I am her neighbor since couple of months now. She is alone. Alone since long. But a strong lady. She does all her chores by herself. I do occasionally ask her whether she would require something from the market as I am heading there with my list of things to buy. Answer had always been “No thanks, but thanks so much for asking”.
I do remember the only time she did ask me to get her something from the near by medical shop. Some medicines. I remember looking at the old prescription sheet she gave me, trying to figure out the names of medicines but then I left it to the chemist to figure out. When I was back with her medicines, she gave me a hot cup of tea. It was nice. She is a pleasant neighbor.
I have been really busy with my errands and office-ing. Other than the occasional “hi” or “byes” at the front gate, there hasn’t been much of catching up with my lovely neighbor.
It started as a regular Friday today. I slept last night (if it can still be called as night) at around 5 am. Had a meeting to attend at 8 today morning, which of course I didn’t, as my alarm felt pity of me and gave me an uninterrupted sleep. It was a friend’s phone call which made me open my eyes and realize that it’s already an hour past the meeting. Dropped in a line to my manager saying “I over slept” hoping he would understand.
Then went back to sleep again. Woke up around 2 o Clock. Called up for Chinese food to be home delivered. The day seemed damped. It has been raining all day long. Even last night there been showers. I had already made up my mind to work from home this evening.
After lunch, gave my TV some usual attention. When it was time for tea, I realized that there aint milk in the fridge. At gate, Gopal the gate keeper said “Sir, why you want to go out? Its raining, cant you see?”
I told Gopal “ its not that raining, just a drizzle, will quickly go get the milk before the rain comes down heavy”.
He smiled and opened the gate. Then did a quick shunting to the milk shop and back to home. The rain had picked up its pace. It looked like a passing shower. But was really relieved to be back home with out too drenched up. Made a cup of tea and with the cup of tea, I stepped out to balcony to have it. Rain did subside. Clouds did pass. It’s brighter now. Sat down on the chair and just gazed out to the horizon. Clouds were shining.
What am I seeing? What is that color-y thing on the horizon?
Oh god ! Yes, it’s a rainbow! Woohoow! It’s a rainbow! It’s been ages since I saw one. I really didn’t remember when was the last time I saw one!
Ah so beautiful. More so to see it at full glory standing so tall. Its as if it grew with the trees but just went on growing. I could just see an arc of the bow. Not the entire bow. But it still was so beautiful to look at.
It did woke the kid in me. Made me so joyous. And it did make my tea taste so yumm.. so perfect…
I called up friends and asked them to look out and see the rainbow. I did ask them whether they remember the last time they saw one. None remembered.
I called up my mother. She said it’s not been raining there. So no rainbow! But she too didn’t remember when was the last time she saw one.
I was still admiring the glory of the arc, of all that color in front of me. Painted indeed by the hands of god and he didn’t have to leave a signature behind to prove it was his job.
That’s when I remembered about my neighbor. I left my tea cup and ran down to her apartment. Banged her door as a possessed soul. As soon as she opened the door, I held her hand shouting “Rainbow, rainbow” and took her to the window to have her see it.
The windows have been shut since long. She has been uncomfortable with too much light.
I could feel her hands tremble. May be I am hurting them by holding it so hard. It’s all coz of my excitement. I left her hand telling her not to go anywhere and forced opened the window shouting “see Rainbow ...look there Rainbow.. It’s a Rainbow... Can you see the rainbow?”
The sudden brightness through the window did make her feel little uncomfortable but it was evident that I did successfully pass some of my enthusiasm with the rainbow to her. She too seemed eager. She capped her eyes with her hand and looked at the direction I was pointing.
She said “Ya.. Rainbow. Big it is.. Nice”
She kept staring at it. I too stood there with her to admire it.
Then she said .. “I don’t remember when was the last time I saw one”...
I was surprised to hear her say that without me asking the question.
Hiding my surprise, I said “Yea, me too”
We stood there silently admiring the beauty till it disappeared. Like all good things, the arc in front of us vanished soon.
She held my hand again. I could again feel it trembling.
She said “Thank you. It was really beautiful”. Her face was glowing. It looked so excited. I thought, I or rather the Rainbow did really paint the colors back on her otherwise whiteboard mind. She looked so contented and happy.
I couldn’t say a thing. I just stood there looking at her face which has turned so bright. More or like the rainbow.
I helped her sit down on the sofa. She did offer me a tea. But I refused saying “I just drank my tea”
I really didn’t want to give her the trouble of making one for me.
She thanked me again. Again she told that she really don’t remember when was the last time she saw one.
I felt nice. Felt contended and happy about helping her see the rainbow.
I told her bye and came up stairs to my apartment. The tea had gone cold. But it didn’t matter. I had my cup of tea already. It wasn’t the half cup of tea I drank by my balcony. I think it was the moment when her trembling hands held me and with the joyful face she said ‘thank you’. That was indeed my cup of tea.
I haven’t put much effort to bring the smile on her 70 something year old face. But it was just too amazing to see the tiny arc of rainbow bringing all that color back on her pale face.
It was really overwhelming to thank the painter who put up such a good show with the rainbow. I am sure the old lady would have done it on my behalf too.
It was indeed a brilliant Rainbow!!!!!
:)
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
My Onam!
Its Onam today. Tomorrow being the “Thiruvonam”, I will have to be 8 year old to really know what it means or a 70 year old. They both are same.
