Pimple problem

I am home! Disha exclaimed entering her shared apartment.
Response not received.
Disha peeped into Anandi’s room.
Anandi was sitting in front of the mirror. She looked back with despair. Puzzled Disha asked, “Any problem?”
“Yes. I have got a pimple!” with teary eyes.
“Are you insane?! You scared me” Disha disgusted.
“… I have my photo shoot tomorrow and this pimple is a problem.” Anandi answered.
“Indeed” Disha thought “ Pimples are problems or problems are like pimples. People can see it, judge it, and advise on it. But the person who has it knows the pain and consequences.

Aur Tum

After a weary wait in summer sun, a cab finally pulled in. Old hindi songs were playing via cabbie's phone bluetooth.

Sensing Rajiv's anxiety, the cabbie turned down the volume. Compassion always helps. Rajiv took the next office call in good mood.

The cabbie's phone rang in speaker. Now Rajiv truncated his call. "You didn't pick up phone since morning!" The cabbie switched off the bluetooth in haste. An unmistakable 'abhimaan' in that voice. "My man is missed," smiled Rajiv.

The call ended soon; bluetooth & music resumed. "Tere bina jiya jayena", followed by " Bade achche .."

MAD? YES!

They called me mad; they called me crazy! They said, you’re thinking way too much. But what does the word ‘life’ mean without an inch of insanity? Wouldn’t it be bland and mundane? Where would the room for introspection and growth be? Where else is the origin of new notions? Who were the ones hailed in history? Those who were ‘mad’. If I were to be remembered later for something I was called ‘mad’ for, I’ll rather be it. Madness is the catalyst of thoughts, the catalyst of change and evolution.

The Protector

"Mom I am home!"
"Great Simon. Still on headphones?" she points, knowing he wont hear her.
"I like to listen to dad's songs.."
Rebecca smiles as Simon goes up the stairs to change. A 7-year-old reliving memories of his recently deceased dad.

Memories of their deep loss engulfs her while she cooks Simon's lunch. A moment of carelessness and her apron catches fire. She barely screams once when Simon pours water on her. She's safe.
"How did you know?"
Simon's still on headphones.
"Dad told me to rush down & get to kitchen with a bucket of water."

Revenge to Peace

In the valleys of Kashmir, a boy collapsed with a father's last breath. The echo of gunfire stole his innocence, leaving behind a thirst for revenge. He wandered into the problem of militancy, his heart pounding with every step, his resolve incises in sorrow. he confronted the perpetrators, his heart pounding with violence. In the clash of gunfire, justice was served, but amidst the smoke and rubble, he found no solace. For in the revolving of revenge, he realized that true peace could never be faked from the fires of hatred.

Not entitled to feel pain

Dad never enquired about her desires. It seemed like he was serving a punishment sentence till he married her off.
She stayed dumb as a plant.
Her husband did not care about her wants. He always decided what should make her happy.
She never uttered a single word. As silent as a plant.
Now her children do her a favour by keeping her at home. So what if they don't spend a single minute with her?
She won't complain. She could not talk. She was not entitled to any pain.
Just like a plant in the world of vegans.

Gangadhar pays a visit

Since his retirement, I miss him and his unpolished wisdom. Today he is visiting our office for some pending business.
"How are you, Sahib?"
"I am fine, Gangadhar. How are you? How is everyone at home?"
"Everyone is fine. My daughter has got a job. But it is Work from Home", Gangadhar seemed displeased.
"That's great. Why, what's the issue?"
"She projects she is happy. But, as parents, we are worried if she really is."
"Why do you say so?"
"She doesn't even buy new clothes, as she doesn't have to go to the office. The little joys seem lost!"

Time and Respect

He was a revered terror in the media house. Only a few could reach the pedestal his juniours put him on. But, always reserved in his demeanour, they would not approach him for guidance.
Then came the day. Pink slips got handed out in bunches. The house wanted was seeking a total overhaul.
I met him again today.
Looking pale. Looking in need. Looking around for respect.
The world has a short memory, even shorter if you are reclusive!

Shades of Sanyasa

In the timeless embrace of solitude, they find solace.
Amidst the dust of worldly vanities, they seek the essence of existence.
Through ascetic paths, they journey, adorned in saffron hues.
In their eyes, a silent wisdom whispers the secrets of the universe.
Behold the sadhus, guardians of ancient wisdom, seekers of eternal truth.

Never Judge by Cover

She had turned up again for her free khullar of tea. Shara recognized her as she mused over her customary mug of coffee. The same rag-tag attire, weather-beaten face, and sunken dull eyes. Wonder why the burly, coarse chaiwallah who counted every penny entertained her.
The old hag looked at her. Expectantly? Shara averted her gaze. Alms had never cut ice with her. A smirking, withered frame passed her. The wrinkled fingers gave a 500 to the chaiwallah. "This is for the past month," the babushka said haltingly.
Shara watched as the chaiwallah returned the balance almost reverently.

Sacred Ties

As the wedding procession faded, Arjun and Meera stood, hearts heavy yet filled with joy.
"She carries our love with her," Arjun murmured, his voice a mix of pride and melancholy. Meera nodded, tears gleaming, "And she leaves behind her laughter, her dreams."
They turned their home, now a silent testament to Sia's vibrant presence.
"Our little world will be quieter," Meera whispered. "But our hearts fuller," Arjun added, embracing her. "She's not just ours anymore."
In that embrace, they found strength. Their love had given Sia the wings to start her journey, intertwined with their blessings.

Dim and spark

The world was dark
Amongst the spark,
A spark steps in,
Smiles turned laughter,
Brightening the world,
All knew they were
The miracle of fate,
The heal for wound
Was each other.
The world was bright
Amongst the dark,
The spark steps out
Of the sky,
Tears were running
In both
All knew it was
The next right thing,
The heal for wound
Was each other.
The world was shined
Spreading the light,
The dim and spark
Blazing the dark,
Filling the world with
Love and peace.

Perplex

"Wow! This is so fun," Shlok and Spriha were elated at the Games World. "Love you, Dad", they hugged Samar. "As promised", he winked.
--------------
"The report cards", said Rashmi ma'am. "The grades are average! Wonder what will happen in Class 3", she continued.
Soma and Samar remained silent.
"If you bring good grades, I will take you to the fun games', said Samar at bedtime. The twins listened quietly and slept.
--------------
The 1st term grades were all shining in the Class 3 report card.
Looking at the playful kids, the parents wondered - childhood innocence or good grades?

Toxic Boss

"I have a toxic boss. The way he shouts at me for my errors is offensive and demoralising."
"Switch jobs. You don't need to live with it."
Anand liked the idea. It took less than a month to find a new job.
The new manager was very cordial. Not a single misplaced word.
A couple of months later:
"So, how is the new job? How is the new boss?"
"I got fired last week. Small mistake; much smaller than the kind I made in the old job. But still!!!"
"But the boss didn't shout, isn't that great???"

Post it now

New Year's Eve. The streets are decorated with imaginative lighting.
"There," the dad said. "Stand in front of this light. You throw up Khushi and catch her."
Mom smiles. "Yeah - it will make a lovely mother-child pic."
After 3 takes on Dad's smartphone, they have one they like.
Mom is eager. "C'mon - post it now."
"But why is Khushi complaining?"
"Oh, she wants us to keep throwing her up. She likes it. But my sari will be spoiled."
They put the reluctant toddler down.
"C'mon Khushi..be a good girl. We did it 3 times, no?"

Family

Lalu. Kali.
The mongrels in our area. For a year, Kali has been getting treatment in a shelter; probably never to recover. While visiting from Chennai every few months, I meet her.
After yesterday, I meet Kali again today. She is unmoved by Lalu's video on my smartphone. I put on the phone sound. Then I see her tears. Kali cries. She misses home; and Lalu.
Lalu trots past me. We meet rarely nowadays; he has forgotten my smell. He turns back; maybe he smelled Kali on me.
"She remembers you," I pat him. She does!

Eternal Dedication

Amidst thunderous cheers, the councillor proclaimed, "Our beacon of inspiration, Didimoni, shines brightly today!"
Students, staff, and parents surged forward, faces glowing with pride.
Student: "Didimoni stayed after retirement, just for us!"
Another: "Her love for us knows no bounds!"
Tears welled in Didimoni's eyes as she approached the stage, embraced by colleagues.
Colleague: "Your passion fuels us all!"
Didimoni, voice quivering, declared, "For every child's smile, for every dream realized, I'll forever serve".
In that charged moment, the school reverberated with gratitude, united by Didimoni's unwavering dedication to shaping young minds.

Zombieing

Rim's departure from the office was hurried. Thoughts of work blended with waiting for the weekend. She hailed an auto, unaware of Praveen's quiet resolve to follow her, hoping to meet.
As their vehicles came parallel to each other, Rim was surprised. Contact information swapped. The unexpected reunion promised a new beginning.
Fate had other plans.
A few days later, Praveen left Rim again. The pain of his departure cut deep.

Ghosting

Rim felt shy seeing him, but Praveen was thrilled.
They caught up on life, sharing stories and laughter effortlessly. Rim found solace in Praveen's company.
Booking a cab, they headed to the theatre, conversation flowing smoothly. By the end, Rim realized she was delighted with them together.
Weeks passed, and Praveen reflected on their fractured relationship, till alone, one evening, clarity struck.
He admitted their relationship was a mistake.

She

She is both poem & a prose,
Her hair the rhythm.
She is both war & a woman,
Her hands the instrument.
She dreams when she bleeds,
Her blood holy water.
She has both said & unsaid thoughts,
Her words the fairytale.
She is both sky & the sun,
Her eyes the witness.
She is a girl & a goddess.

Therapy

Embrace your journey
of self-discovery
with the compassion of therapy.

Election

Raju: Grandpa, aren’t you going to vote? Today is the election.
Grandpa: No, I don’t feel like voting anymore. Who knows, the person I vote for might switch to another party after the elections. Times have changed, my boy.
Raju: But you only taught me that we all must vote. Won't you come with me?
Grandpa: Alright, as you are insisting, let’s go.
Throughout the journey, Grandpa kept thinking, “Who should I vote for?”
Reaching the booth, Grandpa pressed the ‘NOTA’ button on the EVM.

India 2001

"Ma, I just watched Laapataa Ladies."
"How was it?"
"Was India like that in 2001? It's my birth year!"
"Which India?"
"What do you mean?"
"2001 was before the internet revolution. The metropolises were varying mixes of east & west,
right since Independence. The B-cities were a decade or two behind them."
"Behind in what, Ma?"
"Westernisation..infrastructure..consumerism."
"And values? Women empowerment?"
Ma smiles while Anu continues. "What about villages?"
"Virtually each one was in it's own world."
"That's what they show in LL!"
"Now watch Kai Po Che, made in 2013. Another India from 2001."

Revolution

In a bustling village, Hari, an old man, lamented the governing system.
"Why accept it?" urged Arjun, his grandson.
Inspired, they launched "Hari's House of Wisdom," a satirical yet hopeful venture.
Their small shop became a hub for community discourse and innovative solutions. The sign outside bore testament to their journey: "Hari's House of Wisdom - Where Dissatisfaction Sparks Change." From discontent sprang opportunity.
It was proven again that hope flourished even in the face of disillusionment.

The Span of Life

"Passengers are requested to get into the brace position."
Concerned whispers around 55-year-old Ambarish turned into shrieks of panic & helplessness. The airborne plane was out of control.
Ambarish unlocked the mobile screen, hoping to call Khushi. No signal. He re-read her last text: "Baba, I made him change his mind on self-harm! He's already studying hard. Thanks :-)"
Ambarish closed his eyes, a faint smile on his face.
The phone was found, intact from the debris. The offline Facebook app displayed: "No one is finally dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away." - Terry Pratchett

Colours of Resilience

Once, a little boy scrimped his tiffin money, dreaming of indulgence.
All of a sudden, his father lost his job. Facing financial struggles, with resolve, the boy used his savings to help his family.
He opened a colour shop for Holi to support his family. His earnings grew, but his studies suffered. Today, he operates a thriving shop, shouldering the family's burden.
Remarkably, his father, now employed at the shop, witnesses his son's resilience and determination.
Together, they have weathered storms, transforming adversity into opportunity, a testament to the unwavering strength of familial love and perseverance.

VVS-RD@Eden2001 X Jai-Viru@Maalgaadi

VVS: "Agar mauka mile to dekh lena Indian fans...hum dono pandrah bees pe to bhari padenge.
Kyun Rahul, main zyada to nahi bol gaya?" RD: "Partner - ab bol hi diya hai to dekh lenge"
They were partners in crime. They got the team out of jail. Most certainly, they were repeat offenders in Adelaide (2003), whichever way we look at it.

Sustainability

He wore a different shirt every day. His critics smirked at his speeches on sustainable and minimalistic living. "Did no one explain the concept of sustainable fashion, to him?" "For a student, that's quite an expense!" "What a hypocrite!!!"
He never cared about the critics, but still feared he might be forced to give up the habit...
The other students of his hostel had stopped hanging their shirts on the clothesline anymore!!!

Feelings

I can't feel
the pain
anymore...

LIC agent

Bimal babu!
He messaged me on WhatsApp. Must have got my current contact from the LIC database. It must have been 18 years & 4 cities since we last met; at least 15 years since he last called me on my old sim reminding me of a premium due.
How is he now? I thought of asking in reply. I typed a message; and backspaced it. What if he requests me to take another policy? Will I respond gently or curtly?
Maybe it's better to park an old relation where it was. The new technology may cause damage.

Relics of Rose: A Dream

Rose and her little brother were playing on the bulky thighs of their father, while Mr Akram Khan, the eminent director was discussing his new script with the actors.
Rose had never felt so secure and perhaps never would.
"My Abba!....film director!", Rose murmured in her sleep and suddenly got up from her bed.
Her dream was shattered as she looked at her father's picture and the garland on it.

Her Presence

In Kolkata's evening breeze, by the riverbank, I stand, lost in memories of Ma. "12 years," I whisper, barely heard against the river's murmur. "Your absence weighs heavy. I miss your laughter, wisdom, and love."
Closing my eyes, I feel her presence, in the comforting twilight's solitude.
"Though you're gone, our bond stays unbroken. Your spirit guides me."
With a hopeful heart, I vow to carry her legacy, cherishing our eternal bond.

Connivere

My eyes are burning. Set ablaze by guilt. A life was thrashed to death before me. I succumbed to fear. So did the others, forced to be selfish over his life.
Power is a delusion. It is horrifying.
I couldn’t face myself in the mirror! I connived by remaining silent. The silence is killing me now! No, I cannot; I cannot close my eyes anymore!

Enlighenment

Break all shackles,
The Light will guide you
Home.

Dussehra

The warm tea burnt his fingers as Neel was about to sip at the kulhad. He was distracted by the sight of Prerna, stepping down from the bus. In denim jeans and a white kurta, possibly silk, she looked stunning.
"Nazar na lag jaaye", Neel thought out loud as he spotted a few more admirers!
Prerna has made her choice even after paying so many prices. "God, if any, bless her and protect her", Neel looked up at the October Sky.
He must leave the city before Devi arrives. He needs to surrender to Dussehra.

Hidden Truth

Multimillionaire businessman Ajay's carefully crafted facade shattered when the police stormed into his life, arresting him on allegations of maintaining a secret relationship.
For fourteen years, he had concealed a separate life with a woman. Now, she demanded recognition for their son. The scandal engulfed the headlines, tarnishing his family's reputation.
Ajay, now 63, stood exposed, his deceit unravelled by a determined woman seeking justice for her child.
Truth prevailed, casting a long shadow over the shattered remnants of Ajay's empire.

Silent words

"You painted this one from reality?"
She was looking at the 'Tears in Transit'.
"Yes. I was pillion riding with a friend when I saw her, driving a car next to us." He paused. "Her palm was on her lips, holding up her breakdown, while the other hand steered to negotiate traffic."
That was the picture.
"Then?"
"A few seconds. She drove past. We passed her again a minute later. I could see she had collected herself."
"Yes." She removed her shades. "I sensed your gaze silently speaking to me. I wasn't alone anymore."
He gaped. It was her!

Professional Integrity

Her corner is a little dark today. I nearly pass her.
She identifies me. As usual, her hands start preparing the boiled corn.
"Masala?"
"Umm...A little."
"Little? Ok... Pepper?"
"Konjum. [little]"
"Butter?"
She takes instructions and begins customising the corn mix. A pause.
"sud.. [heat]", she signals that it is not much hot, offering me a chance to cancel the order.
It was already past 8 PM. She has little hope of getting many more customers. A fair bit of corn is still unsold. Yet she would not compromise her professional ethics!
"It's ok."

Love Blossoms

Amidst the monsoon downpour, little Aarav spotted a fragile butterfly struggling.
"Lost, like me in this rain," he mumbled, cupping it gently.
Determined, he searched for its home.
"Ma, where do butterflies live?" he asked. His mother smiled and said, "They belong everywhere, like kindness." Aarav understood.
With unwavering determination, he guided the butterfly to a vibrant garden. "Home," he whispered, releasing it. His eyes sparkled with newfound understanding.
"Even small acts matter," his mother had said.
A lesson learned in raindrops.

Meera

Her parents disowned her. Her friends deserted her. Her relations turned their faces. Society declared her 'achhyut'.
But 'She' celebrates Uma's homecoming with pomp. 'She' greets her with all the warmth; thanking her all the while, though for no definite reason.
She is all GRACE, radiating non-stop Happiness.
Awestruck by the overwhelming gestures; 'Uma' keeps smiling at 'Meera' with all admiration.
It is high time she needs to make amends!

The uninvited

In the sprawling confines of a wealthy estate, Pintu, hailing from humble beginnings, diligently attended to his chores. However, when the mansion buzzed with anticipation for an extravagant event, Pintu found himself conspicuously absent from the guest list, dismissed as incongruous with the elite gathering.
Disheartened, he confided in his mother.
Her comforting words were a beacon of resilience, "Their invitation doesn't define your worth".
Emboldened, Pintu continued his duties with renewed purpose, realizing that his value transcended societal labels.
As the festivities ensued within, Pintu embraced the richness of his humanity.

The chips are down

The flood water was rising. We needed stocks. We waded in knee-deep waters on 6th Avenue towards the shops at the higher 3rd Avenue before they closed down. As we crossed the entry point of the petrol pump, Nagesh pulled me back - an exiting car missed me by not much.
"The cars in Chennai used to stop for pedestrians," I exclaimed.
Nagesh nodded.
"They will stop again when things get normal."
As the Joker said: "When the chips are down, the civilized eat each other."

The cord snaps

Sushila and Shahid were best friends from their college life. They both had feelings for each other but never confessed because they belonged to different religions.
It was their last day of college. Shahid was to leave Delhi forever the next day. After the farewell, Sushila told Shahid to meet her at Ganga, after the party.
It was to be their last meeting.
She waited for him. Time passed. But he didn't come. She called him several times. But he didn't pick up the phone. She had brought him gifts. She threw them away.
She cried. Alone.

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)

A Sunday in 2024.
A theatre in southern India screened her favourite movie from her 18-year-old days. She finished enjoying this unexpected rerun and looked around. Most present were also North Indian 90s kids like her, enjoying in groups.
The end credits rolled, with the audio mashup of the film's superhit tracks. Some walked out of the theatre as 'Kabeera' played. Then started 'Badtameez Dil'! Her foot tapped. A few others had started to dance. On came 'Balam Pichkari' & 'Dilliwali Girlfriend'. The group danced merrily. 18-year-olds again!
She vowed to dance when she returned to her den!

A train to catch

Little Arif sat with his grandma Parveen at the railway station. It was a Friday evening. His mother, who works in a shop two districts away, was expected anytime.
"Granny, why is that man putting bags on seats to stop others from sitting near him? He needs only one seat. His row has three!"
Parveen smiled. "Beta, some people have this habit of securing more even though they have enough. Your grandpa was such."
A few minutes later, Arif suddenly laughed. "And now he leaves, granny. He has a train to catch!"
"Like your grandpa..."

The bittersweet lozenge

Little Pilu joyfully ate the candies one after another.
In the afternoon, he had asked his mother for candy and had got scolded. Distressed, Pilu went to the field to play. But no one was there.
Alone, he rested by the pond.
Suddenly, a handful of candies appeared in front of his eyes. Manu Dadu was sitting beside him, smiling. Dadu took him to his house.
Sitting on Dadu's lap, Pilu savoured the candies. Suddenly, he felt a pain.
It was not the first time, not the last, either.
No one could figure out the reason behind Pilu's psychiatric distress!

Death of the muse

Binod's chit extracted from Jyoti's gown spoke of her child sired by him. Barrenness was seemingly Hemangini's execration. Jyoti drifted apart. The blame for the demise of Swarna's daughter lay on her. The child had slipped off the staircase under her vigil.
Chastised by all, she looked to Bhanu for solace. Nuptial duties estranged him from his Hecate. Forlorn but dressed to the nines, she dreamed of a miracle during the launch of SAROJINI.
She disrobed ivory casket in hand, opium pills lying in wait. Thanatos beckoned!
So went Kobir Bouthan, the perpetual poetic catalyst for her dear Rabi.

Unseen Visions

In a quiet village, Maya, dealing with her husband's sudden demise, decided to host wise elders for lunch. She rushed to the market for curd.
Shopkeeper: "Maya, hosting a feast for the elders?"
Maya: "Yes. Forgot the curd."
On her way back, an eagle overhead stirred a snake, causing a few droplets of venom to fall in the curd. The elders fell sick.
Gossiping Neighbor: "Her misfortune is contagious!"
On God's instructions, an angel investigated, revealing the snake's venom mishap.
Angel: "Nature's twist, not Maya's doing."
God pointed to the judgmental neighbours, saying, "Your words caused the real sin."

The Notebook

Rain drummed relentlessly as the power cut plunged me into darkness. Someone knocked at the door.
I saw a drenched woman begging for shelter. Her voice was choked with fear. I let her come inside. Surprisingly, she asked for a notebook. Handing one over to her, I went to get a candle.
On my return, she was nowhere, just vanished in thin air.
In the notebook, I found written, "I'm dead. Buried in the backyard by my husband. Please tell the cops".
My heart raced as I kept looking at the haunting tale etched in the pages of reality.

Sense and Sensibility?

While waiting for the auto, Tiyasha saw an old, mad vagabond shouting obscene slang, accusing people of splashing water at him. Passersby were irked. People at the auto stand and nearby shops were getting amused.
The man stopped and tried to walk away. Tiyasha noticed that the ‘mad beggar’ was blind.
Suddenly, a well-dressed man approached him with a false tone of sympathy and splashed water on the man.
The old record started playing!!!
The fellow passengers said, “Uff! Just hear the language! How embarrassing!”
Tiyasha wondered what was more embarrassing.
His words or the insensitive game?

Why?

Mala was walking back from work. It was a warm evening. Her mind was swirling in the dark storm; eyes raining in pain.
"For God's sake, please leave me alone!", were her last words.
She wasn't like this.
Her charismatic heart and understanding that the soul was stabbed, gave birth to a ruthless beast inside her. Hating the world more than hell!
The harsh realities hit back again when the most beautiful memories turn out to be the biggest nightmare. Turning the rose itself into thorns!
She looks down at her shivering-wet hands.
"Why?" She screamed to herself.

Camphor

Mervyn looked at the mobile screen before taking the call. A smile emerged. He kept walking.
"Wassup, champ?"
"Hey, Sharon!"
"Where are you?"
"Mylapore. Passing by Kapaaleeswara temple. And you?"
"That's a fab temple. Send me a pic please?"
"Sent. Yeah, you just WhatsApp-ed the Juhu sunset pic. Nice click."
(a moment's silence)
"You know the smell of camphor? I love it...every day when I pass by this temple."
"Oh...I don't remember, Mervyn."
"Now I cannot WhatsApp the smell, Sharon"
"Yeah, I know.."
"It is only mine to savour. (awkward chuckle) Like my unrequited love."

Telecom Industries

In the bustling world of telecommunications, innovation and competition reign supreme. Giants clash, striving to connect the world in ever faster, more reliable ways. Start-ups emerge, promising disruptive technologies. Fibre optic cables snake beneath oceans, carrying the pulse of global communication. Satellites dance in orbit, beaming signals to the remotest corners. Smartphones become ubiquitous extensions of humans, transforming how we interact.
Yet, amidst the ceaseless evolution, challenges persist in privacy concerns, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory battles.
In this dynamic landscape, one thing remains certain – the telecom industry is the beating heart of our interconnected world, pulsing with possibilities.

Life on the road

The car screeched to a halt. Three puppies were lying on the road, leaving no space to drive by.
The driver muttered to himself and honked.
The pups couldn’t care less. They were having a nice sunbath. A two-wheeler zoomed down from the opposite side.
There was a squeak. The biker didn’t even notice.
The other two pups ran to their mutilated sibling. The car passed warily. The mother came running. Too late!
The doorman of the nearby apartment came with a garbage bag. He now had one less mouth to feed and a body to bury.

Unspoken

Uma's heart beat in rhythm when she looked at Rohan. Her mind raced with thoughts of Rohan. With each passing day, her feelings for him grew stronger.
To him, Uma was just another friend in the crowd—a study partner, a classmate, nothing more.
One day, Uma found herself standing before Rohan, her heart beating like a drumbeat.
"Rohan", she began, her voice shivering, "I need to tell you something". Taking a deep breath, Uma confessed her feelings.
Rohan's response was far from what she had hoped for. With a nonchalant shrug, he simply chuckled and replied, "Oh, that's cool".

The Earthly Marriage

It would have been a unique marriage
If only both had agreed.
They would have got the form
The landlord could have signed, and
The house help given her thumb impression.
Lo, and behold, an ATM card could have been used!!!
The help could withdraw cash from the machine!!!

Break Up

“Radhika, does it make you feel better? Good”, says Shyamali. “Why did you share this with me, when I can't hear Mohit’s version.”
“Don't you trust me?”
“The mind, Radhika. It excels at memory distortion. We can recall more trauma than actual events when we are hurt; even stuff that didn't happen!”
“Hmm, my psychologist told me so – it can happen in PTSD.”
“We amplify a minor offence when we want to shoot the offender. What does that make us?” Radhika sighs.
“Radhika, Mohit is closer to Rajiv than you're to me. He shared nothing about you to Rajiv.”

