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Casket of Tales is an anthology of short stories by eight authors namely Harsha Modukuri, Nikhila Kotni, Priyanka Udatha, P. C. Ravuri, Rajiv R Nair, R. S. Chintalapati, Sharon Mathew, & Viswanath Perala. The short stories in this anthology have been chosen since all of them deal with the theme of love in unique yet memorable ways. |
Cover Photo by Pankaj Tottada
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I: A Musical Night
Cover Photo by Pankaj Tottada
When elders force unfulfilled dreams onto their children, these dreams aren’t owned. Mainly because the children never truly understand the dream’s beauty as they are filled with contempt about being compelled.
“A Musical Night” by Sharon Mathew is the story of two orphaned sisters where the younger sister is forced to learn music since the elder one sacrificed it for their survival.
“A Musical Night” by Sharon Mathew is the story of two orphaned sisters where the younger sister is forced to learn music since the elder one sacrificed it for their survival.
His unruly hair hiding half his face, his hands and legs trying hard to teeter through the mud, Vinay tried not to fall off as the bag on his shoulders weighed too much for his frail body. He was excited though. He’d been selected as a winner in four of the competitions, and he’d get prizes for them on the coming annual day. So, the rain hadn’t completely dampened his emotions and he expected an easy walk home from school. As much as he wanted to return home along with his friends, they had cycles and he had to always walk.
All throughout his journey, there’s only one thing that’d been running in his mind for an hour and that was how to ask his parents to come for the school’s annual day celebrations. They never attended any event on their own and even when requested, they always had an excuse ready. Even then, this year was special for him and he wanted his parents there. So, he decided to ask them politely and even explain the events and everything if needed.
Excited, he pushed open the gate and scanned the windows of the hall. There’s no one in it. So Dad wasn’t home. He walked in and set aside his bag and called his mother. There was no response. All right. She’s sleeping and is sick again. He felt sorry for his mother. He never knew why but he suspected there’s more to the story his parents told him about their love and the eventual marriage. This isn’t love. This can’t be.
He never saw any affection between his parents. His father loved him, sure, and his mother loved her son the way every mother would do, but was there ever a tinge of love between them? He’d no idea and there’s always one or more secrets lurking in those quarrels and shouts. They never ate dinners together, they never went out to see movies. They never did anything as a family. Vinay thought many times to ask his mother about this, but he couldn’t come up with the proper words and the embarrassment of hurting her caused dread in his stomach.
But again, there was no way he could have put it without hurting either of his parents. He’s fourteen and just beginning to understand and see things in a different way. Life wasn’t too reductive and binary enough like before.
Dad wasn’t home.
“Oh it was one of those days of too much work at the office” is what he used to think earlier. Now he certainly knew that Dad wasn’t home because he hated being here and there was definitely somewhere else he’d be peaceful and comfortable. A place where he met his old friends or probably, a place where he’d never have to see the faces of his wife and son.
His thoughts came to a halt as he heard a whimper from the bedroom. Realising he must attend to his mother, Vinay walked into the room to find her awake and smiling at him.
“I’m sorry about not making anything for you today Vinu.”
“I’m not feeling hungry maa.”
“Why don’t you go out and get yourself something?”
“I don’t want to go maa... it’s raining.”
“Oh... is he home yet?”
Vinay just nodded saying no and his mother’s face couldn’t help but reveal her sorrow.
All throughout his journey, there’s only one thing that’d been running in his mind for an hour and that was how to ask his parents to come for the school’s annual day celebrations. They never attended any event on their own and even when requested, they always had an excuse ready. Even then, this year was special for him and he wanted his parents there. So, he decided to ask them politely and even explain the events and everything if needed.
Excited, he pushed open the gate and scanned the windows of the hall. There’s no one in it. So Dad wasn’t home. He walked in and set aside his bag and called his mother. There was no response. All right. She’s sleeping and is sick again. He felt sorry for his mother. He never knew why but he suspected there’s more to the story his parents told him about their love and the eventual marriage. This isn’t love. This can’t be.
He never saw any affection between his parents. His father loved him, sure, and his mother loved her son the way every mother would do, but was there ever a tinge of love between them? He’d no idea and there’s always one or more secrets lurking in those quarrels and shouts. They never ate dinners together, they never went out to see movies. They never did anything as a family. Vinay thought many times to ask his mother about this, but he couldn’t come up with the proper words and the embarrassment of hurting her caused dread in his stomach.
But again, there was no way he could have put it without hurting either of his parents. He’s fourteen and just beginning to understand and see things in a different way. Life wasn’t too reductive and binary enough like before.
Dad wasn’t home.
“Oh it was one of those days of too much work at the office” is what he used to think earlier. Now he certainly knew that Dad wasn’t home because he hated being here and there was definitely somewhere else he’d be peaceful and comfortable. A place where he met his old friends or probably, a place where he’d never have to see the faces of his wife and son.
His thoughts came to a halt as he heard a whimper from the bedroom. Realising he must attend to his mother, Vinay walked into the room to find her awake and smiling at him.
“I’m sorry about not making anything for you today Vinu.”
“I’m not feeling hungry maa.”
“Why don’t you go out and get yourself something?”
“I don’t want to go maa... it’s raining.”
“Oh... is he home yet?”
Vinay just nodded saying no and his mother’s face couldn’t help but reveal her sorrow.
II: Brown Worms
Two orphaned siblings who mostly relive their happy memories from their sad past are bound to serve an unkind foreign Lord to repay their debt. When their lives seem hopeless, they meet a stranger with whom they change their course of life.
“Brown Worms” by Harsha Modukuri is a tale of three individuals who are willing to pay their lives as a price in the pursuit of liberating themselves.
“Brown Worms” by Harsha Modukuri is a tale of three individuals who are willing to pay their lives as a price in the pursuit of liberating themselves.
His unruly hair hiding half his face, his hands and legs trying hard to teeter through the mud, Vinay tried not to fall off as the bag on his shoulders weighed too much for his frail body. He was excited though. He’d been selected as a winner in four of the competitions, and he’d get prizes for them on the coming annual day. So, the rain hadn’t completely dampened his emotions and he expected an easy walk home from school. As much as he wanted to return home along with his friends, they had cycles and he had to always walk.
All throughout his journey, there’s only one thing that’d been running in his mind for an hour and that was how to ask his parents to come for the school’s annual day celebrations. They never attended any event on their own and even when requested, they always had an excuse ready. Even then, this year was special for him and he wanted his parents there. So, he decided to ask them politely and even explain the events and everything if needed.
Excited, he pushed open the gate and scanned the windows of the hall. There’s no one in it. So Dad wasn’t home. He walked in and set aside his bag and called his mother. There was no response. All right. She’s sleeping and is sick again. He felt sorry for his mother. He never knew why but he suspected there’s more to the story his parents told him about their love and the eventual marriage. This isn’t love. This can’t be.
He never saw any affection between his parents. His father loved him, sure, and his mother loved her son the way every mother would do, but was there ever a tinge of love between them? He’d no idea and there’s always one or more secrets lurking in those quarrels and shouts. They never ate dinners together, they never went out to see movies. They never did anything as a family. Vinay thought many times to ask his mother about this, but he couldn’t come up with the proper words and the embarrassment of hurting her caused dread in his stomach.
But again, there was no way he could have put it without hurting either of his parents. He’s fourteen and just beginning to understand and see things in a different way. Life wasn’t too reductive and binary enough like before.
Dad wasn’t home.
“Oh it was one of those days of too much work at the office” is what he used to think earlier. Now he certainly knew that Dad wasn’t home because he hated being here and there was definitely somewhere else he’d be peaceful and comfortable. A place where he met his old friends or probably, a place where he’d never have to see the faces of his wife and son.
His thoughts came to a halt as he heard a whimper from the bedroom. Realising he must attend to his mother, Vinay walked into the room to find her awake and smiling at him.
“I’m sorry about not making anything for you today Vinu.”
“I’m not feeling hungry maa.”
“Why don’t you go out and get yourself something?”
“I don’t want to go maa... it’s raining.”
“Oh... is he home yet?”
Vinay just nodded saying no and his mother’s face couldn’t help but reveal her sorrow.
All throughout his journey, there’s only one thing that’d been running in his mind for an hour and that was how to ask his parents to come for the school’s annual day celebrations. They never attended any event on their own and even when requested, they always had an excuse ready. Even then, this year was special for him and he wanted his parents there. So, he decided to ask them politely and even explain the events and everything if needed.
Excited, he pushed open the gate and scanned the windows of the hall. There’s no one in it. So Dad wasn’t home. He walked in and set aside his bag and called his mother. There was no response. All right. She’s sleeping and is sick again. He felt sorry for his mother. He never knew why but he suspected there’s more to the story his parents told him about their love and the eventual marriage. This isn’t love. This can’t be.
He never saw any affection between his parents. His father loved him, sure, and his mother loved her son the way every mother would do, but was there ever a tinge of love between them? He’d no idea and there’s always one or more secrets lurking in those quarrels and shouts. They never ate dinners together, they never went out to see movies. They never did anything as a family. Vinay thought many times to ask his mother about this, but he couldn’t come up with the proper words and the embarrassment of hurting her caused dread in his stomach.
But again, there was no way he could have put it without hurting either of his parents. He’s fourteen and just beginning to understand and see things in a different way. Life wasn’t too reductive and binary enough like before.
Dad wasn’t home.
“Oh it was one of those days of too much work at the office” is what he used to think earlier. Now he certainly knew that Dad wasn’t home because he hated being here and there was definitely somewhere else he’d be peaceful and comfortable. A place where he met his old friends or probably, a place where he’d never have to see the faces of his wife and son.
His thoughts came to a halt as he heard a whimper from the bedroom. Realising he must attend to his mother, Vinay walked into the room to find her awake and smiling at him.
“I’m sorry about not making anything for you today Vinu.”
“I’m not feeling hungry maa.”
“Why don’t you go out and get yourself something?”
“I don’t want to go maa... it’s raining.”
“Oh... is he home yet?”
Vinay just nodded saying no and his mother’s face couldn’t help but reveal her sorrow.
III: Complicated Relations
Being a part of any society means giving in to the collective opinion on some level. Even when our thought is more logical and has a rational argument, we fear facing the wrath of the collective.
“Complicated Relations” by R. S. Chintalapati tells the story of two couples who had to give in rather than live with their choice. The bitter reality is that their parents are the ones who trick them to save them.
“Complicated Relations” by R. S. Chintalapati tells the story of two couples who had to give in rather than live with their choice. The bitter reality is that their parents are the ones who trick them to save them.
Cover Photo by Nikhil Narayanasa
I: Her Marriage
It has just been a month since Preeti graduated. Rather than applying for an engineering job, she preferred to attempt the bank exams as she failed to succeed in getting placed in a multinational company. One morning, her father said, “I haven’t told you but I have been wanting to get you married, and finally, I found a boy who is completely suitable for you.”
Looking at her shocked face, he continued saying, “The boy is attractive and earns around ninety thousand a month in InfoTech, a software enterprise.”
Preeti was terrified while listening to her father. She had many fears ever since her adolescence but the marriage wasn’t just fear. It was terror. Her father paused for a response while she was digesting what she just heard. He understood that she was unprepared for his proposal.