Things were different when we were kids. New clothes, putting “atham” (the floral decoration) in the courtyard, helping cousins at swing. Having the feast together. It was awesome.
Things changed so drastically.
I woke up this afternoon (my morning) with Onam in mind. Thought I would go have a good meal somewhere and celebrate it that way. Roads took to me the same “okiedokie” restaurant. The food they served would be yumm only when you come back from jail with real fire in the belly. It was cold too.
I whelmed up looking at it. Mom’s face flashed in mind. She must be really sad that I and Papa are not there. Good that at least bro is with her. Papa got used to missing these festivals.
Onam does have an intriguing color to it. It makes everyone around feel happy about it. It stopped being that way these days.
My Onam now is a handful of memories. Not so fancy, but so subtle and grounded.
Onam for many is
One which will leave yummy taste in mouth.
One which will leave jubilance in the soul
One which will leave sweet memories tingled
One which will leave you wanting for more
It’s all gone now. I am sure there will more in the store. Good old days in a brand new way.
Just waiting for the day when the Onam flowers in my mind will again be colorful and fragrant.
Happy Onam folks. Those who are celebrating it to the glory of it, remember how lucky you are! Celebrate it for me too. For people like me who are stranded alone, Happy Onam folks. You aint alone anymore, me too.
Happy Onam!
Things were different when we were kids. New clothes, putting “atham” (the floral decoration) in the courtyard, helping cousins at swing. Having the feast together. It was awesome.
Things changed so drastically.
I woke up this afternoon (my morning) with Onam in mind. Thought I would go have a good meal somewhere and celebrate it that way. Roads took to me the same “okiedokie” restaurant. The food they served would be yumm only when you come back from jail with real fire in the belly. It was cold too.
I whelmed up looking at it. Mom’s face flashed in mind. She must be really sad that I and Papa are not there. Good that at least bro is with her. Papa got used to missing these festivals.
Onam does have an intriguing color to it. It makes everyone around feel happy about it. It stopped being that way these days.
My Onam now is a handful of memories. Not so fancy, but so subtle and grounded.
Onam for many is
One which will leave yummy taste in mouth.
One which will leave jubilance in the soul
One which will leave sweet memories tingled
One which will leave you wanting for more
It’s all gone now. I am sure there will more in the store. Good old days in a brand new way.
Just waiting for the day when the Onam flowers in my mind will again be colorful and fragrant.
Happy Onam folks. Those who are celebrating it to the glory of it, remember how lucky you are! Celebrate it for me too. For people like me who are stranded alone, Happy Onam folks. You aint alone anymore, me too.
Happy Onam!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Instigator's instigation?
It has always been fun to be chatting with her. After the regular drill, she asked, "how come no blogs these days? "
I said, "Well, been busy"
She said "Why don't you write me a poem?"
And the "sweet" ME agreed!
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Won’t you be the moon to my clouded sky?
Won’t you put some stars to make it bright?
I haven’t let the color to fade which you painted
I haven’t let go the song you left in my mind
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Don't you know I tried to impede those feelings,
Don't you know I tried to keep it smiling;
How more will you act that you don’t see it
How more will you act that you don’t feel it
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Shakespeare in me got instigated when the Brutus in her got instigated!
PS: Wrote this for a friend’s sister, now he (my friend) is pretty much sure that he would kill me.
Forgot to mention, evil-she sent the poem to her brother.
I said, "Well, been busy"
She said "Why don't you write me a poem?"
And the "sweet" ME agreed!
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Won’t you be the moon to my clouded sky?
Won’t you put some stars to make it bright?
I haven’t let the color to fade which you painted
I haven’t let go the song you left in my mind
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Don't you know I tried to impede those feelings,
Don't you know I tried to keep it smiling;
How more will you act that you don’t see it
How more will you act that you don’t feel it
How would I be with out you, you cute little thing;
How would I pester you, you sweet little thing;
How would I go shallow, with the feeling so deep?
How would I not sorrow this teasing distance!
Shakespeare in me got instigated when the Brutus in her got instigated!
PS: Wrote this for a friend’s sister, now he (my friend) is pretty much sure that he would kill me.
Forgot to mention, evil-she sent the poem to her brother.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Google got me Invisible!
Thank you Google. You made me invisible today. I know you are asking me to dream. Of course there were plenty of other messengers who told us that we could be invisible.
The thought of going invisible in real made me drool.
Ah! Wow!
Hmm. I think, there should be a list! Okay, here it goes for my Mr. India mode.
My list to do things
1. Walk into my boss’s cube to see my appraisal card.
2. Walk right into the next door gorgeous’s room and edit her boy friend’s number with mine in her mobile.
3. Travel around the world for free!
4. Go to Mallika Sherawat’s home and walk into shower with her. ;) And leave messages on her mirror saying ‘Wow, they are real!”
5. Blind fold every Australian cricketer when they are batting against India. May be I will allow Mcgrath to bat. Oh! He retired. Too bad for Aussies! :P
6. Walk into RBI’s currency printing section, see how they really do it and put my signature on the currency instead of the governor’s.
7. Walk into Parliament to see what the fuss is really about.
8. Go to Mayawati’s room and leave a message on her mirror saying “Oh hell with the people, go put more statues”
9. Walk into all the pubs, eat and drink for free.
10. Share stage with Obama and tickle him when he is addressing the press
11. Travel to space in the next space mission
12. Walk into White house and leave a note saying "Give me Las Vegas, I will give you Afghanistan"
13. Walk into the ATM with Mr. Ambani and watch when he is putting the ATM pin. Come back to the ATM with his card and withdraw good amount of money and then invest them all in buying reliance shares. See I am giving his money back to him.