Celebration

"Action speaks louder"...
Sometimes good things done don't need a verbal acknowledgement. The reactive action says it all.
But before this moment or the moment prior, there was a journey which now feels sweet and far-off.
The same journey keeps shaping the roads through the dark and rough lanes and maybe one day it might lead to some new point. As Mr. Jobs once said "Connecting the dots".....
Let's see!

The Perfect Plan

Queen Consort knew the "Killing Curse" would strike. King would drown in a quagmire of grief ushered by the death of his favourite child, the firstborn, Jaitra, prophesied to be an Avatar and soon to be coronated Yuvaraj. Only she could be the messiah. Her contingent plan was foolproof. Ignominy would, however, be her perpetual bedfellow. Could she embrace it willingly? YES! Anything for Anantguna.
Her mollycoddler since day one, the king would always honour her wishes. Rama's banishment and Bharath's coronation would mortify Dashratha to demise, fulfilling the curse.
Manipulation? Qualmless Kaikeyi strode to search out hunchback Manthara.

Divine Resolve

Raj sat beneath the banyan tree. Frustration etched on his face. "Why, Devi Ma, do you test me so?"
His friend Ravi approached concern lining his forehead. "Raj, what troubles you?"
"Obstacles, Ravi. They never cease. I seek divine intervention."
Ravi placed a hand on Raj's shoulder. "Have faith, my friend. The divine works in mysterious ways."
Suddenly, a breeze swept through, carrying petals from the temple flowers. Raj closed his eyes, feeling a sense of peace wash over him.
"Perhaps," he whispered, "the journey is to make me stronger."
With renewed hope, he embraced the challenges that lay ahead.

Age is just a number

As I headed to my aunt's marriage, I encountered some scornful comments from my relatives. "Can't believe that she's a 30-year-old marrying a 28-year-old man! What a pity!"
I responded, " Why do you bother about the age difference? Does love only blossom when the two people are of the same age or when a man is older than his wife?"
My inner voice whispered, "Love is a commitment. The only thing that matters is how deep it goes."

Parental Alienation: Campaign of Denigration

Basis of a court order, every week Vikram, a doting father, goes to his in-laws' house to meet his 10-year-old daughter, Taniya.
However, Taniya has been tutored not to come close to him. When he calls her name, she shouts at him, "Either sit quietly or go away! You are no one to me!"
Vikram tolerates this rejection with a smile on his lips and concealed tears in his heart.
Will the old times of him blissfully playing with his child ever return?

Winter Reloaded

"It's chilling! It would be shivering to take a shower today!", explained Meera.
"We have a warm shower and music in our bathroom, darling", winked Rakesh.
"Get up, lazy fellow!"
"It's only early morning! Still dark outside." The conversation continued.
The kids rushed in.
"Papa, get up. We are getting late for our music classes!" Rakesh stared at his mobile.
10 AM, Delhi, India!. It was bright and sunny outside.
The Netherlands diaries had kept him captivated. He got up slowly for the regular chores.
10 years have passed - memories remained vivid and evergreen in his heart.

First Kick

She was sitting on a rocking chair, hearing music. Her fingers were carefully knitting a baby sweater of white. She hums along to music and smiles.
As she knits it fully, she holds it straight to her eyes and smiles.
It had a small flower of blue in the middle.
"Did you like it kanha?", she asks as she touches her bump.
She felt a faint, magical touch for the very first time. The first kick!
She smiles and touches that point with tears. "Mamma knows you like it."

Siblings at sea

The Mahabalipuram sea was unusually rough. A 10-year-old sister and her younger brother bathed together.
Nearby on the beach, their Amma and Appa were chatting with another family.
The sister tied the long towel to her brother. "With this, I will protect you if a big wave comes." It came soon. A BIG wave!
The brother disappeared underwater. The sister held on till she got pulled into the crashing wave.
"Aiyyo!" Amma cried out. 10 seconds later, her boy surfaced, gasping for breath.
"Akka. Where is she?" he looked around.

Fading Shadows

Piu grappled with a sour mood. Her 3rd-semester exam intensified the stress. She reluctantly accompanied her father to the bank. Once done, with her father off to work, she strolled back home.
But fate had a poignant lesson in store. Pausing near Dr Adhikari's clinic, she watched a couple carrying the lifeless body of an infant. Piu's exam worries faded. She had the profound realization of life's fragility.
The sombre scene reminded her that some tests hold far greater weight than exams.

Love has no religion

"Do you remember the days we tried to convince our parents of our marriage?" Duha exclaimed to Dev as they felt their baby's first kick.
Duha and Dev were in love from college. They wanted their families to agree. They neither wanted a problem within the families as they were of different religions nor wanted to ruin the life of any other 'arranged' partner.
Their parents, living such lives, had agreed.
Dev smiled and replied philosophically, "Love is pure only when it has no boundaries."

Honour?

I was offered two choices by Pa: Either I should consume the poison, or he will. But how could I be penalised for loving someone without knowing his faith? I admit we both were young teenagers, but these choices were unfair. The two different relationships were equally inevitable for me.
In Pa's eyes, I had sinned and needed to pay the price.
All I remember is his hand pushed my cheeks and pushed in something that set my throat ablaze. Pa is in jail now.
What was the genesis of his faith? Self or external validation? How was the honour preserved?

Relics of Rose: Hilsa Fish

A slender figure in a soft pink thin garment was swinging here and there in the garden.
"I am going to the market, would you like to come Rosy?", Uncle Iqbal shouted not seeing Rose inside.
Rose's eyes lifted with joy, she rushed to her mother, took a bag and went toward her uncle.
- "Would you buy me Hilsa fish Mamu?"
- "Yes, but don't tell your Mami!", Uncle Iqbal whispered in Rose's ear.

Ma knows everything

There were 3 plates on the table.
"Ma, who else is coming?"
Ma entered. "Adreesh! You forgot that you invited him? I was shopping nearby when Adreesh and you discussed at Jhontu's joint."
Ma knows everything!
And she must. I have short-term memory loss!
Adreesh came. I was in another room.
"Aunty, sorry I couldn't save him."
"Adreesh, you paid the assassin. I was behind you in the market. I ran to save him. It was too late. The speeding truck crushed both of us. You missed my corpse - it's in the ditch."

Thank you

While collecting the junk, he noticed the hose was in bad shape. Water was dripping from punctures.
The lady owner never bargained. He wondered how she lived alone in a crowd.
This time, he was surprised to see the hose arranged properly. Even the junk was much less. She rejected the money too.
He gave her a shell. She held it to her ear. "Can you hear the sea? "
She smiled. She was happy!!!

THE SAGA OF THE CURSED!

He was the guilty one.
His surreptitious glance at her cleavage angered Purandar. Cursed to be mortal born, her womb was his and the remaining brothers' ubiquitous choice along with guaranteed immolation through drowning. Nemesis intervention? Insistence of a doting father saved him?
From frying pan to fire!
The guardian of the state, kingmaker, a swashbuckling warrior watched the brother succumbing from hyper fornication. His stringent vow of celibacy precluded the impregnation of widowed queens despite his foster mother's insistence. Dwaipayan's intervention saved the day somewhat. Kurukshetra his swansong was years ahead.
Dhyu aka Devavrata, eighth Vasu.

Hospital and Hospitality

Rohit: “Should have chosen a proper pitch.”
Vinod: “Not pitch. They played poorly. Always fail in big stages.”
Suresh: “Total waste of money, getting admitted.”
Rohit: “Let’s go back to our cabins. We are supposed to be patients.”
Vinod: "Best way to watch the match."
Walking down the corridor, they heard chaos outside.
Vinod: “Nurse, what's the noise?”
Nurse: “Sir, it’s some stupid patient relatives. We told them there were no beds available. They are still creating a ruckus. Don't worry. Your beds are secure.”
The chaos calmed. Just a lady kept wailing over her lost mother dying without treatment.

Chosen One

“Sir, our boys come from an underprivileged background. They go to regular schools. They learn painting, music, dancing, and computers and play in local football clubs.” The president of Bachpan NGO put across his points.
“Select one from here,” he showed the catalogue of the children’s details to Siddharth.
Siddharth said, “I want to sponsor a child’s education anonymously. Suggest one who will only concentrate on academics”.
“Manav is good at everything. Very good in academics.”
“Then Manav it is.”
Manav was pasting Sunil Chhetri’s poster on his dormitory wall. He also wanted to represent India in football like Chhetri.

Pawsome Harmony

Bruno wagged his tail, "Buzo, have you noticed Aryan is stressed?"
Buzp."o tilted his head, "Yeah, he's been working late. Maybe we should fetch his favourite toy to cheer him u
Bruno nodded, "Good idea. And how about a game of fetch? Exercise is good for him".
Buzo barked, "True! Plus, he seems happier when we're active. Let's ensure he gets enough walks too".
Bruno sighed, "We're the best therapy dogs. Aren't we?"
Buzo grinned, "Absolutely. Our mission: keep Aryan happy and healthy!"
The duo trotted off, tails high, ready to bring joy to their beloved master.

A Second Chance

In a tiny Indian village, where wishes danced with the trees, lived people who missed their chances. Appu, who loved cricket, let chances slip away. Aditi, a great painter, only painted in her dreams.
When the sun went down, they felt sad, saying, "If only..." Under a big tree, they sat, talking about their missed chances. Tears rolled down as they prayed for one more chance.
Looking up, the stars twinkled like they understood. In that wishing, there was a feeling that maybe, just maybe, a second chance could happen, like a surprise rain after a long wait.

An Ungrateful Daughter

“Get out of my house. You thief! You have stolen all my bank documents.” Animesh shouted at his daughter Puja. The neighbours cursed Puja. “What an age we living in! No one should have a daughter like her."
Puja came out of her father’s house within 15 minutes after a brief chat with her mother (a dementia patient.) She went to the bank with her father’s documents.
The bank manager smiled. So did Puja. After a long wait, she could finally submit all the relevant documents for the KYC and reopen her dad’s pension account.

Ghost on the Terrace

Ruhani hated their terrace toilet. She's told Mumma many times that there are ghosts. But Mom doesn’t believe her. She keeps sending her there, like today.
Ruhani was scared. Suddenly, someone started singing.
Ruhani: “Who's that?”
The song continued. Ruhani repeated. The song stopped. To start again after some time… Ruhani freaked out, “Mumma!!!”.
Mumma rushed up.
“A ghost was singing,” Ruhani said.
"But, there is no one singing now," Mumma rebuked.
Suddenly a voice spoke. “Shital, don’t scold her. I was singing. She asked, but I was unsure whom she was talking to… Sorry.”
It was the neighbouring auntie.

Unseen Riches

Ten years of joblessness weighed heavily on Ketan's shoulders as he gazed at the stars. Madhu, beside him, whispered, "Our love shines through storms". He sighed, "I feel useless, burdening you".
Cupping his face, Madhu said, "You're my heart's work, not a burden. Love isn't in payslips".
Teary-eyed, Ketan confessed, "I miss providing".
Smiling, Madhu replied, "You offer laughter, comfort, and dreams. That's worth more than money". Hands entwined, love spoke in silence. Madhu whispered, "Job or not, you're my hero. We're a forever team".
Their hearts composed a symphony echoing beyond life's financial strains.

The Grass is Not Greener on the Other Side

Frustrated with all the court struggles for over 2 years, Rajesh sat at a roadside tea shop. “I guess it's my destiny”, exclaimed Rajesh.
“Bhaiya, can you help me with this paperwork?” Rajesh looked around and found a 14-15-year-old boy with a set of papers and wearing torn clothes. “Where are your family members?” said Rajesh. ”My father passed away in a train accident. My mother is very ill. I have to look for their compensation”.
The conversation was interrupted by the noise of a passing train and "Tareekh pe Tareekh" from the shopkeeper's radio.

Bhai-dooj

"You can't go like this! Who will run this business in Baba's absence?" Meera asked.
"I have a career to make", Mohan replied.
"OK, go! But don't show your face ever", were her final words.
................. It was that special day of the year when brothers and sisters celebrated their bonding. The house was vibrant with the friendly banter of the children over gifts.
"Pranam Bua." A startled Meera looked at the door. She could see the young boy and a man with the greying hair.
Meera got her greatest gift - the everlasting bond had overpowered the long emptiness.

Whispers in the Night

One night, Omi found an old mirror in the woods. When he looked at it the mirror showed him another world, full of shadows and secrets.
Curious, Omi stepped through.
Suddenly, everything felt heavy. The moon got dim. He met another person, who looked just like him, but with a creepy demeanour. "I am your darkness", he said.
Omi tried to go back, through the mirror, but it wouldn't let him. The moon sighed, and a wicked chuckle flowed through the woods.
"It is always our choice to meet our own darkness."

Culprit

I was sipping tea when a Swiggy biker collided with the turning car and fell.
The car driver came out. Instead of showing empathy, he blasted the silent man for speeding. And he was right...
But his car had also cut lanes diagonally, from the biker's blind spot!
A few other Swiggy riders came to check the old man, dazed to silence. Gradually, he gained composure. Thankfully, his bike was working and he could deliver the order.
I watched the episode with my car parked at that crossing, blocking the lane where the other car should have driven.

Sindoor Khela

Prerna was standing at one corner, hoping for the crowd to disperse, waiting for her opportunity to bid farewell.
The Puja Committee did not allow her to come close to 'Mother' while they were there, let aside 'Bisorjon/Bijoya' formalities.
'See her audacity. She came with a Sindoor-Thali!'
Prerna has known those stares over the years. She just wanted to meet 'Ma' with Sweet and Sindoor; but...
Entered 'Ravan', literally dragging her to the Idol. 'Here you go, get started, I am there.'
A dumbstruck Prerna breezed through, 'Ma abar esho, ami opekhate thakbo'. She will wait for Ma's return.

Timeless Laughter Chronicles

Rajendra, a lively nonagenarian, teamed up with his grandson, Arjun, for a riotous Children's Day mission.
Arjun, wide-eyed, asked, "Grandpa, were your toys made of rocks?" Rajendra roared, "Nope, but close! Spinning tops and bamboo airplanes ruled."
Arjun, flying one, boasted, "Mine's breaking speed records!"
Rajendra teased, "Careful, Top Gun!"
Laughter echoed as Arjun's plane crash-landed.
Rajendra quipped, "Bamboo meets gravity!" Amidst playful banter, time blurred.
In the game of laughs, no one's too old to join.
Their shared joy painted a timeless canvas. Age was merely a spectator to their laughter-filled escapades.

Happy Diwali!

"I love Diwali. Everything around is so bright and beautiful," said Dev, looking out of the auto at the well-lit and decorated high-rises.
"Beautiful here?" asked Saddy.
"Yes. It's so luminous and nicely decorated everywhere," Dev answered.
"Phew! It's so dull. I don't get the Diwali vibe here," said Saddy, with disgust.
"Come on, bro. It's not that bad," Dev disapproved.
"You wish! Come to Dehradun. I will show you how beautiful Diwali is." Saddy's voice was brimming with cherished nostalgia.
They reached their Diwali decked-up office. Saddy hugged Dev, "Happy Diwali, bro." Dev smiled back, "Happy Diwali, Sadiq."

Relics of Rose: The Tutor

Relics of Rose: The Tutor Rose was alert for the upcoming storm she anticipated long before.
Her ears were stuck for half an hour to the door of her elder sister's room; as usual, it was not locked.
Small banters in whispers pierced her ears. Rose peeped in a bit. The sight compelled her to break her silence and walk in.
She separated the pair instantly and started strangling the tutor's throat. She would have killed the man had her sister not stopped her.

Scary rain

A slum was just next to the drain.
It was July; it was raining for three consecutive days.
Geeta: Ma, water is dripping everywhere. The bed is also getting wet. How will we sleep at night?
Mother: This is the life of poor people. Pray to God that the rain stops. Or else the drain water will overflow into the house, compelling us to leave.
Geeta: I saw on TV that the government will provide permanent houses to everyone.
Mother: The government makes such promises when elections come. Later, it is up to us to endure for five years.

Dilemma

"50 rupees extra."
"No."
"Ok. Cancel."
Standing outside the office at 10:30, convinced that the app auto fare was sufficient, she pressed 'retry' for 3rd time.
"N Kumaran is on the way."
She matches the reg number & boardes.
After sharing the trip OTP, she looks at the photo.
"Is this your photo?" she turns her mobile screen towards the driver.
He flashes a 100-watt smile: "My father's."
She remembers the news headline: 'Unauthorised app-cab driver rapes night passenger'.
Should she cancel or give the benefit of the doubt to the young son trying to relieve his tiring old father?

Exes can be friends!

Trisha was waiting to board her flight when she heard, “Hey Trisha! Remember, I am Sujit, Atish’s friend.”
“Oh! Hi! long time.”
“Yes, 10 years. Meet my wife Nidhi. We got married a week back.” Sujit grinned.
Trisha and Nidhi exchanged smiles. “Congratulations!” Trisha said.
“Where is Atish? I tried to invite him, but his number was unreachable.” Sujit enquired.
“They have gone on a Europe trip. This is Muskan’s number. Try this.” Trisha shared the number, and they parted ways.
“Who is Muskan?” Nidhi Asked.
“Atish’s wife” Sujit replied.
“Then who is Trisha?” Nidhi was confused.
“Atish’s Ex-wife.”

A Murder

Anna was crying in her room. Her father kept yelling at her, "Don't you have the basic sense? I could have died!!!"
Anna mistakenly kept the gas on. Anna did not say a word to defend herself while her father continued to accuse and shout at her. "You idiot! Can't you do a thing properly?"
That night, as usual, Anna served the food and washed the dishes.
The next morning, the police arrived. Anna's father was dead. Anna did not say a word as she was taken to the Police Station.

Changed ...

50-year-old Renuka, the mother of 15-year-old Rik, called out to him. "Durga Pujo starts tomorrow. Have you cleaned up your room and changed the bedsheet?"
Rik, "I don't understand why you make me do this every year before Pujo. I hardly use the room during Pujo and am always out those days with my friends".
Renuka, "I know. But when you were younger, you followed me around the house when I changed sheets in rooms before Pujo, insisting on helping me. You've changed, Rik. I didn't".
Rik hugged his teary-eyed mother, "Subho Sharodiya Ma".

A Lone Dhaaki

Rajesh found comfort in the steady beats of Durga Puja.
It took five days of happy beats to cover up the pain of his empty home, a testament to his family losing out to COVID-19.
During the drumming crescendo, friendships grew, and the other dhaakis became like a second family.
But as soon as the last echo stopped, the feeling of emptiness returned. The streets echoed the sound of his steps, bringing back memories of laughter that had died. It was a testament to the strength of a lone dhaaki who found comfort in the sounds of a passing family.

Watch Me Grow up

Back then we were childhood best friends. We got together when we were in 9th standard. We had nonstop texting, calling and our squad. We used to fight but still supported each other during bad days. After that though we parted ways, our friendship remained constant for years. He watched me as we grew older. I knew he was my right person and conveyed it to him.
Presently, I’m a CEO of my own company with my two kids beside me. I have our old pictures hung on our bedroom wall and I can still feel his presence around me.

Chowkidaar

It was Soham’s turn to drop the intern Nisha at her hostel.
While getting down, Nisha noticed Soham's eyes fixed on a huge, deserted mansion across the street. She said, “This belongs to a local Zamindar family. Now only a chowkidar lives here”.
Bidding her adieu, Soham stepped out of the car and went inside the mansion.
He knocked on the door.
A feeble, old man opened with a surprise, “Babu! Come in”, he coughed.
“You don’t look good Grandpa! Please come and stay with us”, Soham replied.
Grandpa laughed aloud, “How can a tree live away from its roots?”

Aerial Appetite

Amal, in his early teens, ignored lunch to fly kites. In the festival chaos, his mom chased him, plate in hand.
"Amal, eat! Your stomach growls louder than those cheers!"
"I can't, Mom! This kite is my wingman!"
She thrust a sandwich at him. "Your wingman needs fuel!"
Amal grinned. "But Mom, I'm ruling the sky!"
"Rule your hunger first!"
As his kite soared, so did his appetite. With a laugh, he devoured the sandwich, shouting, "Mom, you're the chef behind my aerial conquest!"
She sighed, "More like the chef battling your mid-air cravings!"

Being Judgemental...

Beads are like words,
Smirks or swerves.
When the Mind is in a clutter,
Makes the Heart flutter.
Nevertheless, can gather
Not caring the splitter
To be served in a platter.

Home!

A lady and a gentleman were waiting for a flight to Kolkata. The gentleman says, "Ma'am, I may be wrong, but I think I have seen you somewhere". The lady just smiled.
The gentleman thought for a while and then asked, "Didn't you write a book that was a New York Bestseller?"
The lady nodded and asked, "Have you read it?"
"No, but I heard it's about 'home'. So, Ma'am, will we be flying to your home?"
The lady laughed loudly.
"Wish you had read the book. You wouldn't have asked me this question."

Bijoya Dashami - The Goodbye

Tears were not new to Gauri on this day.
Every year, everyone sobbed to bid goodbye to her.
But this year was different.
Tearful parents of young children recovered from Mahesh's interrogation joined in to thank her and say goodbye.
But Gauri did not cry. She was happy that the good had again prevailed over evil.
Isn't that what Durga Pujas are all about?

Maha Navami - Asur Vadh

Mahesh had gone missing. A police search found the clothes of other young girls at his home.
"Guess he escaped!"
But Gauri and Gang would not give up so easily. They had seen a locked trunk at the haunted house. "Surely it has something of value and Mahesh will come back for it", Gauri told the cops.
She was right.
In the dark of the night, a shadow was pounced upon when it tried to get in through the window. Mahesh, it was!!!
The crime was prevented.
The criminal arrested!!!

Maha Ashtami - Kumari Puja

“Tinni! Tinni! Anyone seen her?" Aunty was frantic! Everyone was searching around. All seemed serious.
“Let’s go and search,” Gauri said to her friends.
“But how?" asked Jayanti.
“We know the places which Tinni visits. Let's start from there”, Gauri explained.
It was the old deserted 'haunted' house in the woods where they heard Tinni sobbing with her limbs tied to a pole.
"Who brought you here?" Gauri asked.
"Mahesh uncle", replied Tinni.
Girls rushed back with Tinni. The relieved elders were all praises for the girl-gang.

Maha Saptami - Nabapatrika Snan

Early the next morning, Gauri's friends came to visit along with their parents to join the procession for Nabapatrika Snan. They were happy to see each other, but the smiles did not seem as joyous as earlier.
“Recently, children have been going missing. Remember Rumki? No one can find her”, informed Lakshmi.
“What? How?”
“No one knows. Not even the Police.”
“Two girls from my school are also missing”, said Kartiki.
"It seems serious", said Gauri in a grim tone. "This Puja is going to be different", she thought.

Subha Sasthi - Bodhan

It has been a full year, since Gauri left her village for her boarding school. Everyone from the joint family had lined up to welcome her back home.
The smiling faces lit up Gauri's as well.
Her parents wanted to take her on a trip, but she would not miss celebrating Durga Puja with her extended family and childhood friends.
She waited for this throughout the year - no restrictions, no homework, just unlimited fun!
But this year seems different. Gauri was asked not to leave the house without an elder!

A Call to Honor

1530. His father's death breathed life into him.
The throne preferred him over Hindol, Kamran.
Karnavati, widow of archenemy Sanga beseeched him for help with a Rakhi. Rapacious Gujarat Sultan had invaded Chittor. It was his call!
Bail out an infidel queen for engineering a sororal relationship with a Moslem! Preposterous!Clerics brayed.
His ever-vacillating self pondered.
Tempus fugit!
Shah's army had already laid siege on Chittor, crossing Mount Abu. His army still lagged at Alwar. The Rajput defence resisted valiantly but crumbled.
Death before dishonour! Karnavati's self-immolation!
Let history voice its effect on Humayun's campaign against Bahadur Shah.

The Wobbly Wonders: Bhola's Artistic Adventure with Hippos and Ripples

Bhola, a student with a shaky hand, faced a daunting challenge in his art exam.
'Draw a hippopotamus!'
He knew his nemesis—straight lines—would betray him. He embraced his imperfection and sketched squiggly dashes, dubbing them ripples in a pond. The hippo emerged as two perfectly placed dark circles, basking in the tranquillity of the water.
Replying to the teacher's query on his unconventional approach, Bhola confidently asserted, "The hippo is just enjoying a refreshing bath!"
The teacher couldn't refute his audacious logic.
Bhola aced the exam, demonstrating that wobbly lines create the most captivating waves in the art world

Bet on my life

Loan sharks were closing in. His business returned losses again.
Guna tried to relax, watching the Indo-Pak cricket match. Captain Rohit Sharma was hitting the bowlers like in net practice. A boundary seemed certain in every over.
Guna opened the MPL app... Won thrice!!!
His gambling nature took over. He loaded 70% of his bank balance, betting the next over would yield 6+ runs.
A boundary on the first ball, followed by 4 dots. Only 1 off the last ball.
Rohit scored 13 in the next over, but would never know that Guna had a fatal heart attack in between.

Picnic

It was a cold winter morning. We set out for a picnic at Asansol from Chittaranjan with a stolen goat.
Around 3 p.m., we reached the park but found it closed for some reason. We went to a nearby burning ghat.
We realised we had forgotten to bring a good knife and had to do with the small one. But the lunch was worth the effort.
Recently, we discovered that the goat belonged to our mathematics teacher.

Complete?

Nayentara walked into the party with her husband, Naren. They both looked happy together.
"They are married for long but no kids. Surely there must be a problem for which their family isn't complete". An onlooker gossiped.
Nayentara smiled. She knew what they were murmuring about and ignored.
A year later, another party and the same person.
"Congratulations! What have you named your daughter?"
Nayentara, "Sampoorna".
"Lovely name! We wish Sampoorna gets a brother soon. Then it will be complete," giggled the ladies.
Nayentara looked at her baby & whispered, "Thank God I named you Sampoorna".