However, since he considered it to be his responsibility to get her married, he continued, “I know it is hard for you to accept to get married. However, considering the circumstances, you must get married someday. So I have taken utmost care in selecting this boy and so I assure you that every aspect of him is perfect!”
Preeti could do nothing but nod her head. She firmly believed that she couldn’t share her problem. Even if she tried to, she knew that her parents would not be supportive as it is taboo in India. She also knew that even if they agreed to her request, people in their neighbourhood would look down upon their family for a lifetime.
Unable to express her problem, Preeti replied, “Father, I have never thought of marriage. I would need some time.”
That afternoon after their lunch, Preeti and her mother were chit-chatting about various family issues and her mother randomly brought up the marriage topic. She wanted Preeti to accept it and assured that the boy was well disciplined and fairly religious. She thought that he was the perfect groom for her.
Preeti was a bit taken aback after the chat and wanted to confess unable to hold it anymore. However, just before she started, her mother continued, “Your father’s health is deteriorating and in the recent medical tests it has been confirmed that he has both diabetes and blood pressure. Moreover, your marriage issue is making him tense.”
Listening to her mother, Preeti didn’t utter a word. Realizing that her father was hoping to get her married at any cost, Preeti decided to express her problem to the boy himself on their first meeting. After planning her course of action, she accepted to get married and her father’s happiness knew no bounds.
Within two weeks, both the families met. After an hour of formal talks, Preeti and Rahul were given some private time to talk. Both of them went to the lawn and Rahul honestly admitted, “You look beautiful, more than you did in the photos.”
This made Preeti slow down in her confession. However, since it was her only chance, she ignored all the consequences before spitting out, “Rahul, you are truly handsome but I have always been only interested in girls!”
Looking at her shocked face, he continued saying, “The boy is attractive and earns around ninety thousand a month in InfoTech, a software enterprise.”
Preeti was terrified while listening to her father. She had many fears ever since her adolescence but the marriage wasn’t just fear. It was terror. Her father paused for a response while she was digesting what she just heard. He understood that she was unprepared for his proposal.
However, since he considered it to be his responsibility to get her married, he continued, “I know it is hard for you to accept to get married. However, considering the circumstances, you must get married someday. So I have taken utmost care in selecting this boy and so I assure you that every aspect of him is perfect!”
Preeti could do nothing but nod her head. She firmly believed that she couldn’t share her problem. Even if she tried to, she knew that her parents would not be supportive as it is taboo in India. She also knew that even if they agreed to her request, people in their neighbourhood would look down upon their family for a lifetime.
Unable to express her problem, Preeti replied, “Father, I have never thought of marriage. I would need some time.”
That afternoon after their lunch, Preeti and her mother were chit-chatting about various family issues and her mother randomly brought up the marriage topic. She wanted Preeti to accept it and assured that the boy was well disciplined and fairly religious. She thought that he was the perfect groom for her.
Preeti was a bit taken aback after the chat and wanted to confess unable to hold it anymore. However, just before she started, her mother continued, “Your father’s health is deteriorating and in the recent medical tests it has been confirmed that he has both diabetes and blood pressure. Moreover, your marriage issue is making him tense.”
Listening to her mother, Preeti didn’t utter a word. Realizing that her father was hoping to get her married at any cost, Preeti decided to express her problem to the boy himself on their first meeting. After planning her course of action, she accepted to get married and her father’s happiness knew no bounds.
Within two weeks, both the families met. After an hour of formal talks, Preeti and Rahul were given some private time to talk. Both of them went to the lawn and Rahul honestly admitted, “You look beautiful, more than you did in the photos.”
This made Preeti slow down in her confession. However, since it was her only chance, she ignored all the consequences before spitting out, “Rahul, you are truly handsome but I have always been only interested in girls!”
Cover Photo by Nikhil Narayanasa
II: Deal!
Preeti felt Rahul was subdued and stood still silently for a few minutes. Immediately afterwards, he said, “That should not be a problem. Even after marriage, your freedom will not be curtailed. Your girlfriend can keep visiting you and I will not touch you until you give me your consent.”
Preeti could not believe what she just heard. She expected he would make a scene of the issue and would reject the marriage at any cost.
Soon enough, Rahul walked back to the drawing-room before interrupting all of the family members by declaring, “We agree to get married as soon as possible!”
While getting congratulated, Preeti could not understand where exactly Rahul was heading to. Without a clue or a proper justification for his actions, Rahul married Preeti. However, Preeti tried to convince Rahul many times not to marry her but he assured her that everything would be fine.
After marriage, as promised, Rahul did not touch her. However, he was no different from any husband. He was, to Preeti’s surprise, a good cook. They often hosted parties, watched movies late at night and visited the beauty parlour every month.
As days passed, Preeti felt bad for being unfair to her husband. She could see Rahul was chivalrous while she was clearly not even satisfying his needs. Soon, she started to think more about him and as days passed, she made slight changes to her course.
As a first attempt, she wanted to make lunch for him and presumed it would be their date. Travelling to Rahul’s office the next day, Preeti enquired the receptionist about Rahul’s chamber. After inquiring as to who she was, the receptionist soon called Rahul but got no response. So Preeti waited for a while before requesting the receptionist to tell her the room number.
Failing to disobey her boss’s wife’s command, the receptionist gave her the room number. Preeti first visited the washroom to freshen up and then with great enthusiasm reached the room.
She adjusted her dress, hair before opening the door without knocking. She was awestruck witnessing Rahul kissing another man. That very moment she understood as to why he always kept saying, “It is alright!
Preeti could not believe what she just heard. She expected he would make a scene of the issue and would reject the marriage at any cost.
Soon enough, Rahul walked back to the drawing-room before interrupting all of the family members by declaring, “We agree to get married as soon as possible!”
While getting congratulated, Preeti could not understand where exactly Rahul was heading to. Without a clue or a proper justification for his actions, Rahul married Preeti. However, Preeti tried to convince Rahul many times not to marry her but he assured her that everything would be fine.
After marriage, as promised, Rahul did not touch her. However, he was no different from any husband. He was, to Preeti’s surprise, a good cook. They often hosted parties, watched movies late at night and visited the beauty parlour every month.
As days passed, Preeti felt bad for being unfair to her husband. She could see Rahul was chivalrous while she was clearly not even satisfying his needs. Soon, she started to think more about him and as days passed, she made slight changes to her course.
As a first attempt, she wanted to make lunch for him and presumed it would be their date. Travelling to Rahul’s office the next day, Preeti enquired the receptionist about Rahul’s chamber. After inquiring as to who she was, the receptionist soon called Rahul but got no response. So Preeti waited for a while before requesting the receptionist to tell her the room number.
Failing to disobey her boss’s wife’s command, the receptionist gave her the room number. Preeti first visited the washroom to freshen up and then with great enthusiasm reached the room.
She adjusted her dress, hair before opening the door without knocking. She was awestruck witnessing Rahul kissing another man. That very moment she understood as to why he always kept saying, “It is alright!
Cover Photo by Nikhil Narayanasa
III: Confession
Looking at Preeti who just opened the door, Rahul yelled, “Shit! She saw us.”
As he glanced at her, Preeti stormed out. Rahul followed her and finally reached her at their car. Just before she opened the door, Rahul stopped her. He could see the sheer disappointment in his wife’s eyes and knew her heart was shattered. He acknowledged to himself that it’s time to confess his motive to marry her.
So, he got into the car along with her and on the way back home, Rahul said, “Preeti, let me tell you what happened.”
Preeti was driving the car paying no heed to him and hoping that silence is a partial acceptance, Rahul continued, “It all started three years ago when I first met Arvind.”
Observing his wife’s eyebrows raised, Rahul hesitantly continued, “For about two years, our relationship was a secret. However, when we graduated and started working, our families started pestering us to get married. Unfortunately, not with the ones we wanted. I was scared.”
Realising he was no different than her, Preeti slowed down as Rahul confessed, “However, six months ago, I came up with the idea of marrying you and Arvind marrying Manisha. We presumed that by doing so, we would neither be socially accused of sinister behaviour nor would we betray and destroy two girls’ lives.”
Hearing him, Preeti hit the brakes and looked at Rahul stunned. For her, it was way too much to digest in one day. She was stuck in-order to respond since she could not curse her husband, or agree to what he just said. The rest of the journey and the date which Preeti planned finally happened, but mutely.
When they finished their lunch, Preeti broke the silence declaring, “I understand that you were trying to do us both a favour but I presumed you meant your marriage vows. Now that I know you didn’t, I am going to find my lover back.”
To her surprise, Rahul was relieved. He even said, “I knew you would understand. Win her back and let’s have a happy life. I’ve always believed that both of us were destined to get married.”
As he glanced at her, Preeti stormed out. Rahul followed her and finally reached her at their car. Just before she opened the door, Rahul stopped her. He could see the sheer disappointment in his wife’s eyes and knew her heart was shattered. He acknowledged to himself that it’s time to confess his motive to marry her.
So, he got into the car along with her and on the way back home, Rahul said, “Preeti, let me tell you what happened.”
Preeti was driving the car paying no heed to him and hoping that silence is a partial acceptance, Rahul continued, “It all started three years ago when I first met Arvind.”
Observing his wife’s eyebrows raised, Rahul hesitantly continued, “For about two years, our relationship was a secret. However, when we graduated and started working, our families started pestering us to get married. Unfortunately, not with the ones we wanted. I was scared.”
Realising he was no different than her, Preeti slowed down as Rahul confessed, “However, six months ago, I came up with the idea of marrying you and Arvind marrying Manisha. We presumed that by doing so, we would neither be socially accused of sinister behaviour nor would we betray and destroy two girls’ lives.”
Hearing him, Preeti hit the brakes and looked at Rahul stunned. For her, it was way too much to digest in one day. She was stuck in-order to respond since she could not curse her husband, or agree to what he just said. The rest of the journey and the date which Preeti planned finally happened, but mutely.
When they finished their lunch, Preeti broke the silence declaring, “I understand that you were trying to do us both a favour but I presumed you meant your marriage vows. Now that I know you didn’t, I am going to find my lover back.”
To her surprise, Rahul was relieved. He even said, “I knew you would understand. Win her back and let’s have a happy life. I’ve always believed that both of us were destined to get married.”
Cover Photo by Nikhil Narayanasa
IV: For Society
Two days later, Preeti left to meet Manisha and on her way, she spent hours thinking about how they met and how Manisha first proposed. Preeti smiled as she recalled how she rejected the proposal even though she admired her greatly.
For about four months, Preeti didn’t agree but after that, she could no longer stay away. Preeti liked the way Manisha fondled her while showering her more love than what her husband even showed after marriage.
When she reached her hometown, it was 8 pm and though it was late, Preeti did not even call Manisha. She wanted to surprise her but found the house locked. So, she ended up calling Manisha but she did not receive the call. Not wanting to return home on the other side of the city, Preeti called Manisha’s mother and that call was not received too.
Not wanting to give up, Preeti called Riya who was their mutual friend in college and to her surprise, Riya attended the call. Soon enough, both of them met in her home which was three lanes behind Manisha’s house.
Preeti asked Riya as soon as she got refreshed of Manisha’s absence. Riya was shocked to know that Preeti didn’t know as to what happened. Until then, she presumed that Preeti had come to support Manisha’s mother.
Facing each other in the drawing-room, Riya said, “I don’t know how to say this... but Manisha has recently... committed suicide.”