However Ambani’s going to the atm will be the picture of the century. Nothing more can show the economy slow down in a frame that good.
14. Share the stage with Cold Play when they performing live!
Oh Google! What you did to me. I am sure someday we will go invisible.
Of course we will. ;)
The thought of going invisible in real made me drool.
Ah! Wow!
Hmm. I think, there should be a list! Okay, here it goes for my Mr. India mode.
My list to do things
1. Walk into my boss’s cube to see my appraisal card.
2. Walk right into the next door gorgeous’s room and edit her boy friend’s number with mine in her mobile.
3. Travel around the world for free!
4. Go to Mallika Sherawat’s home and walk into shower with her. ;) And leave messages on her mirror saying ‘Wow, they are real!”
5. Blind fold every Australian cricketer when they are batting against India. May be I will allow Mcgrath to bat. Oh! He retired. Too bad for Aussies! :P
6. Walk into RBI’s currency printing section, see how they really do it and put my signature on the currency instead of the governor’s.
7. Walk into Parliament to see what the fuss is really about.
8. Go to Mayawati’s room and leave a message on her mirror saying “Oh hell with the people, go put more statues”
9. Walk into all the pubs, eat and drink for free.
10. Share stage with Obama and tickle him when he is addressing the press
11. Travel to space in the next space mission
12. Walk into White house and leave a note saying "Give me Las Vegas, I will give you Afghanistan"
13. Walk into the ATM with Mr. Ambani and watch when he is putting the ATM pin. Come back to the ATM with his card and withdraw good amount of money and then invest them all in buying reliance shares. See I am giving his money back to him.
However Ambani’s going to the atm will be the picture of the century. Nothing more can show the economy slow down in a frame that good.
14. Share the stage with Cold Play when they performing live!
Oh Google! What you did to me. I am sure someday we will go invisible.
Of course we will. ;)
Friday, May 15, 2009
Chotte Saab’s Lesson
Our Chotte Saab didn’t do dinner, she said waiting for the micro wave oven to do its magic on the food which was tired of waiting for me.
Did he sleep? , I showed my concern.
I think he did. He got into bed little early than usual. She said.
She too is concerned.
Did you check whether he is running a temperature or something? I asked her.
She said, he is just fine. Seems to be a little dull.
Dull? For?
She said, I asked him what happened. He didn’t say anything. He said he is not hungry. And is sleepy.
Hmm. Let me go look. I grabbed myself up from the dining place and went to his room.
I went to his bed. Seems like he is sleeping. Adjusted the blanket.
Was walking back when I heard, “Papa”. I turned around, surprised.
“Chotte Saab you are awake? “ I asked.
He was quite. I switched the night lamp on.
Oh, yea he is wide awake!
What happened Chotte Saab? I asked while trying to sit by his side.
He cuddled me. And was quite.
Looks like he really is upset with something. What happened beta? Amma scolded you?
He shook his head. So it’s not the problem.
Fought with Denny again? I asked. Denny is his classmate. They have been fighting ever since Denny came to 5A class.
The same shake again. So it’s not the case.
Now I am worried.
I hugged him. Keeping him cuddled, I picked him up from the bed.
Saab is awake?? She came asking.
I nodded my head. He was trying to fool you. He is wide awake I said.
She came stood by me. Asking me with hands what happened.
I asked him again. “Tell me what happened beta”.
He said, “Tommy is going to Delhi”.
Tommy who? I asked, and I looked him and then his mom.
Why is Tommy going beta? She asked. So she knew who Tommy is.
His best friend Tommy, Mr. Mukesh’s son from the next building.. you know that kid.
Hmm may be. May be I know him. Ya I know him. I know his dad too.
So what happened to you Chotte Saab? Why are you upset for it? She asked again.
I didn’t know what to ask. I kept quite. He pushed himself up from my hug.
He said “why he has to go? Can I ask him to stay with us?”
I smiled. She smiled too.
He said almost sobbing "He is my best friend”
“Oh. Beta. Don’t be so sad. He will still be your friend even when he is in Delhi.” She said.
I didn’t know what to tell him. But I should say something.
So I told him that “Beta, you will get other good great friends.” Don’t worry.
Before I could finish she gave me a blank look.
I know how stupid was I to say that. I am no good at this.
Beta, don’t think about it now. You sleep now. Tomorrow morning we will talk about this Ok?
She bent and kissed his forehead. I put him to bed. I told him “I know that Chotte Saab is stronger than this. Chotte Saab should act strong. There are people who can’t be with us for ever. We will have to let them go”
She looked at me again as if she was trying to tell me not to give lectures now.
I think she is right. He just needs empathy now. "Beta, You sleep now. Morning we will talk ok? "
He said OK.
Sleep beta, Chotte Saab sleep. There will be a nice dream. You will be playing with lots of friends in the dream. Try sleeping now. She was trying to console and make him sleep. She was running her fingers through his hair. He likes it. He liked it ever since he was a baby. He stopped crying when someone ran their fingers through his hairs.
He closed his eyes.
She looked at me, signaling me to go and have my dinner. I nodded.
OK beta. Love you .Good night beta.
Good Night papa.
I got up and started walking towards the dining table. She was sitting by his side.
She will come after he sleeps.