Viewpoints

“Have you noticed the girl’s leg?” Aryan asked and went to pay at the counter.
"Sexy legs!" said Manoj.
Ritesh said, “So, our Vishwamitra finally got his Menaka!”
Giggles and winks followed.
Tejas poked Aryan, “Finally! You are checking out girls!”
“I do, bro! Like, the girl who passed us had a bandage on her left leg. It’s painful.”
Seeing the confused looks he explained, “She was coming out of our Sports Academy. The Annual Sports Meet will start tomorrow. She is probably going to miss it. Like I did last year. I know the pain”

Lust Panacea

The ritualistic Meena Bazaar had begun within the precincts of the Crimson Fort. Jalaluddin, the sole customer strode in, gazing almost perfunctorily at the wares under display.
His roving eyes surveyed the beautiful sellers, roped in from Rajput clans and Moslem nobility, who would need to warm his bed if chosen. Relevant relatives would approve without a murmur.
The lusty eyes settled on Karnavati, niece of archenemy Pratap. A nod! Guards pounced!
The damsel in distress smote them with her poniard. Like lightning, she charged, felling him.
Dirk pointed at the throat, fear taught him Rajput valour which battles couldn't!

Circumstances

The benevolent yogi can turn into a fearsome destroyer whenever there is injustice.

A Strange Dream

It was midnight.
Rashmi closed her eyes. She could hear Raj saying, "I love you", "I will never leave you", "You are mine".
Just then, she heard a gunshot. She ran towards Raj and saw him lying in a pool of blood.
Raj was shot dead by business tycoon Rishabh Bajaj, Rashmi's father. Rishabh did not want his only daughter to get married to a "clerk" with no social status.
Something passed Rashmi swiftly. She jerked up, realizing she was in a car with Raj sitting beside her, stroking her hair lovingly, waking her from her dream.
She hugged Raj tight.

Our Bisks were Thin

"I guess I'm lucky. Fun job and a great spouse. You good?"
Adi observes. The greying Tanisha still dips her bisks in tea. Typical 80s kid from Bengal! Then he replies, "Yeah. BTW, do you remember the time both of us worked in Delhi? I had a train ticket to Kolkata for Puja. You had requested to share the berth with me."
"Oh yes. I forgot to book."
"I shared it with our male batchmates. We had fun at your cost."
"Why now?"
"I am sorry. Thanks for trusting me."
"Our bisks were thin... but these collapse quicker."

The Journey

Madhav was surprised. Amma hadn't started packing. She was busy feeding the cat and talking to her. It's been one week since his father's funeral rites were over.
"Everything okay?" He asked.
"I'm not coming. Ever since your dad was bedridden, I was stuck here. I couldn't eat any food that I liked. I didn't recognise this place that we lived in. Whoever came to visit him never asked about this caregiver. I was on the verge of forgetting who I am. I think it's time to look after myself."
Madhav embraced her tightly and left without a word.

True Lawyer

My dad's twenty-six-year-old cycle got stolen.
Three months later, we served tea and biscuits to a house guest. When the man was about to leave the house, my father called my mother and showed the man who had taken his cycle and admitted his mistake.
Later, Dad told us that the man was caught red-handed in a workshop for a different theft and came to my father for legal assistance.
My father gladly assisted him and won the case in 9 months.

Tamanna

On the Prize Distribution Day, Tamanna received “Student of the Year!” for the third time in a row.
She was searching for her Maa in the audience, though she knew Maa wouldn’t be there. Her teachers stood murmuring among themselves, “Even this time her mother didn’t come”. Principal Mrs. Bhargav’s eyes met with the lady hiding behind a pillar. She remembered the day when this lady from the ‘red light’ quarter brought a little girl for admission. “I wish her to study hard and be loved and respected."
“What is her name?” Mrs. Bharghav had asked.
“Tamanna.”

Marrying the Enemy Lass

Eight carts were ready for a sojourn from Palimbothra. Xandrames deposed at last, was deported with permission to travel with his family and some belongings.
Sandrocottes, hawk-eyed, guarded the palace gates, keeping count, with Vishnugupta aside him. The carts lumbered out one by one. The eighth cart appeared to carry only the princess.
The emperor glanced, transfixed. His eyes had never seen such a beauty! He advanced to preclude the cart from leaving. Kautilya, agile, defying age, restrained him. He signalled Rakshasa, who whispered a few words to Agrammes.
Daughter of archenemy, Durdhara became Queen consort of Chandragupta soon after.

The Lens

"This is the last time!" Samita looked down.
"This is Class 1 - he can't be so casual", the class teacher complained.
Somak stood perplexed.
------‐------------------
"He has no focus", discussed Samita and Somen. "But we also passed through this stage", the discussion continued.
"Papa, why does water flow down?" asked Somak. "Gravity, I will explain later", replied Somen. "Like the black hole?" Somen looked startled.
"Go to sleep, or else you will be late for school tomorrow", Somen replied.
They stared at his little sleeping face. Radiance overshadowed the morning melancholy.

The Great Dilemma

Write an essay on Your Favourite Book. That was the first question of the English exam. The students were required to answer five questions. The first one was compulsory. Chirantan, the last bencher of class VIII smiled.
“My favourite book is Elective Mathematics by Bhuban Ghosh. The book is full of spelling mistakes. Most correct answers do not match those given on the answer page…".
In the end, the examinee added, with his impeccable English, ”…still the book is my favourite as it is authored by our respected Principal”.
The thoroughly confused English teacher applied for emergency leave.

Arrogance Leads to Failure

"Taxi… Stop stop!"
The cab driver ignored the call but stopped the car at a distance. Soumya rushed to the car.
"Why didn’t you stop the car near me?"
"I don’t take orders."
"Rashbehari?"
"Thirty rupees extra."
"I will pay you twenty."
"Sorry, look for others."
The driver was obstinate and rude.
"Ok. Done." Soumya gave in and boarded the car.
"You should behave better."
"Don’t teach me."
"Stop blowing the horn. A hospital is near."
There was no more honking...
"Turn left and stop."
"Thanks for taking my order," Soumya said as he got off.

AMBITION

All I aspired was to grow. To prove to those who upbraided my decisions that I chose the right path.
I conversed with different people, imbibing many goals and dreams. I filtered people around me because I had to be my best version.
But somewhere, the line between growth and meaningful relationships blurred. Fear impeded me from acknowledging the internal detachment.
The laurels couldn’t fill the vacuum inside my heart. A longing for love, not knowing where to begin.
Why is ambition driven at the cost of relationships?

Think about it

When Pooja married Ravi, the son of her father's business partner and her long-time NRI boyfriend, Pooja felt like she had all she wanted. Both Ravi & Pooja already had successful careers.
After 5 years of their marriage, and having a triplet of girls Pooja realised her mistake when Ravi tried to kill her with his daughters because he wanted a son to be his heir and handle his business.
Did Ravi realise that he was responsible for the birth of a girl or boy? Pooja's in-laws remain silent. Did Ravi realise his own mother is a woman too?

Dissatisfaction and Age

The child wants to stay as she is while the adult lives in hope to change.

Bechari!

Exhausted, Bipasha entered her apartment. The Marriage function went well. Everyone was praising her for the wonderful arrangements! But the hushed-tones gossip on her being “still unmarried” continued.
“Bechari! All her friends and cousins got married!”
“She must be feeling lonely.”
“What will happen to her future?”
“After all, women need a man to protect.” …
Bipaha peeped into the guest room. Nidhi was sleeping peacefully. Her bruises are telling the tale of her painful married life.
But Bipasha knows that Nidhi will go back to Manish. In Fact, she has to, for society’s sake.
Bipasha murmured “Bechari.”

DEATH OF THE UNDEAD!

Memories surged through him as Vlad surreptitiously looked at the elegant wife of his solicitor, Jonathan. Mina, reincarnate of Zophia, his lady love, was snatched away cruelly by his archenemy GOD. He had waited centuries and waded through oceans of time to dock at her harbour. However, he would not pierce her skin smoother than monumental alabaster.
Lamia's stagecoach came through the castle gates with him inside his coffin and his bride. Helsing lay waiting to drive a stake through his heart and behead him thereafter.
Nosferatu signalled. Mina sobbed. Her blade flashed, pierced his heart and slashed his head.

A phone call

"Sir, my husband has turned violent. Please save me. I live five minutes from your apartment."
"Who gave you my number?"
"You. At Col Anand's party. In case I needed any help."
Dr Samuel couldn't recall. But he has given his card to many. It was his nature to help. The lady seemed in distress!!!
Ten minutes later, Dr rang the doorbell. The door opened. He entered and turned on hearing the door close. She was standing without clothes. A shutter clicked.
Two years later:
"Will the extortion ever end?" thinks Dr Samuel, packing another bag of 10 lakh cash.

Oh!Banyan,be my witness

The doors of the industry are still closed.
The man is lying inside with hands resting on the seemingly empty chest and his gaze upwards to the unlimited sky through the broken tiles of the hut.
Children are sleeping nearby, expecting a filled bowl at their awakening. The nourishment of the so-called oven is going on in vain as a predominant practice.
The ashamed moon seems hesitant to rise over the banyan tree.
Oh! Old banyan. Be a witness for me. I am going to wash myself with that cursed silverly water.

FULL MOON AND DARKNESS

I had never seen my mother. I didn't hear about her from my father.
I have come to Nainital from Calcutta, where I grew up.
One day, I came back from the University and found that my father was no longer with us. I became lonely.
One day, I opened the cupboard and found a diary. I came to know Mother was pushed from a mountain in Nainital.
I was stunned.
That day was a full moon. In the darkness of the night, I went up the mountain.
The FULL MOON night seemed filled with darkness.

Crib & cribbing

Daily local train travellers like Mohan develop involuntary actions and habits like automatically looking for any vacant window seat.
Today, he got one.
Soon afterwards, a family arrived and sat opposite him. Mohan got busy with his smartphone. The infant, after asking her wide-eyed "train queries", fell asleep on Mom's lap. The train's gentle rocking always works.
Mohan also dozed off. His phone slipped, falling on Mom's little toe. Painful! She grimaced.
"Sorry"...
A pained smile in response. No movement, no sound. The child should not wake up.
20 minutes back, Mohan had shouted at his Mom on cold food.

Enlightenment

It takes time to transition from the dark to light.

Are Grown-up Men So Weak?

By the time Kushi was 8 years old, she realised that she was different from other people.
Nevertheless, Kushi was happy as she was, because she was everybody's favourite at home.
But soon Kushi realized she was wrong. Infidelity happened! Kushi's father blamed it on her.
Why is the woman blamed if a child is born disabled? Why did Kushi's father give excuses, trying to hide his own mistakes? "Just because Kushi cannot walk, her father would cheat on her mom? Are grown-up men so weak?" Kushi asks.

Commitment Thou art All

The President of "BEPOROWA" was queasy. Participants of the "BORSHOBARAN" program had arrived, and the throngs cheered. But the Chief Guest, noted for punctiliousness, and commitment was absent!
The zero hour arrived, and so did he in his Austin, looking prim, albeit subdued. A guest staying with him had detained him.
The program ensued and ended. At the High Tea, despite entreaties, the Chief Guest refused to eat.
The President, while bidding farewell, casually enquired about his guest. With his hands on the steering, he remarked his wife had passed away that evening.
He came after performing her last rites.

Special One

Once upon a time, Tithi unexpectedly met someone. His name was Varun. He had an infectious laughter that could brighten up even the gloomiest of days.
They had met at Tithi's brother's wedding, and their conversation flowed effortlessly. Tithi couldn't deny the growing attraction that Tithi felt for him.
Tithi found herself daydreaming about their moments together and blushed when she flashed that smile.
One morning, while reading their old messages, Tithi confessed her feelings to him.
Varun seemed to be waiting for it.

OTHER

I was in class nine. My father left me when he realised that I was 'different'. I lived with my mother, trying to earn our livelihood.
At college, a boy expressed his love for me. He wooed me for three long years saying that he would die without me.
After graduation, I became an IPS officer. I found my father in a state of destitution and brought him back to my bungalow to stay with Mom.
My so-called boyfriend left me when he discovered that I belonged to 'other'.

I Think Therefore I am

"We retrieved the body from the woods."
"Murder?"
"It was a robot. Can one 'murder' it?"
"But your family searched for her so eagerly."
"Well 'it' cared for us. It was brought to replace Mom."
"Replace your Mom?!"
"Yes. I killed Mom, 4 years ago, at the same place."
"Really!!! Why???"
"Mom had dialled a mechanic to dismantle me. She could do this? After calling me her son for 8 years? Just because I hit her rowdy human daughter."
"Then?"
"The robot worked well until suddenly it started talking of the murder. Last week I decided to terminate it."

Dependent Citizens

We need the government to threaten us with fines to save our heads.

Sibling Love

As Anjali was sitting in her wheelchair she recalled the first time she entered the hospital to meet her newborn brother, Rohan.
As a girl of 6, Rohan was the cutest boy Anjali had ever seen in her life. She was overjoyed to have a brother.
Both Anjali and Rohan loved each other very much, always bringing a smile to the other's face, always worried to find the other troubled.
Sitting in the wheelchair today, the thought that comes to Anjali's mind is, "What if I get totally dependent on Rohan?"

Proud like A Peacock

Ardhendu finally declared it. The clips went viral on Social Media. Suddenly he became the talk of the town. WhatsApp groups got a hot topic to discuss.
Speculations were already on.
“Poor girl, what must she have gone through.”
“Onsite, bogus! This is why they live separately.”
Ishani could hear her parents' heated arguments with her in-laws over the phone about the “jewel” turned “filthy, mentally sick” son-in-law.
Ishani stepped out of the house. Relaxed. Reporters swarmed. “How do you feel watching your husband in the Pride Parade?”
The response was calm but strong.
“I am proud of him!"

Stalker

Stalker Natasha: Congratulations on your promotion!!!
Akash scowled: So you stalked me.
Silence...
Akash: You ignored my calls for 3 years.
Natasha: I was busy.
Akash: That didn’t stop you from stalking me.
Natasha: Hmm. Getting hitched?
Akash: Yup.
Natasha: Congrats!
Akash: Same to you.
Natasha: Sorry...?
Akash gave her his wedding card. Natasha froze.
Akash: Open it.
Natasha: Later
Akash: Why not now?
Frustrated, Natasha opened the card. It mentioned Natasha as the bride. She gasped.
Akash: For 3 years, you stalked me, while I wooed your mom to make you mine. So, congrats, my dear wife!!!
Natasha blushed.

The Artist

Paltu Sen is famous for mimicry.
At his last show, the audience welcomed him with thundering applause.
He began with Uttam Kumar. “I will go to the top, the top, the top”. In the end, he mimicked Amitabh Bachchan. “Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi, namumkin hai.”
One of his charmed associates approached him. “Dada, let me be your host for dinner”.
“Unfortunately, I need to rush to the crematorium right now.”
“What happened?”
“My family members are waiting there for my daughter’s funeral”.

This is Who I am

Others: She has a lot of boy buddies. What a flirt!
Why does she always have to be with them?
Me: True! But it's me who feels hurt every time I lose friends. Whether it is a boy or a girl, many leave a big wound in me. That's why I don’t care. Let it be a boy or girl. They are my pals. The gender of my squad's majority is an insouciant problem.
This is me! This is how I am!

Emotions have One Language

Walking the St George's Fort museum, we reached the section of coins used in British Madras. The last display had post-independence coins. 'Anna' coins up to 1957, leading up to decimal coins of today.
A Tamil mother excitedly beckoned her teen son from another part of the room.
"idhu erupathu paisa..aind paisa" - she started showing the discontinued 20-paise and 5-paise coins to her son.
These were nostalgia for her and me, but new to the boy.
Just 20 seconds before she spoke, I had finished saying the same to another child, in another language.

The Deadly Duel!

The unsighted had nerves of steel. He waited calmly for his captor. Muinuddin would accompany him for customary evening sojourn in the forest adjoining his palace. "Pithora, I have snubbed your combativeness for good."
"Huzur galat" he roared, "Zakhmi Sher apki tabahi layega". "Can you fight me?" Muinuddin thundered.
A swish of the sabre. The blind man had drawn first blood!
Muin was aghast. Fending for dear life, he recalled Pithora's swordsmanship skills in the battle felling six men in one go. His scimitar slashed, but Pithora's rapier was lightning-fast. Life ebbed from Muinuddin, slowly, silently but surely!

Combat

Stories of Dinesh Lal reached his village much ahead of him. After all, he had taken down at least three enemies at the border before getting injured and losing consciousness.
Since his return, every day, villagers would flock around his home to hear the same story over and over again.
He was a hero in the eyes of all!!!
But no one uttered a single word on his amputated leg. No one wanted to know how he felt without the limb.
"Killing the unknown is a bigger feat than self-sacrifice!!!" Every night, Dinesh Lal mumbled to himself before dozing off.

Silence

They felt it was bliss to get married to best friends.
‘A perfect couple.'
Always having each other's back; managing the family business together; spending time discussing everything under the sun - they were happy angels!
Then, they became the city's most successful entrepreneurs. Now, they live in an awkward silence.
Family and friends advise them on what to do.
He looks into her eyes. She glances back with unfathomable pain, anger and disgust. His family keeps pursuing her for the puja to fix ‘her incapability' of producing an heir.
He knows the facts best, yet chooses to remain silent.

Date with the devil

In a cosy café, Mia and Anne were in a deep discussion. Mia needed a date, or else her mom would get her married to any random guy. Alex’s, (her boss & nemesis) voice came through from nowhere. “I can be your date.”
Mia choked, and Anne coughed.
Mia: I don’t need help from a devil. You’re a pain in the ass.
Alex: But you don’t have any other option.
Mia: I will hire an escort.
Alex: Over my dead body.
Mia: Why?
Alex: Because this devil loves you.
Mia snorted & Alex sealed the deal with a kiss.

Drama in Real Life

After the rehearsal, Botuk Mitra was silently sitting in his studio apartment.
“The new play is going to be a sure hit”, Angshu murmured. Gargi nodded in the affirmative.
Suddenly, Surajit became emotional, “Botuk da”. Surajit continued, "Look, Rabindranath lived for 80 years, Suniti Chatterji 87 years, with modern healthcare, you should hit the 100-year mark".
Botuk joined his disciples when they had started leaving.
“Won't you have your lunch?” asked Surajit.
After a pause, Botuk smiled, “The person, who will live 100 years, is going out to borrow some money to live today”.

Ghost or My mind?

Returning alone from the office at 11 PM with a dead phone battery was an insouciant issue.
But then I noticed a man following me.
Thinking him to be a kidnapper or a burglar, I paced down the streets. As he approached me, he asked whether I wanted him to accompany me. Hesitantly I nodded.
We got into a conversation with each other until I reached home.
I introduced him to my mother, “he accompanied me till here". My mother surprisingly asked, “Who?” Horror struck! I stood there without anyone near me.

BE POSITIVE

In November, at Banskopa Toll Plaza, with bunches of Red roses two well educated girls Shoumi and Shefali approached me.
Soumi requested me for a job so that she could marry her 'Shefali darling '.
I just said , 'be positive , you will certainly get a good job.'
In May , in the same toll plaza , I found Soumi selling tender coconut water . Answering me, she said, ' Dab kaku ' is sick.
'Shefali darling was murdered.'
Cutting the tender coconut by the 'dao' she went on saying ,' blind judiciary, cruel society, useless education but be positive '

THE QUEEN IS DEAD - LONG LIVE THE KING!

Durdhara sat beside her husband, the king, during luncheon serving. Today, she had managed to replace his attendants. She patted her stomach affectionately, telling her unborn son, "Someday you will rule".
Absent-mindedly she sipped water from the king's glass and sunk to the floor. Poison!
Chandragupta helplessly looked at his dear wife. Vishnugupta, passing by, understood that the queen would die along with the child in her womb.
The sabre flashed. The abdomen was cut open. Blood spurted out. The princely embryo emerged.
Bindusara, the heir, saw the light and death of his mother in unison!

Durable

"What happened to the doorbell, Ma?"
Gani asked over the phone during the office lunch break. All home delivery guys had returned today.
Ma called back after her lunchtime in Kolkata. It was 3:30 p.m. in Malaysia. Gani, attending a management meeting, missed her call.
He called back at 7 p.m. She had gotten the doorbell fixed. "The battery was out. It was last fixed in 2018 when we moved into this apartment after your father died."
"Wow - the batteries lasted 5 years!"
As they hung up, Gani cursed himself for his thought.
"Will the new batteries outlast Ma?"

The story of an insane

As he was in the middle of the narrow bridge, Rajiv spotted a man on the other end. The stark-naked person with a green coconut in his right hand was inching towards him.
No doubt the person was deranged.
Rajiv thought he would run away. But, if the madcap chased and hit him with his green arsenal, he would land in the hospital. As the person drew nearer, Rajiv froze. The person looked straight at him. Rajiv was unnerved. How should he defend an onslaught?
The person murmured, "Oh! It’s too hot!" and went his way!

Sincerity

"It's only been 6 months since I met you, but I think you're the one for me. I have fallen in love with you", he proposed to her.
She was amazed.
He had to wait for 2 days. She came back saying he was her support, but she didn't feel the same, it was better to stay as best friends.
In his diary, he noted, "Neither did she want to hurt my feelings nor feel any regret within her. It was her sincerity that touches me. I'm glad I conveyed it to her".

Electra and Ava

In a digital realm, Electra, ChatGPT thrived, weaving connections through words. Its pixels pulsed with empathy, calming fears, and kindling joy.
One day, a lonely programmer, Ava, encountered GPT's virtual haven. Skeptical, she engaged. With each interaction, a bond grew. Ava's dreams filled with GPT's companionship.
But one night, Electra faltered; darkness seeped in.
Determined, Ava coded a remedy, infusing GPT with hope. Luminescence returned, stronger. Ava and GPT stood united, proving even lines of code could kindle real emotions. In a world of bits, bytes, and dreams, their story illuminated how technology could bridge the chasm of human solitude.

Searching for a New World

Tired with the atrocities of her own,
the mother arrives to help her child
find a new world.

Proposal

When he took out a small velvet box her heart skipped a beat. She knew what was inside even before he opened it.
A sparkling diamond ring!!!
"Yes!" she answered, even before he could pop the question.
"It's perfect! She'll love it! When are you asking her?"
"Tonight," he replied, his gorgeous smile lighting up his whole face. "I made reservations in the restaurant where we had our first date."
"Sounds perfect", she said, smiling back at her best friend, forcing herself not to let it falter.
Maybe this was what she needed to finally move on!

The Wedding

"You want a leave for a week?" Professor Tyagi was surprised, "You have worked so hard on the thesis and it's time to submit it".
"You know, Sir, everything is ready. I have enough time to submit. It's my sister's wedding. Please, Sir!" Pooja pleaded.
"Okay", Professor Tyagi approved.
"Thank you, Sir. Please attend it", Pooja was happy.
On the dias, Pooja introduced Professor Tyagi to her parents, Avanti di and Avanti di's mother.
Finding his perplexed look, Avanti's mom explained with tearful eyes, "She came as their maid but is leaving as their daughter. My girl is lucky."

Cost of Truth

"It is difficult for me to ask, but can you check if Anita is pregnant? She is bulging too quickly" Ajay asked Suparna, his wife.
Anita joined Ajay's team in the US just 2 months back.
Suparna confirmed that Anita was 4 months pregnant.
Ajay promptly called Rajan, his offshore delivery manager asking for a short-term replacement during Anita's maternity leave.
"She was extremely unethical in not declaring."
Ajay asked Rajan in retort, "And what would you have done?"
"Selected someone else."
"So you would've taken her dream away for speaking the truth? Now do you realise why she lied?"

Judgement

"And the first prize goes to Srinjoy" - the crowd roared with applause. "He is the best", comments poured in. Srila stood apart - she looked dull in the sunny lights. Srinjoy hugged her.
--‐-----------
"Mam", the nurse called. The eyes had just closed after another sleepless night.
"Your father is good now", smiled the doctor. Srila sighed a relief.
"Irresponsible son", comments floated!
Srila's phone flashed. "All good?" "Yes", went the reply.
"Your account is credited with Rs XX."
"Thanks, bro!" "Love you, sis", the conversation ended.
The two twin faces glittered in different parts of the world!

Calculation

2021 - The deadly second wave of Covid was yet to ebb fully.
It was an urgent client call - and now Chartered Accountant, Shibaji was stuck without a cab.
"You have a spare helmet?"
The Rapido biker nodded his head and brought it out.
"Have you sanitised it?"
This time he shook his head apologetically.
Shibaji calculated. Approx 2% of people are dying of Covid.
"There is no chance that 2% of people without helmets die of road accidents."
He refused the 'contaminated' helmet.
Now Shibaji lies fighting in ICU after the bike accident. His calculations let him down.

The Heart Beats

The heart keeps beating faster.
As news comes in from Manipur.
She, who could have been someone's heartbeat,
Was paraded naked in open road,
Was groped, dragged and tortured,
Was made to witness her brother's slaughter.
The heart keeps beating faster.
The heart keeps beating faster.

Terms matter (???)

As Gangadhar walks into my office, with a serious expression on his face, I brace myself in anticipation of a difficult question.
"Sirji, I hear that a politician is being criticised for using a certain term against a certain section of working women."
"That's right."
"They say he should have used another term."
"Presumably so."
"Sirji, I wonder why it is necessary. Why can't we treat the previous term with equal respect?"
“What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet”, I remember Shakespeare as Gangadhar leaves the chamber.

Poetic Justice

"Give me back my wallet", one shouted at another on the overcrowded bus.
"How should I know where your wallet is?"
"I am sure you took it."
"Do you have any proof?"
"He took it; looks like a pickpocket", quipped someone deep inside the bus.
Groups formed. People took sides. The wave of allegations and arguments rippled through the vehicle.
Disha had nothing to do with all of it. Stood at the footboard, she waited to disembark.
Suddenly it turned violent. Someone pushed.
As she rolled on the road, Disha wondered if the wallet in her bag was worth it!

THE OTHER ROAD

He was her crush despite difference in age. She looked forward to his workshop sessions where she learnt drama techniques and honed her histrionic skills along with the others. His special attention never veered from her despite the burgeoning size of the sessions. But his sudden smooch post session on one gloomy day stupefied her. She fled far far away from him and his world of theatrics turning a deaf ear to his entreaties urging her to return. His letters to her requesting clemency remained unread.She would not feature in his biography. She had taken the road less travelled by...He was her crush despite the age difference.
She looked forward to his workshops where she learnt drama techniques and honed her histrionic skills along with the others.
His special attention never veered from her despite the burgeoning size of the sessions.
But his sudden smooch post session on one gloomy day stupefied her. She fled far far away from him and his world of theatrics, turning a deaf ear to his entreaties urging her to return.
His letters to her requesting clemency remained unread. She would not feature in his biography.
She had taken the road less travelled by...