Preeti didn’t believe it. She stared at Riya who sat silent for a moment before saying, “What? Why?”
Before Riya even spoke a word, tears flooded out of their eyes and before long, she didn’t realize but she collapsed to the floor. With the help of Riya, a few minutes later, Preeti was back to her senses to hear Riya shouting for the fourth time, “Are you alright?”
Preeti nodded her head indicating a yes but was still crying. Riya was herself in grief since the last three days and she cried so much that her parents were worried about her. They even stopped her from going to the funeral but for Preeti, her life took a huge turn in the past few days. She could no longer remain silent any longer.
Leaning back in her chair, Preeti shouted, “What the hell happened?”
Controlling herself, Riya said, “Just a week after your marriage, Manisha returned from the United States. As soon as she returned, the first person she asked for was you. When her mother informed that you got married, Manisha couldn’t believe it. Even though Manisha’s mother was supportive of your relationship, she advised Manisha to move on. Manisha disapproved of the suggestion stating that you would in no way live staying away from her.”
Preeti couldn’t feel anymore worse as Riya hesitantly continued, “In order to prove her point, she travelled to your city. It seems she followed you for a few days and was taken aback when she found you enjoying movies and beauty parlours with your husband. Later one night, she came here after returning to tell me everything. She sobbed while saying that she was replaced and that you hold no more of your feelings towards her.”
Riya looked at Preeti who still sat weeping. Observing her shattered, Riya said, “I’m sorry, Preeti. Even though I understood that Manisha couldn’t accept the change. Never did I think that she would kill herself in the pain.”
The following day, Preeti went home. As she arrived, she could find her father in the living room, watching television. Surprised, he rose to hug her and after embracing each other, they sat on the sofa. Preeti asked him about her mother and he told her that she had gone to the temple.
Not intending to hold it within her, Preeti confessed everything that has happened in the last few days alongside informing about her sexuality. When she finished, Preeti’s father wasn’t surprised.
Holding her hand, he replied, “A few days ago, I got a call from Manisha’s mother. She cursed me as my actions have claimed Manisha’s life. I wasn’t informed until then and Manisha’s demise will always be on me.”
Recalling her, Preeti started crying and her father continued, “Though I knew you were attracted to girls even before your marriage to Rahul, the reason I asked you to marry him because he was himself attracted to boys. I knew he was gay and I gave in to the pressure of the society without accepting your choices and not valuing your relations.”
Observing her father’s eyes filled with tears, Preeti heard him say, “I’m sorry, Preeti. I’m sorry for not standing up for you. Though I did want to be respected by everyone around me even after your marriage, I never knew the price of it would be the death of a child. Forgive me! Neither did I think of the consequences nor could I imagine that a parent would lose her only child for my pride and respect.
For about four months, Preeti didn’t agree but after that, she could no longer stay away. Preeti liked the way Manisha fondled her while showering her more love than what her husband even showed after marriage.
When she reached her hometown, it was 8 pm and though it was late, Preeti did not even call Manisha. She wanted to surprise her but found the house locked. So, she ended up calling Manisha but she did not receive the call. Not wanting to return home on the other side of the city, Preeti called Manisha’s mother and that call was not received too.
Not wanting to give up, Preeti called Riya who was their mutual friend in college and to her surprise, Riya attended the call. Soon enough, both of them met in her home which was three lanes behind Manisha’s house.
Preeti asked Riya as soon as she got refreshed of Manisha’s absence. Riya was shocked to know that Preeti didn’t know as to what happened. Until then, she presumed that Preeti had come to support Manisha’s mother.
Facing each other in the drawing-room, Riya said, “I don’t know how to say this... but Manisha has recently... committed suicide.”
Preeti didn’t believe it. She stared at Riya who sat silent for a moment before saying, “What? Why?”
Before Riya even spoke a word, tears flooded out of their eyes and before long, she didn’t realize but she collapsed to the floor. With the help of Riya, a few minutes later, Preeti was back to her senses to hear Riya shouting for the fourth time, “Are you alright?”
Preeti nodded her head indicating a yes but was still crying. Riya was herself in grief since the last three days and she cried so much that her parents were worried about her. They even stopped her from going to the funeral but for Preeti, her life took a huge turn in the past few days. She could no longer remain silent any longer.
Leaning back in her chair, Preeti shouted, “What the hell happened?”
Controlling herself, Riya said, “Just a week after your marriage, Manisha returned from the United States. As soon as she returned, the first person she asked for was you. When her mother informed that you got married, Manisha couldn’t believe it. Even though Manisha’s mother was supportive of your relationship, she advised Manisha to move on. Manisha disapproved of the suggestion stating that you would in no way live staying away from her.”
Preeti couldn’t feel anymore worse as Riya hesitantly continued, “In order to prove her point, she travelled to your city. It seems she followed you for a few days and was taken aback when she found you enjoying movies and beauty parlours with your husband. Later one night, she came here after returning to tell me everything. She sobbed while saying that she was replaced and that you hold no more of your feelings towards her.”
Riya looked at Preeti who still sat weeping. Observing her shattered, Riya said, “I’m sorry, Preeti. Even though I understood that Manisha couldn’t accept the change. Never did I think that she would kill herself in the pain.”
The following day, Preeti went home. As she arrived, she could find her father in the living room, watching television. Surprised, he rose to hug her and after embracing each other, they sat on the sofa. Preeti asked him about her mother and he told her that she had gone to the temple.
Not intending to hold it within her, Preeti confessed everything that has happened in the last few days alongside informing about her sexuality. When she finished, Preeti’s father wasn’t surprised.
Holding her hand, he replied, “A few days ago, I got a call from Manisha’s mother. She cursed me as my actions have claimed Manisha’s life. I wasn’t informed until then and Manisha’s demise will always be on me.”
Recalling her, Preeti started crying and her father continued, “Though I knew you were attracted to girls even before your marriage to Rahul, the reason I asked you to marry him because he was himself attracted to boys. I knew he was gay and I gave in to the pressure of the society without accepting your choices and not valuing your relations.”
Observing her father’s eyes filled with tears, Preeti heard him say, “I’m sorry, Preeti. I’m sorry for not standing up for you. Though I did want to be respected by everyone around me even after your marriage, I never knew the price of it would be the death of a child. Forgive me! Neither did I think of the consequences nor could I imagine that a parent would lose her only child for my pride and respect.
IV: Eternal Love
Cover Photo by Pankaj Tottada
What is love? How does one define love? What makes it powerful? What makes it great? Is it time that makes it powerful? Is it people in the relationship that make it great?
“Eternal Love” by Rajiv R Nair deals with these questions through the tale of Arjun and Aditya. Showcasing how the couple often struggles but work things out due to their love for each other, this story reveals why love is powerful and significant.
“Eternal Love” by Rajiv R Nair deals with these questions through the tale of Arjun and Aditya. Showcasing how the couple often struggles but work things out due to their love for each other, this story reveals why love is powerful and significant.
I: UNFORGETTABLE TIME
Arjun moved out from the AC cabin in the train and stood near the door. Fog formed on his aviator framed eyeglasses due to the sudden change in temperature of the surroundings. He was smiling deeply engrossed in his thoughts that he didn’t even notice the physical transition happening right in front of his very eyes.
The train was gushing at the rate of knots. The plastic covers that were thrown out from the trains, that passed by for decades, were trying to catch up with the train. In the journey, trees were left behind, people looked like ants and Arjun felt like he was impersonating Flash.
Just then a familiar face standing beside winked at him. He responded with a smile and nothing else. She was the girl who sat in the opposite berth to his.
Three years back, he would have at least tried to impress her but now his mind was just confined to occasional glances and smiles.
The girl started, “Hi... Hii... I’m Diya. Who are you smiling at?”
“It’s nothing. You won’t understand it unless you experience love.”
She retorted, “Oh! Come on... I’ve been there thrice!”
Arjun smiled again and exclaimed, “I can understand the way you were in love and, to be frank, it isn’t what you call love.”
She furiously asked, “Okay Mr, how long has it been since you’ve been in love?”
Arjun answered, “Three years to be precise.”
“Oh, God! That’s like decades! How did you manage? My guy, the second one couldn’t breathe for three days and broke up with me as I wasn’t available to him during my college trip.”
Arjun sarcastically retorted, “Wow! To be frank, it is not tough to figure out how you’ve failed with the other two boys.”
As he spoke, his thoughts time travelled back to the day he met Her.
Her as in…
“What’s your name?”, asked Arjun to a cute looking girl in a blue dress fitting her in the best possible way.
“It’s Aditya sir”, the girl replied in fear.
“What? Aditya? Interesting... Which branch are you in?”
“Me sir… and I’m in the same branch as you are in. I’ve seen you many times within the campus.”
“Aha... so can I conclude that you’ve been following me keenly?” Arjun asked.
“No girl would be foolish enough to accept that sir.”
“So... Should I take it as a yes or no?”
“I leave it up to you sir. By the way sir, I’m running late to class. Can we do this later?” requested Aditya.
“Sure, Adi. That would be fine. Don’t forget to send me a friend request,” said Arjun.
The train was gushing at the rate of knots. The plastic covers that were thrown out from the trains, that passed by for decades, were trying to catch up with the train. In the journey, trees were left behind, people looked like ants and Arjun felt like he was impersonating Flash.
Just then a familiar face standing beside winked at him. He responded with a smile and nothing else. She was the girl who sat in the opposite berth to his.
Three years back, he would have at least tried to impress her but now his mind was just confined to occasional glances and smiles.
The girl started, “Hi... Hii... I’m Diya. Who are you smiling at?”
“It’s nothing. You won’t understand it unless you experience love.”
She retorted, “Oh! Come on... I’ve been there thrice!”
Arjun smiled again and exclaimed, “I can understand the way you were in love and, to be frank, it isn’t what you call love.”
She furiously asked, “Okay Mr, how long has it been since you’ve been in love?”
Arjun answered, “Three years to be precise.”
“Oh, God! That’s like decades! How did you manage? My guy, the second one couldn’t breathe for three days and broke up with me as I wasn’t available to him during my college trip.”
Arjun sarcastically retorted, “Wow! To be frank, it is not tough to figure out how you’ve failed with the other two boys.”
As he spoke, his thoughts time travelled back to the day he met Her.
Her as in…
“What’s your name?”, asked Arjun to a cute looking girl in a blue dress fitting her in the best possible way.
“It’s Aditya sir”, the girl replied in fear.
“What? Aditya? Interesting... Which branch are you in?”
“Me sir… and I’m in the same branch as you are in. I’ve seen you many times within the campus.”
“Aha... so can I conclude that you’ve been following me keenly?” Arjun asked.
“No girl would be foolish enough to accept that sir.”
“So... Should I take it as a yes or no?”
“I leave it up to you sir. By the way sir, I’m running late to class. Can we do this later?” requested Aditya.
“Sure, Adi. That would be fine. Don’t forget to send me a friend request,” said Arjun.
“So, how many women have you been sleeping with? Ever since you left your girl in your hometown?” asked Diya.
“What? Oh! Come on. I love her. Why would I prefer pleasure from anyone else? We promised to each other that we stay united for eternity,” explained Arjun.
“Ahaa. Is it? What if your beloved girlfriend cheats on you?”, asked Diya sarcastically.