I was thinking about him. I could see myself in him. I was like him. Used to get attached to people,things way too much and very easily. It used to make my life miserable when I had to let someone go or let something go.
But life did taught me some good lessons. Learned that its very important to let go things. More important is to let them go “gracefully”.
The lessons I learned made me give the lecture I was trying to give Chotta Sab in there minutes ago.
I know that Chotta Saab will also learn his lessons. But I am hoping that he wont have to go through real tough lessons. I know he is a smart kid. He will learn his lessons fast.
Well, the dosa had again gone cold on me.
Many faces, many things which had got me teary sometime ago barged into my mind.
I think it will be tough for me to sleep with a heavy heart. Now I too want her to come and put me to bed.
At times I am more kid than Chotte Saab!
Looks like Chotte Saab slept. I can hear her from kitchen.
She came in. Switched off the light. “Poora tum pe gaya hai”, she said while getting into bed.
She knows me well than myself.
I went to her side of bed. Cuddled with her.
She asked, “Bade Saab ko kya huvaa?”
I didn’t say anything.
“Ohh ho! Bade Saab tho chotte Saab se chotte hain”
She held me tight. Started running her fingers through my hairs to forehead. She knows that I love it.
I get pleasant sleep when she puts me to sleep like that.
She is our strength.
I kept sinking into the sleep. I still can faintly feel her fingers across my forehead.
Did he sleep? , I showed my concern.
I think he did. He got into bed little early than usual. She said.
She too is concerned.
Did you check whether he is running a temperature or something? I asked her.
She said, he is just fine. Seems to be a little dull.
Dull? For?
She said, I asked him what happened. He didn’t say anything. He said he is not hungry. And is sleepy.
Hmm. Let me go look. I grabbed myself up from the dining place and went to his room.
I went to his bed. Seems like he is sleeping. Adjusted the blanket.
Was walking back when I heard, “Papa”. I turned around, surprised.
“Chotte Saab you are awake? “ I asked.
He was quite. I switched the night lamp on.
Oh, yea he is wide awake!
What happened Chotte Saab? I asked while trying to sit by his side.
He cuddled me. And was quite.
Looks like he really is upset with something. What happened beta? Amma scolded you?
He shook his head. So it’s not the problem.
Fought with Denny again? I asked. Denny is his classmate. They have been fighting ever since Denny came to 5A class.
The same shake again. So it’s not the case.
Now I am worried.
I hugged him. Keeping him cuddled, I picked him up from the bed.
Saab is awake?? She came asking.
I nodded my head. He was trying to fool you. He is wide awake I said.
She came stood by me. Asking me with hands what happened.
I asked him again. “Tell me what happened beta”.
He said, “Tommy is going to Delhi”.
Tommy who? I asked, and I looked him and then his mom.
Why is Tommy going beta? She asked. So she knew who Tommy is.
His best friend Tommy, Mr. Mukesh’s son from the next building.. you know that kid.
Hmm may be. May be I know him. Ya I know him. I know his dad too.
So what happened to you Chotte Saab? Why are you upset for it? She asked again.
I didn’t know what to ask. I kept quite. He pushed himself up from my hug.
He said “why he has to go? Can I ask him to stay with us?”
I smiled. She smiled too.
He said almost sobbing "He is my best friend”
“Oh. Beta. Don’t be so sad. He will still be your friend even when he is in Delhi.” She said.
I didn’t know what to tell him. But I should say something.
So I told him that “Beta, you will get other good great friends.” Don’t worry.
Before I could finish she gave me a blank look.
I know how stupid was I to say that. I am no good at this.
Beta, don’t think about it now. You sleep now. Tomorrow morning we will talk about this Ok?
She bent and kissed his forehead. I put him to bed. I told him “I know that Chotte Saab is stronger than this. Chotte Saab should act strong. There are people who can’t be with us for ever. We will have to let them go”
She looked at me again as if she was trying to tell me not to give lectures now.
I think she is right. He just needs empathy now. "Beta, You sleep now. Morning we will talk ok? "
He said OK.
Sleep beta, Chotte Saab sleep. There will be a nice dream. You will be playing with lots of friends in the dream. Try sleeping now. She was trying to console and make him sleep. She was running her fingers through his hair. He likes it. He liked it ever since he was a baby. He stopped crying when someone ran their fingers through his hairs.
He closed his eyes.
She looked at me, signaling me to go and have my dinner. I nodded.
OK beta. Love you .Good night beta.
Good Night papa.
I got up and started walking towards the dining table. She was sitting by his side.
She will come after he sleeps.
I was thinking about him. I could see myself in him. I was like him. Used to get attached to people,things way too much and very easily. It used to make my life miserable when I had to let someone go or let something go.
But life did taught me some good lessons. Learned that its very important to let go things. More important is to let them go “gracefully”.
The lessons I learned made me give the lecture I was trying to give Chotta Sab in there minutes ago.
I know that Chotta Saab will also learn his lessons. But I am hoping that he wont have to go through real tough lessons. I know he is a smart kid. He will learn his lessons fast.
Well, the dosa had again gone cold on me.
Many faces, many things which had got me teary sometime ago barged into my mind.
I think it will be tough for me to sleep with a heavy heart. Now I too want her to come and put me to bed.
At times I am more kid than Chotte Saab!
Looks like Chotte Saab slept. I can hear her from kitchen.
She came in. Switched off the light. “Poora tum pe gaya hai”, she said while getting into bed.
She knows me well than myself.
I went to her side of bed. Cuddled with her.