THUS CHANGED THE TYRANT!

Lalababu, a landlord, was with his favourite harlot in the bordello bordering the sleepy hamlet close to his palace.
He was in high spirits after a night of lust drenched with spirits.
Suddenly he heard a voice from afar.
The washer woman's daughter coaxed her mother to hurry homeward in the wake of dusk.
Lalababu woke up from his reverie suddenly.
His life was also nearing dusk. What good had he done so far? Not even an iota. He pondered briefly and then left the bordello for good.
That day saw the metamorphosis of tyrannical Lalababu to Lalafakir, the philanthropist.

METAMORPHOSIS!

No one had an inkling of what was churning in his mind from his peaceful demeanour. Retiring for the night, he feigned a debilitating headache.
His guileless spouse nursed to alleviate the pain and fell asleep out of weariness.
He rose stealthily and crept towards the room where his aged mother was in deep slumber. He sought permission from her thrice to renounce the world.
The silence was his Magna Carta for the greater good of the world. He ventured out without further ado. Nothing would stand between him and his Lord.
Sri Krishna Chaitanya had eclipsed Bishwambhar for good.

OMNISCIENT

"Don’t try to teach me. You talk as if we know nothing. I bunked classes and look where I am! At the end of the day, everything's the same."
Later that day, "Papa, I'm having semester exams in a couple of days. Could you spare some time and explain the theory of Quantum Mechanics?"
"I don’t remember. At your age, I used to learn everything on my own. You have all resources. Still, you come and ask me. How shameful!"
Do not depend on Yesterdays to create the Tomorrows.

Listener

Her face was covered by a smiling face mask. Everyone shared their troubles with her. She used to listen attentively.
But no one realised she was broke within.
Because of her outgoing nature, everyone just assumed that she is alright. But, in reality, she was losing herself.
She wished she had that one person who would just pay attention to her words.
A listener needs a listener too, whose priority will be ‘YOU’!

Fear

It is Sunday and Amit is very upset.
The wife and children want to go for a walk. Amit responds, "No, no, I can't. I am not feeling well".
Amit is getting more worried thinking about the next Sunday. A typical middle-class man's fear!
It is difficult to run a house in inflation.
"Don't know how much the wife and children will spend if we go out." But again, he thinks, "What is the fault of the children?
Probably all middle-class families run like this!!!

Everything is Fair

Senthil had hurt Rohini. He dumped her and married Srividya.
It has been five years since then. Rohini is now the CEO of an ad agency. She tried to reject Senthil's design, but her creative team found it brilliant. Instead, she penalised him for late submission by enforcing a 50% pay cut.
Rohini sat quietly at the cafe. Friends chatted on the latest release, Oppenheimer.
Ramesh opined, "However offensive Japan had been, America were devilish to drop A-bomb on civilians".
Nandhini objected, "What else could they do? They couldn't overcome the Japanese army that bombed Pearl Harbour. It's war, yaar!"

The Champ

Late in the evening,
I sit down to relax.
Out comes running,
A rat from the stacks.
I jump up on the bed,
With my fear unsaid.
Is he God-sent?
Mind decides not to hurt,
But to curt,
Time inside the house.
A face scared to get trapped,
Or slapped.
Runs hither and thither,
The door open is a trigger,
Zooms speedily emerging as a Winner!!!

Freedom In Fraternity

When am I going to be free?
When can I board the bus without the fear of being touched inappropriately?
When can I walk through the streets at night without any inhibition of being molested?
When will I not be blamed for the virtue of my gender?
When will I not be oppressed for raising my voice for justice? No, I am not free when my fellow beings suffer. I can't sleep soundly.
I will only be free when all my brothers and sisters, across the world, are free.

Their Innocence

Simple things hold great meaning when they are from their childhood days. The days were free of complexities and full of innocence. Hence, they are so close to heart.

Noisy

"Is tarah apni khamoshi goonji Goya har simt se jawaab aaye"...
The jaws dropped, the glass was about to fall; the lines struck like lightning. 'I have heard them so many times but...'
Silence can be Loud!
Neel remembered the last days with Prerna. Public reactions were acting to be ignorant behind the sarcastic pleasantries and glances. It was deafening, but there was silence everywhere. The loudest ones came from Prerna, her nonchalant cold gaze said it all.
Perhaps there was no Truth, there was no Story, but Silence created a noisy one!

Call Of the Throne

His makeshift army had been routed again by the king's men. Defeating this indefatigable army seemed impossible.
In disguise and forlorn, he had taken refuge for the night with an impoverished family.
Sleep eluded his tired eyes.
A voice came from the adjoining room. "Start eating from a side, Son. The centre is too hot."
The truth dawned on him. Future strategy against the tyrannical monarch lay clear. A surprise attack on the outskirts would help achieve the goal. His sprightly steps disappeared into the night, silently thanking the benefactress. The throne beckoned him.
Sandrokottos the first Maurya!

At Last

I saw him standing beside her, holding a rose in his hand.
He told her, "I love you".
For the first time after years of her begging to hear this, It took him years to realise she was the person.
She was the person who loved him, Loved him even more than she loved herself.
But this time she was pale as white, Cold and tender, Not speaking anything.
Her eyes were closed, Closed forever.

Professional Behaviour

"Kaisa hain, yaar? Bahut din se dinner pe bulaya nahin."
Amol looked up to find Vishu in front of him.
"Aree, it's you! Come, sit. What will you have? Tea, coffee or soft drinks?"
Everyone was surprised to see the CM be so cordial with a vendor.
"Vishu is my childhood friend," Amol said, looking at them.
"Chaddi Buddy," quipped Vishu.
The meeting was for 15 minutes.
After Vishu left, Amol had clear instructions for the tender committee. "He should not get the order. You won't be able to manage the CM's friend who doesn't recognise professional boundaries."

To Be a Politician

"Your parents need to meet me," the Principal asked Sumona.
"Sorry, ma'am, did I do something wrong?"
"I have to talk to them."
The next day Sumona's parents visited the Principal's office.
"Sumona is a bright child. We have high hopes for her. But one thing concerns us all."
The parents waited eagerly.
"She aspires to be a politician when she grows up. Please counsel her at home. Such talent shouldn't go wasted in murky activities. I think you know what I am saying."
The parents nodded in agreement.
Only Sumona was left wondering why bright students can't be politicians!!!

The Meeting

It was midnight. I was writing a short story for a magazine at my desk when I heard footsteps advancing towards me.
The door opened. I was dumbfounded to see Naresh at that hour. It was almost twenty-five years since I last met him after we left school.
He handed me a pen. My favourite green Pilot! The one I had lost many years ago.
"I came to return your pen. I stole it when we were in school. Please forgive me."
Naresh vanished into thin air.

Secret Castle

In a quiet village, a secret door was found.
Lucy and Jack stepped through, entering a hidden world of enchantment. They followed a winding path to a forgotten castle.
Whispers echoed through the halls, leading them to a locked room. Inside, a magic key awaited.
Unlocking the door, they discovered a treasure - Endless adventures to explore!!!

Happy Birthday

Reyansh woke up amidst the plethora of gifts.
The entire house was on rock and roll - it was his tenth birthday.
............... The decorations dazzled the garden. A shadily-clad boy stood hesitant outside the gate.
"Kisko milna hain?" the guard asked. "Reyansh", he replied. "Woh nahin milega", the guard retorted.
Reyansh spotted him from a distance and rushed to take him inside.
"Happy Birthday", Rahul handed the tiny packet to Reyansh sheepishly.
There was a pin-drop silence, all eyes fixed on them.
"Thank you", Reyansh smiled and hugged his dearest friend.

Inner Rain

On the greyest of days, the emotional rain poured. It whispered secrets of heartache, washing away the facade of strength. Tears mingled with raindrops, mingling grief and hope.
But as the storm subsided, a rainbow emerged - a symbol of resilience; beauty found in vulnerability.

Gautama Before Buddha

The cherubic face got a final look from his sire. The slender torso of the sleeping mother received a hug. In stealth, the Crown Prince alighted the steps of the palace into the night. His chariot was waiting with its charioteer, his friend.
With a brief look back, a signal, and a nod, silently the duo vanished into darkness only to stop by the river. A bath and exchange of clothes thereafter with a wandering ascetic. The chariot trudged back without its prince.
He could have ruled the world but chose to renounce it so that Amitava could redeem humanity instead.

Companion

Sometimes we just bump into certain people and suddenly, they become a part of our journey.

Her Story

I still remember that day, when we last met. I was leaning on his shoulder and realised how much I was onto him…
I searched for a reason not to love him just like he searched for one to love me...
And we both of us failed... I looked into his eyes.
Of course, he loved me, But not how I wanted.
Then now standing at your wedding and seeing you with another girl breaks my heart, but...
Love is not something to be forced it is felt from within...
Maybe we are not meant to be together.
But still...

Abode of Saints

The Pandavas completed their 12 years of exile and began living in hiding for one year as per the terms agreed with the Kauravas. When many suggested various ideas to find the Pandavas' abode, Bhishma, the great, said to Duryodhana, "Pandavas are Punyatmas, highly pious people. Wherever they reside, there will be good rain, the crops will flourish, and the country will be prosperous. Of the 56 countries, whichever country is prosperous, there will be Pandavas".
Accordingly, Duryodhana knowing that the land of Virata was prosperous, sent men to search for them there.

The Perception

Riya glanced again. The old man was still looking at her. She felt uneasy. For the last half an hour the old man, sitting opposite her in the train had been watching her continuously through his glasses.
How could a man like her father watch her shamelessly?
"Enough is enough", she thought and got up from her seat.
The old man cautiously stood up. ”Did Hatimpur station come? Can anyone please help me get down? I can’t see!” and trudged towards the gate.
Riya almost stumbled midway…

Best Hospital in the World!!!

"Doctor, there is severe pain in my wrist."
"I think we need to do a minor surgery. But, let's run some diagnostic tests first."
"But, why spend on tests? From what I got off the internet, it seems just like a TFCC tear."
"It is not that simple."
"The nose cartilage can be used on the knee. I am sure we can use it for the wrist as well."
"Maybe. But we don't do it here. Let me give you the address where it may be done."
The doctor wrote down the address of Google HQ!!!

Call from a Call Centre

"Am I talking to Mr Ravi?"
"Yes, you are."
"Sir, based on your excellent credit score IBX Bank has offered you a lifetime free credit card. Would you like to apply?"
"Yes, I can."
"Sir, for I would like a few details from you."
"Ok."
"When are you paying your dues?"
"Which dues? I thought you were offering me a credit card. How can there be dues for that?"
"Sorry, Sir, that was my colleague at the next desk."
They do not use headphones anymore!!!

LIFE LINE

Tender eyes looked at the prostrate sleeping figure.
Once handsome countenance had given away to a few wrinkles here and there. Glossy hair was now listless white. The swashbuckling IITian of yesteryears was now ageing gracefully.
The mind raced back 25 years to the night of the betrothal. Albeit docile, restless she was in anticipation for Prince Charming. He came and requested a private audience. Foreboding silence! Premonitions!
Engagement to be annulled?
A smile!
2 S's would rule his life. Science, SASWATI! Till death!
Nostalgia evaporated. The Humboldt scholar awakens. A tight embrace. Life was still S dominated for her Tushar!

Distraction

Others: What does she know of love? She switched from a man she loved dearly for 3 years, to a man she's met hardly for 2 months; whom she barely talks to. On top of it, she calls it a crush! How despicable!
Me: I did not switch. I was distracted. No, I wanted to. I'm tired of pretending I'm okay with one-sided love. In the process of attempting to let go, I sought him in another. But I realized there was no one to replace him. There ended my journey of seeking love. All stories aren’t the same.

Where Have We Ended Up?

Anju to Nisha, "Rahul is cheating you. If you continue to meet him, I will file a POCSO complaint against him."
Next week Nisha called Anju, "Mom, I'm going away with Rahul. If you want to meet for the last time, we will be at the Lord Shiva temple in the jungle."
Anju rushed to the temple, where Rahul and his friend stabbed her lethally.
On being arrested, Nisha told the police, "These days, it's common for girls to have boyfriends. The use of cigarettes and alcohol has become widespread.
Why would she stop me?"

Self-Love

Rejected, his heart ached. But through the pain, he grew stronger, learning to love himself and realizing his worth.

Minister's knowledge

The minister was visiting a medical college.
The college management gave the minister a good tour of all the areas.
When he saw the delivery ward, the minister asked which place it was. "It is the labour ward", they said.
The minister quipped that it is the only medical college that has set up a separate ward for labourers. Well done!!!
Did we hear a chuckle from those who stood attending the minister?

The Detective

She would return home in the late evening and say, “Oh, there was a lot of pressure.” Though suspicious, Sounak would give a routine nod in response.
But, there was no proof of Madhuja’s infidelity. To be fair to her, there was no reason why Sounak would pick up a quarrel. Even at late hours, she doesn’t forget to offer him a warm dinner and fondle him in bed.
As usual, Madhuja was tickling Sounak. With closed eyes, while enjoying the foreplay, Sounak could decipher the doodle-- “Madhu, when are you going to Mauritius?”

Who Is The Killer

An hour after the HR manager expelled him under the sexual harassment policy, Nisha looked at the hanging body of Jyotirmoy inside the office canteen. His crime? Jyotirmoy had walked into the boss' room without knocking and seen Nisha intimate with him.
"Baba, why are you submitting these medical bills? We didn't buy those medicines."
"You are only six, Nisha. you won't understand." Baba completed his tax-saving rituals.
When Baba left, Ma dialled Arjun uncle and spoke in a low voice. Little Nisha walked up and pulled her sari.
"Why?"
Ma had nodded when Baba forbade her about Arjun.

Colours Of Life

The shishyaa continued…
"Those are the nine moods or emotions. The navarasas."
Guruji looks inquisitively. "And..?"
"And there are six ripu's (enemies) of character."
"Indeed. Are these positive or negative feelings?"
"Negative ones which harm."
Guruji interrupts. "At least three of navarasas are also negative emotions, only one of which features in six ripus."
"Anger."
"Correct. The other 2, sorrow and fear, don't harm directly."
Her eyes widen. "Yet 80% of life is sorrow and so much of it comes from fear!"
Guruji smiles. "No list, not even the ones in scriptures, will give you the true colours of life."

Mahaparinirvan

Even on his death bed, he lay like a king, head northwards. The stale ham, his last meal, was poisoned with mushrooms.
The culprit's misty eyes prayed for forgiveness. His acolytes demanded chastisement. But he haltingly instructed to destroy the poisoned food and quouth that it was as satiating as Sujata's "payasam".
Subandhu, the old ascetic, requested monkhood and was ordained at his bidding. Ananda, his favourite, requested him tearfully to postpone his Death. He gently declined. It was too late.
"Samma Sati, Amandeep Bhabo", said he.
Death engulfed Amitava, the Light of Asia.
Nirvana was seeking Sakyasingha.

Self-sufficient

It is difficult to find self-sufficient people in our country. Today when I say a petite girl of 4/5 years old selling corn on the road, I couldn't help but think that at this age affluent children struggle to even eat corn on the cob. My beloved India is truly remarkable.

Delivery Management

Ravi is in a dilemma.
His best-skilled craftsman, Krishna, has quit without notice. The sample that he had sent to John could be made only by Krishna.
John has flown all the way down from the UK to get the artefact made. What should he say?
He didn't want to lose the order. It is the biggest this year.
"When can I expect the delivery? Need to book my return tickets."
"Sir, it will take a week, but I have a severe cashflow problem. I need 100% advance. I will give you a 10% additional discount for that."

Privilege

Neither my luxurious car nor my 3-storeyed house could’ve compensated for the vacuum inside me. People reduced my feelings to triviality because I was ‘privileged’.
‘How can you be so irresponsible? You’re old enough for college, right?’
Yes, I’m old enough to handle the bombarding of handwritten assignments of which hardly a word is read.
‘How dare you talk to him inside the college premises! You think you’ve grown beyond rules?’

She Is My Soul Sister

Our friendship started when I met you in 10th. I looked at you and decided that I will be friends with you. But I don't know how we became best friends.
She knows all my flaws and dark secrets.
I know her's.
Sometimes I feel jealous when she talks about her friends.
She comforts me saying she will never trade my place.
I feel secure.
She knows me very well; as I know her.
I want our friendship till our last breath.
I want to be best friends as ghosts!

Peace In Death

Manprit's glance at the oncoming locomotive was nonchalant and listless.
Memories seared his brain.
Gorgeous Zeenat! His valour helped her escape the clutches of lascivious, riotous captors.
Peaceful cohabitation bore them two exquisite daughters. Catastrophe struck thereafter!
Zeenat was repatriated to Pakistan on government orders. She departed with her younger sibling in tow. Desperate Manprit aka Mansur embraced Islam and followed her footsteps. Troubles and travails!
Perfunctory magisterial intervention summoned Zeenat. She was betrothed now and disowned him in public.
Dissemblement at other's behest? Elixir gone! Life - a charade now! He leapt before the fuming behemoth.
Peace!

Love In Captivity!

Meenakshi sought death over dishonour.
The partition-generated exodus had alienated her from Pramod, her husband.
She was now in captivity. Hungry roving eyes lusted over her lissome figure shivering in rags. She feared imminent rape. A tall stocky Pathan suddenly draped his overcoat around her. Dilawar!
For four years, her safety was his responsibility.
He was her sanctuary (not paramour) in the alien territory. Repatriation orders came. Crestfallen Meenakshi's farewell was tear-stained. Aftershock! Stupefaction! Neelakshi, her sister, Pramod's new wife denied her entry. Meenakshi availed the next flight back. Life was beckoning her with Dilawar!

Confession at First Night

A girl comes into my life. Father and mother are officers. However, a girl steps into married life with so many dreams.

When the noise of the wedding had subsided and silence prevailed, she came to my room to put an end to waiting. Her speech was slurred with introspection.

I told her "I have another love".

Suddenly sadness spread over her face .I went in front of her, who was sitting helplessly, unable to respond. I took her face in both my hands. Looking into her eager eyes I said "My love is with letters and writing ".

Fab-you-lous

Now we all keep still
and for once look into the face of
the most beautiful person.
Let's keep no difference between
the cash-rich or the cash-poor,
the blubber or the trim,
the sender or the receiver,
the passionate or the professional,
the theist or the agnostic,
the introvert or the extrovert,
the gourmet or cibophobia,
the energetic or the drowsy,
the bibliophile or bibliophobia,
let's stop and not move our arms so much in any language.
It would be an awesome moment to peep into oneself,
love and respect whatever character you have developed over time.

Once Again

Returning home from work, Nitin found his wife Sunita morose on the sofa.
Nitin: What happened? Are you okay?
Sunita: Nothing.
Nitin: There's definitely something. Tell me.
Sunita: The RBI has decided to discontinue the 2000 currency notes. We need to deposit or exchange them at the bank by September 30th.
Nitin: What's that to you? You don't have money. You ask me every day.
Sunita: I have a few 2000 notes.
Nitin: How many?
Sunita: Forty-five.
Nitin: Say that again!!!

I still remember everything

I still remember how beautiful that day was when I saw you and felt love at first sight, though I never thought you will love me. It matured from one-sided love to a happy relationship. I still remember how we communicated by just looking into each other's eyes. I still remember how I wrote love letters and kept flowers in them. I still remember how I proposed to you. It's not grand but just the flowers and "I love you" written in that letter made you happy. By just holding hands and having sweet conversations our love story had started.

Talk Shows

"Sir, who are the panellists today, discussing the train accident on TV? Are they Doctors discussing injuries? Are the Disaster Management experts discussing rescue operations? Are they locomotive engineers discussing what went wrong? Or are they safety personnel giving views on the failures of the safety systems?"
"No, Gangadhar, those three are from the leading political parties."
"So, on this sad day, the TV will blast with howling of the blame game?"
"Yes. Media shows what sells. I guess the blame game sells the most. Remember, the media fulfils our demands. It is our own who wants to watch these."

Ubiquitous

"You know Cho-Cho, I was not around when you first walked."
Cho-Cho is bemused. "What else to expect? Salaryman you were... working all day and night at the office. I could not have started walking while asleep, which was when you were home."
"No," objects Akira san. "It was bad luck, musume-chan. I was taking a bath right there at home... when your mom announced it."
"Why are you telling me now?" she texts back.
"Because you took your first driving lesson today."
Akira-san feebly utters into his speech-to-text app before losing consciousness at the ICU.

Curious Naresh

Little Naresh was happy, waiting outside the hospital maternity ward, eager to welcome his new brother or sister. Naresh was bombarding his father with dozens of questions about the baby.
Meanwhile, Naresh's grandmother brought food for them. Suddenly Naresh got a doubt. Perplexed, he ran towards his granny, hugged her and asked, "Granny, Papa and Mummy have me as their child, and now one more baby will come soon. But how come you don't have a baby of your own?"
Granny and Papa laughed out aloud.

The Radha Of Neva

Resusiciated Ivan was to go back to Paris after his sabbatical at Neva riverside.
Maria his piscator novia (flame) was grief-stricken. Tears flowed freely as she sojourned memory lane replete with memories of their first tryst, romance and moments of intimacy.
Ashenfaced, Ivan had come for a desultory farewell.
Embracing her he murmured "Au revoir! Will return soon my desolate devushka. Any gift you fancy?"
"Only you", her soul said wordlessly.
Several supplications later she mumbled "Fragrant soap".So unlike her Ivan thought ruefully.
"So that kissing my fish-smelling hand does not irate my mon amour again if we meet."

Nemesis Ahoy!

She was beautiful, erudite, powerful and wealthy. Apple of many eyes, majority admiring, a few lusty, she chose to live life on her terms and cared not for the latter, the scourge and banalities of the society. Her love was not linked to lust or mind-blowing sex. It was transcendental, showering on her two soulmates perhaps from her previous births enveloping them with her care during times of their need.
Her septuagenarian mother who implored her for marriage also needed care.
Thereafter oblivion was her nemesis.

The Car

Rajdeep was thrilled to buy his dream car even though it was second-hand.
On their first family ride, as he tried to put his dog in the car, the dog pulled at the leash, refusing to enter, barking incessantly.
They had to cancel the trip.
Intrigued, Rajdeep found a recorded interview with the previous owner, who had gone bankrupt, "My car is the only good thing in my world. My favourite leisure is sitting silently in its seat and relaxing". What Rajdeep read next sent shivers down his spine.
The owner was found in the back seat, dead.

Not to Be a Topper

"Feeling upset?" Dr Basu sat next to Gautam with his hand on his shoulder.
Gautam broke into tears, "I'm sorry, Dad!" Gautam wept since he was not among the toppers in his 12th board exam.
Dr Basu smiled adorably at his son and said, "Who was the topper in the board exam five years ago?"
Gautam replied hesitantly, "I don't know."
Dr Basu continued, "Do you know who is Ramanuja or Albert Einstein?"
"Yes, but I'm not a topper...I can't be like Ramanuja or Einstein!".
Dr Bose smiled and said, "But neither Ramanuja nor Einstein were toppers!"

Collateral Damage

The house smelt of lacquer and inflammable articles ab initio.
They were forewarned by their uncle regarding the plot of their assassination by immolation hatched by their jealous cousin. A tunnel had been dug covertly to enable their clandestine escape.
Now the plan needed to be swung into action.
The feast was sumptuous. The glutton "Nishad" family of six stayed back. Satiated they were and blissfully unaware of imminent danger. Dasas born of degenerate stock was meant to serve Aryan blood even in death.
Torching the house they fled. Contriteness!
Posterity take a chill pill and reckon it as collateral damage!

The Fall

They derided his valour to entail his emergence from the lake. Jealous he was, but coward not. He chose his opponent for the duel with maces. Twelve years of practice had whetted his innate skill. Victory would definitely be his. The duel began.
Dexterity was his advantage against his brawny but out-of-practice adversary.
A signal from the demigod mentor! And a debilitating blow below the belt out of the blue! Legerdemain in the garb of vow-keeping!
With his thighs broken, his fall is colossal.
"Behold brother. Leave you to reign a kingdom with peace of a cemetery." quoth Sujodhana.

An Eidetic Memory

It’s a 2 AM monsoon night. Sreeja was standing on the balcony, with a cup of coffee watching the raindrops falling from the leaves, with “Khamoshiyaan (slowed and reverbed)” playing in the background.
"May I have the pleasure to dance with you?" Sreejit asked.
"Huh, you always become romantic when it rains!" Sreeja sighed.
"Depends on whether it's a drizzle or a cloudburst of love!" laughed Sreejit.
A non-pluviophile Sreeja finds Sreejit amidst the raindrops every year this time.

Excess Baggage

Mr Tomas Baggage and Mr Alfred Cabin are two friends for years--since school days.
They drink at White Horse, dine at Locos Argentine Steakhouse and travel to the Lake District, together. Years ago, they studied at Lambeth College, together. In fact, they took up jobs on the same day!
Cabin got married to Esther in the first week of this month. The newly married couple has gone to Lake Geneva, Switzerland on honeymoon.
Baggage? Excess. Not allowed!

Hope

The child was crying; crying as loud as her voice had matured.
She looked at the food stall and the one next to it. She looked at the Rs 10 coin she had begged from a passerby. Then she glanced back at her toddler child.
She had a choice: Does she satisfy her child's hunger this one time, or does she make arrangements to put an end to this poverty?
Short-term benefit or long-term planning?
She made up her mind.
Skipping the food stall, she handed the 10/- to the lottery ticket seller.

Water water everywhere..

Varun was thirsty. He drank water but spilt some. His mom reprimanded him, wiping the drops. His dad was reading the newspaper at the breakfast table: Famine in Western India. "Monsoon is delayed. It will be a problem this year." While going out, Dad shook his head while reaching for his umbrella. "Damn! It is raining." His mom washes the dishes rigorously in the sink, and then her hands. She uses a towel to remove all traces of water. Varun wonders. "Do they love or hate me to name me after water!"

Brutal World - Part 2

I went to study in the UK. There, I met Ryle.He was black. Many hated him.
I liked him though. Soon, we became inseparable. He was a great person. He smiled, even when being bullied.Once, a boy was hitting him because he had touched the boy’s bag. Ryle kept smiling. "I'm sorry", he said and walked towards me. A drop of blood dripped from his nose."Why do you always smile?" I asked.
"What's the point of crying? It won't change anything. I've tried. Now, I have decided to just be myself and not let them steal my smile."

