Some stories are so deeply woven with love, resilience, and family that they deserve to be etched in ink, preserved forever for generations to come. The journey of bringing “Kantilal—Yeh Din Bhi Chala Jayega” to life was exactly that—an experience filled with discovery, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotions.
As writers and storytellers at Kagaz Ke Phool, we always strive to preserve legacies, but sometimes, a project comes along that leaves a lasting mark on us, too. This was one of those projects.
The First Meeting: More than Just a Client
It all began with a simple conversation with Rakesh Rathod, Kantilal ji’s son. His voice held a quiet determination as he shared his vision: to document his father’s extraordinary life journey before it faded into memory. “My father has lived through so much,” Rakesh said, “I want his story, his struggles, and his lessons to live on. I want my kids to know where they come from.”
As we listened, I felt a sense of responsibility settle in. This wasn’t just about facts and dates—it was about capturing a life, a spirit. When I finally met Kantilal ji, I understood exactly what Rakesh meant. His warm smile and twinkling eyes made me feel like I was meeting someone who’d mastered the art of finding joy in the simple things.
“Beta, bas sach likhna,” he said with a chuckle, “Aur thoda mera mazaak bhi uda dena!” (Son, just write the truth—and feel free to make fun of me a little!). His humor, even while recounting struggles, was infectious.
Uncovering Stories: The Heart of the Process
The process of creating “Kantilal—Yeh Din Bhi Chala Jayega” felt like sitting around a cozy family gathering, where stories flowed like endless cups of chai. We spent hours with the Rathod family—Rakesh, Jitendra, Aruna, and others—listening, laughing, and sometimes even tearing up.
One afternoon, as Aruna recounted childhood memories, she smiled through her tears, saying, “Papa ka ek hi mantra tha—‘Yeh din bhi chala jayega.’” (Papa always had one mantra—this too shall pass.)
In that moment, I realized that this phrase was more than just words. It was the glue that held the family together during tough times.
I remember Rakesh telling me about the time he didn’t share his school picnic plans because he thought it would burden his father. “We never felt like we lacked anything,” he said. “Papa made sure of that, even if it meant sacrifices we didn’t see.”
Each story painted a picture of a man who balanced the weight of his family’s expectations with an unwavering smile.
Designing the Book: A Labor of Love
Once we had the stories, it was time to give them form. As we worked on the design elements, we wanted every page to reflect Kantilal ji’s vibrant life. From the language to the conversations, from the warm color palette to the carefully chosen photographs, each detail was infused with meaning.
“Yeh photo zaroor daalna,” (Make sure to include this photo) Rakesh insisted, pointing to a picture of Kantilal ji sitting with his father in their old shop from almost 65 years ago. Old and crumpled, you couldn’t miss the legacy of that hundred year old shop, even today.
The title, “Yeh Din Bhi Chala Jayega,” wasn’t just a phrase; it was a philosophy. It summed up his ability to face challenges head-on and still find reasons to smile.
The Unveiling: A Moment to Remember
Finally, the day of the book launch arrived—Kantilal ji’s 78th birthday. The Rathod family had planned a surprise, and the anticipation in the room was palpable. As Kantilal ji walked in, his eyes widened in confusion and then lit up with joy.
“Yeh sab kya ho raha hai?” (What’s all this?) he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.
When the book was handed to him, he paused, taking in the cover. His fingers traced the title, and his eyes shimmered with tears. “Itni sari yaadein… aur itne pyaar se banaya hai!” (So many memories… and made with so much love!) he whispered, holding the book close.
At that moment, the room filled with hugs, laughter, and tears. Even the strongest men in the family couldn’t hold back their emotions. For the first time in years, fathers and sons embraced, unspoken love finally finding its voice.
I watched quietly, a lump in my throat. This was more than a book; it was a bridge across generations.
Reflections and Gratitude
As a writer, it’s not every day that a project touches your heart this deeply. Working on “Kantilal—Yeh Din Bhi Chala Jayega” reminded me why stories matter. They connect us, heal us, and remind us of what truly matters.
When Rakesh later said, “You’ve helped us preserve something priceless,” I felt a swell of pride. This was more than just another project for Kagaz Ke Phool—it was a reminder that every life, no matter how ordinary it seems, is extraordinary in its own way.
To the Rathod family: thank you for your trust, your stories, and your laughter. Thank you for reminding us that, in the end, it’s the memories, the love, and the simple moments that make life truly rich.
And to Kantilal ji, who taught us that no matter what happens, “Yeh din bhi chala jayega”—thank you for inspiring us all to keep smiling, keep hoping, and keep living fully.
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