She asked, “Bade Saab ko kya huvaa?”
I didn’t say anything.
“Ohh ho! Bade Saab tho chotte Saab se chotte hain”
She held me tight. Started running her fingers through my hairs to forehead. She knows that I love it.
I get pleasant sleep when she puts me to sleep like that.
She is our strength.
I kept sinking into the sleep. I still can faintly feel her fingers across my forehead.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Just a dream
saw you in a painting, you looked great
since you left the painting, its just pale
fill the color, i asked you. wont u go back to the picture?
You said, "i am the picture.i am the color.
i am the nature and all its flavor”
I asked,
“pictured you naked, i picture you in brace.
but when i see you, you are in my page
i draw you, i write. i sing for you.
Is this right, when will I cure?”
You said,
“I am the dream, I am the light
I am the memory of your plight”
I asked,
“ but you turn me on. makes me wild.
You make me sing and write
i know it for sure,this so right
I see in your eyes stars so bright”
You said,
“I am a lie inside out, which
makes you bet all that's worth”
I asked,
“those caring hands, soothing touch
the fragrant breath, with eyes so lit
it aint true that you not true
I see god in all that’s you”
You smiled and said,
“Now that you made me god,
Now for the favor I ask, just nod”
I interrupted,
“don’t let me go or stop
I like it here, with you”
You said,
“Its 9 o clock, better get up
You can’t be sleeping all day long”
So just another dream, I woke up
And got on with my day.
:)
since you left the painting, its just pale
fill the color, i asked you. wont u go back to the picture?
You said, "i am the picture.i am the color.
i am the nature and all its flavor”
I asked,
“pictured you naked, i picture you in brace.
but when i see you, you are in my page
i draw you, i write. i sing for you.
Is this right, when will I cure?”
You said,
“I am the dream, I am the light
I am the memory of your plight”
I asked,
“ but you turn me on. makes me wild.
You make me sing and write
i know it for sure,this so right
I see in your eyes stars so bright”
You said,
“I am a lie inside out, which
makes you bet all that's worth”
I asked,
“those caring hands, soothing touch
the fragrant breath, with eyes so lit
it aint true that you not true
I see god in all that’s you”
You smiled and said,
“Now that you made me god,
Now for the favor I ask, just nod”
I interrupted,
“don’t let me go or stop
I like it here, with you”
You said,
“Its 9 o clock, better get up
You can’t be sleeping all day long”
So just another dream, I woke up
And got on with my day.
:)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
I, the news!
I always feel proud being a Woman. I know, I believe that we have a better, greater role to play in this world. I think we run it. Right?
Ha ha, Atul and Saurav thinks its they who run, keep it running.
We do fight over it. Many a times. But its fun with them. I know Atul since we were kids. He is Priya aunt’s one and only son. We grew up together. We fought together. We studied together. We made friends together and enemies too. Like that gal from grade A, I hate her. So does Atul. Saurav is Atul’s cousin. He came to Bangalore when his dad got transferred. His dad makes planes. Atul and Saurav too want to make planes when they grow up.
I too know what I want to be. I want to be a news anchor. Like Barkha Dutta. She is too good. She is my role model. Ever since I started admiring her, I started to look news in everything around me. That’s how I got to know that mumma, pappa are fighting every night with out letting me and Munnu know. I know that Giri bhaiya and Megha aunty are in love. And I know that the Arun uncle’s hairs are not real. It’s an expensive wig he bought from Singapore. And I know he drinks and fights with his brother every day. See, all I have to do is grow up faster and join the TV and be a news anchor.
Munnu is my brother. He is in class 6. He is so demanding. He has my room now. I sleep in grand ma’s room these days. Mumma says she is 70 yrs old. But she looks older. May be 100yrs old. I heard Megha aunty telling Giri bhaiya that it’s not decent of him to ask her age. And they both giggled.
But I keep asking grandma about her age. She tells me that she is 100yrs. She never minded when I ask her age. She is really sweet. But she takes Munnu’s side at times. Like when munnu told he needs a room. She supported him saying that I can stay in her room. Papa, mumma supported munnu. Mumma told me that since I am the elder, I should adjust. Munnu always get away like that. Since he is the younger. At times I feel jealous. But then I will think, after all he is my brother.
He too gets along with Atul and Saurav. But fights a lot with his Saurav’s sister Susha. They too are classmates like Atul, Saurav and me.
Ok that’s about the gang.
I am really looking forward to the evening. We are invited to a party. We mean our gang. Its Saurav’s cousin brother’s birthday party. I have heard from Saurav that his cousin is really rich. He is really handsome. Atul keeps teasing me with him. But Saurav tells that he already has a girl friend.
Well, I am dressing up. Papa got me new jean during Diwali. I loved it. Atul was telling me the other day that it makes me look like a babe.
Well so be it. I wanna be look at best. After all it’s my first crush’s birthday. Let me look like a babe. I cropped my hair this summer. To match my looks with my idol.
Hema madam even addresses me as “Barkha” when she is taking attendance. She knows that I will be the next Barkha. I respect her so much, not just coz she calls me Barkha, otherwise also. I swear.
Ok, so my babe jean and which top? Well, the white cotton shirt makes me look like an executive. I like that look. I think news reporter should look sharp. Like Barkha.
But today, is a special day. A very special evening. Gotta impress people around. Wanna make Atul sound true when he tells “You are looking babe”.
