M IT’S
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FIR
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LIFE
EDITION ONE SUMMER 2015
WIFE, MOTHER BUSINESSWOMAN
&
EXTRAORDINAIRE
MOTHER OF THE YEAR
REKHA
SHETH
60
Years young
FOR A MUM WORTH MORE THAN GOLD Want your own It’s My Magazine©...? info@its my magazine.com www.itsmymagazine.com +44 (0) 203 086 8982
M IT’S
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elebrating our loved ones lives is a beautiful thing. Unfortunately often we leave it too late to capture those stories from the past. When we were asked to capture the life of Rekha Sheth we jumped at the chance as she is such a wonderful lady with a wonderful family, story and character. Her wealth of experience and wisdom accumulated throughout her 60 (and counting!) years resonated all the more as it reminded us of the importance of documenting family stories. Our (great)grandmother came from Jamaica in the 1950’s having grown up close friends with Bob Marley’s mum in St Ann’s and had a lot of stories to share. We’d always promised to write her life story but unfortunately, she passed away after a short illness. All of our family history disappeared and we resolved that we would make it our business to preserve the stories of others. Subsequently It’s My Magazine was born and here we are today, celebrating the life of a fabulous woman 60 years young! We love you Rekha!
Adoring daughter Rima was keen to celebrate the life of a wonderful woman
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s my Mother’s Daughter, I have so many traits of her that are all the more apparent especially now we’re apart. Despite the distance however, she is never far from my mind and I miss her every day. We will be going on a wonderful family cruise to the Caribbean and it’s the first time I’m seeing my beautiful mother in so long. I wanted to be able to capture a slice of history for her to show her how much I love and appreciate her. I commissoned this heirloom with It’s My Magazine as a special gift to celebrate her wonderful life and beauty, an heirloom we’ll both be able to cherish until the next time we meet. Love you so much Mum,
-Pauline & Krystle, Founders, It’s My Magazine Ltd
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earest Mummy, Happy, happy birthday to the most kind hearted, loving, humble and giving person I know. All that I am today I owe it to you and thank you for always being there for me. Your zest for life and positive attitude are amazing and are just a few of the qualities that I would want Vedika to grow up with. Happy Birthday once again and wishing you all the happiness in the world! Cannot wait to celebrate with you! Rikin Sheth Love you lots !
-Rima xxx
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REKHA’S CHILDHOOD A LIFE OF BEAUTY STYLE FILE: REKHA’S FASHION LIKE MOTHER LIKE DAUGHTER MESSAGES OF LOVE
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IT’S MY EDITORIAL TEAM CREATIVE DIRECTOR EDITOR CONTRIBUTERS PUBLISHER
Pauline Downie Krystle Downie Mia Lane, Jayde Olivia It’s My Magazine Ltd
CONTACT info@itsmymagazine.com www.itsmymagazine.com Tel: 0203 086 8982
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OLD
OUR WORLD
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ummy- You have spent many long and hardworking years to make us who we are today. While it is impossible for us to pay you back in full, what we can give you is all of our eternal love and respect. Best wishes for your 60th birthday from your loving children!
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Life long friends Above: Rekha and Narendra at their best friends Bindu and Swati’s wedding. Right: The happy couple in Goa for a recent wedding
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.. BORN in 1956 Developing from a plucky rollerskating girl to a caring grandmother, how exactly did Rekha grow into the maternal source of knowledge we now know?
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orn on the 13th of August 1956 Rekah comes from a very big family. Two brothers and three sisters whom she loves eternally. Very good at roller skating as a child. She absolutely loves spending time with them even though they fight a lot ;) however, they always make up later, which is what true family is all about. Their father was Rekha’s hero, a great leader. Unsurprisingly enough, growing up, Rekha had always wanted to be a social worker. Pretty apt considering that she is also a great aunt and confidante to so many nieces and nephews, who love and adore her.
“It was love at first sight :) After twice meeting I decided this is going to be the man of my life!”
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She is everyone’s favorite aunt and well known for being able to offer a sympathetic ear and kind words like honey to the ear. Rekha’s parents lovingly matched her to Narendra in 1979 . She came down from Kolkotta to Mumbai to meet him. Going to his district for the first meeting, “I told myself, this is the guy! We met once again a couple of days later where he then formally asked me out.” The couple’s courtship period lasted for roughly three months and they got married on 9th December, 1979. Rekha’s blessings followed shortly, son Rikin and daughter Rima, now 34 and 32 respectively. Both are now married and Rima is away from the fold, living in London.
