Saturday, September 24

Wise sayings...

There wont he even a single person in this world who hasn’t used an adage in his talks.
There wont be a single person who hasn’t heard it from others.
In short, aphorisms are part of human beings as are food and shelter.


Though all of us are aware of such proverbs, its origin is not vivid.
Whoever made them, had the intension to inspire fellow beings or motivate them or guide them. When taken one adage at a time for a situation is advisable. But one thing I have noticed is that some of them contradict with some others.


The best example is ‘Look before you leap’ and ‘one who hesitates is lost’
Both of them, when used separately put forward a cautious warning. But a person knowing both the proverbs can find himself befuddled. So a clever person can conclude ‘Look before you leap but don’t hesitate.’


Another one I came across is ‘The more, the merrier’ and ‘Two’s company, three’s crowd’. What should one infer from these two. Maybe three will be the criteria for ‘more’. We may redefine it as ‘Two’s company, three’s crowd and more than three, the merrier.’ Yeah, now it sounds perfect.


The same confusion arises when it comes to the famous adage, always heard, ‘Life is what you make it’. We can find a contradicting one to it. ‘What will be, will be.’ Now this is something I really get pissed off. Those who believe in destiny go for the second and those who don’t, opt the first one. So sometimes wise sayings becomes conditional. Yeah, I repeat, conditional.


People who come across the famous dictum ‘A silent man is a wise one’ is surely going to get confused when he will hear someone say ‘A man without words is a man without thoughts.’ So a silence is presence of no words. Does that mean a wise man is of no thoughts. Definitely not! Again these phrases are conditional. A silent man is a wise one when he chooses to remain silent from arguments with foolish people. But always remaining silent doesn’t make him wise, but thoughtless.


It’s really fun to see lot of pairs like these. So the only way to escape from all these confusions is, I dare to conjecture, is to follow these idioms individually applying it to the perfect situation you are into. Not blindly following it every time.


Last but not least just check these two epigrams.
‘Action speaks louder than words’
‘The pen is mightier than the sword’
Confused? There are more, many more.

Thursday, September 22

Love...

Love


One of the complicated things in this world, yet the most sought thing. Nobody would actually prefer to define that labyrinthine mesh, but only to love and be loved.


What is love? I don’t think anyone in this world can give a widely accepted answer for that. It’s defined in a numerous way.


Where is love? The answer can be given in a single word. Everywhere.
Love is there when two people hold their hands and share their lives.
Love is there when mother holds a newborn baby in her hand.
Love is there when a father sees his kid in hands of nurse when she brings out her-him from the labor room.
Love is where when a brother keeps the half of his toffee for his kid sister.
Love is where when a sister keeps on worrying for her brother’s safe return after the party, late night.
Love is there when a boss peacefully makes his sub-ordinate understands where he had gone wrong and feels elated when he corrects it.
Love is there when a friend accompanies you in silence when you are down, during your solitude.
Love is there when your consort hugs you when you try to eke all adversities and try to perform all your onus.
Love is there when you help a blind woman desisting to cross a heavy traffic road due to fear.
Love is there when you pat a stranger who looks very down, just for the sake of bolstering him.


I would like to share something on the 'nature of love'. I once had a friend who grew to be very close to me. Once when we were sitting at the edge of a swimming pool, she filled the palm of her hand with a little water and held it before me, and said this: "You see this water carefully contained on my hand? It symbolizes Love."


This was how I saw it : "As long as you keep your hand caringly open and allow it to remain there, it will always be there. However, if you attempt to close your fingers around it and try to posses it, it will spill through the first cracks it finds. This is the greatest mistake that people do when they meet love...they try to posses it, they demand, they expect... and just like the water spilling out of your hand, Love will retrieve from you.


For love is meant to be free, you cannot change its nature. If there is people you love, allow them to be free beings. Give and don't expect. Advise, but don't order. Ask, but never demand. It might sound simple, but it is a lesson that may take a lifetime to truly practice. It is the secret to true love. To truly practice it, you must sincerely feel no expectations from those who you love, and yet an unconditional caring."


- SWAMI VIVEKANANDA

Friday, September 9

Roles..

Woke up in the morning. Got a hot cup of coffee from his inamorata. “Good morning, dear” A perfect hubby rose within him. Came down-stairs. Picked up newspaper and ran through headlines. Came his grandfather. The grandson in him passed those front pages to him with reverence.