I think I will wear the pink sleeve less t shirt. It’s the one Kareena wore in that hit song. I know it looks good on me too.
Grandma has issues when I wear jean or t shirts. I tell her, “Granny, generation gap you see. This is 21st Century granny”
She keeps murmuring in disapproval. But guess what? Who cares?
I am really looking forward to the evening you see!
So, I am in pink sleeveless t shirt, my favorite blue jean and the black shoes. Mumma is yet to allow me to wear heels. She will, once I am in college.
Only condition papa had is we should be back home before 7 o clock. Exams are close by. We will sure come back soon.
Atul, Saurav as promised came on time to pick me and Munnu. We reached the party hall. It’s by CMH road, Indira nagar. It’s a great place to hang out. Many of my classmates come to CMH road before heading home. Guys even smoke here. It’s news exclusive to me. Atul leaked it to me.
Well we were waiting outside for Saurav’s sister to join us. She is coming with their uncle. I saw a fat guy on the other side of the road. No shirt, only in a lungi; must be his idea of beating the summer. He is now crossing the road to get to our side. He is looking at us. He is speaking something. We can hardly hear. We burst into laugh when Saurav told, he looks a bear.
Ha ha, he really looks like one.
What is he screaming? Bear is having a bad day.
He closed on us. He is swearing. Real bad words. Screaming about something. It sounded vaguely like “sanskruti”, “culture” or something.
Atul sensed something, he pulled me behind him. The bear hit Atul hard. Atul fell on the road. We shouted for help. Then he turned on me. Asking what is that I am wearing?
He hit me. Real hard that my lips started bleeding. A painful sound barged into my left ear and stayed there. Its paining real bad. So many people are standing and staring. I am on the ground. Crying as loud as possible for help.
They-the void crowd- stood there. Staring. Bear attacked munnu also. I can’t see Saurav any where. Bear turned to me again. Started kicking me and abusing me real bad.
None came to help us so far.
Suddenly Saurav came with some people. His uncle, cousin are also there. His cousin just stood there, doing nothing. He too looked like a void, as if he belonged in the void crowd-the people. His uncle seems to be shouting back at the Bear. They are shouting at each other. I can only hear that loud buzz sound which filled my ear couple of minutes back. It’s so painful.
I see they-the void crowd- clicking snaps. The Bear turned around. Crossed the road in hurry and moved away. His mission accomplished???
Uncle held me together. Took me home. Its chaos at home already. Everyone shouting at each other. My cry turned voice less.
I too attained the state –void. But the buzz failed to faint.
Who was the bear? Of course, an animal.
What did I do? What was my mistake? It was Saurav who was making fun of the guy. Calling him bear.
But he sure was a bear who attacks people. I will have to correct that to “who attacks women”
Atul and Saurav won today. After all it’s them who were sure that it’s Men’s world.
Hold on, it’s a bear's world I guess. Then we can call this world a Jungle. Here I can’t be a babe. It’s a sin. They will punish. The bear. Many are out there in the Jungle.
Ya, we live in a forest.
It was all over the local paper the next day. I am news now.
“Moral police attacks another woman”
Moral police? Who are they? The question remained in my mind along with the buzz sound in the ear.
I think I forgot to introduce myself. I am Pooja, the aspiring news anchor who became news this early. I am the victim of bear attack. I am the victim of moral police's attack.
I will remain news for long. The buzz in my ear will remind me of the fact that its after all a Bear's World.
Ha ha, Atul and Saurav thinks its they who run, keep it running.
We do fight over it. Many a times. But its fun with them. I know Atul since we were kids. He is Priya aunt’s one and only son. We grew up together. We fought together. We studied together. We made friends together and enemies too. Like that gal from grade A, I hate her. So does Atul. Saurav is Atul’s cousin. He came to Bangalore when his dad got transferred. His dad makes planes. Atul and Saurav too want to make planes when they grow up.
I too know what I want to be. I want to be a news anchor. Like Barkha Dutta. She is too good. She is my role model. Ever since I started admiring her, I started to look news in everything around me. That’s how I got to know that mumma, pappa are fighting every night with out letting me and Munnu know. I know that Giri bhaiya and Megha aunty are in love. And I know that the Arun uncle’s hairs are not real. It’s an expensive wig he bought from Singapore. And I know he drinks and fights with his brother every day. See, all I have to do is grow up faster and join the TV and be a news anchor.
Munnu is my brother. He is in class 6. He is so demanding. He has my room now. I sleep in grand ma’s room these days. Mumma says she is 70 yrs old. But she looks older. May be 100yrs old. I heard Megha aunty telling Giri bhaiya that it’s not decent of him to ask her age. And they both giggled.
But I keep asking grandma about her age. She tells me that she is 100yrs. She never minded when I ask her age. She is really sweet. But she takes Munnu’s side at times. Like when munnu told he needs a room. She supported him saying that I can stay in her room. Papa, mumma supported munnu. Mumma told me that since I am the elder, I should adjust. Munnu always get away like that. Since he is the younger. At times I feel jealous. But then I will think, after all he is my brother.
He too gets along with Atul and Saurav. But fights a lot with his Saurav’s sister Susha. They too are classmates like Atul, Saurav and me.
Ok that’s about the gang.
I am really looking forward to the evening. We are invited to a party. We mean our gang. Its Saurav’s cousin brother’s birthday party. I have heard from Saurav that his cousin is really rich. He is really handsome. Atul keeps teasing me with him. But Saurav tells that he already has a girl friend.