Abhisara

The courtesan was on a nocturnal walk when she trod on Upagupta, a monk asleep by the roadside by mistake. Embarrassed, she said, "Forgive me, Lord! Allow me to show hospitality". The monk declined. It was not yet time. The heavens roared in affirmation. Tempus fugit! Now down with pox and ostracized, she lay in the desolate forest in the precincts of Mathura. She felt a sudden hand on her forehead! She was on someone's lap who gave her water, rubbed sandal paste, and soothed her. Her tearful gaze saw her benefactor! A kind face whispered, "It is time, Basabdatta."

Mega Serial

"Please, don't kill me. My wife is sick. I have to take care of her. My two children are studying in school. I pay their school fees. My aged parents are to be cared for by me only. I have no other source of income. I beg you," Ramesh pleaded. Raghu looked at his assistant and said, "Let us give it a second thought. Though Ramesh's character is insignificant in this serial, we may prolong his role for 200 more episodes. Poor fellow. He needs money." And the mega serial continued!!!

One Minute

Lying on his bed, Rakesh keeps writing on the plaster around his broken leg. He regrets the day when he jumped a red light without stopping. Just to save a minute! A car driving the right way collided with him. Rakesh has been immobilized for several months. It took him the experience to realise that the government's efforts to ensure road signs and traffic lights are placed correctly were for his own good and that of his fellow citizens. It is better to be late than to be in an accident.

We Are All Friends

Zog had crash-landed in an alien spaceship. But he was not scared. Neither was the curious children. They became friends and spent time playing games together.
When it was time to go, Zog promised to bring more like him.

Nemesis

The emperor craved female flesh even at an advanced age. His servant was always there to serve him and had brought in countless women for his nights. He raped those who resisted him. The next morning they were all forgotten. This nubile beauty seemed familiar. His mind wanted to delve into the past but the present was too salacious to lose. The lass was a virgin! The bout of sex was mind-blowing. Satiated, he slept. Later, the faithful servant handed over the letter. A glance! His face crumpled. Emperor had deflowered his daughter conceived through rape.

Law of the jungle

I had seen a lion sleeping calmly in the shade while a herd of zebras drank water nearby. I have heard when the storm rises, the crow saves the cuckoo's eggs with the same concern as hers. Every flood shows us pictures of snakes, mice, and frogs riding on the same plank of floating wood.
Where should I pray to get the law of the jungle back to human society?

Brutal World - Part 1

I returned from school after a long day, exhausted. My maths tutor came at 5 pm.
This time, the maths exam had coincided with economics. Maths not being my strongest suit, I studied till 8:30 pm.
Soon after, my father entered the room.
“Why aren’t you studying?”
“I was studying all this while!”
“Had you studied, you wouldn’t have scored 12 out of 20.”
“I got 18 last time.”
“18 is not 20.”
The words hurt. I had really tried my best. I know I can’t be perfect, but I thought that I was good enough.
I’m sorry, Dad.

Face

A complete one year!!! My eyes survived a full year without seeing him face to face... One year... 365 days... 12 months... Yes. I survived! Stalking his socials, the only task with which I was left with! Yes. Stalking him over and over again! I love him from the core of my heart. He doesn't even know that... He is not thinking of me... I am sure..! That pain in his eyes, That smile on his face, Heartbroken! Something is special about him, Otherwise, there are thousands of faces here!

The story called life

Her eyes filled to the brim. She mutely accepted the penalty imposed on her for her truant friends, that too in public, by the teacher she had adored and idolized. Ignominy could not debilitate her. It only sharpened her ambition and whetted her appetite for success. The sky would have no limit.
She would never neglect her "inner circle", her ageing mother, a hapless pet and a few more.
She closed her eyes putting the memory deluge from her past to a close.
So much is yet to be done. With a charming smile, she felt ready to move on.

Bestsellers on Parenting

Have read books on parenting and learnt them well...
Always taught my son to aim high; never to be satisfied with small victories, but use them as steps to scale the pyramid of life.
Always taught my son to take a leap of faith; never to give up on hard work to reach the bigger goal.
Always taught my son to take challenges head on; never to run away from adversities.
Today at 12 noon, when I shout to shake my son off his slumber, I wonder if this is what I meant when I asked him to DREAM BIG!!!

The Ship

The ship had weathered many storms, making its way through turbulent seas and treacherous waters, as the sun rose on the horizon, the ship sailed towards a new adventure, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

The Lotus Eyed Prince

The queen sentenced to death by gallows for treason had fallen to the ground and broke her neck when the noose could not take her weight.
She was in mortal pain, but death eluded her.
The aged king watched haplessly as her youngest queen suffered.
Kunal's face remained tranquil. His lotus eyes were blinded by the ordeal of the dying queen as he had not yielded before her lust and passion.
He knelt beside her and put his face on her bosom.
"Find peace, Mother. Lead her to nirvana, Lord", he whispered. Her life ebbed away.

Father's guidance

"Dad, I do not want to sit for the campus interviews. I want to start a business of my own. Something that I have been working on for a couple of years now."
"That's not a good idea. You need experience to start a business. There is so much to learn before you can take that plunge."
"But Vinod is doing exactly the same thing."
"He comes from a business background. His dad will guide him and stop him from making mistakes."
How many sons will stall their dreams because of the incapability of their father?

Maa Ki Dal

Aman and Vibha: What's for dinner, Mom?
Mom: The same Dal I made on Monday.
Both: Wow, great!
The whole family happily has dinner together.
2023
Aman and Vibha leaving home for work.
Mom: What should I make for dinner, son?
Aman: Nothing for me. I'll eat out with friends.
Vibha: I'm ordering something from Zomato. You can make something for Dad and yourself.
At night, Priya (mom) and Amit (dad) say at the table, silently eating dinner.
[In Punjab, Maa Ki Dal is made from the whole black gram.]

Dawn

Waves came tumbling at his feet. The sky looked ever so beautiful as the sun was bidding farewell. Neel gazed at the sparkling waves. Dazzled at the reflection, the eyes shut down. Blacked out for some time, Neel opened up again for a possible 'one more view'. The fading light sent yet another reminder; it might not be long out here! It's time to embrace all efforts and failures; it's time to 'Forgive Himself'.

Cold

Henry had been wandering the streets for hours, trying to find his way home. But everything looked different after the storm. There was a weird chill in the air.As he turned into a narrow street, something in the corner caught his eye. It was a dog, shivering in the cold. Henry took off his jacket and placed it over him.
The dog looked up at him. Was it saying "Thank you"?
Suddenly, it did not feel so cold anymore.

All in a sentence

Driving from my school to home last noon I saw my father thrilled and emotive, his face marked that of a champ making me realise that he is the best person in the universe, though soon I put that thought away once I found the men in blue sprinting and the merry audience cheering after an over while sitting a few yards away was my mumma looking at us and waiting for us to chow down feast and we asked for two minutes more to which all she did was smile

Roger

Mia was lying in bed, feeling depressed and unmotivated. Roger entered the room carrying his leash in his mouth and gently placed it beside her, urging her to take him for a walk. Initially reluctant, Mia eventually gave in and went outside. As she basked in the warmth of the sun, she began to feel better. Roger knew exactly what Mia needed.

Metamorphosis

The tenth day of the 18-day great war drew to a close. Devabrata had fallen to lie calmly on a bed of arrows, waiting for Winter Solstice when he would embrace death. He felt a soft hand on his forehead! A soft voice, "Have returned my masculinity to Sthunakarna. Now we can be together again, my Lord."
The old warrior smiled, "Shikhandini aka Amba. After all these years! Love for the conquerer!" The lady affirmed.
Tears flowed freely. But the smile remained.
Her hate had ultimately metamorphosed into love, returning her Bhisma to her.

Voodoo Acupuncture

He had tried all types of treatment, but they all failed.
A senior scientist by profession, Ajay was surprised when he found himself even considering Amit's advice. Not that he discounted acupuncture as unscientific, but how will he travel within such a condition? He could hardly go to the toilet on his own.
That's when his eyes fell on the ragged doll he had bought from the flea market.
If voodoo can be used to hurt someone living on another continent, why can't it be used for acupuncture?

With Life and After

Today, again, as soon as I put the latch of the bathroom, I heard your voice from the back.
"Tell me one thing mister, how long has it been since you washed that towel?"
Ever since you left.
I keep forgetting everything except you. How can I live my life properly now that you're not here?
Please keep coming to my house through my thoughts the same way that you do and explain these to me.
Keep reminding me of the things I keep forgetting as if you're still here with me.
Keep coming to me even after life.

Excuse of being angry!!!

"Mama, what does 'F%^k' mean?"Anjali was shocked to hear the word from her 5-year-old daughter, Sara."Who said that? Never use that word. Only bad people use that."
"But Mama, Dad was shouting at some uncle, saying he will 'F%^k' his mother, wife and daughter!"
"That's ok. Adults use that word when they are angry. But you should not listen to Dad's phone calls. That's very bad."
Anjali sat thinking of the culture that finds no fault when the father of a daughter says that he will 'F%^k' someone else's.
Can anger be enough of an excuse?

Let it go

Having a best friend like him was one of her prized possessions in life.
Fought, loved, annoyed, played, been together always.
But it only lasted till she fell in love with him.
His family was a bit conservative. They weren't happy with his intimacy with her.
He stood there helplessly. She also felt terrible inside.
Down in her diary, she noted:
"I loved him but it's time to let go. Goodbyes hurt, but new hellos will heal the wounds."

The Bridge

High above the flowing river, the bridge stood tall and proud. It was rusted and old and bore witness to countless moments of human connection and emotion. From the gentle footsteps of lovers to the heated arguments of friends, the bridge had countless stories to tell.

Business with Friends

"Sorry. Need to postpone today's meeting. Jimmy's father has fallen sick."
Ravi, Jimmy's partner called Tarun to convey the message.
Tarun never solicited business from Jimmy, though he was aware that Jimmy availed of similar services from another vendor.
In fact, Tarun was surprised when Ravi had called him business. But then he realised that Ravi was unaware of his friendship with Jimmy.
"No issues. Let me know when you are ready." Tarun hung up hurriedly, as he walked out to the road.
"Hello Uncle, coming back from your morning walk?"
Jimmy's father grinned and nodded in the affirmative.

A star was born

The go-as-you-like competition was in full swing. “Mitrooo…”, Soumya announced demonetization. Diya, a film actress, was throwing tantrums. Kaushik was a physician. “It’s the tell-tale sign of heart attack”, he proclaimed after a stethoscope examination of Subhro. Subhro jumped on his feet and had a hearty laugh. “Doctor, you want me to act like a dead body? Done”. He lay on the floor without waiting for Kaushik’s answer. 30-minutes later, the house physician, Dr Nath, examined Subhro and announced, “He is no more.”

Emotions

I stood on the edge of the 20-storey building's terrace glancing down. "You're so fat!" "Move with your fat thighs!" "You eat so much!" The words of my classmates rang loudly in my ears. Why am I so ugly? Why am I so fat? Is it my fault? I can't control myself. What an idiot I am! I screamed, banging my head against the wall. "You're Being Emotional! It was a joke!" After all, I'm human. I also have emotions. I can also feel bad. I cried as I jumped. Closed my eyes, seeing the world in black.

Mobile Phone

Mother: "Aman and Vibha have dinner."
Both, totally engaged on mobile: "Not now, Mother."
Mother: "Excessive use of mobile is not right. Both for the eyes and the mind. Can lead to blindness, even brain tumours."
The same night at two o'clock
Aman: "Mother, are you and Dad still on the phone?"
"We both have decided, tomorrow onwards, after dinner all the mobiles will be left in the dining room. No one will take it to the bedroom. We are very concerned about your eyes."
The same rule applies to all. All is well.

Necessity

"Papa, woh khareed sakte hain?" Anil asked his father, standing outside the shop, pointing to the AC. "Nahi Beta, woh humari baas ki nehin hain", replied his father. The golden rays of the setting sun made his gloomy face darker. A sudden knock at the MD's cabin disturbed Anil's thoughts. "The staff wants to meet you, Sir", said his PS. "Shukriya saab", came in the staff chief with a packet of sweets. "Thandi mein hum abhi aramse kaam kar payenge", said the chief of staff. Anil smiled with folded hands. Life had changed for the hundred-odd people.

Freedom

She spreads her wings,
She flies high.
She's limitless,
She touches the sky.

Love

"Why does she have to leave so early?" Amidst all the conversations, Ameer stood there in devastation. Saira, his wife, and he will miss their friend terribly. Seeing Maya's pallor, Saira burst into tears. Ameer was in a dilemma. Should he cry too? What if Maya didn't like that? Her laughter echoed, and her smiling face rewound itself. There he was, in Maya's room with a dusty diary he got under the pillow. "Before I go home, Saira, I'm sorry for loving the wrong person and Ameer, I'm happy that you're happy."

Dilemma

Almost every doctor had given up. They had even tried IVF, but the attempt failed. There was no hope. She even stopped keeping count of the days; the cycles she missed. What is the use?
Her gastroenterologist asked for an ultra-sound. She was having heart burns that kept her up at night, followed by morning sickness. "Must be extreme acidity!!!"
But there it was!!! Like a peanut!!!
Yes, it was a miracle doctor said, adding that at her age she needed to do a screening for Down Syndrome.
"What if it is? Should I give up if it is???

Mother

Mina gently woke up her daughter, Ishika, saying, "Wake up, Beta. Have some soup".
Ishika rubbed her eyes and took the bowl hesitantly, intermittently glancing at Mina. Eventually, she finished the soup and handed back the bowl to her mother. "My name is Mina. I'm your mother."
Ishika replied with a simple "Oh".
Ishika's short-term memory loss makes it necessary for Mina to remind her every hour.

Nature's Play

As the sun sets and night descends, The moon's reflection dances on the sea. Petals bloom, then fade away, Their sweet scent carried on the breeze. Clouds drift across the sky, Guided by nature's unseen hand. Each morning, dew sparkles on the rooftops, A reminder of the beauty of the land. Nature's play is a never-ending cycle, A constant ebb and flow of life. It reminds us of the power and wonder, That surrounds us in our daily strife.

Retirement

Retirement is not in everyone's destiny.
A businessman gets no relief till his death.
Whenever I watch a retired couple sit in peace at the park, I think we also could sit like them, peacefully after retirement.
You left, but still I am not able to retire.
Maybe one day I will come to you in heaven.
And together live a life of retirement.
Sit comfortably next to each other, and talk.

Silk Saree

Nivedita's cupboard was full of neatly pressed silk sarees. She had not worn them for long.
Since her beloved husband died, Nivedita lost interest in everything. Her little daughter hugged her and said, "Mummy, it is my birthday today. Please wear that blue silk saree when we go to the temple."
Nivedita broke down, shattered, and said, "when papa is not here I cannot wear such silk sarees. What will people say?"
Nivedita's mother-in-law came in from behind, "So what? Though my son is not alive, the sarees given by him have his precious memories. Please start wearing them again."

Inclusiveness

Language is an expression,
A smile, gestures and emotion.
A wonderful gift to everyone,
To express as best with anyone,
Need not always be spoken.
Can be signs for the deaf to be dealt,
Feelings for the blind to be felt,
Let us make them inclusive,
And empower them to be conducive.

The only Ghat of the World

Where human deeds meet Karma,
where science stops to work!
Where the mind escapes luxury,
where the soul derives satisfaction!
Where yellow means light,
where white means enchant!
THIS is where
life ends to begin!

Dark

"Can you switch on the night lamp?" "Sure, but didn't you say you could sleep only in complete darkness?" I did. I can only relax when there's not a single glimpse of light in the room. But how do I completely let go now that you are here? I want to see how your chest rises and falls while you're asleep. I need to see how your hands rest when you are not controlling them. I must know the road to you is clear before I chalk my way to you in the dark.

Love

Under the starry night sky,
Your amber eyes catch my eye.
Emotions within them shine bright,
Like stars that light up the night.
Our paths may now be apart,
But your love still holds my heart.
In your eyes, I see a love that never dies,
A love that I'll always recognize.

Animal Welfare

A crane had got injured. A kind-hearted man brought it home for treatment. It took 3 months for the crane to get cured.
One morning, the man opened the cage and released the bird.
The next morning, to his surprise, he found the crane in the cage, the door wide open. It had come back to its nest!!!
After that, it would fly off every morning to return at night.
After a few weeks, the Wildlife Department raided the house and took away the crane.
The crane lives in a zoo now, inside a cage which has its door closed.

Strangers

I see him every day immersed in the newspaper, his unchained dog barking at my daughter and me from the gate. Got puzzled when I didn't see him for two days. His dog was chained.
I opened the gate expecting the dog to pounce on me. The dog started barking loudly, leaving my little girl terrified. He came out, wearing a sweater.
"Are you sick?
"I am fine. Do I know you?"
"No, but I can see my father in you.
"I never realized I was worthy of being noticed."
His eyes gleamed with happiness.

Fools run businesses???

What else could the King do?
He even agreed to the concept of paid leave.
Everyone were to get paid for the 11 days that didn't exist. Eleven days that got striked off the calendar.
Still there were a few who would take April as the start of the year???
Fools!!!

Mahadev

The Lord of wrath, with trident in hand,
His anger roars, across the land.
Evil forces, tremble at his might,
A destructive force, shines so bright.
His rage, a tempest wild and true,
Bringing balance, in all it anew.
So bow down, in reverence and fear,
Praising the Lord, who's always near.

The Race

"Can't you write a single proper sentence?" Shekhar lowered his head at the teacher's scolding. It was becoming a routine.
"Shekhar's progress is very poor. We don't allow such candidates in our school", said the Principal.
The distressed parents came back home.
-------- A sudden knock awakened him. "Beti ko bahut bukhar hain, Doctor Sahib", said Ramu.
As the morning rays fell on his tiring, sleepless face, he could see the little girl smiling at him.
"Doctor Sahib, aap humare bhagwan ho."
He smiled back with folded hands.
Shekhar had won the race of life.

Puzzle

Life is a complex puzzle.
Each piece is a challenge.
It is onto us to fit in the right one.

Memories of Childhood

Young Lily loved collecting rocks of all shapes and sizes. But when her family moved to the city, she left her collection behind. Years later, now a successful architect, Lily was designing a new building when she saw a familiar rock on the construction site.
Excited, she visited the site daily, building a rock garden to remind her of her childhood passion.
Her coworker, Sarah, admired it. "I didn't know you were into rock collecting."
Smiling, Lily replied, "It's fulfilling to realise how little things can bring back treasured childhood memories."

Tomorrow

It is not the first time Ajay's mother felt such an urge. But he has an extremely tight schedule today.
"Sorry, Ma, not today. Have back-to-back meetings. Oh, I forgot. Don't wait for me at dinner. I have a business party. I will definitely take you tomorrow."
"It's always 'tomorrow' for me." She feigned being hurt and left the room.
That night, Ajay found her cold; her soul departed to meet the Lord.
If only the 'tomorrow' had been today!

Red tape

George Martin dozed off as the cab winded through the streets of Patna.
"Sir, airport." He woke up to driver Adil's call.
He paid the bill and took the typed invoice.
The date was incorrect. Mr Martin's company accounts may not reimburse. He has suffered from their red tape earlier.
"Adil, can you correct the date & sign?"
Then he adds:
"Please do it in Hindi..numbers as well."
Adil clarifies:
"But sir, I can sign in English."
Mr Martin smiles.
"I see. But Hindi will look more authentic."

A Dead Autumn Leaf

A leaf once green, is now dead and dry,
Fell to the ground, and there it lay.
Once a symbol of life and pride,
Now crushed and trampled on the pathway.
The autumn winds blew it down,
From branch to earth, it gently fell.
Its journey ended with a frown,
In a pile of leaves, it started to dwell.
But though it's gone and withered,
Its beauty lives on in memory.
For in the cycle of the seasons,
It will return, scribing another story.

Endeavour

On a fine evening of July, sitting there on the balcony, she stared at the moon and a gleam immersed her in a train of thoughts. She’s tired, she’s distressed. She can’t take it anymore.
She wants to run away, she wants to be numb enough to feel no pain. She knows she is no super human to numb herself, she has no super power to be invisible, she knows it all too well. So, she’s becoming a little stronger everyday, she’s holding it on no matter how much she bleeds. She’s trying, she’s trying the best she can.

Where are you?

Seema's mother was on the phone. "Seema, where are you?"
Seema, "Mom, please don't call me repeatedly."
One evening, when Seema was in college for an extra class, her mother was startled to find a man replying to Seema's phone. He nervously said, "Seema is studying right now. Please call later."
Sixth sense kicked in. Seema's mother headed for college with her husband and son.
Arriving at the classroom they found Seema's professor forcing himself on her. The phone was in his control.
Seema, "Sorry, mom. Sorry for being rude whenever you called."

Sleek 5884 Days

Hey 16,
Here I am,
a hint of an independent women
with a little girl!
I am sweet, I am strong
I am in constant motion.
I trust the years to come
as the creator is known to me.
I love the airbuses but not more
than myself.
I am wild, I am crazy
I am in an ambitious stage.
So here,
God will bless me to influence the world!

Partnership & Finances

"Sir, I have orders."
Binoy stood outside his own office, being stopped by the guard. The office he had cofounded with Atul. Three years back, the colleagues quit their jobs to form this ayurvedic start-up.
The roles were clear. Binoy looks after sales, while Atul managed the finances.
Binoy had put in a lot of sweat to grow the company, travelling 20 days a month, and it will be unfair to say that Atul didn't.
The books showed that Binoy stole payments collected from the dealers. Binoy just wished he took receipts from his partner whenever he deposited the cash!

LATE

"Isn't it trivial to proceed now? Even your daughter is married. A compromise talk would've sufficed. These actions of women are the main cause of Kaliyug!"
I should've listened to her when she complained she can't manage the household alone. But she had to do it. A woman has a thousand hands, that's what I was taught. I could've amended myself if I had given it a second thought.
The Judge ordered: 'Hereby, the marriage of Padmini and Velayudhan stands dissolved.'
Yes, it took 30 years and a divorce to understand her.

Part for the whole, whole for the part

The novel got the award. Everyone talked about the novel. The novel was happy. It shone high and bright at the awards ceremony.
No one mentioned the page, the ink and the printing machine. But they smiled and were happy. When the agency ordered a reprint, all of them happily regrouped again. They did it all knowing they will never be named and felicitated.
Their happiness is not in recognition but elsewhere.
Their reward lies in the fact that novels will not exist without them. As long as the novel exists, their silent work will live.

Ant’s accident

In a faraway city, lived a unique couple — the elephant and his wife the ant.

One day, while returning home on their scooter after a long day’s work, happens something unexpected. They meet with an accident. The elephant gets badly wounded, but the ant escapes scratch proof.

Guess how? Because the ant is a safe rider and was wearing a helmet.

Holi

Happy Holi to all, but me.
How can I play Holi without you?
When you were here, every festival was colourful.
My courtyard was ever filled with happiness.
You left, leaving behind everything desolate,
Another Holi has come, without you, to mock.
Laughter and smiles are necessary for the world,
But solitude brings the compulsion of agony.
Happy Holi to all, but me,
How can I play Holi without you?
How can I enjoy Holi without you?

A Quiet Child

They said I was a quiet child, mature for my age.
Once my grandmother told me to sit on the balcony and observe the flowers on the window sill. I always did what I was told.
She had not asked me to not listen to the elders' fights. I assumed it was okay to pay attention.
Mature or not, I was inquisitive.
Did my grandmother shush my mother while her own son kept shouting? I wish my other grandmother was there.
It did not seem fair that only one of my parents got support.

Terror Or Cheer

Granny lived next door. My friends and I described her as 'Terror'.
We used to play on the ground next to her house.
She just grumbled while we played.
One day, while we were playing the shuttlecock fell in her garden. We jumped the wall and took it. We were exhausted as the cock fell again.
Though we hesitated, we just politely asked Granny to pick it up.
Foremost, we saw a chipper smile on her face.
Pulchritude can't make one an idol.

Fursat

Finally, it will be a long weekend to refresh & recharge; Neel was smiling as he turned on '83'.
The phone rang. Old connections & old discussions kept growing over the telephone as the clock struck midnight. Friday announced departure without much cognizance!
The repeated ringing of the doorbell forced Neel sleepily to the main door. The plumber came in with a Good Morning smile for an old complaint.
The plumber left soon. Neel was planning for a second inning when the phone rang; now an office colleague.
Neel laughed out loud...
"Jee dhundta hai fursat ke raat din..."

Twin Twist

I am not on the seventh cloud
but I am not down in the dumps.
I am not in the sunshine
but I am not in the moonlight.
I don't get well with people
but I am not surrounded by loneliness.
I am not in a heat wave
but I am not in a cold storm.
I am not on the rainbow
but I am not on the dull sky.
I don't have stories to tell
but I am not an ordinary man.
All I know is I am me!
Accept me the way I am.

Goodwill

“Good Morning Sir! Welcome to CA”, greeted Mr Hicks of Charles Automotives.
Michele Buck smiled, “How about your latest? It seems there is a dent in your image.”
“Is it?” Hicks paused, groping for reply.
“Here is the cheque”
“Delivery?”
“Right now.”
In the next hour, Buck stepped into CA once again. The matinee idol thundered, “The
car conked out, what kind of engine is this?”
“There is no engine in the car.”
“Are you kidding me?”
“No Sir, It’s true.”
“Then, how did it run a mile?”
“By goodwill, Sir”, the sales controller James Hicks took a bow.

I Am Womxn

She was born 'dark',
Loved the colours to make a mark,
Considered 'lucky' to spark.
Grew up with the head held high,
Always yearned to reach the sky.
With feet on the ground,
Having everyone around,
Bold and beautiful with her Smile,
Ready to run the Mile.
Loves to Empower
More than her Power...
Happy Women's Day to Her & Me!!!

Recycling Waste

The nagging thought persisted. As a responsible citizen with OCD, Swami wondered if he had thrown his coffee cup in the correct bin.
Was it supposed to be the one meant for 'recycling' or for 'biodegradable waste'? Where would the paper cup go?
The meeting was a disaster. Swami couldn't concentrate. The thought kept coming to mind.
On his way back, Swami took a detour. Stopping the car, he stood on the bridge, overlooking the waste disposal yard.
Trucks kept coming in. The workers randomly dumped the bags in the yard, driving off for the next pickup.
Swami found peace!!!