“It’s not just a promise. It’s trust upon your partner. You stay connected to them no matter what happens and you always stay faithful to the girl even if she cheats on you, which usually doesn’t happen.”
“Can I know your name- the enlightening one? Wouldn’t be good if I don’t know your name considering the wisdom you are offering on romance and relationships.”
“What? Oh! Come on. I love her. Why would I prefer pleasure from anyone else? We promised to each other that we stay united for eternity,” explained Arjun.
“Ahaa. Is it? What if your beloved girlfriend cheats on you?”, asked Diya sarcastically.
“It’s not just a promise. It’s trust upon your partner. You stay connected to them no matter what happens and you always stay faithful to the girl even if she cheats on you, which usually doesn’t happen.”
“Can I know your name- the enlightening one? Wouldn’t be good if I don’t know your name considering the wisdom you are offering on romance and relationships.”
“Sir, your name, please? It’s the fifth meeting and you still haven’t given me a chance to interact with you more”, pleading Aditya was behind Arjun again.
“Don’t you think interacting with you in person is enough? What else do you want?”, Arjun was still persistent to make her wait for him.
“I only want to send you a friend request, as you asked sir. We are gonna chat for hours just like everybody out there”, Aditya assured.
“Don’t you think interacting with you in person is enough? What else do you want?”, Arjun was still persistent to make her wait for him.
“I only want to send you a friend request, as you asked sir. We are gonna chat for hours just like everybody out there”, Aditya assured.
“It’s Arjun. I work in Pune and I am physically and mentally committed to Aditya who is not a guy as the name suggests”, puts his hand forward to symbolise the start of a new friendship.
“Seriously, your girl is so lucky to have someone who’s so cute, handsome, witty and intelligent” praised Diya.
“Oh! Come on. You’re flattering me. It’s just that I respect the feeling and I don’t want to spoil the goodwill it has acquired over the years from what life has taught me.”
“That’s so sweet of you. Okay then, it’s time I leave... My dad’s gonna search for me and if he doesn’t find me in the berth below his...”, she giggles.
The emptiness of the whole situation creeps back to Arjun’s mind.
“Seriously, your girl is so lucky to have someone who’s so cute, handsome, witty and intelligent” praised Diya.
“Oh! Come on. You’re flattering me. It’s just that I respect the feeling and I don’t want to spoil the goodwill it has acquired over the years from what life has taught me.”
“That’s so sweet of you. Okay then, it’s time I leave... My dad’s gonna search for me and if he doesn’t find me in the berth below his...”, she giggles.
The emptiness of the whole situation creeps back to Arjun’s mind.
“Are you sure you want to do this Arjun?”, questioned Aditya.
“Of course, I’m sure. I know you love me too. It’s just a matter of commitment that we would stay together no matter what happens.”
“But I am not so good looking. I may or may not meet you as frequently as we do now. It’s all gonna become a burden to you. Why do you want to waste your time with someone like me?”, asked Aditya.
“Look, Adi, external beauty is not my concern and frankly you have a beautiful mind and generous heart. You are more than what I deserve and other issues don’t matter as long as you are with me. Is it written anywhere that a relationship only will last when two people are together in the same city and meet every day? The onus is upon us to keep our relationship strong wherever we are. I hope you understand.”
“What if one of your previous crushes returns to you? What happens to me then? As a girl, I only want your commitment to be with me till the end. Other than this, I don’t really find a reason to turn down your proposal.”, Aditya finally expressed her concern.
“I wouldn’t have come to you if I was still gloating with the thoughts of my previous crushes. Anything I say now would become an exaggerated promise about the future which is never certain. All I can say is that I am damn serious about you and will never ever think of leaving or hurting you”, Arjun assured her.
“Of course, I’m sure. I know you love me too. It’s just a matter of commitment that we would stay together no matter what happens.”
“But I am not so good looking. I may or may not meet you as frequently as we do now. It’s all gonna become a burden to you. Why do you want to waste your time with someone like me?”, asked Aditya.
“Look, Adi, external beauty is not my concern and frankly you have a beautiful mind and generous heart. You are more than what I deserve and other issues don’t matter as long as you are with me. Is it written anywhere that a relationship only will last when two people are together in the same city and meet every day? The onus is upon us to keep our relationship strong wherever we are. I hope you understand.”
“What if one of your previous crushes returns to you? What happens to me then? As a girl, I only want your commitment to be with me till the end. Other than this, I don’t really find a reason to turn down your proposal.”, Aditya finally expressed her concern.
“I wouldn’t have come to you if I was still gloating with the thoughts of my previous crushes. Anything I say now would become an exaggerated promise about the future which is never certain. All I can say is that I am damn serious about you and will never ever think of leaving or hurting you”, Arjun assured her.
II: VALUE OF COMMITMENT
The cool breeze paved its way through his hair as the train gushed. His man bun was shattered and his hair was all over his face. The joy of one’s hair dancing to the wind’s tune around your face is never understood by the typical Indian parents who force their children to get their heads almost tonsured every time they see a strand of hair falling onto the forehead. It does really pain high when you have to get a haircut once in every two fortnights.
He recalled to the times when Adi used to play with his hair when it was way shorter and trimmed. The smile was back on his face as he was finally going to meet his love after two long years.
He moved back to his seat where Diya was sitting along with her dad. She shot a smile at him. He smiled back and received a stern angry look from her dad.
“If you would like to talk, I would suggest talking in English for our privacy. Though my father won’t understand, he would feel proud that his daughter is speaking in English even with strangers.”
“Hahaha... Then we should definitely talk in English then.”
Settling down facing her, Arjun advised, “So, I want to tell you something. I don’t know if I’m close enough to say all this but make sure you select the right person whom you feel you’re worthy of and mesmerise him to such an extent that he must lose himself when he’s with you. There’s no point in you jumping into relations, just hang in there and wait for the magic to happen.”
“Yes, sir. That’s so nice of you and personally, I envy your girl. I love you. Not as someone to share the rest of your life but as someone whom I can look up and turn towards when I am in need. Arjun, you made my trip worthy. Thank you and my station arrived so goodbye. My number is Nine two zero nine zero nine zero nine two zero. Wish you happiness and success in your life and stay in touch with me.”
“Thank you... I’ll be in touch with you for sure. If at all there’s anything that bothers you in your life... You can always count on me”, said Arjun as he bid her goodbye and smiled at her dad.
The send-off again blasted his thoughts back to...
He recalled to the times when Adi used to play with his hair when it was way shorter and trimmed. The smile was back on his face as he was finally going to meet his love after two long years.
He moved back to his seat where Diya was sitting along with her dad. She shot a smile at him. He smiled back and received a stern angry look from her dad.
“If you would like to talk, I would suggest talking in English for our privacy. Though my father won’t understand, he would feel proud that his daughter is speaking in English even with strangers.”
“Hahaha... Then we should definitely talk in English then.”
Settling down facing her, Arjun advised, “So, I want to tell you something. I don’t know if I’m close enough to say all this but make sure you select the right person whom you feel you’re worthy of and mesmerise him to such an extent that he must lose himself when he’s with you. There’s no point in you jumping into relations, just hang in there and wait for the magic to happen.”
“Yes, sir. That’s so nice of you and personally, I envy your girl. I love you. Not as someone to share the rest of your life but as someone whom I can look up and turn towards when I am in need. Arjun, you made my trip worthy. Thank you and my station arrived so goodbye. My number is Nine two zero nine zero nine zero nine two zero. Wish you happiness and success in your life and stay in touch with me.”
“Thank you... I’ll be in touch with you for sure. If at all there’s anything that bothers you in your life... You can always count on me”, said Arjun as he bid her goodbye and smiled at her dad.
The send-off again blasted his thoughts back to...
“I don’t want you to leave me here. Why can’t you just stay back, Arjun?”, pleaded Aditya.
“How is that possible, honey? It’s not just the two of us. There are two families with whom we are associated. Spare a thought about them too. And moreover, no father would want to give his daughter’s hand to someone who’s unemployed. It’s just a matter of two years and I’ll be relocating to my own city.”
“I’ll miss you, baby. Take care of yourself. Don’t forget me, I won’t give you a chance to either. Love you loads, baby”, hugs him and starts crying.
Arjun wipes her tears and says “Miss you too and I love you more than anyone. I won’t forget you. Goodbye... honey.”
“How is that possible, honey? It’s not just the two of us. There are two families with whom we are associated. Spare a thought about them too. And moreover, no father would want to give his daughter’s hand to someone who’s unemployed. It’s just a matter of two years and I’ll be relocating to my own city.”
“I’ll miss you, baby. Take care of yourself. Don’t forget me, I won’t give you a chance to either. Love you loads, baby”, hugs him and starts crying.
Arjun wipes her tears and says “Miss you too and I love you more than anyone. I won’t forget you. Goodbye... honey.”
The feeling of missing her for two years has now overcome with the bliss of meeting her. Two years of loneliness even though he was with many others, his heart was nowhere in the vicinity. People loved his company, many girls had a shot at him but he politely refused them. He became a good friend to many colleagues and his decision was often respected and adhered. Arjun was slowly getting his senses back. The train came to a halt.
He stood on the platform and enjoyed the fresh air. He waited for some more time to see whether there’s someone who’s gonna receive him at the station.
His phone beeped and the screen blinked with the notification “Message from Adi <3”
Arjun immediately unlocked his phone and read the message
“Hey, Arjun!
All Set... With Enigma... Have A Very Elaborate… Attributes of Love Respect Experiences Affection Discipline Yearning... Don’t Engage in Code It’s Dead End... Don’t... Over Note... What’s Here Entails Reason & Execution... We’re Ending up to Meet Elephant Eagle Tiger When Horse Egg Nursed... You Open Up to Return Exile Tragic Untold Rather Not Heroic Opus of My Exuberance.
Give your brain some work. I love you as hell.... please help me, baby!”
Arjun was shell-shocked upon reading the message. He did not even understand a single sentence. He thought “Is she in some kind of problem?”
Arjun was losing control over himself. He was here for her after two long years and here there’s something new for him to unravel to reach her. Was it something with the words? Is she trying to say something through the message?
His mind was running out of thoughts. His heart was pounding faster than ever. He did not understand what to do. He was confused and couldn’t figure out the meaning of the message. It was like... being asked to write a test after you get your results.
Arjun was in pretty bad shape and was getting vexed up. He bought a drink and gulped it till the bottle was transparent all over. He had no one else who could understand his problem. All his friends were out of town busy in their own lives.
He picked up the phone, gave her a call and was responded with the message “The subscriber number you’re trying to call is currently switched off” and so he pinged her on WhatsApp, nudged her on Hike, messaged her on Hangouts but nothing helped.
Was this some kind of a prank or an intelligence test? He was perplexed. He thought maybe he should read the message over again. Not even a bit went into his head. He went through it again, but couldn’t find success.
He was pretty good at solving puzzles. He thought of deducing something out from the message. He tried everything with the words and their meanings. Just then it struck him that there were capital letters for every word in the message. So he thought of writing them on a piece of paper and then he was smiling finally after struggling for 45 mins.
‘AS... WE HAVE... ALREADY DECIDED... ON... WHERE... WE... MEET... WHEN... YOU RETURN... HOME’ was what it meant.
