Samiksha Khadka: We would see the world together, Ama’: Why an Indian founder wore her late grandmother’s green saree on a US trip
For many people, a saree is a piece of clothing. For founder Samiksha Khadka, one particular green saree carries a lifetime of memories. During a recent visit to the United States, she shared the story behind the heirloom and the promise she once made to her grandmother – a promise that, years later, brought tears to social media.
The advice that stayed with her
In the post, Khadka revealed that the saree she wore had belonged to her grandmother.Recalling one of their final conversations, she wrote:“The green saree I’m wearing belonged to my late grandmother. In our very last conversation, she gifted me these words: ‘Travel and explore the world. Be highly educated, build a career, and make money.’ I smiled and whispered, ‘We are going to do that together.’”According to Khadka, those words stayed with her long after that day and became a source of motivation in the years that followed.
Dealing with loss through work
The founder also reflected on the period after her grandmother’s passing and how she responded to the loss.Rather than withdrawing, she focused intensely on work and personal growth.“When she passed, grief surrounded me. Everyone survives loss differently; mine was to immerse myself in motion. I overworked, pouring every ounce of heartache into hard work. Looking back, I’m amazed by how far that momentum carried me,” she added.She said that period eventually helped her find purpose and direction.
The journey that took her to the US
Khadka shared that her path later brought her to the United States through the Young South Asian Leaders Initiative (YSALI), a program of the US Department of State focused on entrepreneurship and innovation.Reflecting on her journey, she wrote: “Out of the fog, I found my purpose, earned my degree, built my career, and earned seats at tables I never thought I’d sit at. This year, that relentless drive brought me all the way to the United States.”She also described her interactions with entrepreneurs, academics, and US officials as eye-opening.
A meaningful reminder
Khadka said she now reserves the saree for important occasions and milestones.“But bringing it back to the saree. This has become my reserved attire for every high-stakes occasion. Years ago, I promised my grandmother we would explore the world together. She isn’t here physically, but she is traversing the globe right alongside me through these threads,” Khadka wrote.The visit was especially meaningful as it coincided with her birthday.Looking back on the moment, she added:“I promised we would see the world together, Ama. And look – we made it.”
Internet users react
The post resonated with many social media users, who praised both the message and Khadka’s journey.One user commented, “This is so inspiring.”Another wrote, “As a woman, I am so proud of you.”A third user said, “Wow, I found this post very inspiring.”Another reaction read, “This is next-level motivational.”The post continues to receive appreciation online, with many users relating to its themes of family, remembrance, and carrying the memories of loved ones through life’s important moments.Disclaimer: This article is based on information shared in a social media post. The Times of India has not independently verified the claims or personal experiences mentioned.We have reached out to the individual featured in the story for comment and will update the article if a response is received.Thumb image: Instagram
