If Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s additional commissioner Manisha Mhaiskar manages to easily juggle a slew of assignments at the city’s municipal corporation every day, she owes it to Ishwar Kodape — the man who looks after her hearth and home.
“I can focus on work only because he’s trustworthy,” says Mhaiskar. Typically, Ishwar’s duty begins with a morning cuppa for the family. “Ishwar makes the world’s best coffee,” says Mhaiskar, adding that she discusses her day’s schedule with Ishwar during coffee.
The 46-year-old Ishwar, who hails from Chandrapur district, is aware of his role at the Mhaiskars’ home. “Despite being in such a responsible position, Madam is particular about the home. But when she’s away at work, it’s my job to look after the family’s needs,” he says.
Ishwar says that initially he struggled with cooking. But gradually he picked it up by watching cookery shows. “Today, I prepare all kinds of Thai, Chinese and Indian dishes.”
If she is reaching home late, Mhaiskar says she is assured that Ishwar would have served dinner to her son. Mhaiskar’s son, Manmath, loves the kheema that Ishwar prepares. But what the young lad detests is that Ishwar is “mummy’s spy”.
“I know he’s fond of me but he controls my TV-watching and playing games,” says Manmath, with a boyish frown on his face.
Just as well for ‘Manisha madam’.
@desaigeeta