After finishing his reading, in fact skimming, he got ready to jog. Before he got out, his jog-company came. “Good morning bro” Started jogging with her, now being a good brother. Half-a- hour. Panting came both back home. He had a hot bath in a quick and went to the kid’s room. Pulling those blankets, he woke up those kids. “Get up and get fresh sweeties” A loving father he became.

Switching to BBC’s, CNN’s and NDTV’s he started his breakfast. He loves his mom’s hot ghee dosa’s. “Ma, one more roasted”, he said. An affectionate son he was then. His uncle joined him on table. “What’s hot today?” uncle enquired. “Dosa’s and few political imbroglio’s” the nephew in him tried to sound funny.

“Where are my socks?” lamented an annoyed husband. Finding it himself he passed a flying kiss to his wife who came running. Came to the porch. “Sunil, get the car” a serious, yet a casual boss. Reached the office in fifteen minutes. Some wished their boss and many others greeted their colleague. In his cabin; went through all appointments. After an hour, attended a meeting with some business executives who had a visit over there. Few hours of talks, and then concluding them with some deals like a clear-cut professional.

Work hours ended. Got back home and got fresh. Kids are back from school and had done with home works. An outing with family to attend his best friend’s marriage anniversary. Gifted a tight hug and wished him a long married and happy life. Had a long talk with his dude friend with a sip of booze. Went through all those sunny college days. A friend in him was awake. Flashing through those good old days, both were enjoying a lot.

Reached back home before midnight. Just before entering gate, saw his neighbor and their family returning from somewhere. The polite neighbor in him waved his hands towards them. As soon as they entered, they realized the phone ringing. He went and picked up the call. It was from America. His brother and his family. His nephews were happy to talk with their uncle though they talk almost alternate days. Their mom also had talks with this adorable brother-in-law. After all chats he went for a chilled shower and then to sleep. He was tired at the end.

What all roles one has to play in our daily life….
Its very true somebody had said, “Life is a drama and we the actors”

Wednesday, September 7

Three Rings...

Got up and sat on the bed itself. Sunrays were peeking into the room. She tried to remember yesterday’s night. It was raining heavily and thunders. Wore the slippers and came downstairs. Papa and mamma busy with their works, sometimes giving furious stares to each other. Belligerent atmosphere. Sister, sitting on sofa, hold a book and daydreaming. Television was on, and some news channel on it.

She went to bathroom. Had a brush. Freed her from the claws of her cloths. Looked in the mirror. Her well toned body. She moved her fingers whole over. ‘But for what?’ She thought. When the soul is dead why the need of a body? Took a quick shower. Drops fell on her and the chill pierced her body. Dried herself and came out. A Zephyr breezed through the windows. She never felt the bliss as she used to.

Came to the dining hall. Dad and sis were already there, but muted. Mamma kept the breakfast on the table. Dad asked for the tea. “Did you send the money to my mom yesterday?” Dad said something, mom continued and dad…… She got peeved. Looked her sister. Gazing to the hot bread, she never took any tensions. Her face read she is stronger. It took only seconds. Some sound of breaking. Dad skedaddled in a hurry. Mamma continued her work with tears on her eyes.

Why the hell tears? Marriage comprises of three rings-engagement ring, wedding ring and suffering. The joke lingered her thoughts, which someone had joked. Don’t know about the first two rings but yes, the third one it does exist. She stared at the plate her father had left out, filled. It again started raining, heavily.

Sunday, August 28

Silence...

“Good morning, Sir”

He just nodded at me. And passed a week smile. I wondered why? From past three days I have been noticing. He is like that.

“I hate silence” He used to say. Aged fifty-five, one of the senior most people in our company. Assistant General Manger. Vigorous when it comes about work. Most diligent person. Gives high importance to punctuality. Never will compromise on failures. Anytime he is ready to work hard in lieu of enjoyments. A hard-core believer in ‘Work is God’ adage.

I haven seen him on his chair for more than half an hour continuously. He is always active running here and there, managing his subordinates, and instructing supervisors, monitoring workers and all. His knowledge and experience could have made him revered.

But everyone wanted him out of the company. He was very egoistic. He always gave a deaf ear towards his sub ordinates opinions. “When I was here……., when I was there……..” he was a bit boisterous. He was dedicated to work in such a level that he tried to put his finger on whatever went in front of him. He wanted every work done under his knowledge. This created a stir between him and many senior managers. But being AGM nobody dared to question neither him nor report about him, but fulminated behind him.

This was the picture till few days back. Now he neither rises his voice nor run here and there. He neither puts his head in others matter nor aggressive. Everyone in office noticed the change. Nobody wished to ask him why? Nobody cared to enquire about his current condition. I couldn’t stand this change. Very junior to him, I knew I don’t have to show any ego in front of him. And he haven done anything to cross my way of work. I asked him.