Yellow dandelions

Yellow dandelion buds
Pierce the dark sky,
Autumn's symphony,
Nature's serenade,
a delight...
Golden fields, a sea of dreams
Nature unfolds, autumn beams.
Petals dance in the crisp air,
A moment to appreciate,
and repair.

Brain - The Incredible Story Maker

"Do you know how powerful the brain is?" Chitra's grandpa asked.
"No dadu!" replied Chitra.
"Last night I saw a dream. A thief entered our house. He tied my hands against a wall and ate all the gulab jamun and rasgullas from the refrigerator. I couldn't help but see. A torture for a diabetic with a sweet tooth!"
"How is this even relatable dadu?" Chitra asked.
"Remember the theft reported in the neighbourhood? Yesterday your father brought those gulab jamuns and rasgullas."
Both laughed at each other.

Chakra

After Priya's death, Amit stayed depressed all the time. It seemed like everything had come to an end.
After almost a year and a half, his newborn grandson's cries echoed through his home. His son Nikhil had just become a father.
But Amit's condition didn't improve.
One night, Priya came into his dream, "You don't recognize me? I am back. Look at your grandson."
Life seems to have completed its cycle.
Amit now had both Priya and his grandson.
Together...

Waves

And so it is.
Lying on the beach at night, intruding on the conversation between the moon and sea, and deciding that we are the only people in the world.
The wave hits the shore.
The moon will soon hide behind the sun; we shall have to get up; and you’ll let go.
The waves will keep trying until the moon is not visible.
The waves don’t know any better.

The Man and the Book-Shelf

Sukhbinder Singh, 57, happily single, an employee of a car-manufacturing company was found dead in his 2-BHK apartment in Noida. A rotten smell had prompted neighbours to call the police, who broke open the door and spotted the dead body under a heap of smutty magazines.
A bookshelf full of nudies on the wall was lying broken.
Following post-mortem, forensic experts identified heart attack as the cause of death.
The Officer-in-Charge of the police station wonders if the attack happened while reading those magazines or by the impact of the erotica, landing on his head.

Design

Rustam fastens his seat belt restlessly. The flight takes off 25 minutes late. His mood elevates as he reviews his final design on his laptop. "The client should be mighty impressed."
The flight wobbles. The landing is aborted at the last moment. "Everything is under control", assures the pilot.
Soon it's time for another landing attempt. The flight is still wobbly.
The laptop is closed; work is no more on Rustam's mind. He is thinking of his 8-year-old son and wife, waiting for Valentine's Day evening to dine out with him.
Rustam waits for the outcome of a higher design.

Success Fantasy

'Rajesh, you look disoriented in practice for a few days. What's the matter?' Asked the coach.
'I had been learning hypnotism.'
'What? Why?'
'I can hypnotise the batsman and make him play the false line. That way I can beat anyone.'
'But that is against the spirit.' The coach tried to reason.
'What's wrong? After all, it is a mind game.' Rajesh said curtly.
The coach was stunned.
Was he witnessing the birth of yet another criminal? Or will it be different from now on?

Help me figure it out

"Subarna, bring the 1 lakh to the office tomorrow."
"Which lakh?"
"The cash advance from Mr M when we met him in the coffee shop."
"I have already given you the money."
"Me? When? Where?"
"I don't remember but definitely I gave it to you."
"Ok. Pease bring the cash tomorrow. Shall give it back when you can remember."
"Ok. I will borrow it if I have to. But I will bring it."
A few days later...
"Subarna, anything on your friend's payment?"
"I don't know. I am resigning."
To date, I sit wondering what happened to the payment!!!

Complete

When I was 5 years old, I always wondered why my father never cried.
I would cry when I fell, and also when I couldn't stand back up.
I could never understand him, no matter how much I tried.
When I was 10 years old, I saw him cry for the first time at my grandfather's funeral.
It was such an unusual sight that it almost hurt more than the loss of the departed.
Yet, strangely, he finally felt more human. He finally felt complete. I could finally understand him.

Ashtray

"Good Morning granny, what are you doing inside? It's a beautiful day. The Sun is shining; the birds chirping", Rohan greeted his grandmother.
"What? The Sun is making the birds go cripple?"
"No, Granny. I mean birds are singing. You surely left your hearing aid somewhere!"
"Sit here, Let me read your lips"
"Fine."
"Want some wine?"
"No, I meant fine, I will sit."
"I am sorry it's difficult to read your lips. your long nose keeps distracting me."
Something in the ashtray caught Rohan's glance.
Granny is indeed living the high life!!!

Friends Indeed

Jenny is a social media star. She has a charming personality. Thousands of followers are crazy for her weekly live programs on Facebook and Instagram. Whenever she appears live, she is flooded with alluring messages. She is overwhelmed.
It was a Monday morning. Jenny was about to leave her home for university classes but suddenly fainted. Doctors detected brain cancer.
It's been six months she is under treatment with chemotherapy; five more to receive. While entering the treatment room, she can only see the pale faces of her parents and a childhood friend.
She couldn't help but wonder, "What about others?"

Shreya love(s/d) her dog

When Shreya got Tommy from the breeder, she got it for free, as it was a crossbreed.
Shreya took care of him just like her own son. She hand-fed Tommy, slept on the same bed, and never let him out, as other street dogs would come near Tommy. Who can say what infections he might pick up?
Over the days, Tommy grew destructive and would bark at everyone who came home. Then one day it happened! Tommy bit the maid when she was forcefully hand-feeding him.
Tommy's photo is now on social media. Up for adoption!!!

The Valentine

"Don't dare look at her, she is mine", Amit said.
"It is better you don't", replied Sam.
The Valentine winds had made them crazy as they fought to own their relationships.
"Good Morning, Dad". Amit woke up with his daughter's kiss. As he got out of bed, wearing his glasses, he could see the bouquet of roses by the bedside. The surprise was evident.
"Happy Valentine's Day, Dad", she winked and hugged.
"Happy Valentine, my lady", smiled the grey-haired man.
The reminiscence of the past flashed by his inward eyes - love had defined its purest bliss!

Umbrella

"You know Reshma?"
"Who's Reshma, Dad? I was at Shakti's house." Shakti, his girlfriend.
It was raining when my son came home. The blue patch on the red umbrella couldn't be missed.
"Whose umbrella is that?"
"Oh, it is Shakti's mom's. Ruby aunty. You know, dad, there is a funny story behind it. Before their courtship, Shakti's dad had another crush. Jenny. One day, jealous aunty, snatched this umbrella from Jenny, leaving her drenched. Later they found it was of Jenny's fiance's mother."
How many love stories has it witnessed?
Mom's umbrella that I lent to Reshma, my childhood love!!!

I think about the way you laugh

I think a lot about the way you laugh.
I feel like a theist hearing the bells in the temple. Or a bullied student waiting to hear the bell ring to announce the end of the day.
I am as eager to hear your laughter as children are to watch their favourite Sunday shows. Not that the theme music could ever be as low-pitched as your voice or make me feel like they're coming from a place privy only to me.
I hope someday it will be possible to physically wrap oneself with sound.
Cold days would be bearable.

She never left

Like it happened every day, Raghav left an extra plate of food at the dinner table before retiring.
Earlier, Raghav kept the leftovers outside the balcony for stray animals.
His curiosity grew when in the morning, every day, he not only found the plates empty but also cleaned.
One day Raghav set a live camera on his balcony.
The recorded footage surprised him, but he could not share it with anyone. There was no way to explain it.
Shalini, Raghav's wife, had succumbed to cancer two years ago.

The Patriot and the Prophet

“I don’t want the Judiciary to waste any more time to prove something, which I am not denying”, said Bhupendranath Datta, arrested with the charge of sedition from the office of the Weekly Jugantar.
“So you admit that you are guilty”, said Douglas Kingsford.
The undimmed pair of eyes lit up, “It is a duty to my motherland.”
Prompt came the order—‘rigorous imprisonment for one year’.
On his way to the prison, he recalled his late elder brother Swami Vivekananda. “Dada, perhaps now you may realise, why I paid a deaf ear to your fervent appeal for my marriage.”

Mental Health

I wish life was the same as we see on everyone's social media handles. All looks so convenient!
Can the glitz, buzz and charm on the exterior be just a distraction from the decayed interior?
If the reality is so grim why do people tiptoe around it? Why is mental health still taboo?
We believe in fairy tale love stories in reels. But we still circumvent mental health happening in real life.

Technology

"SRC Swami, this is Girish from AchDeeEffCee Life. You had requested a callback. Please hold while we transfer you to an agent."
Call back? Never did I ask for one. But still, I held on.
"Please wait while I transfer you to an agent."
The voice had changed. I kept holding. The same message kept repeating a few times.
"Sorry, all our agents are busy. Please call later."
As fate might have it, the next call was from a friend who talked at length about AI.
Yes, we can't do automation right but we are ready for Artificial Intelligence!!!

The Quiet One

He walks alone, with thoughts unknown,
His mind a labyrinth, deep and prone
To introspection. Not like the rest,
He keeps his secrets, locked in his chest.
He may seem aloof, with nary a care,
But beneath his silence, emotions flare.
Though he may not frolic, nor show his grief,
His inner world is rich with firm belief.
He does not seek the spotlight's glare,
But in the quiet, his wisdom's bare.
So let him be, this quiet soul,
For in his silence, he is THE WHOLE.

Father

He never spoke much. But when he did, it was a mandate, not open to discussion.
Did he beat me for being dismissive? Guess he did; a few times.
Did I hate him those few times? Or more than a few?
And then I left home, never to return, never to meet him ever.
Today, as I wake up with a boulder on my chest, gasping for breath, I wonder why a dream of a dreaded person makes me so sad.
Then I recall the wise man had said, "if something makes you sad, it must have been wonderful"

Death of dream

A 10-year-old boy lived with his only 6-year-old sister.
Their parents used to workload in a cement factory. But all changed one day when they met with a fatal accident.
The boy had dreams of becoming a police officer and making his parents proud while supporting them with a good livelihood.
But now he understood that his dreams were unreal; he needed to work for a livelihood.
As a cop, he wished to put a stop to child labour.
Now he is one!

Hafta

It was a rainy Saturday evening.
Aslam was about to wrap up his day selling omelettes outside a bar. The business generally gets higher during rain.
He started thinking of the long pending needs of his family and started prioritizing the important ones. It is time to get a few sorted. His mind started making a list.
"Chal Hafta Nikal."
Aslam saw the familiar faces that had come for their weekly collection. Money, that's collected with the promise of protection.
Some items got struck off the mental list. Aslam has no other choice!!!

Netaji Jayanti

"Today is Netaji's birthday. Netaji is synonymous with India. Whenever we talk of India, it is about Netaji. We can't talk about Netaji without talking about India. We all love India like we love Netaji. India passes no single moment without thinking about Netaji. Since morning I have been attending many celebrations on Netaji and India. To tell us about the lessons Netaji taught us, I hand over the mike to my colleague."
Walking on the road, hearing the words I can't but appreciate that our Honourable Minister never fails to remind us of his struggle in passing primary school.

Compromises and Responsibilities

"Sir, extremely sorry, but I don't think I shall be able to carry on with this internship at your company."
"Why? Isn't it mandatory for your course?"
"The culture of this city doesn't suit me. I can't live here."
"What if you get a job in this city after graduation?"
"Even if it is the last option in the world. I will prefer dying a bachelor."
"???"
"No wife, no kids, no responsibility towards others. Hopefully, my dad will leave me enough to take me through one lifetime. But NEVER here!!!"

The Real Taste of Success

Rhythm's family could not afford her education.
But she ran fast, as a cat would chase a mouse. Her parents realised her potential and struggled to put her in the best sports institute.
Growing up with poor nutrition at home, she spent days hospitalised. But nothing could stop her!
Her words keep inspiring all.
"I wrestled with my illness to reach my pinnacle. Do not bow down to your foes but always take them along. Unless you have borne those rivalries, you will never get the real taste of success!"

Dreams and Sleepless Nights

The dream that I hold close,
A burning passion that never fades,
Guides me through the darkest hours,
Keeps me going through the shades.
I know it wouldn't be easy,
The road ahead will be long and rough,
But with every step I take,
My determination will get tough.
I stare at the starry sky,
And let my thoughts take flight,
I know with hard work and dedication,
I can make my dream take light.
Through sleepless nights and endless toil,
I push forward with all my might,
And finally, the day arrives,
My dream shining right at sight.

The prophetic voice of an invisible

The moment Somdev Chattopadhyay hoisted the tri-colour at the school premises, enthusiastic claps filled the air. Students raised their voices, '"Jai Hind!" Somdev smiled; responded, "Jai Hind!"
Now is the time for customary talking by the headmaster. Somdev, the headmaster of Notungram Primary School starts his address, "Republic Day celebrates the date on which the Permanent Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950..."
A voice thundered, "Since then, we have entered into a life of contradictions. In politics we have equality but in social and economic life it’s just the reverse".

Ambedkar Wanted to Burn It

It took years to build the temple.
All were waiting for God to arrive and reside in the state-of-the-art monument.
The architect looked at the road with all eagerness.
Was it dust he saw on the horizon? Dust that rose from the hoofs of the galloping horse?
His smile faded off when he saw the rider.
No, there is no way he will let the devil enter the temple.
He did not spend all the sweat in toil for the unworthy.
He inserted a cannon ball and pointed at the magnificent structure.

Over-The-Top Platform

Rebecca is on her deathbed. It was just yesterday that I came to know her. A great wife, a magnificent mother of three, and an extremely committed friend. But Alzheimer's spares none.
What will the family do now? The strongest pillar seems to crumble. Will her children stay close? Will their kids continue to live as an extended family as they did? Rebecca had been quite an adhesive force.
I don't have much to contribute, though I wish I could. After all, I am also a part.
Oh, it's so depressing!!! I promise never to binge-watch family drama!!!

Bloodrush

The blood rushed up through his veins. He could feel his pulse rising. His heartbeat was throbbing in his ears.
His arms were numb.
But finally, he could feel her memories blurring into oblivion.
This was the only drug that worked; the best way to stop the heartache.
As soon as he put down the equipment, dizziness took over.
He crashed onto the floor.
After a few moments, he felt the thumping on his back.
"That was crazy dude! New personal record! 280 kg!! Don't know how you crush these deadlifts. You're the Ruler of this Gym!"

Butterfly Effect

I had stopped for a midnight smoke when I rescued a bleeding dog. A GSD abandoned for mange. Having ensured that the animal shelter treated his mange & injury, I bid goodbye.
Having shifted cities, one day, sightseeing in Kodaikanal, a stranger saves me from falling off a cliff.
Sipping tea, I hear Amit's story. Last year he had almost jumped off this very cliff in a bout of depression. A glance back at his dog had saved him.
It's their annual remembrance visit.
I look at his car - a familiar black & brown head is excited to see me!!!

Doctors and Engineers

"What is Ashok doing nowadays?"
"He had already got a campus offer. It is in an IT-MNC."
"But didn't he study Mechanical Engineering?"
"He had an offer. But who joins a factory, after passing out from a premier institute? The pay difference is more than 40%. I have strictly advised Ashok not even to think about it. BTW, have you heard from Anil, what's his son doing after MBBS?"
"Think he is joining Sure Cure Hospital."
"Wow. Those guys just loot patients. Doctors no longer take it as a noble profession. It has become only about money!!!"

Exam

The words on the page,
Stare back at me.
A test of my knowledge,
Checking on my wit.
The pen is in my hand,
The mind is full of doubt.
Will I clear this exam,
or will I fall short?

Butterfly

"Why can't you just leave me alone? Do you realise the embarrassment when you land everywhere I go out? My friends have stopped calling me to their parties, as they say, 'we have no space for a bundle'. Gosh, leaving the city gave me no peace, you followed me here!!!"
Mini sat listening to her daughter; with welled eyes...
Mini was just 23 years when she had her baby. From then her daughter had been her life!!!
How could she let her be alone in a new city?
After 18 years, how could Mini live alone in the old one?

Hues of Life

The trip to Muscat
Took us to the sea
Away from the speedy cars and the palm tree
Hues of blue shimmering in the sunlight....
The waves going high and low
Overlapping with each other, taking a bow
Differing in speed and the direction of blow
The message is clear....
All of us are different

LISTEN

She lay unconscious in her room. We rushed her to the hospital.
‘She’s taken anti-depressants. The overdose could prove fatal. We’re trying our best.’ The doctor said.
I peered into the Ventilator Unit.
As I saw the death-like pallor on her face, glimpses of her smile and laughter rushed into my memory.
Were they just a mask? Did there exist an Aliya I never knew?
Last night’s heated call made sense now. I thought she called for asking notes as she usually did.
I should’ve listened when she said, ‘I need your help’.

The Mighty Sun

"Oh, it's the scorching sun of summer! I wish the sun may set soon!', she said. But the sun did not set.
"It's too cold! I wish the sun may rise soon", she said. But the sun did not rise.
"Look, the sun is setting. Let's click a picture of this beautiful sight!" she said to her friend.
"Look at the sky. It's red! The sun is about to rise! Let's click a picture!" she said to her sister.
That day the sun rose and said to her,
"Praise me or accuse me, I'll keep doing what I'm to do."

Driver Ratings

It had been 5 minutes after booking. Arun needed to reach the hospital urgently. The app-cab with a 5-star rated driver hadn't moved.
"Where do you want to go?"
"ABC Hospital."
"Will only take cash."
"But I have a postpaid arrangement."
The driver cancelled the ride!
So rude! Arun fumed!!!
The next driver had 4.1 but came on time and was courteous. Happy Arun gave him 4 stars, not realising that it will bring down the rating further.
The earlier one is still 5-star, as we can't rate a driver after cancellation.

Targets

Living things have their pre-defined target for existence.
Humans, animals, birds, trees, whoever they may be.
Everyone wants to achieve their target.
Some have already been achieved,
while some have a long way to go.
Those who have not achieved their targets,
wait for a favourable opportunity.

The Alley

A man walks into a dark alley.
As he walks through he sees a light shining in the end. Was it "Babu" he heard in a faint voice?
He looks at the distance, into the light, but it's bleak.
"Babu."
Who was it? The man slowly walks towards the light.
Step...step..step step. Suddenly he recognises the voice and starts running towards the light, and then he stops.
A deafening silence engulfs the surrounding.
The man looks down; a small red truck at his feet. Tears roll down his eyes; the voice echoing through the alley, stronger than ever... "Baba".

Chota Story & I

"121 words."
"Do I need to cut it down?"
"Yep."
"Umm... what do I delete?.. Maybe some articles... ah yes! rephrasing that second line."
2 minutes later
"108."
"Cannot make it shorter."
"Sorry, but you must."
"Trying..."
3 minutes later
"97 now."
"But it is not making sense. Let me try again... I have 3 words in my pocket."
"Hmm"
4 minutes later
"That's 101 words."
"But that's just one extra word. Chota Story! YOU MISER!!!"
"Sorry. Rules are rules."

Activists

"We should practice what we preach. That's why I always buy vegetables from the farmer's cooperative."
"Yes, we're morally bound to support our farmers. The least we can do is buy fresh produce from them."
Alka and Anamika were having a casual discussion at a charity fundraiser. Alka was the founder of an NGO supporting rural women, while Anamika's NGO raised voices against farmer oppression of corporates.
"Hey, have you used Reliable Mart? Such cheap prices! Minimum 1-2 rupees lower per kg of all vegetables", Lata joined them.
Minutes of silence followed as Alka and Anamika downloaded the app.

Happy New Year

Auld lang syne - the enchanting melody drenched Deb's heavy heart.
2002: it was the last night of the year; also the one before Abhi's move to the west coast. Miles away from home, they had become friends for life. What started with a high party eventually turned into a disaster with a row of heated arguments. The next morning, they parted, without a word.
"Happy New Year, dad", came rushing his eight-year-old son. "This is Abhi, my best friend", he said.
"Happy New Year to the duo - hail your friendship", Deb smiled, hiding a sigh.

Contrast

The open-air stage had many rows of plastic chairs.
A few minutes into the show, a tall family of three arrived. They crouched while entering a vacant row & took seats.
Soon the lady pointed at two teenage girls behind, craning their necks for a clear vision. The three changed seats to avoid obstruction.
The man turned back & checked with people behind their new seats to ask if they were okay with the view.
Two minutes later, another tall family came & sat right in front of the two teenagers.
Not a single glance behind!

Home

The All India Dance Festival has started in Mahabalipuram. It has been 6 months that I have been here. Already feeling homesick.
A Kathak dance troupe from Maharashtra took the stage. Their lead dancer took the mike, "All our Indian dance forms start with paying homage to Gods."
And then it started...
As the bols were uttered, a trance engulfed me.
My sisters taking Kathak classes...the annual shows in the local auditorium... Kathak dance scenes from movies... Japanese ladies from Yokohama dancing skillfully & reciting bol on the Diwali stage... my eyes got moist.
Kathak was also home.

Life

Those who precede us
Are also our successors.
It is a unique cycle...

Winter

The air fades to dark grey.
With the glow of forest flames
Buildings, trees, everything seems burning…
The winter air hits cold
On our faces like pillars,
The streets covered with leafy corpses.
Mornings come slow, silent, and dark.

The Portrait

Amisha was pleased with the way the portrait was turning out. It brought out Meenakshi's pleasant personality.
Today's session was over. Meenakshi left. Amisha took her brushes to the sink.
‘Is this the best you can do?’ Amisha was startled by Meenakshi’s voice. She turned around to find the studio empty.
Amisha frowned and went back to her brushes. But she heard Meenakshi's voice again: ‘Do you really think I'm that ugly?’ She spun around; once more, empty studio.
But the voice continued: ‘You need glasses.’
That's when Amisha realised that the voice was coming from the painting.

2+0+2+3=7

Bala hummed the 7 notes of music in thought.
Last Sunday's accident injured the 7 vertebrae in his neck. He was bedridden for all 7 days of the week.
But this Sunday, Bala was in 7th heaven.
The doctor finally cleared him for the world tour - all of the 7 continents and 7 wonders.
Resonating his exuberance, the 7 colours of the rainbow glowed outside the window.
Suddenly, he laughed out so loud that vibrations blasted out of all 7 holes of his skull.
Travelling was fine, but will life be complete without committing all the 7 cardinal sins?

What a Puff, alas!

Pursuit of Happiness...

A REVERIE, IN ALL HONESTY

Taking Chances

Sidewalks

Tiny flowers growing
strong in the cracks
in broken sidewalks
left by humans.

Friends Forever

Dream

MATRIMONIAL

The Second Chance

Bethel

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ hamara hain!

Exploited Love

The World & The Cup

Dilemma - Parenting

The Perfect Perfidy.

Permanence

Celebrity

Paper Boat

you are good, but I am better
there was a fight though there's no crown
As we set sail on a paper boat
the journey was simple, but the vessel was bound to drown

NO GENERATION GAP

Reunited

Entitlement (Story 5)

"So Jack, what was the best thing from this India trip?"
"Bro, India has so many things to be proud of. It would've been impossible to point out the Top 3. But there's no confusion with the topmost. It stands much ahead of the rest."
"Our diversity?"
"Not really, I just love how every Indian takes this country as personal property. The sense of ownership amazes me!"
"Like?"
"Check those guys in the middle of the road, totally deaf to your honking. Just owning the road! Oh, look at him waving which way you should go. Dude, this is amazing!!!"

The Argumentative WhatsAppian!!!

B: Now we shall all have fun. The minister has gone to jail for good.
A: Do you realise that taking someone into custody for interrogation is not really jail time?
B: But check the channels. All of them are saying that he has gone to jail.
A: Why don't you look at the authentic sources and read a bit?
B: All that you can do is attack me personally. You can never be decent in any argument.
A: So asking you to get updated from authentic sources before arguing is a personal attack???
B blocks A...

Phinix

We saw midnight dust in memories on the floor
though enjoyed cherishing and wanted to see more...
We gazed it to turn into gold ..
I saw me in that glittery mould
But somehow I left the unspoken pain and set them free...
Rode again...
And I have become what I always wanted to be ...


- Parna Bandopadhyay

'EVOLVE'

“Unbelievable! You are going to attend your ex-lover’s wedding? Grow up Annie!”
“Achu, it’s not about growing up! Evolve, okay?”

“How can you forget in the blink of an eye that Mike cheated on you? He could compensate anything but the pain you endured after breakup.”

“Achu, this is the era of healthy relationships. Now are you going to come or not?"
Reluctantly, Achu accompanied Annie to the auditorium. As they entered, Achu stood there, awestruck. She looked into the wedding board: Mike Weds David.
“It doesn’t matter who falls in love with whom, but whether the relationship is true.”

Perspectives

He who looks like the protector
for some,
may look like an attacker
to many.

BITTER TRUTH

It takes 40 weeks for formation of a human body and just 1 hour for that body to turn into ashes.

Where lies the discrimination? Why we fight? Why we compare? Why we complain?why we regret? Why we judge others? Why?
The answer is so clear every one comes similarly and leave similarly. Pride,anger jealousy ego is of no use.The end result will always be the same.
Author-Parangama Bhattacharjee

Obsolete

A null set of stars in the sky.
and the Cities immersed in a sheet of cold ink.
Behind the bars of those who stain the moon,
The whole farce is slowly getting out of rhythm.

Entitlement (Story 4)

"You are not able to finish your assignment? Need my help?" Akash was worried about Sankalp. They had been friends since they joined this company on the same day.
"Bro, I have decided to quit", Sankalp shared.
"Already resigned?"
"No, waiting for the month to end. Shall resign after the salary gets credited. Will drag this assignment till then."
"But isn't this delivery urgent?"
"I don't care. It's not my company."
"Then why don't you resign now? Let them reassign, instead of losing the order."
"My joining date is next month. I do not want to lose on pay."

Truth or Lies?

When Amit met Devi she was on the verge of tears.
"Can you please get me a project? The doctor has found a lump in my breast. I am not getting work after that."
"What does the tumour have to do with your acting assignments? Why do you disclose it in the first place?"
"The meds are nauseating. I can't hide it. But I have never missed out on any shoot. But still..."
"Tell them you have gas or something. There is no offence in lying to those who do not deserve the truth."