“Every successful relationship needs a good balance, a bit of fire and water and you have to learn to choose your arguments wisely!” -Rekha Sheth i n f o @ i t s m y m a g a z i n e . c o m
Tell Me More! Little known facts about the Motherland that is THE Jewel in the Crown, ...India
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Shampooing is an Indian invention
They call it a city that never sleeps, Dreams at large; everything in heaps Buzzing all the time, different people different cons, It’s got its roses and it’s got its thorns. City of murmuring traffic and twinkling cars The multi-millionaires, the movie stars. We’ve got it all; The vada-pav and the dance bars, Crowded local trains, almost on time, Spirit of its passengers always sublime City where honesty is rewarded, But bravery is crime.
Shampoo was invented in India, not the commercial liquid ones but the method by use of herbs. The word ‘shampoo’ itself has been derived from the Sanskrit word champu, which means to massage.
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India is the world’s second-largest English speaking country India is second only to the USA when it comes to speaking English with around 125 million people speaking the language.
Success and failure are in twilight, City where changes happen overnight You might be swept in if caught off sight, Got lucky, then you’ll be on a flight. Every city has its ups and downs and she is no different. She gives me an identity and makes me proud. City where I was born and city where I want to die, My city! My Mumbai. -Fahim Sayed
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Beauty A Life of
Never a moment spare, and always willing to put her family’s needs over her own, mother, wife, businesswoman, Rekha Sheth is a woman doing it all -MIA LANE-
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y mum Rekha adores cooking and working out, she’s a true fitness freak. Refusing to stay put even for a minute, she’s always on the go. Very hardworking and always pleasing everyone around her by going out of her way to help, we have many stories of mother uplifting and helping others, that’s just the type of woman she is.” An astute business woman, Rekha started her indian clothing business with just two to three clients, but her family are proud that this aspiring entrepreneur has been able to successfully juggle being a home maker and business woman, now servicing 100 clients. From delicious home cooked meals to advising a client on flattering attire,
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Fashionista, Multi-tasker Loving vibrant colours and sumptuous fabrics, Rekha is always leading the fashion stakes and loves an opportunity so socialise with family and forever friends (pictured left)
Rekha is a fabulous multi-tasker who has always seized life with both hands. Fortunate enough to have been able to rely on consistent support from her loving Husband and forever faithful parents and In-Laws, life has been amazing for a woman with a strong head for business but heart for family, loyalty and love. i n f o @ i t s m y m a g a z i n e . c o m
INDIA
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A Mother’s Love is Forever I’ve always been with you, since before your birth. I’ll stand by your side, as long as I’m on this earth. You’re never far from the caring thoughts in my heart. No matter how many miles ever try to keep us apart.
Camel caravans are still a very prevalent part in the every day life throughout much of India, with the largest numbers are being used in the northern provinces of Rajasthan.
In 1631, Shah Jahan, Emperor was grief-stricken when his favourite of three wives Mumtaz Mahal, a Persian princess, died during the birth of their 14th child.
Silk in the Indian subcontinent is a luxury good. In India, about 97% of the raw silk is produced in the five Indian states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir.
A Sight For Sore Eyes The earliest documented architecture from India dates to about 2500 BC, in the Harappan period in northern India (modern Pakistan).
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TREATS FOR DADI Because She’s Worth It! LONDON US2U XXX
email Vedika@weloveyoudadi.com
SHE StyleFile
Jewels in the crown
Clutch my heart For that extra special accessory, go for this silver satin jewelled evening clutch.
Pretty palattes Gorgeous colours tinged with gold is a way to recreate Rekha’s
Three Fashionistas Stylish ladies Biljal and Sangeeta pose with their friend Rekha
Watch out now For that extra special touch, dress up any outfit with a hint of sparkle.
Try this Complete your look with a pair of silver sandals, this style can be worn with many different ensembles.
Get the look Rekha has always loved light pastel and vibrant colours for celebrations. This is fortunate as husband Narendra is not the biggest fan of very dark colours.
This magazine’s design and layout has been sponsored by It’s My Magazine www.it’smymagazine.com
A better Mum just can’t be found, thank you so much Mother, just for being you!
LIKE MOTHER LIKE 12
A LIFE BELOVED
Summer 2015 |
A matriarch of glue Rekha and her ladies pose on a family day trip out. Top Left: Rekha, and beloved Vaheeda celebrate Rima’s henna ceremony
The baby of the family, Rima has flown the nest and enjoying married life in London, but her beloved mother Rekha is never far from her prayers and thoughts...
