The pain of losing a child can be lifelong, a stark reality for Bollywood actor and host Shekhar Suman. Despite the passage of decades since the loss of his 11-year-old son, Ayush, in 1994, Shekhar Suman continues to feel his son's presence and cherish his memories. In a recent interview, he recounted some of the most heartbreaking moments of his life and an inexplicable incident that profoundly impacted his family.
Early Detection and a Devastating Diagnosis
Speaking to Lehren Retro, Shekhar Suman revealed that his father, a doctor by profession, was the first to notice the symptoms of Ayush's illness. While Ayush was sitting on his grandfather's lap as a child, his father sensed that something was amiss. Being a doctor, he immediately advised Shekhar Suman to get the child's liver checked upon returning to Mumbai, as it appeared slightly enlarged. He cautioned them not to panic but emphasized the necessity of tests to rule out any serious issues.
Endomyocardial Fibrosis: An Incurable Condition
Following his father's advice, Shekhar Suman arranged for Ayush's medical tests in Mumbai. The results plunged the family into shock. Doctors revealed that Ayush was suffering from 'Endomyocardial Fibrosis,' a severe and rare heart disease considered incurable, affecting only one in millions. When Shekhar Suman informed his father about the diagnosis over the phone, there was a prolonged silence on the other end, followed only by his father uttering, 'Oh God.'
According to Shekhar Suman, his father's reaction instantly conveyed the gravity of the disease. The family soon learned that Ayush's condition was critical and had advanced to an incurable stage. After a long struggle, Ayush passed away in 1994 at the tender age of 11.
A Mysterious Incident at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Reflecting on the grief of losing a child, Shekhar Suman stated that one can never fully recover from such a loss. His family continues to remember Ayush daily, looking at his pictures and discussing him. He believes that while time moves forward, the pain of losing a child remains a lifelong companion.
In the same interview, Shekhar Suman shared an experience that his family has never forgotten. This incident occurred during the 2009 Lok Sabha elections when Shekhar Suman was busy campaigning. He received a frantic and tearful call from his wife, Alka Suman, who was at the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Before Alka could speak, Shekhar Suman intuitively asked her, 'Did you meet Ayush?' Alka was stunned by his question.
Ayush's Voice and a Vanishing Figure
Alka Suman recounted that after her temple visit, as she exited, a man approached her asking for money. As she handed him some cash, the man spoke in Ayush's exact voice and tone, saying, 'What will happen with so little?' Shekhar Suman explained that this was precisely the phrase Ayush used frequently as a child. Due to his illness, doctors had imposed strict dietary restrictions, and he was given very small portions of food. Ayush would often complain in the same exasperated tone, 'What will happen with so little?'
Hearing Ayush's voice, Alka was so taken aback that she immediately turned to retrieve more money from her purse. However, when she looked up again, the man had completely vanished. She searched extensively in the vicinity but could not find him. The incident was particularly perplexing as it was difficult for anyone to disappear so quickly from a bustling public area.
Hope for Reincarnation: 'Will Return as Adhyayan's Son'
Shekhar Suman mentioned that several priests and astrologers had consoled them, assuring that Ayush would one day send them some sign of his presence. Alka Suman firmly believes to this day that the disappearing figure was none other than her son, Ayush. Shekhar Suman further revealed, 'Many people have also told us that Ayush will return to our family one day in another form. We've been told he will be reborn as Adhyayan's son.' Shekhar Suman and his family are eagerly awaiting that moment. He concludes, 'I truly feel he is around us; I can hear his voice.'