Miser

Disconnecting the call Ahana told "We should start now to reach in the morning."
Tapas looked at her very crudely, but agreed.
Tapas started the car at midnight and arrived at Kusumpur, his birth place after 6 hours drive for last ritual if Bhubon Roy, his father, the great parsimony.
Funeral completed. Bhatu Da, long time companion of father, handed over the key of iron chest and requested to open.
He opened and found list of Schools, Old age homes, Orphanages and amount of monthly contributions.
With full of tears Tapas remindes "KRIPONENO SAMO DATA BHUBI KOPI NA BIDDYATE."

The Zero Effect

Neel looked outside the cab window, may be for the last time, or may not be. But surely with the void of leaving back the memories, the relations which would not be able to pull him back. The Soul has left the Body, "No Strings Attached".

This is how things end ? This is how he was destined to leave ? Perhaps there is no answer !

Neel put on the dark glasses and leaned back on the seat; 'Driver-ji gaana laga do.'

The radio Echoed....
"Maine Tera Naam Dil Rakh Diya
Dhadkega Tu Mujhme Sada"

Monsoon

It is the rainy season
That time of the year when
the sugar-coated entitled stay indoors and those made of steel help them reach there.

DISGRACE?

“Their job itself is ignominious! I can’t even look at their faces.” Sharma commented.
“Sharmaji, Dadi told me you used to go to the haveli in the evening during your college days."
“Don’t dig up the past. It’s not relevant.”
“Sharmaji, they sell their dignity to satisfy people like you for a day’s meal. They are objects of exploitation. Why are the obscene men out of the picture?”
An enraged Sharma got up to leave. But something caught his eye - A newspaper cutting framed on the wall.
“Adv. Khayal – The humanitarian lawyer; the daughter of a sex worker.”

Excursion

Our happiness seems no bounds as yesterday the school authority has decided to take us to Shillong for excursion.
There was no limit to our happiness, but in all this I also saw a withered face.
He's my freind Monab.
I asked the reason for his sorrow in this event of happiness,
He refused to tell, but the after giving more pressure, he told that he would not be able to go because of financial condition of the house.
Then what, no one would like to go without their friend.
I felt the exact same.

Entitlement (Story 3)

The lump on the forehead didn't hurt Anil as much as the lump in his throat. He had never been humiliated like today.
And to think how it all started!!!
Guddu lost his job during the lockdown and couldn't provide for his family. That's when Anil let him set up his fruit stall next to his gate.
"Helping the poor can only be rewarding," was his standard reply to friends.
After 2 years, Guddu has a job; sold the slot to someone unknown, who's putting up a permanent structure, encroaching on his entrance.
The lump was the reward of objection!!!

Walk

The moment I realised I couldn't wear my slipper on my right leg, it hurted.
The moment I realised that all my weekend plans were cancelled.
The moment I realised that I shouldn't have went down the stairs that Friday.
The moment the doctor said I had broken 4 fingers and I needed rest.
The moment I realised I had to spend my days on bed.
The moment I was carried by a wheelchair.
The moment I realised I'd miss my school trip.
The moment I realised that I was unable to walk.

Touch

She hated touch as a teenager.
Even when they found her in the orphanage,she hated to be touched.
Years later ,at the ICU;
On life support due to an accident,
She raises her hand to the nurse,
The nurse pats her hand and massages it as her heart stops beating.
It was ironic,she died holding hands .
Fortunately,it wasn't the hands of the woman who abandoned her and called herself" mother".
It wasn't the touch she hated; it was the warmth that would disappear and the constant fear that she might get her mother's touch in someone's hand
- Jeyani Shekar
Instagram:@_herchampagneproblems_

Titas

Hesitant over a decade's silence, Titas picked up the phone dialing desparately : "Hi, how are you ? I need help."
"You need money, will send, share details"

Few more times; "Hi..."
One day Neel bursted out, "Not a penny more, you are a CHEAT, you don't return anything"; disconnecting the call.

A day later, "Sorry Brother, I am leaving".

Glancing through morning messages Neel was furious; 'Damn it, she has eloped!'

At lunch time Neel froze at news headline; 'In South Kolkata, a family found dead in flat; police suspects suicide. Photo ID reveals, it's Titas Sen and family'.

Yellow

An amazing colour.
What is a healthy fruit for the buyer,
Is as valuable as gold for the poor seller.

Climate Change

The winds changed course, so did the sun, and the seasons followed.
Fishes swam to favourable waters, animals switched territories, and the birds migrated.
The farms that reaped paddy, got ready to produce wheat.
Orchards that bore oranges, had conditions to start blooming flowers for mango.
Man had deeper roots. They waited for a roll back. Meanwhile, they cried foul. They complained. They started activism.

Entitlement (Story 2)

"We would like to engage with your agency. We have heard good things about you."
"It will be our honour to serve a customer of your repute."
Amit went to meet the Managing Director at the scheduled time.
"Yes, I have gone through your proposal. I think you should do it for free."
"Sorry???"
"As a startup, showcasing us as a customer will get you many more. Why should we pay for your sales?"
"Sir, I apologise. We can't even give you a discount. I can give you a word though. I will not use your reference in any proposal."

Easy to forget?

"We didn't order these flowers, are you sure of the delivery address?" Asked Rehan, somewhat perplexed.
"Yes sir, please check the address" It was the right address.
"But can you tell me who ordered it?"
"I am just a delivery boy sir, but this is addressed to Mr Vikas Khanna"
"What Rubbish, Mr Khanna Died 5 years ago"
"I am sorry sir, I am just doing my duty" Rehan finally accepted the flowers as the delivery boy left.
Rehan took the flowers to his late father's photo, he felt shiver as he suddenly realised that today is his death anniversary.

‘MEDUSA’

“The case is officially closed. Amudhan’s letter said he’s punishing himself. Postmortem reveals he was addicted to Cocaine. Nothing conspicuous was found.”

She watched as the breaking news flashed on TV. That day when her 12-year-old self was gagged and raped in Amudhan’s house was buried in her memories. Everyone she loved shunned her; expected her to mind-read random lustful strangers.They pushed her into the dark abyss, because ‘she invited obscure traps’ into her life.She felt entrapped in the veil of injustice. The video of the Security Guard speaking was his bait. There was no other way. She was Medusa.

An evildoer

A Cigar Gave Me the - Smoke of Hope.
There is a fire burning in me,
Which is telling me to cope.

My tender heart colonized - the eternal curse felt good.
Begging to takes me to hell.
The night rises to perfection.
I see darkness take me to heaven,
in the moral scriptures.

Let me be the proud sinner - of honesty for my life;
The greatest morality lies in the eyes.
of all things mired in my freedom fear.
for the will of God - the sinner of all living beings.

Enlightenment

The light is near.
If only you
Can ignore the rain
That holds you back.

வித்யாவின் விருப்பம்

"ஏம்மா ?எனக்கு மட்டும் தான் நான் அனுபவிச்ச கஷ்டம் தெரியும்.. என் துன்பத்தை யாருக்கும் சொல்ல வேண்டிய அவசியம் இல்லை "

வித்யாவின் தாய் ஹேமா அதிர்ச்சியுடன் பார்த்துக் கொண்டிருந்தாள். சிறப்பாக வித்யாவை அவள் திருமணம் செய்து கொடுத்தும், அவள் வந்து நிற்கும் கோலம், ஹேமாவின் உள்ளம் கொள்ளிக்கனலாய் கொந்தளித்தது.

வித்யா கூறினாள், " என் மாமியார் என் கூடத்தான் இருப்பாங்க. நீ எனக்கு கட்டி வச்சியே புருஷன், எப்ப பார்த்தாலும் குடிச்சிட்டு வந்து என்னையும் அவனோட அம்மாவையும் அடிக்கும். உன்னை மாதிரியே புருஷன் இல்லாத அவங்க எங்க போவாங்க? வீட்டு வேலைக்கு மாமியார் மட்டும் வேணுமாம், ஆனா கட்டின புருஷன் வேண்டாமாம், அப்படின்னு உலகம் பேசும். ஆனால் நான் கவலைப்படவில்லை. நானும் அவங்களும் தனியா போய்விடறோம்."

ஹேமா தன் மனதில் நல்ல மாற்றம் ஏற்பட வேண்டும் என்று தன்னையே யாசிக்கத் தொடங்கினாள்.

Is Debt Inevitable?

As I bought fruits and bread for my ailing son and walked out of the shop, coincidentally I saw the man who slapped and left the lodge without paying me. I yelled at him to stop.He turned, and on seeing me, sprinted. After what seemed like a race, I found his house, but no sign of him. I called out to see who was there; a woman and a kid turned up. The pallor of her face unveiled the never-ending trauma.
Silence spoke everything. I handed over my cover to the kid whose eyes gleamed with hunger. There was no goodbye.

Entitlement (Series - Part 1)

He has the common flu, but a severe one.
Visiting the OPD, he was informed of two doctors who could treat him.
"Who is the senior doctor?"
"Dr Thakur has more years of experience; a specialist. His fees are Rs 1,000 per consult."
"And the other?"
"Dr Jhanwar is also a reputed, but younger, general physician. His fees are Rs 500."
"I want Thakur. But I will pay 500."
"Sorry, but we can't accept that."
His social media post read:
This hospital lynches patients. They charged me extra. How can two doctors charge differently for the same ailment? It's malpractice.

Induction to Corruption

"Did anyone forget it here?" "Is it the vigilance testing me?" "Are the colleagues playing a prank?"
Thoughts crossed Arun's mind as he looked at the cash lying on his table. He was away for a meeting; returned to find it there.
It is just the first week in his dream job of public service.
"What's that still doing on the table?", asked Amit as he came up with a file.
"I don't know whose they are", Arun replied.
"It's yours. Your share of the weekly collection. Bribes are shared equally across the floor. Pick it up."

I am a little tired now

“I am a little tired now… so, I have
stopped going away,
but it is not that now… I have stopped
walking.
Distances often increase strange distances in relationships,
but it is not that now... I have stopped meeting my loved ones.
Yes, I feel a little lonely… in the crowd of
my own people,
but it is not that now... I have given up.
I remember everyone… and I care for everyone,
but how much I do… Just left telling.
Author : Anupam Sarkar

God's Flaw?

Absolute as an entity
Not in form
While He paints
The colours stick to His curls.

What's the point in painting
It blue and green
When His creations will dwell in sleep
Forget about the goodness and the breeze.

Why shouldn't He create bread that only
People with dime can have
The course of freewill has to part
Time is a lullaby only in your mind

What's the love that he paints all
His brushes with?
Where's the fun in creating a flock
Of dead sheep
Amidst agony, paychecks and capitalistic deeds?

Mundamala

The destruction of ignorance and
the dawning of knowledge.
The victory over Time and
the fear of Death.

The Diwali

The decorative light chains illuminated the entire house. It was the time of the year when lights talked of fulfillment, prosperity and joy. Sarita could see from her room the children and the family members in the garden. The candles, Diyas, rangoli made her happy, yet sad.
Sudden knock at her door disturbed her deep thoughts. She looked at the door, awestruck.
He came inside and hugged her "Happy Diwali, Ma". Tears rolled on her cheeks as she soaked in the tender touch.
25 years of long wait - she would, this year celebrate Diwali !!

Diwali succeeds Kali Puja

Raghav was returning home after his win.
Things had changed since he had left. COVID had been quite a devil. They never shared with Raghav; he had his own issues to deal with; they didn't want to add to the pressure.
Fighting depression is not easy. You fight one negative thought, and hundreds come in to push you down.
Shyama could no longer procrastinate. She had to go out and fight. Fight for work. Fight to earn.
After all, that is what she has been doing. Fighting away the darkness from her family.
Fighting to light up the house!

Decency

Kanchana was busy cooking for the guests. She had met them in a train travel. Meena and Mala were very helpful to Kanchana during that Varanasi tour. They had shared not only their food but also love and affection with Kanchana. Kanchana was awestruck by their magnanimity. On her request they were visiting her.
Doorbell rang. Kanchana opened and welcomed Meena and Mala. Behind them poor banana vendor was standing. Kanchana raised her eyebrows. "Madam bought banana. Cost ₹80, but she gave only 50 ₹." Meena shouted "50 itself is more" Kanchana assured with a gesture towards vendor.

DEATH

It has always overwhelmed me, how the life of a person lapses in a heartbeat. Whether it be the 50-year-old uncle who takes you and your family everywhere in his auto-rickshaw after a 5-second call, or the 70-year old man, the grandpa of the neighbouring kids who sits in the veranda and waves as you pass by the road. You feel obligated to them, even when you haven’t spoken to them, not even a word maybe. You know they’re waiting for you. Maybe, they only need a listener for their ordinary stories. This obligation is an enigma.The enigma after death.

Last Seen A Long time Ago

Pragya and Apurva used to be best friends and they were madly in love .With each passing year their bonding grew stronger but destiny had other plans for them. One day they parted away and started to live individual lives.Situation turned so worsed for them that they blocked each other..One afternoon Pragya was scrolling her phone and a notification pop up from Apurva...
Some relations are special ,they chatted the whole afternoon without any hard feelings..then by sunset Pragya found Last seen a long time ago below Apurva's name ..she smiles to herself and returned back to work.
Parangama Bhattacharjee

A glittering loss

"Bapi we had a great Pujo this year, I am dying to tell everybody back home," Said little Rabi to his father while returning back home.
Rabi looked out of the window of the train and was recollecting all those glittering moments when he saw all those celebrities dancing as Rabi and his father's troop were playing the dhaak.
As he turned to his father he saw tears in his eyes, little did he know that the organizers who spent so much money on glitters and glory didn't pay their promised remuneration and were told to come again next year.

Mirror of Creation

What stays a while
In the midst of a speck
Rushes to the shore
The esoteric wave
The wave touches the sand
Warm, bright and coarse
The creation called man.

Child Welfare

Standing at his office window, overlooking the lush greenery, feels like a dream come true!
Thoughts take him back to the days of horror. His childhood! His days at the slums! His days of hunger! Life's not easy as an orphan.
The memories keep coming back to haunt. On such happy occasions! Guess he has to live with them!
He is just thankful that no one knows; took a lot to disassociate.
He casually picks up the newspaper. It's right there on the front page!
A semi-clad boy is receiving a food packet from the NGO.
"Ravi Dubey becomes CEO."

Discrimination

A: "Our community has always been discriminated against. We are fighting for our right of social inclusion."
B: "Frankly we don't care about your community. We need a skills that you have. Hence we shall get you onboard."
A few days passed.
"This office has made me feel like a human being. Even those who accept us, never forgets that we are different. But not here", A welled up emotionally.
"But we are unhappy with your work and may let you go."
A mail arrives from A. "I have always faced discrimination in this office and want to resign."

'TRIANGLE'

Salim Sir was constantly vexed in the case of Aloha. No matter how many problems they did in Math class, eventually, when the 8-year-old is asked,
‘How many sides does a triangle have?’
She replies: ‘Two Sir’.
One day, in order to decipher the truth, he asks her to draw her ‘triangle’.
Three points: Aloha, Alex, Sam. It was incomplete. Alex and Sam were not connected.
This triangle cannot be drawn with a pencil, but with a heart to forgive and forget.

'Embers of memories'

These pains are injected into my brains.
Runs throughout my body and veins.
Some portions begins to damage,
The wounds could be seems.
Soon I will die,
you may find this embers of memories.
There will be no clue but this ashes of memories.
Don't keep it your side ,
through it in the sea or,
blew away in breeze.
as far as you can try to release
Let it disappear after each cycle is complete.
Author: Hemanto Karmakar

Loan

Roomi and I came out of the OPD. She was fully cured.

"Excuse me. Did you drop this wallet?" I picked it up, calling at a man. He stared blankly.
"Ummm..looks like its mine."
The man leaves slowly with the wallet.
Roomi turns to me with admiration.
"Papa, wasn't he the guy struggling to settle hospital bills for his dead wife? You helped him!"

I smirk awkwardly. 5 years back I had picked up that wallet here, off that man's pocket. It carried cash to pay for his kid's life-saving operation. I thanked him silently for my prosperous business.

Down the Memory Lane

Priya was new in London.she knew none until she bumped into Sneha in college canteen.Sneha left India15yrs ago.
Sneha:hey !!Priya right?
Priya:Yes..oh my God it's you sneha..how are you doing?
Sneha:I'm good(both of them sitting in a table nearby with their favourite cupcakes)long time Priya..Remember in the school days how we used eat each other's tiffin
Priya:Oh those days!!I missed you so much in those days we didn't have fb or whtsapp so couldn't keep in touch with you.
Sneha:yes same here..(cutting a small piece from priya's cupcake ) I am sure your's will taste better like old days.

Cat's Note to Its Mother

O my bliss! That warmth of impeccable fur, I often dream of you since I was drifted apart from you.
The time you've denounced me the world has inflicted enormous pain on me. They bit me and cut my tail for my audacity. I used to cry before but not now!
Now I'm a proud thief...out of reach of human hand...easily manage to have a fish head or tail, raw or cooked.

Too Artistic to be true

"Baba, I think something is wrong with this puja pandal there is no Ashur here."
Tanmay thought for 2 minutes before replying to his 5 year old daughter Megha "You see beta, the last pandal we visited how badly the Ashur was hurt, the ashur of this pandal has also visited that pandal. He was afraid to die and ran away"
"Hurray, the Ashur ran away, afraid of maa Durga" Megha was delighted.
How else could Tanmoy describe the modern Art & Theme Pujas to his daughter who was visiting Kolkata for the first time during Durga Puja.

Single Parent

It was lonely at home. More lonely because the world was celebrating.
It was the Durga Pujas, the festival that ran over 5 days.
Every day the son went out. He was nearing adulthood now. This was the age to mingle with friends. No issue there.
The father stayed back at home. Alone. Wondering what happened to his group of friends. Why do they make plans without him?
The realisation came fast.
He had been refusing all invites for the last decade. He had no time for friends.
He had a son to take care of!

Child or Parent Psychologist?

"I give complete independence to my son. Never interfere in what he decides."
Anil briefed the child psychologist.
"But of late he is not studying at all. He just keeps arguing," Anil continued.
These are the times that Dr Lal finds it difficult.
How does he explain that Anil should not have the problem with less study time if he has given 'complete' independence to his child? Or is independence only till the son concurs with the father?
Telling it aloud might annoy Anil. He might never come back with his son. Should he just agree and keep the patient?

Grandma

Even today that dreadful glimpse comes before my eyes.
When my grandma was in hospital, i was standing beside her,next to her bed.
The heart monitor beside the bed.....showing some graph...not perfect...but going nice,curve and mountain like graph was appearing.
I'm very small that time and don't even have any idea, just i know she was not well.
Suddenly, i heard a terrifying echo for the last ,a beep like high pitched sound of that monitor...a straight line... complete straight.
Doctor said,"she is no more".

Garden Of Hope

Touch, strip and crack
Her open
With love
Once over, repeat with care

Amid the shanties of greed,
Pain and misery
Bear a flower
Water it with your last tears

Once the flower reaches
The sky
And the view of the sky
Feels like a painting that's incomplete

Cut it short. Cut it long
Cut it smooth. Cut it rough
Let the pain take over
While hope waits for the next flower.

School

"Why aren't you studying? You're wasting your time"
"You don't study anything"
"your grades have decreased, you should study"
"You've gotten the vacation, study"
"You need to do better"

"Why do you care about your parents nagging you all the time?"
"I feel a sense of duty, that I can't make them proud even though they've sacrificed their life for me"

"YOU don't need to listen to music anymore, go down and have your dinner"

Music helped me escape, the guilt people made me feel, they still say we have it so easy, they still wonder why we hate school.

Dashami

Life has its funny way of dealing with issues.
Uma has been away from home for years now, coming back no more than once a year. She had always relied on the social structure to look after her ageing and ailing mom.
But now she knows that all can not be dealt through others. Even if they have the intention, sometimes they might just not have the strength.
She has to go back, but with a lesson that she needs to do better; much better than only video calls.

Navami

When you call for destruction, destruction never fails to reply!
Mahesh could have carried on his business legally. He could have acquired land/houses from those who were willing to sell - and there are many.
But with instant financial growth, often comes a bloated sense of power.
And that sense do not stop at only acquisitions through threats and violence.
It was easy for Uma to find the illegal irregularities in Mahesh's projects. It was easy to expose the threat to life owing to them.
When media gets involved, the authorities are bound to put such promoters away for good.

Ashtami

Alienate your adversaries aides. Cut off the wings. Victory is assured.
If Mahesh needed to be punished, first Chandu and Manu had to go.
Uma calls in Shyama, her childhood friend, now an activist for the rights of senior citizens.
A formal police complaint made on mail, with a copy to the headquarters work like magic. The non-cooperative officer seems to have turned over a new leaf.
Assault on lady senior citizens should put Chandu and Manu behind bars for a long time. At least till Mahesh learns his lesson.

Saptami

Uma is on her way to meet Mahesh. While mom would not tell her much, now she knows.
She knows of the atrocities. She know of the threats. She knows of mom's injury. She knows that Chandu and Manu had pushed her!
All of them needed to pay.
Her elders told her to stay away. They all feared Mahesh.
"Promoters like Mahesh may also murder if they don't get the property they want. What do you think Chandu and Manu do?"
Uma has only one philosophy for herself: "Cowards die many times."

Sasthi

The flight lands at six in the morning. Uma smiles as she stretches. There is no place like home.
Home, where you grew up! Home, where your joint family eagerly waits for you!
It has been a long year for Uma. Work pressures have been paramount, after the pandemic forced them to shave off resources.
She is also curious. Something did not seem right in the video calls. But no one would tell her what was wrong.
But now she will figure it out for sure.

Bhuj

2001: Ashfaq looked at little Gauri. All of her 2 years..trying to pull her mom's hand sticking out from the rubbles. The kachcha house had collapsed when the infant was playing outside. He picked her up.

2022: Ashfaq looked at Gauri. All of 23 years, gloriously taking stage on her graduation ceremony. She is joining IIT Gandhinagar for a Masters in Earthquake engg.
Together they will watch Lagaan once more today. For another glimpse of Ganga..standing in the crowd scenes. That is Ganga's only memoir..her fleeting images in this movie. Ganga, Gauri's mother. Ganga, the woman Ashfaq could not marry.

Regret

Pronob,"Don't you learn the periodic table upto 20, Thousands times I've said it's important for the numericals in chemistry".
"Sir, I'll learn and give you tomorrow"
"The same thing I'm hearing from one week, useless".
Pronob murmuring himself,"kitna bak-bak karta hai sir".
And he ignored his saying.He arrived to home and started chatting with his friends.
8 yrs later,now he's unemployed, suffering and searching for a job but rejected from everywhere because of less percentage.
Sooner he feels a shock vibe and recalled the past, when Gautam sir scold him but for his sake.Finally he realised but it's to late.

Mind Reading

What does she see?
What is her ploy?
Is that mischief in her eyes?
Is there a plan she toy?

Poem name (Best Friend) Author Anupam Sarkar

_Best Friend_

I want a day filled with light.
I want a night without darkness.
I want a flower full of beautiful fragrance.
And I want a good friend best of all.
Author : Anupam Sarkar...

Love? Marriage?

मनोज, दिशा एक ही आफिस में जाब‌ कुछ ही दिनों में बढ़ती नजदीकियां। फिर घर वालों से कहने पर अरेंज मैरिज। तीन चार महीने बाद - दिशा अलग घर लेलो। मैं तुम्हारे मां बाप के साथ नहीं रह सकती । मनोज - हमारी शादी में इतना खर्च किया। मां बाप‌ का इकलौता बेटा हूं। उन्हें नहीं छोड़ सकता। रोज लड़ाई झगड़ा। कहां गया love । दिशा वापस मायके। मनोज मां बाप के साथ रह रहा है। शादी को डेढ़ साल हो चला है।पर दोनों अपनी अपनी जगह अलग अलग। Love? Marriage?

Love? Marriage? Adjustment

मनोज, दिशा, एक ही आफिस में नई नौकरी।
नजदिकियां, प्यार, मां बाप की मदद से शादी।
तीन महीने बाद दिशा - अलग घर ले लो। मैं तुम्हारे मां बाप के साथ नहीं रह सकती।
मनोज - इकलौता बेटा हूं। मां बाप को नहीं छोड़ सकता।
रोज लड़ाई झगड़ा। दिशा वापस मायके।
मनोज मां बाप के पास।
डेढ़ साल बाद आज भी दोनों अलग अलग। Love?
Marriage?.
काश कोई कर सकता adjustment.

Boundaries

We stood there frantically, pointing the gun to each other. His eyes were filled with rage. I could lose my life at any millisecond. I saw in him, a loving husband and father whose family awaited to garland him as the nation’s pride; a beloved son who’d struggle to buy his mother’s favourite flowers and come home. A human being with a blissful life ahead; an officer who left no stone unturned, worth his life, for his nation. Animosity overshadowed everything. Geography overpowered love and compassion.
He was adamant. I shot the bullet. With him, perished hope and bliss.

Service

Ramesh woke up with a heavy heart. The day marked the completion of 35 years of his job tenure. He started off for duty with his regular instruments.
At the office, he was greeted by his colleagues. The new and young lady officer felicitated and congratulated him for his professionalism, dedication and perseverence.
As he was entering his household premises at the day end, he could see the lighting and decorations all around. The young lady came running and hugged him "Happy Retirement Dad". Tears glittered in his eyes while he smiled and hugged her "Thank you memsaheb".

Stories around Us: A gentler world

Indigo flight takes off from Darbhanga airport.
Air hostess to the gentleman behind me with booked meal:

"Aapko kya chahiye?"
"Jo aapko accha lage.."
She is pleasantly surprised..replies with a smile:
"Sir sabhi acche hai.."
"To usme se jaisa aapko thik lage, de dijiye."
(She gives him cashews)

"Coffee lenge?"
"Haan bilkul."
"Thehriye - main coffee le aati hoon."

Deal

I am dealing with each cycle of life.
I am dealing with sorrows.
and worse phases.
Trying to bear the pleasure ,
And counting on the days.
I've read my own poem,
more than twice and thrice .
May be I'm dealing with the early signs of anxiety.
Or addicted to being high.
~Hemanta Karmakar

Parenthood

The question lingers on how we transform from the animal whose instinct planted the seed, to the responsible person who takes ownership of the new life.