His wife got some mental problems. She has been hospitalized for past five days. He conferred to me. I could only do but console him. And he was very happy that at least I asked him. I hold his hands. Couldn’t speak much. In fact, was at oblivion what to say? Wishing him for her speedy recovery I came back to my cabin.

I thought for a while. Whatever a person is, however he might be, once someone of his beloved is in distress, that men do change.

And yeah, that’s the time when you realize the need of a friend. Life is not only revolving around family and work.

Friday, August 19

Rakhi...Gift....

He was speeding on his bike. It was heavy traffic in the roads. That’s when he loves to speed. He get a kind of ecstasy while overtaking a speeding car through his left side and cut another vehicle from the right giving a hiccup to the driver coming from the opposite side. It was around six when he left to meet a friend.

He was enjoying his ride and watching all the girls out there in the streets. I wondered as if what happened today, streets are filled with voluptuous females. Glanced to the crowded shops where whole gamut of females of all age was there. He wondered whether it’s ‘Upto-50%-Discount-Sale’ going on all shops. Suddenly he saw, in between all the females, whole range of ‘Rakhi’ dangling in front of the shops. He suddenly applied brakes and the vehicle came to a halt. Oh! It’s tomorrow. ‘Raksha bandhan.’ Didn’t get any gifts for sisters, he thought.

Checked his wallet. Found only two Gandhi papers written hundred on them. Without a second thought he raced to the nearby ATM, hoping to withdraw few more. Before he reached he could see a long queue coming out from the ATM building. Without a hiatus he joined the line. Everyone will be a brother of someone who forgot to get the gift; he tried to convince himself. By the time he entered the ATM it was seven. Poor soul of ATM. It might have been a worn out day for him. Got the cash and without a bye he hurried to ‘Archies.’

Cards, Oh no! It sucks. From ages when there were wishes they had these cards. My sisters will read it and poor card with all its golden, sentimental wordings; will find some place near the dustbin a week after. He went on searching for something else. Perfumes. No, already they got many of them. Soft toys. Uh! They are not kiddies to play with them. Nay! Not anything of that sort. Kept searching. Pens, show pieces, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, nose rings, watches; Gosh I am fed up, he thought. Came out from there. Explored ‘Hallmark’ shop and many others. Got more and more bemused.

Went to the sweet shop. It was well lit. Very crowded. Each and everyone busy buying something for their brother or sister. Some buying chocolates in bunch and some buying laddu’s. Some buying Barfi’s and yet some others buying dry fruits. Everyone busy selecting the best and packing it with blazing covers; He still stood standstill not knowing what to buy. They eat sweets everyday. What the hell exciting in it, he thought. Being not able to makeup a decision came back home. Kept on cogitating the whole night about the gift and slipped off into sleep.


Done with his daily chores he got ready to way to office. Suddenly he saw his sisters ready with their rakhi’s. Smiling at him, they came to him. He looked at them. Water drops were falling from their hair tips. They are well dressed and hold a plate on their palms. They were ready to do the rituals. His heart pounded like a horse being left for race. They tied their rakhi’s on his right hand. Everyone was looking them. The holy ritual of bonding themselves to each other. Brother assuring a life long protection of his sisters. But he was thinking something else. Gift! What will I give them? They didn’t ask anything. But still. He went and picked up his wallet. I will give them cash. Let them have anything they want. No, that’s escapism. Closed the wallet.

After some pleasantries and laughter he left for his office. The whole route he felt sad for not finding an appropriate gift for them. The whole hours in office he kept on thinking what to get for them. While he was doing work, when he was having his lunch, when he was talking to his colleagues, when his boss was ordering him, when he was having his tea break; he kept on thinking what to give?

He wanted to give them something, something that no other brother can give. He wanted to make them feel they are very wanted for him. He wanted to make them realize how much he cared about his sisters; he wanted to make them feel proud to get such a brother. For that all these, materialistic gifts are not proper. They can’t render the emotion he hold for them. Confused and more confused he went to some shop. After some time spending over there he left the shop with a huge cover in his hand. His face was not elated. This is not the gift he really wanted to gift them. This doesn’t depict the real love for them.

Oh good gracious! LOVE and CARE is very hard to convince.

Thursday, August 18

Sharing...

Ajit felt giddiness. He wanted to share them. Thoughts were speeding up across his conscience without a break. He felt as if he was going to have a collision. An outburst. The whole day he was thinking about that only. Totally worried he thought he would get some sort of relief if he shares to her. There he was standing in the bus stop, awaiting Anna.

