FAMILY BONDING MORE PRECIOUS THAN MONEY

Vadodara: He received lucrative job offers from Dubai and the United States, but Dr Manan Mehta made a conscious decision to stay back in Vadodara. The reason? He didn't want to leave his joint family. In a time when siblings often drift apart and children move out post-marriage, the Mehtas of Alkapuri stand out as a rare, harmonious example of four generations living together under one roof.

"It feels like one of those TV serial families—only without the fights and melodrama," said Manish Mehta, 60, with a smile. "We are 10 members living happily in our plush apartment, and the bond we share is our greatest strength."

The family's roots in joint living were planted over four decades ago when brothers Mayur and Manish Mehta made a pivotal decision. "When I got married in 1984, my father offered me the choice to buy a separate house," recalls Mayur Mehta, 65, who runs a construction business. "But I chose to stay with the family. Manish did the same. Since then, we've lived together."

Today, their household includes their 85-year-old mother Meena, Manish and Mayur with their respective families, Mayur's son Dr Manan and his wife Ishita, their children Mahir and Meera, as well as their sister Dr Margeyi Mehta and her son Malav. That makes four generations sharing nine bedrooms—but just one kitchen.

"The kitchen is the heart of our home," said Meena. "We all dine together every evening. It fosters a deep connection." Despite the size of the family, she says it's the small traditions—like storytelling sessions about the Mahabharata and Ramayana with her great-grandchildren—that keep the bonds strong.

Even the younger generation echoes this sentiment. "Growing up in a joint family has shaped my thinking," said 22-year-old Malav. "You learn to adjust, share responsibilities, and you're never lonely."

The Mehtas' unity was tested during the Covid pandemic when four members contracted the virus. "We supported each other through it," said Meena. "That's what a joint family is all about—being there for one another."

Despite the pressures of modern life, the Mehtas remain committed to their way of living. "It's not difficult," said Mayur. "If everyone learns to adjust, support, and respect each other, a joint family becomes a blessing, not a burden."