in whatever you are doing and that satisfaction alone will induce a sense of satisfaction.
In 10 years’ time, I hope to be… Active on my feet; healthy and independent and contributing to society.
