I refuse to be called Aunty by any kid around me.
Several people jeer behind my back. My statements related to this topic have become the butt of jokes in my building as well. They compare me to the famous character in the yesteryear’s serial who kept chiding everyone who called her aunty.
The grapevine whispers, “She thinks she is young forever”, “Aunty ko aunty nahi kahenge, toh kya kahenge”, “Jawani eternal” etc.
Well, I am 40+ now. And very proud of my age. The experience that I have gathered through the years has made me wiser and calmer. But… I still don’t want to be called ‘Aunty’.
Are they right? Do I really have a problem accepting my age?
The answer is NO.
The traditional definition of the term ‘Aunt’ is: ‘sister of a parent’. (Wiki definition) It is the most awesome designation in the family chain. A matter of great honour and pride. I have a bunch of fantastic nieces & nephews. I am honoured to be their Aunt. They are my blood, my family. The bond is emotional and would never break. The relationship is bathed with love and respect.
Here is what I would love to be known as if I am called ‘AUNTY.’
Our country is filled with a section of pseudo-angrez who believe that they know the English language and culture better than the Queen. So, the only generic term used for every lady who is older is – Aunty. This term is more abused than used in our country.
Aunties are seen as nagging and obnoxious women who belong to the stone age. Kids who address any random woman as ‘Aunty’ don’t really mean the respect. It is just a tag that is used just because it is a societal norm.
In India, the terms ‘aunty’ and ‘uncle’ are loosely used to describe casual relation with an elder. More often than not the term denotes an irritating woman, who can never be a friend. She is usually a detective who, under the garb of friendship, passes on information to one’s parents.
The problem is, that in India, “AUNTY” means this:
I have no issue being called Aunty if it means giving respect or extending a relationship.
I am game for a niece/nephew relationship that will last a lifetime. I am not interested in a tag that is given to me out of social pressures and compulsion.
I don’t want to be called Aunty just because the kids don’t know what to call me.
And yes, what is the harm in asking someone to address me by my first name? Would it really mean disrespect?
I believe that the respect for a person is displayed through the non-verbal behaviour exhibited. Merely attaching a title to a relation is meaningless unless mutual admiration and respect attached to it.
So, dear kids, if you wish to call me aunty – then mean it.
Do you agree with me? Do let me know in the comments section. Don’t forget to like and share this post.
–Penned by:
Mayura Amarkant
DiaryOfAnInsaneWriter 
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