He hired a cab and reached the destination within no time. He was no alien to the serene atmosphere, it was their favourite meet up spot. It was a café, that provided customizable customer-friendly space for every visiting member run by a group of fat and pompous, crazy about love guys, who are the only heirs to their also fat politician daddy’s immense wealth.
The wonderful ambience and the services offered by the café were exquisite and are second to none. Both Arjun and Aditya have had some very good times and some bitter times too at the same place, so they have decided to meet up there.
The moment Arjun entered into their own private space in the café. He dashed Aditya who was on the way for a hug.
There were tears in her eyes but it wasn’t because she was sad. Arjun patted her, rubbed her back, took her face in his hands, looked into her deep eyes, removed his glasses while still looking into her eyes, and got closer to her face. Aditya closed her eyes and Arjun planted a soft kiss on her forehead.
He stood on the platform and enjoyed the fresh air. He waited for some more time to see whether there’s someone who’s gonna receive him at the station.
His phone beeped and the screen blinked with the notification “Message from Adi <3”
Arjun immediately unlocked his phone and read the message
“Hey, Arjun!
All Set... With Enigma... Have A Very Elaborate… Attributes of Love Respect Experiences Affection Discipline Yearning... Don’t Engage in Code It’s Dead End... Don’t... Over Note... What’s Here Entails Reason & Execution... We’re Ending up to Meet Elephant Eagle Tiger When Horse Egg Nursed... You Open Up to Return Exile Tragic Untold Rather Not Heroic Opus of My Exuberance.
Give your brain some work. I love you as hell.... please help me, baby!”
Arjun was shell-shocked upon reading the message. He did not even understand a single sentence. He thought “Is she in some kind of problem?”
Arjun was losing control over himself. He was here for her after two long years and here there’s something new for him to unravel to reach her. Was it something with the words? Is she trying to say something through the message?
His mind was running out of thoughts. His heart was pounding faster than ever. He did not understand what to do. He was confused and couldn’t figure out the meaning of the message. It was like... being asked to write a test after you get your results.
Arjun was in pretty bad shape and was getting vexed up. He bought a drink and gulped it till the bottle was transparent all over. He had no one else who could understand his problem. All his friends were out of town busy in their own lives.
He picked up the phone, gave her a call and was responded with the message “The subscriber number you’re trying to call is currently switched off” and so he pinged her on WhatsApp, nudged her on Hike, messaged her on Hangouts but nothing helped.
Was this some kind of a prank or an intelligence test? He was perplexed. He thought maybe he should read the message over again. Not even a bit went into his head. He went through it again, but couldn’t find success.
He was pretty good at solving puzzles. He thought of deducing something out from the message. He tried everything with the words and their meanings. Just then it struck him that there were capital letters for every word in the message. So he thought of writing them on a piece of paper and then he was smiling finally after struggling for 45 mins.
‘AS... WE HAVE... ALREADY DECIDED... ON... WHERE... WE... MEET... WHEN... YOU RETURN... HOME’ was what it meant.
He hired a cab and reached the destination within no time. He was no alien to the serene atmosphere, it was their favourite meet up spot. It was a café, that provided customizable customer-friendly space for every visiting member run by a group of fat and pompous, crazy about love guys, who are the only heirs to their also fat politician daddy’s immense wealth.
The wonderful ambience and the services offered by the café were exquisite and are second to none. Both Arjun and Aditya have had some very good times and some bitter times too at the same place, so they have decided to meet up there.
The moment Arjun entered into their own private space in the café. He dashed Aditya who was on the way for a hug.
There were tears in her eyes but it wasn’t because she was sad. Arjun patted her, rubbed her back, took her face in his hands, looked into her deep eyes, removed his glasses while still looking into her eyes, and got closer to her face. Aditya closed her eyes and Arjun planted a soft kiss on her forehead.
V: Hidden Bond
Commitment only comes out of trust, and trust comes out of belief. Now belief comes out understanding, and understanding comes out of affection. Now finally, affection is nothing but love.
“Hidden Bond” by Viswanath Perala explores this idea through a young couple trying to figure out how to work on their relationship after being separated for their higher education.
“Hidden Bond” by Viswanath Perala explores this idea through a young couple trying to figure out how to work on their relationship after being separated for their higher education.
“Every sunshine either is the beginning of a new life or the end of one. Whether it is good or bad, the day starts.”
I wake as the dewdrop tickles, as it rolls over me and I feel the mild heat generated in the early hours. I am a leaf watching the whole world run against time and look at us only when there is a huge gathering for an environmental cause. Like every day, I am always looking for some fresh air, and there is a different scenario around me today.
“How can someone just make an impression on one’s life at just the first look?” he asked.
“Don’t be surprised! It is exactly like how it happened to you”, a soft voice replied in quick succession.
I do not know what exactly they are referring to, but I was curious by their words and so I was listening to their conversation keenly.
“If there is anything that I am waiting for, every second of my life it is...”
She interrupted, “Oh! Come on Raghu, do not get back to the same issue. I told you. I told you... I need time.”
“I am just saying.”
“No Raghu! There is something that is taunting you daily, which is making you ask me the same question every now and then. Why do you do this?”, she said, which echoed in the quiet park quite enough to let the world know what they are up to.
Raghu replied, “Okay Riya! Now let’s just stop arguing about this for now.”
She furiously said, “Stop pretending now. I am getting irritated.”
Finishing her words, she left.
I do not know what has happened here but, one thing is for sure, I definitely loved their conversation. A half-hour has elapsed and a small boy walks along with his mother and sits diagonally to me on a bench.
“Mama! Mama!” he screamed.
“What happened? Anything wrong?” the mother questioned.
I wake as the dewdrop tickles, as it rolls over me and I feel the mild heat generated in the early hours. I am a leaf watching the whole world run against time and look at us only when there is a huge gathering for an environmental cause. Like every day, I am always looking for some fresh air, and there is a different scenario around me today.
“How can someone just make an impression on one’s life at just the first look?” he asked.
“Don’t be surprised! It is exactly like how it happened to you”, a soft voice replied in quick succession.
I do not know what exactly they are referring to, but I was curious by their words and so I was listening to their conversation keenly.
“If there is anything that I am waiting for, every second of my life it is...”
She interrupted, “Oh! Come on Raghu, do not get back to the same issue. I told you. I told you... I need time.”
“I am just saying.”
“No Raghu! There is something that is taunting you daily, which is making you ask me the same question every now and then. Why do you do this?”, she said, which echoed in the quiet park quite enough to let the world know what they are up to.
Raghu replied, “Okay Riya! Now let’s just stop arguing about this for now.”
She furiously said, “Stop pretending now. I am getting irritated.”
Finishing her words, she left.
I do not know what has happened here but, one thing is for sure, I definitely loved their conversation. A half-hour has elapsed and a small boy walks along with his mother and sits diagonally to me on a bench.
“Mama! Mama!” he screamed.
“What happened? Anything wrong?” the mother questioned.
|
“That dog... that dog is staring at me. I am so afraid.” “It’s ok! I think it just likes you. You need not worry about the dog”, the mother told her son. On a pleasant & fine morning like this, both the mother and son hear a person sobbing just behind a tree. They walk to see what happened and they see a girl sobbing. “Can I help you, my dear?”, the mother asked. When I looked at the girl, she was Riya. Though I thought she left, apparently not. “Hey! What happened to you? Can I help you?” “No, I am okay. Thank you.” Riya replied. “Ok, do you need some water?” |
Cover Photo by Pankaj Tottada
|
“I need time, madam. Can you...” Riya shouted.
In the meantime, Raghu is talking to his friend about what happened...
“Dude! it’s done... she... left me… she ditched me”, he shouted in a low disheartened voice and continued, “Yes! Just now I asked for the commitment and she feels like I am pushing over her.”
“I cannot take it anymore!”, Raghu cried concluding.
I wonder what will happen to them. In this world, everything is linked with an unseen bond, untold but only felt between two people.
Meanwhile, Riya said, “He is always wanting me to promise what I am unsure of aunty!”, Riya said.
The mother inquired, “Is he wanting you to promise him that you will not leave him?”
Riya replied, “No. He wants me to give him a commitment to marriage four years from now.”
After a moment of silence, she continued, “I cannot ask my father to believe in our future of which I myself am pretty unsure of.”
The mother said, “Hmm, that is a very big decision to make. Let me think about it.”
Meanwhile, Riya spoke out of her agony, “We actually met this morning and argued on this. I don’t want to leave him, but this is very confusing.”
Looking at her, the mother said, “See dear. Commitment only comes out of trust and trust comes out of belief. Now belief comes out understanding and understanding comes out of affection. Now finally, affection is nothing but love. Speak out to him and let him hear what it is.”
Riya asked, “Do you think this is a good time to talk to him?”
The mother assured, “Oh yeah! It is. If you don’t mind, get him here and speak to him in front of me. Maybe I could try help.”
She stood up and immediately brought Raghu to the mother. Raghu just fell down to his knees in astonishment. I could not understand what happened to him and Riya immediately went to help him but before she reached the mother first reached him.
Raghu exclaimed, “Mom! You? Riya... She... is...”
While Raghu stammered, Riya asked, “Mom? What? What are you talking about?”
A moment later, Raghu finally said, “Mom, what are you doing here? I wanted to tell you but I was afraid. Mom...”
“Aunty? Your mother! Oh crap!”, Riya exclaimed.
Mother just walked away saying nothing from them right towards me and was staring at me. I, literally, could not figure out what she was feeling. However, my life has come to an end and I can see no more sunrise and sunset. I took one last breath to see if I were to remain alive and to see what happens.
“Raghu take this rose and offer her a commitment and make sure you believe in yourself before you ask her to,” Raghu’s mom said.
Raghu took the rose, went to Riya saying, “If there is anything in this world which I must take care of, it is just you. Believe me, I will never let that smile fade away. I love you!”
To which Riya replied, “Love you too.”
Seeking his mother’s permission, she hugged him. At first, I wished I could help them and sort out their problems in any way possible. You might be thinking if I was a rose. In that case, I did actually help but I was just a leaf. I was adding beauty and so yes, I have helped too.
In this world along with the beauty of nature lies an unknown bond which makes things look more beautiful, just like the rose looks even more beautiful with a leaf alongside it. In the same way, trust along with love gives you happiness and it is what most relations lack.
Love everyone and you will love this world. No matter what happens, you will always be happy because you will always be trusted for your love.
In the meantime, Raghu is talking to his friend about what happened...
“Dude! it’s done... she... left me… she ditched me”, he shouted in a low disheartened voice and continued, “Yes! Just now I asked for the commitment and she feels like I am pushing over her.”
“I cannot take it anymore!”, Raghu cried concluding.
I wonder what will happen to them. In this world, everything is linked with an unseen bond, untold but only felt between two people.
Meanwhile, Riya said, “He is always wanting me to promise what I am unsure of aunty!”, Riya said.
The mother inquired, “Is he wanting you to promise him that you will not leave him?”
Riya replied, “No. He wants me to give him a commitment to marriage four years from now.”
After a moment of silence, she continued, “I cannot ask my father to believe in our future of which I myself am pretty unsure of.”
The mother said, “Hmm, that is a very big decision to make. Let me think about it.”
Meanwhile, Riya spoke out of her agony, “We actually met this morning and argued on this. I don’t want to leave him, but this is very confusing.”