Well, I am dressing up. Papa got me new jean during Diwali. I loved it. Atul was telling me the other day that it makes me look like a babe.
Well so be it. I wanna be look at best. After all it’s my first crush’s birthday. Let me look like a babe. I cropped my hair this summer. To match my looks with my idol.
Hema madam even addresses me as “Barkha” when she is taking attendance. She knows that I will be the next Barkha. I respect her so much, not just coz she calls me Barkha, otherwise also. I swear.
Ok, so my babe jean and which top? Well, the white cotton shirt makes me look like an executive. I like that look. I think news reporter should look sharp. Like Barkha.
But today, is a special day. A very special evening. Gotta impress people around. Wanna make Atul sound true when he tells “You are looking babe”.
I think I will wear the pink sleeve less t shirt. It’s the one Kareena wore in that hit song. I know it looks good on me too.
Grandma has issues when I wear jean or t shirts. I tell her, “Granny, generation gap you see. This is 21st Century granny”
She keeps murmuring in disapproval. But guess what? Who cares?
I am really looking forward to the evening you see!
So, I am in pink sleeveless t shirt, my favorite blue jean and the black shoes. Mumma is yet to allow me to wear heels. She will, once I am in college.
Only condition papa had is we should be back home before 7 o clock. Exams are close by. We will sure come back soon.
Atul, Saurav as promised came on time to pick me and Munnu. We reached the party hall. It’s by CMH road, Indira nagar. It’s a great place to hang out. Many of my classmates come to CMH road before heading home. Guys even smoke here. It’s news exclusive to me. Atul leaked it to me.
Well we were waiting outside for Saurav’s sister to join us. She is coming with their uncle. I saw a fat guy on the other side of the road. No shirt, only in a lungi; must be his idea of beating the summer. He is now crossing the road to get to our side. He is looking at us. He is speaking something. We can hardly hear. We burst into laugh when Saurav told, he looks a bear.
Ha ha, he really looks like one.
What is he screaming? Bear is having a bad day.
He closed on us. He is swearing. Real bad words. Screaming about something. It sounded vaguely like “sanskruti”, “culture” or something.
Atul sensed something, he pulled me behind him. The bear hit Atul hard. Atul fell on the road. We shouted for help. Then he turned on me. Asking what is that I am wearing?
He hit me. Real hard that my lips started bleeding. A painful sound barged into my left ear and stayed there. Its paining real bad. So many people are standing and staring. I am on the ground. Crying as loud as possible for help.
They-the void crowd- stood there. Staring. Bear attacked munnu also. I can’t see Saurav any where. Bear turned to me again. Started kicking me and abusing me real bad.
None came to help us so far.
Suddenly Saurav came with some people. His uncle, cousin are also there. His cousin just stood there, doing nothing. He too looked like a void, as if he belonged in the void crowd-the people. His uncle seems to be shouting back at the Bear. They are shouting at each other. I can only hear that loud buzz sound which filled my ear couple of minutes back. It’s so painful.
I see they-the void crowd- clicking snaps. The Bear turned around. Crossed the road in hurry and moved away. His mission accomplished???
Uncle held me together. Took me home. Its chaos at home already. Everyone shouting at each other. My cry turned voice less.
I too attained the state –void. But the buzz failed to faint.
Who was the bear? Of course, an animal.
What did I do? What was my mistake? It was Saurav who was making fun of the guy. Calling him bear.
But he sure was a bear who attacks people. I will have to correct that to “who attacks women”
Atul and Saurav won today. After all it’s them who were sure that it’s Men’s world.
Hold on, it’s a bear's world I guess. Then we can call this world a Jungle. Here I can’t be a babe. It’s a sin. They will punish. The bear. Many are out there in the Jungle.
Ya, we live in a forest.
It was all over the local paper the next day. I am news now.
“Moral police attacks another woman”
Moral police? Who are they? The question remained in my mind along with the buzz sound in the ear.
I think I forgot to introduce myself. I am Pooja, the aspiring news anchor who became news this early. I am the victim of bear attack. I am the victim of moral police's attack.
I will remain news for long. The buzz in my ear will remind me of the fact that its after all a Bear's World.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Her Smile was His Big Plan
It was really soon she started to talk to me that I didn't realize that we saw each other just a minute ago.
She was wearing black tea shirt.It suits her color.Created a contrast. A long sparkling bindi, it kinda made everything on that pretty face look sharp.
I don't mind talking to all day long.
“how is the recession's effect on your company? “
What? I was just gazing in those deep eyes. They are so bright. I can see a trillion stars.
“recession looks OK? “
I am sorry? What’s that? I asked again. May be she understood that I am just lost in her pretty eyes.
I couldn't take my eyes away from hers.
But she could. She was quick to look away outside through the window.
That kinda was like throwing water on my face, to wake me up. I woke up.I am wide awake now.
You were asking? i asked politely.
Ya, Recession?
oh yes! its there! everywhere.They are laying off people. The management.
Oh really? Your company too? Which company you work for?
ya in mine too. I work for this company, showed my ID card to her.
She held the card. Looked at it longer than a normal acknowledging look. I was little surprised.
I slowly panned my gaze to her seat and quickly regained my position. She is wearing a black pants, black suits her. I think its the best color on her.
How can I decide? The only color I ever saw her in is black.
How is that i never met her before? Does she take this bus everyday? I should ask.
“so where do you live? “
what? I didnt hear that clearly. I am not thinking straight.