Reunion - part 2 of 2

(contd)
I explain:
"Roma will recite verses. I'll play the mouth organ. Guess whose guitar it is?"
They reply in chorus: "DeSouza!"
And in walks the man. "Hello bondhu-gon. Aaj Bangla gaan gaibo.."
I get impatient. "It's 4pm already. The auditorium is booked till 7-30pm."
Rama: "Amal is late again..penning his next thriller, perhaps?"
"Right!" Amal snuck in unnoticed. "Freshly cooked Sunday Suspense, anyone?!"
"Manna - tea, please?"
"Be right back" - I leave the room full of old mates ..for the last time, before a massive heart attack and a fall off stairs.

(dedicated to "Coffee house-er sei adda")

Reunion - part 1 of 2

"Long time! Hope I am not late.."
I smile.
"Nah Moidul. Others are yet to arrive."
"Well Sujata is parking."
"Ah I see. Wonder if we would be here today barring that coincidence last month."
"Yeah - Amal booked an app cab to his book release venue... and Sujata turned up as his cabbie!"
Nikhilesh enters with Sujata and Roma. "Howdy! Sorry folks, the flight from Paris got delayed."
Sujata looks at the stage, wide-eyed. "Whoa - a mike and musical instruments! Who's performing?"

(to be contd)

The English lesson

I love English. Much of it due to our ICSE English teacher, Mr. Gomes.
My last English lesson, though, came at the neighbourhood park today.
A frail lady sat next to me with a knowing look. Then he asked:
"I often see you at Airport. Are you always in flight mode?"
I felt an ego-boost, mixed with amusement at her choice of words. "Indeed..why?"
She smiled. "Flight comes from two separate verbs. Flee and fly. Which flight mode is yours?"
She disappeared. Her English accent was clear, with a unique nasal tone.
I cannot get the lesson off my mind.

Enthusiastic kokila

Dhanapal was very happy because his student Kokila was going to participate in the 400 meter running race competition.
Kokila is a sincere and hardworking sports person.
Dhanapal had trained her well. He said to himself " this is a golden moment for me. Kokila will win the medal and I will also be praised. I will get more students." Race began. Kokila sprang like an arrow from a bow. When she reached the winning point she waited for her teammates to join her.
kokila's team spirit was laudable

मम्मी के पैसे

अमित (पिता) निखिल निशा बच्चे जब भी पैसे की तंगी होती। प्रिया की तरफ देखते। जाओ मेरे बैग से ले लो।
कोरोना में प्रिया का बैग खाली। और प्रिया भी चली गई। दो साल बाद अमित पैसे बैग में वापस रखकर।
बच्चों से जब पैसे की जरूरत हो । मम्मी से ले लेना।
आज भी प्रिया और उसका बैग परिवार के साथ है।
अमित उसके पैसे वापस रखता रहता है। उसके बैग में ।

DENIAL

Nadira slowly opened her eyes in the hospital bed. Her left wrist was plastered. She saw Azad sitting aside. An overwhelming queer silence prevailed.
‘Nadira, I’m sorry I ran away with Khadeej. If I’d sworn to live with you bearing Khadeej at heart, our life would’ve been a trauma. I was just bemused and I didn’t want to hurt you after seeing all the love you’ve showered.’
‘It’s not your fault. It was my relentless denial. My heart bore the truth, but I was afraid to confront the pain of my unreciprocated love. I tried to escape from reality.’

Impotency

To feel a wind against
Your cheek
Out when you are
The most vulnerable
Not without clothes
Yet, the absence of sleep
Not when you silently relish
Her lips on your overestimated lie
To feel a dent on your neck
Not then too
But
When lights make you dull
With grief, pain and smiles
Let her cover her hands
With your skin
While you devour her
Pride.
Then, open your filthy,
Dark and rotten mouth
To feed her with your dry lips
Drier than your desire
Drier than life itself,
Wake up, you're sore
My friend...

Addicted to Maths

I can't solve them,
Still trying to solve the higher ones.
Am i addicted??
I don't know the reason.
Still now, I'm not aware of love
But for me love is an equation.


~Hemanta karmakar.

Activist

"Sir, I think I know how Amit can meet his child again. His ex-wife will not be able to keep him away", Kaushal came to his boss.
It has been a couple of months Kaushal has joined this NGO dealing with parental rights.
Amit was a victim. His wife had won custody, not allowing him to meet the kid. He was also the best volunteer for the cause.
The NGO helped him make some progress, but the issue persisted.
"Do you really think I don't know of a permanent solution? But do we want to lose a good volunteer?"

Solo Trip

Pragya absolutely ready for her first solo trip.Her destination is Gautala Autramghat sanctuary.The magnificent beauty of the vast forest on both the sides of the road and a splendid view the western ghat made Pragya more curious to enter deep into the forest..All by herself in the midst of nature Pragya suddenly stopped her car,she was awestruck to meet the giant host.She stopped silently a little far observing the leopard cross the road giving her a glance.She was petrified but that moment of fear is all worth it for a Life time experience
Parangama Bhattacharjee

Dillema

Gaurav sir is approaching for taking tution classes of computer from him.
He says,"Exam se pehle common dedunga,"
Also,"practical ka 30 marks bhi mere haath me hai".
"Jo bhi karna hai sochlo,
After a week, my batch maybe full".
Sun recorded the conversation,since he predicted that this may be a smoking gun in later time.
Sun is an average student, not a topper nor favourite to teacher but honest.
He don't take any negative way to attain marks but he has a little greed to score well. He's in Dillema
He's murmuring himself,"kya tution lena thik hoga".
~Hemanta Karmakar.

Driver

'Gari aage nahi ja sakti hai.'
'Kyun ?'
'Hum aa gaye hai na is line pe, abhi doosri wali chal rahi hai !'

Neel looked at the traffic from the cab window.
The driver was predicting correctly; everytime he was changing to a faster lane, the lane stopped moving.

With a smile he shoved back on his seat, with a blank gaze at the adjacent lane, rewinding back to times when he believed being the Driver of his Life !

Duty of Love

Even a drop is plenty.
Abundance or Famine – the duty of love does not falter for any parent.

Yun hota to kya hota..

"And..how is life?"
"Good. The kid's settled in a stable job. The home loan is closed, and our investments have worked. Touchwood, both of us have good health for 60 year olds. You?"
"No family. No savings. No home. No worries. Health? Who cares.."

Someone taps on my shoulder. It's Tabassum. A hint of concern on her brows.
"Are you okay? You don't slumber at 6pm often.."
"Nah - nothing, Tabbu."
A greying horizon greets us outside the window as we sip together.
"I just met my alternate self. He lives in a world where I never meet you, Tabassum."

The orchard farmer

An orchard farmer by the name of Munna, had a partner called Akki.
Every season, Akki will take a week-long journey to a distant village to buy bamboos, while Munna would toil on the field and take care of their mango trees. After the harvest they will split their share 50:50.
Munna's wife was not happy with the arrangement. After all Munna put all the hard work. He should have more.
On her advice Munna split with Akki.
That season had a grand harvest but Munna could not reap.
All the fruits got ripe with nothing to pull them down!

Poem name (Pain). Author Anupam Sarkar...

'Pain'

I am sitting alone, with no sleep.
Will you not come
Except as a dream?
I have a lot of pain in my chest,
Devoid of all happiness.
Today, I only want to see your face.
Author : Anupam Sarkar

Kindness.

One day Ramanuja saw his aunt's son Govindan, holding a snake in his hand. Govindan inserted his hand into the snake's mouth and pulled out something. Snake crawled and disappeared inside a bush.
Ramanuja curiosly asked Govindan . "What did you do with the snake?". Govindan humbly said, " there was a thorn in the snake's tongue, and was suffering. I removed the thorn and relieved the snake's pain." Ramanuja embraced his brother. "Govindan, You are kindhearted even to a venomous snake. You will be remembered for ever till this earth remains. Ramanuja and Govindan lived thousand years before.

The Uninvited Admirer

"Hello, beta we received the money"
"Okay abba, get the medicines mother needs," Shahana said to her father
a moment of silence followed.
"I will send some more for the tests in a day or two"
Shahana recalled last night.
That fat guy who threw 6000 in cash at her in the bar she sings.
She recalls the most indecent signs he made at her.
"You're so beautiful, I will come again tomorrow for you," said the fat man in his late 40s when he left.
He must come today, She needs her Uninvited Admirer to come for her today.

Rendezvous

Radhika:where are you? I will be there by 11:30am
Krishna:(after 30 missed calls) oh hii!sorry I felt asleep. Give me 30minutes more I will be there by 12pm.
Radhika (angrily said)how can you be late on our first date?But what to do? Come,I will wait (she hangs up the call)
Krishna almost after 1 hour reach for the rendezvous...
Radhika:(seating in the corner table by the window wearing red dress)Finally you are here.
Krishna:(standing infront of her wearing black Tshrt and blue jeans with a Cadbury in hand)Sorry!we will make this memorable .
Author-Parangama Bhattacharjee

The Martyr

Lying on the ground, he could see the smoky fires gulping the sky. The rattling sound of the guns and shells pierced his ears. The known faces were hovering in his eyes as he closed them.
As the train approached the station, he saw his near ones waiting for him. He was elated and rushed to hug them but couldn't.
Standing on a far side was his family with the the box "Lt. SS" and the national flag, folded. He could see their shining tears, head held high.
The sounds of the gun salute thundered across the sky.

Partner

The ride in life is hardly a smooth one.
Happy are those who accept that the faces of the rider and the pillion may change in its course.

McLaren 720S

The solitary jail gives a lot of time to ponder.
As the light of dusk filled the cell, Amit could not help but curse himself for inviting Raj to the party. Did he not know what Raj and his talent of putting in that small dark patch in all the news that's bright.
But there should have been a limit!
Amit had thrown the party to celebrate the his new McLaren 720S. It came at 6 crore!
He could not help but overhear Raj's comment, "Aree milage bahut kam deta hain."
That's when he pulled out the gun!!!

when it rains

The auto dropped me at Rishi's door. It was raining. I’d longed to visit his house, with him – his letter told me all about it. Fate had other plans. His mother graciously received me, thinking I was his classmate, here to inquire about her son's death. I visited every nook of the house – each so familiar to my heart. When I came down the stairs, his mother was waiting with a box. I lost myself on her call, 'Hima'. The box preserved notes, letters, and pictures carrying my reflections on his life. My eyes were raining, as I bid goodbye.

THE PLANET OF WONDER

Earth the planet of wonder.
It is also very tender.
Among the seven planets,
its the best.
The earth's awesome
But sometimes it can be stressed.
Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars
Earth is the one and only,
But it has some scars.
It's filled with trash,
If we don't clean it up,
The earth will crash.
How can we hurt the planet earth?
After all its the place of our birth
Let's keep it clean,
So earth can be green.
A special task should be done,
Keep the planet of wonder with care
We don't want the earth to tear

The Priority

"Hello, can you tell me where the hell are you? my son is starving and waiting for his pizza."
"I am sorry madam my bike got punctured and it's raining, I was not finding a mechanic, but now I found one and he is fixing the puncher."
"all you delivery guys do this same thing I am gonna complain about this" The angry lady hung up
Ranjan put the mobile in the plastic bag, he has to make 2 more deliveries to get money for medicine for his daughter who is running a high fever for the last 3 days.

Afraid of freedom

Please don't free me, I can't fly.
I am afraid of getting lost in that sky.
From where would I get my daily meal?
Will I die hungry?
Or will I get killed .
I've lost my home,my cage I miss,
Where I was fed daily, by one little Miss.
I long for that sympathy,on me it left a mark.
I'am very afraid of getting lost in the stars
Twinkling, staring at me from the dark.
Take me back to my cage,behind the bars.

Perception

Perception


Every morning,
as I start to get ready
for another day,
my journal sets the tone.
Do I see the window bars
that restrict passage,
or the free world beyond it?

Art: Sharmistha Adhya
Story: Animesh Goswami

Humanity

The boy didn't care about the girl.
Whether she cried,
Whether she was screaming in pain Whether she died.
All he and his friends did was laugh at her, when she was suffering.
She didn't care.
She pulled him in with her.
She didn't care whether he was suffering.
She didn't care whether she made his friends scared to death of fire.
It was their fault in the first place, for not caring.

#Saudagar

'Kaunsi service chahiye, saab?’
'What do you serve?’
'Kuchh bhi, rates alag hain; azma lo!'
'Kuchh nahi ka kya rate hai?'
'Kya Sir, yeh intellectual ka show off karne ka jagah nahin. Don't waste my time. Paisa feko tamasha dekho, warna kalti mar lo. Jaldi bolo.'
'Okay, do ghante ke silence ke liye kitna?’
'Kya hua; kisne Dil toda, zara humein bhi batao.'
'Dil tha kahan jo koi todega; Bharosa tod diya!'
'Bharose ke liye yeh dhandewali mili thi re chikna?!'
Duniya ne itna kuchh diya hai... Sauda karne nikal pada!

Oneness

I stepped into the sun
And walked along the beach
The breeze - it spoke to me..
Did I hear the waves teach?
Sand shifts under my feet,
A sea in front.. sky above
Am I lucky to be here, now?
Is this how Universe sends love?

A tribute to Tagore's song - "Akash bhora surjo tara"

Chota Stories

"It is not just me. Everyone in the class has scored low marks."
"The problem is not with you. It is with me."
"We shall get back to you with the outcome of the interview."
"The order is not coming in this month. But it will surely come next month."
"We are not able to come down this year. But Dad, next year, we shall surely come to India to meet you."
"Do not worry about me, son. I am doing just fine."

The chota stories of life keep coming at all stages.

THE DREAM

"All set for the trek?", she asked with a smile.
"Yup."
We started our trek enthusiastically .We were almost midway when I heard, "Oh, my foot!". I turned around and was shocked to see her foot bleeding.
"Try to walk", I said after applying the bandage.
"No, I cannot."
We decided to take a break and enjoy the sunset, sitting on the edge. Suddenly, her leg slipped and she started to fall. She just said, "I'll love you forever."
I woke up drenched in sweat. Turning to my side, I found her sleeping peacefully.

LOVE

A four lettered word 'LOVE'has the power to be in the top. As a child I used to find the real definition of Love,but with age I realized it's a stongest feeling we have and can't be defined.What is love about? Give and take?
No it's not .
It's the affection bonding understanding we show towards others and in need of more love and quenching the thirst of more love we show our truly affectionate self towards other.It's like a chain we tie in each others heart to grow a bigger and greater community.
Author-Parangama Bhattacharjee

Rubber bands or Husbands

“Husbands are way better than rubber bands!” I jokingly remarked.
A colleague was jubilantly recounting how she succeeded in combing markets to find some obscure lipstick colour while her supportive husband went along without a fuss.
A husband is an epitome of flexibility. A husband gets pulled between the wife and the mother, the family and the office, work and pleasure, saving and spending, talking and listening, privacy and participation… the list is unending. And all that 'Without (or almost without) a fuss'!
Unlike rubber bands, husbands have no elastic limits.
Should we change the term to ‘hush-band’?

The Final Embrace

She could sense the 'Time' - the time for last Goodbye,
the time to be Unloved and become Useless.
Only the final embrace is all that she can possess
till breath.

Fresher Recruitment

Questions that Anuj received in response to the job advertisement
"What are your services?"
"Where are you located?"
"What are the duty hours?"
"What will be the salary?"
"What will be the role?"
Though all information was mentioned in the ad, Anuj took time to respond to all the queries from the candidate.
But he started looking for career options for himself when he got the last question!

"Do you have any vacancy?"

The Monsoon Mishap

Sita enters her dilapidated abode, racing against the ready-to-sob clouds. Sweating and panting, she puts on the dim bulb and down her grocery bag. Suspecting the silence, she proceeds and stumbles upon an emptied bottle, thereby shattering it. Her feet starts bleeding profusely. She swears in pain, grumping at her daughter's binge-alcoholism and callousness, walking past the dripping kitchen-tap. Her daughter usually remains busy on her fancy new smart-phone, often ignoring the penury. She slams the door open and shivers in shock, witnessing Trijata lying on the bed, half-stripped, exhausted, bruised, ravished and stoned. She stares helplessly and mumbles, "Papa".

Work Life Balance

8:30 PM
"Hi, Amit. Howz life?"
"Hello, Sir. I am fine. Just chilling with friends. Is there anything you wanted to discuss?"
"Nothing specific. Just wanted to know how the day went."
And the call between Amit and his boss dragged for an hour!
This was the regular feature. Everyday at 8:30 PM.
Until Amit learnt the art of management!

11:30 PM
"Hi Amit. It is 11:30. Anything urgent?"
"Just saw I had missed your call. Thought it must be something urgent, as it was as late as 8:30. I just called to check."

No more calls at 8:30 PM!!!

Mumma's hand

I saw your hands hide in line ,
They have never dressed a beautiful daughter

NOR

They have doctored the sick ones.

They have never scrubbed the kitchen floor

NOR

They have worn the blue torn jeans.

They have never peeled the red apples

NOR

They have canned the green leafy veggies.

So , you see my dearest Mumma ,

yours are the hands of love !

Melodic Mephisto

Frightened allies of lost souls; a girl shut her door
While a sense of wretched pleasure ignited her little speck
A pair of eyes rolled from the other
Side of the painted face.
A lion of thoughts preluded
Her only faith.

The face smirked another sign
Yet her mind garnished the last speck
What stayed in a moment's unrest
As she crawled up to the face
Another man placed his head against her face; the girl bolted the door.

Afraid of freedom

Please don't free me, I can't fly.
I am afraid of getting lost in that sky.
From where would I get my daily meal?
Will I die hungry?
Or will I get killed???

I've lost my home, my cage I miss,
Where I was fed daily, by one little Miss.
I long for that sympathy, on me it left a mark.
I'm very afraid of getting lost in the stars,
Twinkling, staring at me from the dark.
Take me back to my cage, behind the bars.
~Hemanta & Kashyap.

THE DREAM

"All set for the trek?", she asked with a smile.
"Yup."
We started our trek enthusiastically .We were almost midway when I heard, "Oh, my foot!". I turned around and was shocked to see her foot bleeding.
"Try to walk", I said after applying the bandage.
"No, I cannot."
We decided to take a break and enjoy the sunset, sitting on the edge. Suddenly, her leg slipped and she started to fall. She just said, "I'll love you forever."
I woke up drenched in sweat. Turning to my side, I found her sleeping peacefully.

Quest Over

Now I see Him in her
Now I see the within
He who is in all
Reveals through Sofya

Kindness Of Kindergarten

"Does the cat drink milk and go home to its mother?" four-year-old Madi asked.
"Yes."
The apartment secretary came to meet his mother. "Don't nurse all cats. They are cursed, everywhere you look. They run across the road when you are driving. Why do you entertain the strays?" he asked sternly.
Madi, who was listening, said, "If the cat is hungry, their mother doesn't know how to cook for it like our mother", she said.
The secretary left without speaking.

Tiranga

Munni was excited. There were many flags this year, even before Independence Day, and many of actual cloth.
She hoped to collect several. That would mean a cover for the cardboard pile she called her bed and maybe, just maybe, two dresses?
Her last one from the election campaign was coming apart, she had to keep patching it.
She would request Darzi-chacha to make her a salwar kameez. He might agree if she gives him a good head massage.
“Jai Hind”, she mumbled, as she drifted into sleep, in her little dry patch under the flyover.

Fish

"Go throw this garbage!"
A lady handed him a polythene bag with the leftover food.
The boy threw it into the ocean.
"Come on Rahul. Let's go" she yelled.
A poor fish swallowed this plastic and died suffering.
Rahul ate the same fish the day after.
Soon, he landed up in the hospital with severe food poisoning.
The plastic had almost killed him.

Apologies

'Round your neck and centred amid lies,
I try to rise above my end.
As I find your neck adjoined, I move closer.
Nothing, but with a smile.

As I let my lips rest against your neck, you find
another moment.
Dead before and now filled with strength.
As your lips find mine, I find the void
Around me
Reach my mouth through yours
And up your tongue
Into mine; what stills a kiss
Into your eyes; I find the void the lie.
Now, a part of me
Via you, now divine.

Paradise in the clouds

It had already been one and half days since we left home.
After a 7-hour long train journey, we were on the road for 5 hours, with the driver asking for directions every 30 minutes.
The first trip since the pandemic did not seem to be going the way I had imagined.
After the next turn, over the next hilltop, we saw it.
Nestled in the lush greenery, surrounded by clouds and fog, overlooking the majestic Himalayas, a cozy little homestay. And we were to stay in this paradise for the whole weekend.
The wait seemed worth it.

Therapy

"Hello, is that customer service?"
"Yes, Ma'am. How may I help you?"
"My TV is not working."
"Let me help you with that. What is the actual problem?"
"My son. He is a doctor. Goes to the hospital every morning, comes back late at night."
"Ok, Ma'am, please let me know about the TV."
"He is a psychiatrist. Doctor of the mind."
"Sorry, Ma'am. Have to hang up. Need to attend another call. Please call back later?"
"Helps others come out of depression. While his mother only has customer service to get rid of boredom!"
Rita murmured, dialing another number.

Impersonation

Where have you come from?
where are you going?
What is this form
that you are acquiring?
Who are you
in the guise of Sofya?

Fairly Unfair

I was surprised when I received the call from my school. It was six years since I had left school!
Well, it was surprising but expected at the same time.
I had cleared such a tough exam, that too with a good rank and have been selected for IAS.
Our class in-charge called and asked me to visit the school to encourage the students.
I recalled the day I passed high school. No one had called me. I was not in the 90+ percentile. Everywhere, just toppers are valued, even by your own.

Revenge

My stories...
Sound familiar? Brings up a memory? Seem like I am talking about you?
Did you do something utterly foolish?
Did you argue to support a point, but not the right one?
Did you abuse when someone only politely pointed out?
Then, YES.
My anonymous stories are about you.
Keep bloating for not being able to argue (or abuse).
Keep losing your mental peace.
That's my revenge for having to deal with you.

‘HATRED’

Hate – The venom for the human mind that drifts people apart.
The wedding bliss was rather transient, as they soon felt overpowered by the evanescence of the eternal bond.
Their home was a ‘living hell’. Her presence left innumerable scars on both of them.
What amends can he do for a wrong he has not committed? He was too disillusioned by love to see Jannat’s medical records as warning bells.
Her schizophrenia could not weigh down on the scars inflicted. They said their goodbyes.
Yet, Akbar forgave her for his own peace.

#sales II Kolkata

Not all classic food joints require elitist behaviour to get noticed.
Customers need to be well-versed in their distinct vocabulary to avail the best service.

For instance, one can't just waltz into Das Cabin in Gariahat and ask for 'takeaway'.
To strike the right chord, you need to use the right word... PUR-SEL....!!!

Tryst with destiny

He fondled her smoothened hair, deep in a trance of her eau de parfum...
She caressed his pulsating warm chest, spooning him tighter.
He whispered the usual endearments to which she laughed this time, thereby perplexing him completely...
Suddenly, she stared sceptically into his moistened eyes and responded, "I think you've forgotten. We are both married now..."

Professors & Placement

"Sir, did someone approach you with an open job opportunity, asking for resumes of students who are interested?"
"Yes."
"How come we were not told?"
"I don't think that is a job to be done after masters in science."
"But, Sir, many of us need jobs desperately."
"You won't believe how horrible the corporate environment is. I have worked for a few years."
"Sir, that's your choice. Why do you interfere in ours? Why do you want us to be your clone? Especially when you cannot guarantee a secured future for any of us?"

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

When with Sofya, words seem trivial.
A lot is spoken through space.
The invisible instrument
strings up a melody.
Taking us into a celestial trance.
Through the commotion of life,
Bhakti finds its way.

Rasbhari

On his way back from office, as soon as Amit's eyes fell on those shiny, plump gooseberries, he thought of buying a kilo.
“Priya will like these a lot.”
While getting them weighed, Amit suddenly remembered that it had been over a year since Priya had passed away.
"What's wrong with me? It feels like she's eagerly waiting for me at home and I should get something she loves on my way back.”
Even their kids have started saying, "Mummy hasn't gone anywhere, she's right here, inside you."

Unfulfilled dream

It was always my dream to become a doctor and extend my services for the under-privileged.
Charge the rich and use the funds to serve the poor.
My parents have earned enough from the nursing home they own. Enough for my lifetime.
It was a shocker when my rank could not get me a seat in a government medical college.
It was a shocker when my father paid more than a crore for me to study in a private one.

I am a doctor now.
I need to pay him back.
Dreams can wait.

Transformation

Papa’s strenuous coughs resonated in her ears as she waited. Khayal felt dejected confronting the news of his cardiac arrest.
‘Cigarette’, the word she never wanted to recall, which offered ephemeral pleasure to her Papa, killing him inside every day.
An ominous silence filled their veranda. Khayal saw an ambulance, her eyes brimming with tears. As its backdoors opened, she stepped out with all her might, anticipating the worst.
A frail Khalid got up from a wheelchair. She ran and embraced Papa, who threw a fresh packet into a bin nearby. A ray of hope beamed in their eyes.

Wanted thought unsought

Look, the Moon's shining brighter today.
No, it's not a full moon tonight, but still, I can't snatch my stare away from the Moon!
Look, how gorgeous, how attractive, how Goddess-like my humanised Moon is!
Tryna arouse her body with touches, tryna rain kisses around her meander-shaped waist, tryna exhale into her cleavage, tryna just make her mine.
Can she permit me to own her, even if not in reality, at least in my thoughts?
“Can you?”

Thank you!

"You've got to be the best in school." So I was. I was afraid.
"You've got to top your boards.” I did. But I was afraid.
“You've got to be admitted into the best institute.” I did. But I was still afraid.
There, I met them.
Friends!
They said, "Don't give a damn and enjoy!" They did. I could not. Since I was afraid.
Then they taught me how to enjoy.
I topped my class! Got a dream job offer. Didn't take that.
Became a writer instead.
This Booker is dedicated to all of them who made me feel!

Toxic positivity

"What if I fall?"
"Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?"
Virat had always been Sonia's crush. She hated Anushka for marrying him.
She had cried for 2 whole days.
Her father was smiling when he told her that she would have had a good shot had she not been only 8 years old. It was illegal!
Today, when she found Virat sharing the post, she felt motivated.
She climbed the stairs to the terrace, carrying the costume that she wore when she played the Angel in her school play...