Vinod and his siblings, Yasotha and Nandini cherish their mum who is selfless and loving, even keeping things to herself so she suffers alone instead.

They wrote:

"Dear Mum,

"You've told us that love is the greatest of all. You have taught us not to tell lies, betray others or shatter another's happiness. You are able to feel our sadness just by looking into our eyes. That is how great you are. You may not be famous because you are known to few.

"I am always amazed by the amount of energy you possess to be able to cook, wash clothes, help us with homework and be our playmate and also, best friend. I still remember the times when I was younger, you would help me tie my shoelaces, tuck me into bed and gently pick me up whenever I fell down. These memories will be etched in my heart for eternity.

"Mom, till now I have never seen you sleep peacefully in your life. You are always constantly thinking about us, about our future, career, studies and everything else. It’s time you take a break from your duties as a mother, aunt, sister and grandmother, and enjoy your life with daddy. Your hard work and effort in bringing us up in life is definitely heart warming. The values you have instilled in us will be passed down for generations.

"What saddens me the most is that you gave your beauty, time and everything else for our well-being. Even when I touch your hands now, I can feel the scars you have gotten while cooking and the rough texture of your hands from handling detergents.

"Mom, you are our goddess. No one has the rights to speak badly about you. No one! You always hide certain things you don’t want us to know and suffer alone instead. Thank you for giving me strength when I needed it. Your love knows no boundaries; it is made of deep devotion, sacrifice and pain. If I would to be born again, I would ask for nothing more but for you to be my mother again. It was a pleasure to be in your womb for 10 months.

"There was once you told us, “When I die, engrave your names on the tombstone because I would want to carry you in my heart forever.” That really made me think that life is unpredictable and you should appreciate your loved ones before they are gone. You will always be our Queen!

"With loads of love, kisses and hugs,

"Your children, Yasotha, Nandini and Vinod Kumar."