Looking at her, the mother said, “See dear. Commitment only comes out of trust and trust comes out of belief. Now belief comes out understanding and understanding comes out of affection. Now finally, affection is nothing but love. Speak out to him and let him hear what it is.”
Riya asked, “Do you think this is a good time to talk to him?”
The mother assured, “Oh yeah! It is. If you don’t mind, get him here and speak to him in front of me. Maybe I could try help.”
She stood up and immediately brought Raghu to the mother. Raghu just fell down to his knees in astonishment. I could not understand what happened to him and Riya immediately went to help him but before she reached the mother first reached him.
Raghu exclaimed, “Mom! You? Riya... She... is...”
While Raghu stammered, Riya asked, “Mom? What? What are you talking about?”
A moment later, Raghu finally said, “Mom, what are you doing here? I wanted to tell you but I was afraid. Mom...”
“Aunty? Your mother! Oh crap!”, Riya exclaimed.
Mother just walked away saying nothing from them right towards me and was staring at me. I, literally, could not figure out what she was feeling. However, my life has come to an end and I can see no more sunrise and sunset. I took one last breath to see if I were to remain alive and to see what happens.
“Raghu take this rose and offer her a commitment and make sure you believe in yourself before you ask her to,” Raghu’s mom said.
Raghu took the rose, went to Riya saying, “If there is anything in this world which I must take care of, it is just you. Believe me, I will never let that smile fade away. I love you!”
To which Riya replied, “Love you too.”
Seeking his mother’s permission, she hugged him. At first, I wished I could help them and sort out their problems in any way possible. You might be thinking if I was a rose. In that case, I did actually help but I was just a leaf. I was adding beauty and so yes, I have helped too.
In this world along with the beauty of nature lies an unknown bond which makes things look more beautiful, just like the rose looks even more beautiful with a leaf alongside it. In the same way, trust along with love gives you happiness and it is what most relations lack.
Love everyone and you will love this world. No matter what happens, you will always be happy because you will always be trusted for your love.
VI: Lucifer
They say, “If given a choice to choose between blood-relations and friends, often choose friends.” The ones we own as ours are often the ones who backstab us to gain a short-lived benefit.
“Lucifer” by P. C. Ravuri tells the story of a boy and his family dealing with this idea in a curiously fascinating way by introducing the evil Lucifer himself.
“Lucifer” by P. C. Ravuri tells the story of a boy and his family dealing with this idea in a curiously fascinating way by introducing the evil Lucifer himself.
I: THE TRUTH
Just like every morning, my alarm rang and I wanted to wake up to switch it off but I couldn’t. Fortunately, a few seconds later, it stopped on its own. At 7:15, I woke up after a long sleep but was still laying on my bed.
Meanwhile, my mom entered my room to say, “Wake up kiddo! You are going to be late for college.”
Forcing myself, I got out of my bed and freshened up before walking into my living room to find my breakfast already served. Around 8 am, I reached my bus stop and found a few friends waiting for the bus. A few minutes later, I got into the bus following them and sat in my spot.
All my friends were enjoying themselves as usual without me. By 9 am, I reached my college and sat in my place beside Rohan, my best friend. From the moment I sat until the classes got completed, Rohan who just sat beside me didn’t even greet, talk or even respond.
By 3 pm, our classes were over and I returned home. This routine continued for two days. Even though everything seemed alright, I could observe some changes in these two days which I have never experienced before in my life before.
I could see that no one around me was responding. My mom was the only one who used to say every morning, “Wake up kiddo! You are going to be late for college.”
My dad on the other hand reads a document all day and my younger brother stood before our home every evening and cried for a few minutes. After that, he went to my uncle’s house which was just beside ours and all of these actions totally confused me. I could not understand as to why my family members were behaving differently.
The next day, when I woke up, I observed that the date-card was 14th February 2015. Since the present date was 17th February, I tried changing it but I was unable to. When I wanted to tell my mother, I couldn’t find her. Neither her nor my father was present at home. I thought of going to Rohan’s house to talk to him.
I reached his home within ten minutes as it was just in the next lane and as I walked, I could see him speaking to our classmates. Though I shouted to greet him, they didn’t respond as usual but when I walked near him, I could hear him saying, “It was unfortunate but three days ago while Vimal was travelling to a hill station, he died in an accident. Except for his brother who is currently in his uncle’s care, everyone has been killed.”
It took me a while to realize that I was no longer alive. I was now a part of the void yet filled with desire.
Meanwhile, my mom entered my room to say, “Wake up kiddo! You are going to be late for college.”
Forcing myself, I got out of my bed and freshened up before walking into my living room to find my breakfast already served. Around 8 am, I reached my bus stop and found a few friends waiting for the bus. A few minutes later, I got into the bus following them and sat in my spot.
All my friends were enjoying themselves as usual without me. By 9 am, I reached my college and sat in my place beside Rohan, my best friend. From the moment I sat until the classes got completed, Rohan who just sat beside me didn’t even greet, talk or even respond.
By 3 pm, our classes were over and I returned home. This routine continued for two days. Even though everything seemed alright, I could observe some changes in these two days which I have never experienced before in my life before.
I could see that no one around me was responding. My mom was the only one who used to say every morning, “Wake up kiddo! You are going to be late for college.”
My dad on the other hand reads a document all day and my younger brother stood before our home every evening and cried for a few minutes. After that, he went to my uncle’s house which was just beside ours and all of these actions totally confused me. I could not understand as to why my family members were behaving differently.
The next day, when I woke up, I observed that the date-card was 14th February 2015. Since the present date was 17th February, I tried changing it but I was unable to. When I wanted to tell my mother, I couldn’t find her. Neither her nor my father was present at home. I thought of going to Rohan’s house to talk to him.
I reached his home within ten minutes as it was just in the next lane and as I walked, I could see him speaking to our classmates. Though I shouted to greet him, they didn’t respond as usual but when I walked near him, I could hear him saying, “It was unfortunate but three days ago while Vimal was travelling to a hill station, he died in an accident. Except for his brother who is currently in his uncle’s care, everyone has been killed.”
It took me a while to realize that I was no longer alive. I was now a part of the void yet filled with desire.
II: THE PUNISHMENT
When I returned home dejected, I could notice that my parents were still ignorant as to what had happened. Not wanting them to exist in a lie, I wanted to inform them of the truth. For the first time, my father heard me and while I spoke to them, I noticed my uncle coming to our house. For the first time in my life, I loved him for taking care of my little brother.
Looking at our family portrait, he confessed, “My dear brother. Thank you for making me rich. I don’t know how I can repay you for you have given me power.”
My uncle’s words shocked us. Not even for a minute, one of us could believe it. Unable to control his anger, my father tried punching my uncle but he couldn’t.
As my uncle walked around our home, I told my parents that we were killed by our uncle. I also told them that my brother was only being taken care of because he would be the heir. As soon as he would become an adult, my uncle might be planning to take the estates from him and end him as well. However, to our surprise, my uncle and aunty were taking too much care of him right now and were showering too much love.
Days passed by as we wondered what could be done. A couple of days later, I could see my uncle and aunt have a disagreement in raising another kid in their home. With every passing day, my aunt started revealing her true colours. She straightforwardly stated that she cannot afford to love another child beside her own ones. Though my uncle explained his plan earlier, it didn’t make much difference to her. He pleaded with her while assuring that this burden would only be for a few months. On being asked as to what would happen in a few months, my uncle just smiled.
With this incident, all three of us became restless. We tried our best to communicate with my brother but our efforts failed. I could observe that my brother changed so much after our death. He started learning more and more about souls and devils and from his side, he was trying to contact us desperately too.
Though both of us lived in the same room all the time, we couldn’t talk. One day, I found him reading a book called “Dark Shade” as it was suggested to him to be the best book to find answers regarding souls and afterlife. After completing the preface, we started the chapter named “Lucifer: The Ultimate Master.”
The chapter was about Lucifer, the representative of demons. It was mentioned that it was his responsibility to send away all those souls with desires to hell for proper judgment. As to where he lived, it was mentioned that he lived in a graveyard waiting for people to be either cremated or burnt in-order to seek their souls.
When I completed reading the chapter, I was curious to know if Lucifer could be of some help. So when the moon took its turn, I went to the graveyard along with my parents. Before we entered, we were requested by many other souls to leave. These souls were as bright as the sun and we couldn’t stand near them. However, we went inside without heeding their words.
As we entered we could see many black souls waiting around burnt bodies. As we walked towards them, we could see a young boy flying above the flames of burning bodies. Noticing all the souls around us, we could understand that this boy was Lucifer.
As I approached him, he asked, “Tell me why I shouldn’t cease you but rather help you?”
Observing his smile, I replied, “Because I seek to help my brother after which I would surrender.”
Looking at me, Lucifer replied, “I shouldn’t indulge myself into mortal affairs child. I appreciate your concern but there is nothing anyone of us could do.”
Approaching Lucifer, my father pleaded, “My child is innocent and his life is in harm’s way. Please help us!”
Looking at our family portrait, he confessed, “My dear brother. Thank you for making me rich. I don’t know how I can repay you for you have given me power.”
My uncle’s words shocked us. Not even for a minute, one of us could believe it. Unable to control his anger, my father tried punching my uncle but he couldn’t.
As my uncle walked around our home, I told my parents that we were killed by our uncle. I also told them that my brother was only being taken care of because he would be the heir. As soon as he would become an adult, my uncle might be planning to take the estates from him and end him as well. However, to our surprise, my uncle and aunty were taking too much care of him right now and were showering too much love.
Days passed by as we wondered what could be done. A couple of days later, I could see my uncle and aunt have a disagreement in raising another kid in their home. With every passing day, my aunt started revealing her true colours. She straightforwardly stated that she cannot afford to love another child beside her own ones. Though my uncle explained his plan earlier, it didn’t make much difference to her. He pleaded with her while assuring that this burden would only be for a few months. On being asked as to what would happen in a few months, my uncle just smiled.
With this incident, all three of us became restless. We tried our best to communicate with my brother but our efforts failed. I could observe that my brother changed so much after our death. He started learning more and more about souls and devils and from his side, he was trying to contact us desperately too.
Though both of us lived in the same room all the time, we couldn’t talk. One day, I found him reading a book called “Dark Shade” as it was suggested to him to be the best book to find answers regarding souls and afterlife. After completing the preface, we started the chapter named “Lucifer: The Ultimate Master.”
The chapter was about Lucifer, the representative of demons. It was mentioned that it was his responsibility to send away all those souls with desires to hell for proper judgment. As to where he lived, it was mentioned that he lived in a graveyard waiting for people to be either cremated or burnt in-order to seek their souls.
When I completed reading the chapter, I was curious to know if Lucifer could be of some help. So when the moon took its turn, I went to the graveyard along with my parents. Before we entered, we were requested by many other souls to leave. These souls were as bright as the sun and we couldn’t stand near them. However, we went inside without heeding their words.
As we entered we could see many black souls waiting around burnt bodies. As we walked towards them, we could see a young boy flying above the flames of burning bodies. Noticing all the souls around us, we could understand that this boy was Lucifer.
As I approached him, he asked, “Tell me why I shouldn’t cease you but rather help you?”
Observing his smile, I replied, “Because I seek to help my brother after which I would surrender.”