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I really do miss my mum so much because we have moved so far now. To be married and shifted from Mumbai to London has been a difficult step as she really is like my best friend. I’m so looking forward to spending some quality time with Mum on the cruise - I just can’t wait!!!
e are all going on a Caribbean cruise for mums 60th and everyone is so excited. The entire family of around forty of us are going, which will be amazing. There is no better experience for Mum than having all of the family around, and she adores it so a cruise like this will be an unforgettable experience for all of us. Mum also likes to travel and witness new cultures and meeting new people, so this opportunity really will have Mum in her element, and I’ll be delighted to share each new experience with her. Mum is the most fun loving person and is always bringing a smile to everyones face. My Brother Rikin and I had such beautiful weddings thanks to mum and dad’s efforts and we really are blessed to have such great parents.
“If I can be half the Mother my Mum is, I’ll be ecstatic, she gave us just the right balance of laughter, love and learning.”
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-Rima Seth
You make me who I am today. Without you, I could not consider myself successful in life. You’re one of the most unique women I know. I’ve never met and will never meet anyone like you for the rest of my life... I admire the way you give your advice without trying to give any type of criticism. I’ll make sure to follow your path when I become a parent. Mummy, you are my role model. Love you and miss you loadsss!! From
-Rima xxx
MY FAMILY A Tree With Many Roots Mrs Rekha Sheth, welcome to your family! From a beloved wife to a well respected mother, confidante, auntie and comforter, you wear many hats. From a family honoured to call you Mother, we salute you.
A Love Always Strong Grandparents, Rekha, Priyanka and Rikin share a special moment at a family wedding
Sister Act Rekha shares a special moment with her sisters
Auntie Auntie Neha, Rekha and Ashish share a joke
Family Ties Nishant, Rima, Rekha and Rikin pose in Hamburg
Proud grandparents Rekha and Narendra pose proudly with their gorgeous baby grand daughter Vedika
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Dearest Rekha Rexy youngest of all sisters declaring her sixtieth birthday, but she doesn’t look her age and is young at heart and so bubbly. Wishing her good health and happiness on this special day. Lots of love
-Sudha
To Be A Great Mother
A great mother loves without reason Through winter, summer, spring, and fall Her love is unalterable, despite the season. A great mother knows when to talk And just how to listen. She knows when to walk away And save the battle for another day. Even when she’s angry She never takes it out on others. That’s why only a few women Can indeed be called great mothers. Only one woman can be the Best mother, And Mum, That’s you, above all others.
A Mother Daughter Bond Rekha showing off her beloved Mother, who is her own inspiration
Sisters United Rekha poses with four generations of family members. From eight months to eighty+, a fountain of knowledge was shared that evening
Cherished Elders The proud grandparents look on, fondly Sibling Support Rekha alongside her younger brother Nitin and his lovely wife Amita and Narendra
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FamilyTies “Eat - Pray - Love....a sum up of the characteristics of an amazing person who cares for all those that surround her. Her warmth and sensibilities are a blessing to the family and extend to those who become family. A great wife, mother, daughter and mother in law, she radiates her human values like a shining beacon. Always young and fun, she is great person to be around. I wish her another blessed 60 years to come as the world deserves such a kind heart. All the best and congratulations! Energy-Positivity-Life is the result of your place on this planet. Happy happy b-day Mom!!
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-Nishant Seth
“Mum’s great! I really don’t
think Nishant and Priyanka could have asked for a better mother-in-law! ;) ”
-Rima Seth
Ever since I’ve known you, I’ve seen you work tirelessly and selflessly to make sure everyone around you is happy. In this new decade, I really wish for you to take time for yourself and let us take care of you instead for a change! You have raised such an incredible son and I hope I can pass on some of those values to our daughter. Happy, happy b-day. We love you and cant wait to celebrate with you. Happy birthday Mom!!!
-Priyanka & Vedika Baby Love Top: Rikin and Priyanka pose with new born Vedika who is only a month old in this image. She can’t wait to next kiss grandma Rekha
MUMMY Dearest Boutique
Rekha the ultimate trend setter
No 60 Earth Day Street London W1 email Rima@weloveyoumum.com
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FROM HER LIPS... Mum’s top tips to keeping your mind, body and soul fabulous after fifty
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Coconut oil is all you need, for cooking, skin and hair. Most health shops sell 100% pure coconut oil which is great for keeping the skin elastic and youthful looking. This is essential as skin loses collagen at a faster rate, particular after fifty.
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We’ve heard it before, but fresh fruit and vegetables are vital for keeping fabulous after the half century mark. Rekha is an advocate of good food for health, or if you can be bothered, try juicing, jucinig, jucing if you can face the washing up!
