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The mush register

A JOLLY PAIR Gospel singer Jollee Abraham with wife Elizabeth

Elizabeth

As he would appear regularly on television, his face and voice were familiar to me. I liked his voice but was not his admirer. In fact, I was an ardent fan of S. P. Balasubramaniam. But when my father showed me his photo in connection with a wedding proposal, I was surprised. Now, my life is centred round him. I try to support him in his work. The Bible says wives have to be submissive. Many men misuse this verse, justifying their inclination to rule over their wives. Jollee believes a marriage can succeed only in a democratic atmosphere, where the wife can voice her views freely. If I can convince him he is in the wrong, he will give in graciously. I was only too happy when he decided to use his talent to glorify God. Despite an unwillingness to give up food that would harm his voice, he sounds good even at this age. It is only right that he dedicates such a gift to the One who gave it.

Jollee

Criticism helps you clamber up the wall of perfection. She points out what is wrong in a performance; I am thankful for it. She assists me in my singing. For instance, she tutors me in the pronunciation of difficult Tamil words. It is better to make a mistake at home than in front of 5,000 people. I don't believe a wife has to be subservient. It's better if the woman goes out to work as well. Not just for the money. With the joint family system having crumbled, today housewives can feel lonely at home. They need to be occupied with something. What better way than being engaged in a career? Elizabeth helps in the running of my music company. When I am away on music tours, she holds the fort.

As told to PRINCE FREDERICK

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