Abandoned in Ahmedabad, adopted by Spanish teacher

AHMEDABAD: As Heer, 4, gets engrossed in her newly-acquired painting books, Ana Pilar Gil de la Puente, 42, looks on admiringly. “She likes painting and colours,” quips the new mother who has just spent her first 24 hours with the child after the adoption process was completed on Saturday. Heer, who was handed over to city-based Shishu Gruh about two years ago after being found from city streets, will fly with Ana to Madrid, Spain, on Monday to start life afresh.

Heer’s was the third adoption by a foreign national from the Shishu Gruh after Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) was introduced about four years ago. Earlier, two children had been adopted by the US nationals, said the authorities. However, what made the adoption special is the fact that Ana is a single mother.

An expert in multiple European languages and a professional French teacher, Ana had spent some time in India during her twenties, volunteering with Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata. “I had decided that if I don’t get married till 40 years, I would adopt. I did not find a suitable match and thus, my search began. I was sure of adopting from India due to my earlier connection. I also found the children well-raised compared to a few European nations,” she said.

The process lasted for about three years from both Spanish and Indian side including thorough background check. “But I am so glad to have Heer. I have already arranged a room for her in my home,” said Ana, who is also maintaining a meticulous diary for her to go through once she becomes an adult. She adds that she would help Heer trace her roots if she wishes to after she turns 18.

Ritesh Dave, superintendent of Shishu Gruh, said that it was rare to find such a bond between a child and an adoptive parent. “After the adoption was finalized, she was constantly in touch with us, sending videos for Heer and also a few souvenirs. We are glad that Heer has found a home even as we will miss one of the most energetic children staying with us,” he said.

Ana said that she has taken maternity leave to get Heer acquainted with Spanish, her surroundings and family. “Love is a universal language and I will try my best to understand what she has to say,” she said.