Looking at me, Lucifer replied, “I shouldn’t indulge myself into mortal affairs child. I appreciate your concern but there is nothing anyone of us could do.”
Approaching Lucifer, my father pleaded, “My child is innocent and his life is in harm’s way. Please help us!”
|
Thinking about it for a moment, Lucifer replied, “If I help you, you shall have to pay a price for it but even if you agree, tell me how can you be certain of your child’s future?” Controlling myself, I said, “You want us to give up on helping my brother but we can’t.” As his eyes turned dark, Lucifer explained, “The dead are no longer participants, child. It is beyond you to dictate the future of your brother. Even if you talk to him and send him away, his destiny shall dictate his end.” As my father said, “Let’s leave!” A cage formed around each of us and when we touched the cage, the pain we experienced was as if our soul was ripped into two halves. Closing his eyes, Lucifer said, “You shall be presented for judgment children and within a short span your brother will join you too. Worry not, as your uncle will receive his due in time too.” |
Illustrated by Shailusha Anugu
|
VII: NATURE’S TALE
Cover Photo by Pankaj Tottada
We all meet many people during our lifetime, but most are like passing clouds. As lovely as their company might be, in time, we bid them goodbye but rarely do we bond with someone whom we would never wish to leave.
“Nature’s Tale” by Priyanka Udatha tells the story of Nirmala meeting a foreigner and guiding him to various architectural sites. During these travels, an unbreakable bond forms until, one day, things change
“Nature’s Tale” by Priyanka Udatha tells the story of Nirmala meeting a foreigner and guiding him to various architectural sites. During these travels, an unbreakable bond forms until, one day, things change
I live above everyone and when my time comes, I fall to save all the living races. They call me Rain and I watch over the tale of the sky and earth every day. Though they might seem mingled, they are not just like many relations in the living world. Sometimes, I become the reason for the birth of these relationships and other times, I hide their tears and sorrows.
Irrespective of their interpretation, I mostly cherish them choosing to be a spectator and sometimes a narrator too.
“Tara! Tara... wake up dear, it’s time for your dance class!” said Nirmala, switching off the alarm set by Tara.
It has been a routine for Nirmala waking her daughter ever since her husband passed away. Tara woke up and got ready for her class. Observing the time, she packed breakfast in a hurry and dropped it into her bag. She took her bicycle keys and drove down the lane and stopped near a tree to give breakfast to an old man who lived there in a small hut. Just like every other day, when given food, the old man smiled and blessed her.
Finishing her school and helping her mother for dinner, Tara concluded another day following her usual routine. The next day, however, she noticed a foreigner singing and dancing while playing his guitar in a funny outfit near the old man’s hut.
Realizing that he was trying to make the old man happy, Tara giggled. Though the man didn’t bother, Tara handed her breakfast and took his blessing before she rode away thinking about her father to whom she thought she was offering food. As she rode, she tried to divert herself rather than recalling him by passing carefully on the muddy road and grassy lanes in the cloudy climate.
Trying to help her, I poured a little and panicked if I would become intensive, Tara rode fast to escape me.
The next day, while she rode her bike, she found someone following her. As she turned back, to her surprise, she found the foreigner whom she saw the day before. He smiled looking at her and this time, I remained calm observing them.
She asked, “Can I help you?”
He replied, “Yes madam if you don’t mind.”
She answered, “Yeah, tell me.”
He questioned, “Are you familiar with the places around here?”
She replied, “Yes, so…”
He requested her before she finished, “Can you please be my guide and show me the best places around here?”
She smiled and replied, “You can join me.”
He thanked and followed her.
As they walked, she quizzed, “Where do you come from?”
He replied, “Sorry, I should have introduced myself earlier. My name is Chris and I’m an architect from France.”
Greeting him with a smile, Tara replied, “Nice to meet you, Chris. I’m Tara.”
Noticing her, Chris questioned, “Are you a classical dancer?”
Nodding in agreement, Tara took him to a pool and Chris exclaimed, “I’ve been here Tara.”
However, as they walked, Chris started breathing wildly and his thin body seemed to burst out while Tara stared at him weirdly for a few moments before asking, “So why have you decided to come this far?”
Staring into her black eyes, Chris explained, “I have come here for my thesis on the Indian architecture. Your village is one of my many destinations.”
After she heard a couple of his destinations, Tara was surprised to realise, “It seems I’m aware of many of your destinations. I could help a lot.”
Stoked, Chris exclaimed, “Oh! That would be great. I would be grateful.”
Intending to make them come a little closer, I shouted, but my thunder didn’t help.
Instead, it made Tara gazed at me before remarking, “Let’s meet tomorrow to visit places, Chris. I’ll need to get home before it starts raining and take leave to my dance classes too.”
As she concluded, both of them shook hands and she left on her bike bidding him goodbye. The next day, she met without her bike and for a while before they started their journey, Chris entertained her with his guitar before they shared ideas.
Together, they visited many temples and Chris explained the architectural significance, Tara told about the myths she knew. As they spoke, Chris often captured the domes and arches alongside capturing Tara’s dance postures too.
Within days, they became good friends and while Chris used to draw details of the architecture in his notes, Tara used to spend time practising dance in temples. As days passed by, Chris reminded Tara of her father. He took care of her exactly like her father used to do who used to be Tara’s real happiness.
Often, Tara used to glance over Chris’s map to realize that there were many more temples that they were yet to visit. One day, they discussed their plan and Tara mentioned that she wouldn’t advise travelling during the rainy season but instead advised that they started a couple of weeks later.
As agreed, both of them meet a couple of weeks later to visit a fort. That morning, Tara rushed to Chris’ room located at the end of her street. Though Chris suggested using his moped, Tara suggested they could travel by bicycles.
They passed through verdant bushes, small paths and rainy marshes and getting excited, I started to pour. As I intensified, they rode quickly through the bushy thick paths and fields to escape me. In the end, they were not aware of the distance they travelled because of me alongside having lots of fun.
When they reached the hilltop, the sun was almost setting and both of them adored the crimson sky under which the fort looked even more beautiful. Walking towards the castle as the sunset was like a blushing rose, I couldn’t help but feel bad that my absence did add a lot of beauty.
Chris was astonished to see that beautiful sight and fell in love with this view. He cried looking at the sky, “Maria! Love you forever! Soon I’ll come to you...” and Tara stared at him curiously.
However, not wanting to ask him now, they observed the swarm of birds across and Chris caught the scenery on camera as they loved to. They camped there overnight and visited the fort in the morning and returned to the village in the evening.
The following day, Chris mentioned that he would be leaving soon. Feeling a sense of isolation but understanding his work is done, Tara hesitantly asked, “I might not have filled the void Maria left but you have definitely filled the void my father left for me. Could you visit me once in a while?”
Noticing tears in her eyes, Chris replied, “Maria is the love of my life, Tara. She was my soulmate whom God took away quite early. You need not fill that void to be my daughter.”
Filled with happiness, Tara hugged him and he embraced her back. Some bonds are beautiful and eternal. For this child has in a way found her father while he has met the daughter he has never had. The end was just a beginning for them and now it’s my turn to rain in happiness.
Irrespective of their interpretation, I mostly cherish them choosing to be a spectator and sometimes a narrator too.
“Tara! Tara... wake up dear, it’s time for your dance class!” said Nirmala, switching off the alarm set by Tara.
It has been a routine for Nirmala waking her daughter ever since her husband passed away. Tara woke up and got ready for her class. Observing the time, she packed breakfast in a hurry and dropped it into her bag. She took her bicycle keys and drove down the lane and stopped near a tree to give breakfast to an old man who lived there in a small hut. Just like every other day, when given food, the old man smiled and blessed her.
Finishing her school and helping her mother for dinner, Tara concluded another day following her usual routine. The next day, however, she noticed a foreigner singing and dancing while playing his guitar in a funny outfit near the old man’s hut.
Realizing that he was trying to make the old man happy, Tara giggled. Though the man didn’t bother, Tara handed her breakfast and took his blessing before she rode away thinking about her father to whom she thought she was offering food. As she rode, she tried to divert herself rather than recalling him by passing carefully on the muddy road and grassy lanes in the cloudy climate.
Trying to help her, I poured a little and panicked if I would become intensive, Tara rode fast to escape me.
The next day, while she rode her bike, she found someone following her. As she turned back, to her surprise, she found the foreigner whom she saw the day before. He smiled looking at her and this time, I remained calm observing them.
She asked, “Can I help you?”
He replied, “Yes madam if you don’t mind.”
She answered, “Yeah, tell me.”
He questioned, “Are you familiar with the places around here?”
She replied, “Yes, so…”
He requested her before she finished, “Can you please be my guide and show me the best places around here?”
She smiled and replied, “You can join me.”
He thanked and followed her.
As they walked, she quizzed, “Where do you come from?”
He replied, “Sorry, I should have introduced myself earlier. My name is Chris and I’m an architect from France.”
Greeting him with a smile, Tara replied, “Nice to meet you, Chris. I’m Tara.”
Noticing her, Chris questioned, “Are you a classical dancer?”
Nodding in agreement, Tara took him to a pool and Chris exclaimed, “I’ve been here Tara.”
However, as they walked, Chris started breathing wildly and his thin body seemed to burst out while Tara stared at him weirdly for a few moments before asking, “So why have you decided to come this far?”
Staring into her black eyes, Chris explained, “I have come here for my thesis on the Indian architecture. Your village is one of my many destinations.”
After she heard a couple of his destinations, Tara was surprised to realise, “It seems I’m aware of many of your destinations. I could help a lot.”
Stoked, Chris exclaimed, “Oh! That would be great. I would be grateful.”
Intending to make them come a little closer, I shouted, but my thunder didn’t help.
Instead, it made Tara gazed at me before remarking, “Let’s meet tomorrow to visit places, Chris. I’ll need to get home before it starts raining and take leave to my dance classes too.”
As she concluded, both of them shook hands and she left on her bike bidding him goodbye. The next day, she met without her bike and for a while before they started their journey, Chris entertained her with his guitar before they shared ideas.
Together, they visited many temples and Chris explained the architectural significance, Tara told about the myths she knew. As they spoke, Chris often captured the domes and arches alongside capturing Tara’s dance postures too.
Within days, they became good friends and while Chris used to draw details of the architecture in his notes, Tara used to spend time practising dance in temples. As days passed by, Chris reminded Tara of her father. He took care of her exactly like her father used to do who used to be Tara’s real happiness.
Often, Tara used to glance over Chris’s map to realize that there were many more temples that they were yet to visit. One day, they discussed their plan and Tara mentioned that she wouldn’t advise travelling during the rainy season but instead advised that they started a couple of weeks later.
As agreed, both of them meet a couple of weeks later to visit a fort. That morning, Tara rushed to Chris’ room located at the end of her street. Though Chris suggested using his moped, Tara suggested they could travel by bicycles.
They passed through verdant bushes, small paths and rainy marshes and getting excited, I started to pour. As I intensified, they rode quickly through the bushy thick paths and fields to escape me. In the end, they were not aware of the distance they travelled because of me alongside having lots of fun.
When they reached the hilltop, the sun was almost setting and both of them adored the crimson sky under which the fort looked even more beautiful. Walking towards the castle as the sunset was like a blushing rose, I couldn’t help but feel bad that my absence did add a lot of beauty.
