Shiva
I first met Basmatee at Shree Raam Mandir several years ago. I was first drawn by her smile
Bas always had a kind word and wonderful smile every time I saw her thereafter.
As I got to know her, she became like a sister and second mother to me, being kind and supportive and of both my husband Randy and I.
Basmatee became my favourite subject for taking pictures. She dressed elegantly and carried a wonderful sense of pride while being humble and true to her roots.
Bas was the only person that I hade the pleasure of meeting and befriending that never asked me to do anything (outside of requesting her picture be taken).
I eventually stopped attending Shree Raam Mandir but had to pleasure of having dinner with her at her home, seeing her at Indiafest and she was one of my guests at a birthday celebration.
While she brought a gift to the birthday gathering, I think the best present I ever received was her friendship.
Bas embodied the dharma of Hinduism as summarized by the following quote:
Sri Krishna: “A gift is pure when it is given from the heart to the right person at the right time and at the right place, and when we expect nothing in return."
Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17: 20