Mother Love Right: The original matriarch and where Rekha gets her wisdom,
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“Swimming is wonderful for the joints”
Swimming is a relaxing, low intensity activity that Rekha indulges in to destress and get away from it all. It is often in quiet moments like these that this mother often thinks about her children, particularly her daughter, currently so far away.
We know it’s a pain but it can’t be forgotten. As you get older, please become more active. If you are not able to get to a gym, at least stretch once a day, go for a walk or swim. If you live nearby offer to take the grand kids to school so you have a reason to go out.
“I was very good at ice skating as a child, but I love Yoga now, much less stressful!”
-Rekha Sheth
CELEBRATING FIFTY Give your loved one the VIP treatment It’s My Magazine is celebrating all things fifty and are looking for fifty wonderful people to feature in a special edition for 2016. Do you have a story to tell? Are you approaching that milestone half a century? If so, get in touch to find out more. www.itsmymagazine.com i n f o @ i t s m y m a g a z i n e . c o m
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We
Love Mummy
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hat I love most is that our mother is the most grounded, well rounded individual
that I know. A most loving mother, and the most selfless person, she is truly the perfect daughter-in-law to my grandparents and wife to our father.
What WhatMums MumsDo... Do Mums nurse kids back to health Even when they themselves feel bad. Mums make you feel better Even when you’re awfully sad. Mums sacrifice To give their children what they need. They ignore their own needs and wants; That is a Mother’s creed. You are my mother, And these things you’ve always done. I know I’m the lucky one; God made me your loving son.
-Rikin xxx
r e h t o M est r a De x
After 60 years of providing wisdom, support, love and care, Rekha Sheth, here’s to another sixty!
If
OOO
If there is happiness in my heart, it’s because you helped put it there. If there is gentleness in my beliefs, it’s because you showed me how to care. If there is understanding in my thinking, it’s because you shared your wisdom. If there is a rainbow over my shoulder, it’s because of your outlook and your vision. If there is a knowledge that I can reach out and I really can make some dreams come true it’s because learned from the best teacher of all. . . . . . We learned from you.
y p p a H ay d h t r i B a! h k e R
Happy birthday my dearest Rekhu who is a wonderful friend and sister to me. Stay blessed always. Love you loads,
Vaheeda
All these years have gone by but you are still the same as when we were growing up. Idlies always make you smile, you still can’t go hungry. You are totally happy, go lucky and you are always making everyone laugh! You work very hard and do things straight from the heart. Love you lots, From your brothers
You are so much fun to be around and any family gathering is incomplete without your presence. You go out of your way to do things for all of us- You are a loving fui/masi and at the same time more like a friend. Still remember your dance on ‘har kisi ko nahi milta’. You are so sporting and always making us laugh. Yet you are emotional and very caring. You have everything that it takes to be a perfect mother, wife, daughter, daughter inlaw and Auntie. We love you!! From your nieces and nephews
Love
notes
Dearest Rekha There is nothing like impossible word in her dictionary . The utmost efficient lady you can ever come across. Happy happy bday!! Love you so much,
Narendra x My Darling Daughter – You are always making people laugh, you go out of your way to make people happy, you work with a smile on your face and you have the art of managing relationships. It makes me so proud to see you are truly the daughter in the family you are married into and everyone speaks very highly of you.
From Mother xxx
Dearest Rekha To write for your own sibling is a little difficult as nobody can take the place of your own sister or daughter. Since I don’t have a daughter I am very close to you. You are always there for me when I need you. Infact you are the most helpful person I know. Always smiling and bubbly. God bless you and fulfill all your wishes. Hope very soon that Reemu will give you a big gift as a surprise for your 60th :) Looking forward to the big bash. Love you, From Madhu
Next Birthday Coming Up...
I
Beloved Mother: Rekha Sheth
A family function is the order of the day for the next event
Tea in The Promenade at The Dorchester
Regal in their finery; Four Sisters Rekha smiles with her sister-in-laws
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would love to take mum to the Dorchester for tea just the two of us initially where we would be treated like queens for the day. The venue is pure luxury and I know mum would love the experience. The only thing is, I know mum wouldn’t be entirely happy unless all the family were present to also enjoy the beautiful day. So much for being alone with mum! Come on everyone, get saving for mum’s next birthday!
ur dream date: Mum and I will begin with a photo shoot in The Penthouse with all the grandchildren and then take in the views of London on the balcony. We will relax with peach teas as we reflect on the pampering spa treatments we’ve just received. Mum’s distinguished guests will be greeted upon arrival and welcomed with an introduction by Dad, who will announc the commencement of the traditional silver service of an afternoon tea. After a vote of thanks by the woman of the moment, Rekha Sheth, a mini presentation will follow, honouring the wonderful lady herself.
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