Where are you getting down? she asked again.
wow! she asked first!
ECC Road, Whitefield! I told her with all the excitement.
I know, it’s my turn now. and you? I asked in the same breath.
“hope farms”. She said.
Crap! so she will get down before me. At least, I will get to talk to her till then. I wanted to tell driver to drive as slow as possible.May be if he wants he can even take a break. Let him just park the bus somewhere.
I wish!
She’s so bright. It should have been a great day to her at office today. How can a person be so bright and shining during this late hour? How great she will be on a sunshine morning. God, will you let see that too?
I am not drooling yet. but almost there.
Oh God, I can’t take my gaze away.Well its better to use the word gaze to stare. Stare appears as obvious sleazy.
Drop dead gorgeous to my standards. Ya, way outta my league? But who cares? We all believe in lottery, don’t we?
I can’t be staring at her, oops i mean gazing at her, without talking to her something.
“so how was your day? “ I asked.
“It was hmm, (she smiled, trillion dollar smile, the best moment so far)…well… OK. As expected. No miracles. She said with shaking her head a little and turning her head to the opposite side window. “
Damn it! what did I do? Could I not ask her something else? What will make her turn this side again?
so how was your day? she turned around and asked!
Is this my lucky day? oh god! you so merciful.
“my day? its great.” (read never been this great).
Sensing her stop is just another couple of minutes away I asked, “do you take this bus everyday? “
now my gaze turned to a curious introspection.
“Have been mostly.”She said.
Lady I need a definite answer. I have to do some rescheduling to my office timings to match yours. Do I have to tell you all this? Cant you just read my mind?
Read my mind.Read my mind. God! be merciful again.
“This bus is very comfortable. the timing too. may be I will try catching this bus now on everyday. “
“Ya. do that “ she said.
So she liked my company? that means she did right? whom to ask now?
"Ya. definitely. Will try to catch up with you in the bus every evening. Will say hi, hello you see".
Oh god! how could I do that? I think I just couldn't control.
"Not sure". She said. May be we will meet somewhere else like this unexpected.
Unexpected? Lady, God has plans for everyone of us. This was his master plan for me. Can she read this too from my mind?
She looked again to the other side. Started gearing up for her decent.
It’s almost her stop.
She is not turning around again. God, I cant take this. I wanna see those eyes.
Gotta ask her something. Make her talk, that way she will turn around, and I can jump back in that deep eyes again. And hit the trance mode again.
hmmmmm, What to ask???? hmm, mmm, (hoping my humming will make her turn around
again)
“so how is recession thing hitting your company? anything serious?” I asked.
she didn't hear?
she didn't turn yet. or spoke anything.
I meant the recession, any effect on your company or projects?
she turned! oh,thank you god! time to jump back in.
"hmm, ya. it did affect. my company is a small company
you see."
"many lost job".
"our project was the last one affected so far."The number of stars in her eyes kinda dropped sizable.
She looked down for a second. Looked back at me.
"its my last day at job today.Yesterday my manager told me that I have been laid off. Management cant support this many people it seems.
Well they gave me just a day to pack up. Will have to look for another job now. As its
recession, you know right, its so tough now"
I am sorry. whats that? I couldn't believe my ears.
I think I didn't hear correctly.how can someone lay her off?
Wont I get to see her again?
She got up. Its her stop.
“nice meeting you”, she said.
“ What?” I still cant hear things clear.
so many things in my mind.
she smiled. ah! those stars. they are back again.
Its clearer now. But she is moving away.
Bus stopped. She got down.
I waved at her. bye.
She waved back.Still smiling. That killer smile. On such a bad day.
I couldnt take my eyes off her. She is walking. Bus is catching up speed. I can’t see her anymorewhat was she saying? It can’t be true!
Come on!
She was so bright
How could she be so strong? Who was she?
I didnt even ask her name.
Get up!!! Request the driver to stop the bus. And Walk her home.
I didnt do anything.Sat there on the seat.
Glued. Couldnt move a bit.
Her bright eyes. Her shining face is still in my eyes.
How will she look on any other day? she must be a goddess on other days.
She was one today too. On one such a bad day she looked so graceful.
I looked out the window.A board by the road said "ECC ROAD"
Bus is moving again.
Will she get a job again near my office? Will I get to see her in this bus again? God, what a miss this long.
Started feeling terrible for her.
But I hope that what you have for her is something great too. A better job. A better boss.
But get her the job near my office only please. I will take this bus everyday.
I am hoping to see her again very soon. I wanna know her name too. You have to give me one more chance to her too.
With a job.
Last Stop!! Conductor screamed.
What?? Is he drunk? how can that be? my stop is much
before last stop.
I looked out with disbelief. Some place.
Pulled myself up in a whisker,hurried up to the driver and
asked, "Sir, ECC Road ? "
"Were you been sleeping??? It was two stops behind. Get down here, cross the road, take any bus plying on the opposite side. "
“Oh! I am sorry Sir. I dint realize.”
May be he is right. I must have been sleeping. And all that happened was just a dream.
I got down, crossed the road, hopped on to the first bus
plying to ECC Road. Got home safe.
But many things changed now.
How can people be so strong. This strong?
God this was your master plan for me? why you do this to me?
While trying to open the gate to home,my ID card fell down from my hand. Looking at it being there on the floor, jitter ed me.
Within no time I picked it up. Held it firm.
I know God, I appreciate what I have. Now more than ever before.
I understood your master plan now.
Thank you God.
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