Chris was astonished to see that beautiful sight and fell in love with this view. He cried looking at the sky, “Maria! Love you forever! Soon I’ll come to you...” and Tara stared at him curiously.
However, not wanting to ask him now, they observed the swarm of birds across and Chris caught the scenery on camera as they loved to. They camped there overnight and visited the fort in the morning and returned to the village in the evening.
The following day, Chris mentioned that he would be leaving soon. Feeling a sense of isolation but understanding his work is done, Tara hesitantly asked, “I might not have filled the void Maria left but you have definitely filled the void my father left for me. Could you visit me once in a while?”
Noticing tears in her eyes, Chris replied, “Maria is the love of my life, Tara. She was my soulmate whom God took away quite early. You need not fill that void to be my daughter.”
Filled with happiness, Tara hugged him and he embraced her back. Some bonds are beautiful and eternal. For this child has in a way found her father while he has met the daughter he has never had. The end was just a beginning for them and now it’s my turn to rain in happiness.
VIII: The Mysterious Sound
Cover Photo by Nikhil Narayanasa
Naina witnesses an accident on her way to college. Once she returns home, something unexpected happens. Is it her post-traumatic response or something paranormal. Read “The Mysterious Sound” by Nikhila Kotni to know Naina’s horrifying experience.
I could feel the Sun’s rays for a while before I heard my mother shouting, “Wake up Naina!”
After shouting for a while, she barged into my room to turn off the fan forcing me to get out of my bed. Struggling to open my eyes, I looked at her and she was already dressed.
Noticing me wake up, she asked, “Listen I can’t pack your lunch today. Can you eat in your college canteen?”
Closing my eyes, I replied, “Yes mom. I can eat in my college canteen. Can you turn on the fan please?”
Pulling off my blanket, my mother asked, “You know where I’m going right?”
Triggered, I shouted, “To the office, Mom!”
Following my answer, she spanked me. When I shouted in pain, she reminded me, “I’m going to Ishitha’s wedding along with our neighbours.”
Observing me not getting up, she instructed, “Lock the doors when you’re leaving for college and it might get late by the time I return.”
Sitting on my bed, I pleaded, “Why do you give me so many instructions and treat me like this every morning?”
Surprisingly, my mother didn’t say a word, unlike most days when she would argue about me failing to start my day early.
A moment later, she picked her handbag and left bidding me goodbye. As the door closed, I turned on the fan and fell asleep.
Waking up an hour later, I got ready and by the time I reached the bus stop, I found out that my college bus had already left. Cursing myself, I booked a cab to reach my college as I couldn’t be late since we were to start a new laboratory assignment and the instructor wouldn’t allow me in if I’m late.
In six minutes, a cab arrived and I felt more comfortable during this journey than my routine bus journey. We didn’t even need to take the long route as the buses do to get students.
Everything was pleasant until the car stopped in the middle of the highway. The cab driver got down to check if he could try out his luck in getting it fixed.
In a few moments, he informed, “I’m sorry, madam! This car should be repaired. I could call another cab if you could wait for a couple of minutes.”
Disappointed about the way things were turning out today, I agreed. Not wanting to sit in the car missing the cold winds and cloudy sky, I waited outside leaning on it.
While I was surfing on my phone, I heard a scooter stopped near me. When I turned to look at the driver, I found my uncle with his wife and their son.
Looking at me, he smiled before asking, “Need a ride, Naina?”
Approaching them, I replied, “Just waiting for another cab. Missed my bus. Are you guys going to marriage?”
As my aunt nodded, I touched their two-year-old Anil’s cheeks. Looking at him, I mentioned, “You guys look lovely.”
Meanwhile, Anil started pulling my hair-band that ensured my hair strands did fall on my face. As my aunt tried to stop him, he didn’t and seemed to want it. I pulled out my metallic band and gave it to him and he started swinging it.
While my aunt mentioned, “Don’t give it to him. He will keep it!”; for me, it doesn’t matter since Anil seemed to love it.
As he played, another cab arrived while my uncle questioned, “You’re skipping the marriage to attend college? You have indeed lost sense.”
I couldn’t help but smile. As he started his bike to leave, I bid Anil goodbye and thanked the first cab driver before settling down in the new cab.
As my journey presumed, I could see the new cab driver hit the brakes as I continued surfing on my phone. Curious to see what has happened, I saw the most terrible scene that shook me to my core.
A lorry hit my uncle’s bike and all the three of them were on the road bleeding. The cab driver called 108, followed by calling the police while I was in shock looking into their eyes open.
I couldn’t utter a word until the ambulance arrived and the two policemen ordered the medical team to collect the three dead bodies.
One of the two officers approached the cab driver to question him about what had happened. Meanwhile, the other officer demanded I call my mother. After he finished talking to my mother informing her about the accident, he asked to meet us at the location.
I informed the police officer, “The couple who were killed… are my uncle and aunt.”
Surprised, the police officer enquired their names and as I waited for my mother, I couldn’t help but recall how they were all with me just a moment ago.
Completing the formalities, I was dropped by my mother at home before she returned to file a complaint against the truck driver whom they had captured a few kilometres later.
A drunk man snatched the lives of the man who raised me after my father died along with his entire family. My uncle was so high-spirited and kind that I wouldn’t have been what I’m, without his constant encouragement. The more I thought about what had happened, I couldn’t help but agree when they said that the Gods are cruel. If they aren’t, why did they snatch away the men I loved?
Revisiting the dead through my thoughts every second, I couldn’t focus on anything I was trying to do. Hoping to clear my mind, I took a walk in the lanes. On my way back, I ate snacks.
Without intending to do anything else, I rested on my bed trying to sleep but for the first time, I heard the sound of two metals clashing.
I looked around to see no one. Resting back on my bed, I closed my eyes. When I was almost asleep, I heard the sound again. This time, it is not just once but a couple of times.
Following the sound, I slowly walked to the kitchen hoping to find out who was making it. When I was walking towards the kitchen, the volume of the sound kept on increasing. The louder it became, the more slowly I walked.
When I reached the kitchen, I no longer heard the sound but my heart sank staring at it. I couldn’t believe or offer an explanation as to how my metallic hair-band was just lying on the floor.
That’s the only metallic hair-band I owned and I couldn’t believe how it got here after I gave it to Anil. As long as I didn’t see it I could listen to the sound. In the years to come, the sound just got faint but it never stopped no matter what I did with the hair-band
After shouting for a while, she barged into my room to turn off the fan forcing me to get out of my bed. Struggling to open my eyes, I looked at her and she was already dressed.
Noticing me wake up, she asked, “Listen I can’t pack your lunch today. Can you eat in your college canteen?”
Closing my eyes, I replied, “Yes mom. I can eat in my college canteen. Can you turn on the fan please?”
Pulling off my blanket, my mother asked, “You know where I’m going right?”
Triggered, I shouted, “To the office, Mom!”
Following my answer, she spanked me. When I shouted in pain, she reminded me, “I’m going to Ishitha’s wedding along with our neighbours.”
Observing me not getting up, she instructed, “Lock the doors when you’re leaving for college and it might get late by the time I return.”
Sitting on my bed, I pleaded, “Why do you give me so many instructions and treat me like this every morning?”
Surprisingly, my mother didn’t say a word, unlike most days when she would argue about me failing to start my day early.
A moment later, she picked her handbag and left bidding me goodbye. As the door closed, I turned on the fan and fell asleep.
Waking up an hour later, I got ready and by the time I reached the bus stop, I found out that my college bus had already left. Cursing myself, I booked a cab to reach my college as I couldn’t be late since we were to start a new laboratory assignment and the instructor wouldn’t allow me in if I’m late.
In six minutes, a cab arrived and I felt more comfortable during this journey than my routine bus journey. We didn’t even need to take the long route as the buses do to get students.
Everything was pleasant until the car stopped in the middle of the highway. The cab driver got down to check if he could try out his luck in getting it fixed.
In a few moments, he informed, “I’m sorry, madam! This car should be repaired. I could call another cab if you could wait for a couple of minutes.”
Disappointed about the way things were turning out today, I agreed. Not wanting to sit in the car missing the cold winds and cloudy sky, I waited outside leaning on it.
While I was surfing on my phone, I heard a scooter stopped near me. When I turned to look at the driver, I found my uncle with his wife and their son.
Looking at me, he smiled before asking, “Need a ride, Naina?”
Approaching them, I replied, “Just waiting for another cab. Missed my bus. Are you guys going to marriage?”
As my aunt nodded, I touched their two-year-old Anil’s cheeks. Looking at him, I mentioned, “You guys look lovely.”
Meanwhile, Anil started pulling my hair-band that ensured my hair strands did fall on my face. As my aunt tried to stop him, he didn’t and seemed to want it. I pulled out my metallic band and gave it to him and he started swinging it.
While my aunt mentioned, “Don’t give it to him. He will keep it!”; for me, it doesn’t matter since Anil seemed to love it.
As he played, another cab arrived while my uncle questioned, “You’re skipping the marriage to attend college? You have indeed lost sense.”
I couldn’t help but smile. As he started his bike to leave, I bid Anil goodbye and thanked the first cab driver before settling down in the new cab.
As my journey presumed, I could see the new cab driver hit the brakes as I continued surfing on my phone. Curious to see what has happened, I saw the most terrible scene that shook me to my core.
A lorry hit my uncle’s bike and all the three of them were on the road bleeding. The cab driver called 108, followed by calling the police while I was in shock looking into their eyes open.
I couldn’t utter a word until the ambulance arrived and the two policemen ordered the medical team to collect the three dead bodies.
One of the two officers approached the cab driver to question him about what had happened. Meanwhile, the other officer demanded I call my mother. After he finished talking to my mother informing her about the accident, he asked to meet us at the location.
I informed the police officer, “The couple who were killed… are my uncle and aunt.”
Surprised, the police officer enquired their names and as I waited for my mother, I couldn’t help but recall how they were all with me just a moment ago.
Completing the formalities, I was dropped by my mother at home before she returned to file a complaint against the truck driver whom they had captured a few kilometres later.
A drunk man snatched the lives of the man who raised me after my father died along with his entire family. My uncle was so high-spirited and kind that I wouldn’t have been what I’m, without his constant encouragement. The more I thought about what had happened, I couldn’t help but agree when they said that the Gods are cruel. If they aren’t, why did they snatch away the men I loved?
Revisiting the dead through my thoughts every second, I couldn’t focus on anything I was trying to do. Hoping to clear my mind, I took a walk in the lanes. On my way back, I ate snacks.
Without intending to do anything else, I rested on my bed trying to sleep but for the first time, I heard the sound of two metals clashing.
I looked around to see no one. Resting back on my bed, I closed my eyes. When I was almost asleep, I heard the sound again. This time, it is not just once but a couple of times.
Following the sound, I slowly walked to the kitchen hoping to find out who was making it. When I was walking towards the kitchen, the volume of the sound kept on increasing. The louder it became, the more slowly I walked.
When I reached the kitchen, I no longer heard the sound but my heart sank staring at it. I couldn’t believe or offer an explanation as to how my metallic hair-band was just lying on the floor.
That’s the only metallic hair-band I owned and I couldn’t believe how it got here after I gave it to Anil. As long as I didn’t see it I could listen to the sound. In the years to come, the sound just got faint but it never stopped no matter what I did with the hair-band