Minutes passed and he could see Anna coming on her bike. He felt as if she were coming in slow motion. His head started spinning. He wished she were approaching him in a jet plane. He felt someone had paused the whole scene for some time. He felt she is riding at a speed of 5 km\hr. He could sense a whirlwind above his head.

She came. Ajit was half relieved. Yes, she is here. She will understand me. Since she loves me she can anytime afford hearing to my tensions. He thought. She will be happy to listen to him. She will sit besides him and will offer her shoulder to support his weighing head. She will pat him on his face; wipe his tears, which are on the verge of flowing down through his cheeks, he thought. She will hold hands and share his words. Though she can’t help him out she will sit besides him silently. Ajit thought.

Anna parked the vehicle. Came near to Ajit. Sat besides him. She is looking enervated, Ajit thought. He looked at her, “What happened?” Anna stared him. She felt someone is there to share her thoughts. She holds his hands. She mumbled about the office tensions, crazy things she does, her family problems, and her tensions. He listened. He forgot about everything. He can’t see her in tension. He wanted to her to be happy. He tried to crack jokes. Acted fool in front of her. Started teasing playfully. Made her laugh. Gave her a boost to get self-motivated. Went for a walk with her. He forgot about his griefs by making her happy. Time went by. She went back home He to his place

Ajit got fresh. Sat to read something. Thoughts started pouring. Tensions and frustrations started to creep in. He wanted to share. He took the phone. He called her, Anna. She was so elated to pick up the phone. She started babbling on all the topics. He paused his thoughts. He felt good when he heard her laughing. He joined her laughs. He joined her jokes.

He always wanted to her to be happy. He always found his joy in her happiness.

Tuesday, August 16

In-security....

He loved her very much. He found her to be very caring. He knows it is she who will understand him. He knew she always listened to him. He knew she loved him a lot. He knew at any time, any day anywhere she will come there to help him. But at times he felt little bit in-secured. He found her developing a friendship at cost of him. She made him convince it is not like that. He believed her. But deep in his heart, a tincture of that in-security feeling was there, buried but smoking out.

Whenever they used to fight upon this matter she always did say, “I never change my priorities in relationships.” But he started feeling she does. That too, at his own cost; something, which he never can afford to adjust. Every day, every talk do ends in verbal fights. Then sleepless nights of mental torture. Once felt insecured, its difficult to regain the original charm in that relationship.

Saturday, August 13

Broken...

Sunday. Friendship Day. He stared at his gadget. Ten messages. He went through all of them. All witty, wacky, motivational, emotional, friendship day wishing messages. He checked all the senders. Some close friends, some distant friends. Some from whom he never expected to get message from. Some from those who never used to message him. He felt happy. But meanwhile he searched for something. That particular name. A name that symbolized a broken friendship. No it was not there. He felt bad. He felt angry. He felt pity for himself. HE replied to all other messages. Wished some more. But didn’t message that ‘particular one’ Why would he? She hasn’t!

…………………
…………………

She checked her mobile. Her inbox, full of messages. A glee rolled out her lips. Went through all of them in a jiffy only to find the exception of one sender. She sat idle. After a brief thought she replied everyone, but not him. Why should I message? It’s a closed chapter. Why should I initiate it. Nobody understood me. Nobody understands me. Then why a track back? Now no more pretensions. She kept the mobile aside.

Friday, August 12

Mention not...

He stood dumbfounded. I looked at him and smiled. “What happened?”

“What did you say right now?” he was curious.

Pradeep, our company driver is twenty-five. I had forgotten to get one important document from my place. I rang him up and made sure that he gets it while coming to office. A low-income-below average family brought up, he studied only till seventh standard. From then he had tried finding a living driving taxis, rickshaw’s, trucks and now in our company.

He had a flashing memory, at least regarding the roads and places. That’s what I had prejudged about him when he joined our company. But he shows interest in other things also and learns things very fast. He had sneaked on others computer when he was free and learnt many things with ever evolving questions. Now he can switch on a computer, log in to his company id and play ‘Solitaire’, create a drawing in ‘Paint’, scribble something in ‘Word’ etc.

Only knowing his mother tongue Marathi and national language Hindi, he used to listen when I spoke in English or in my regional dialect Malayalam. He asks its meaning very curiously and try to pronounce the way I used to. And every time he used to use those words with while conversing.

“What did you say?” He asked me again. I got out from my thoughts. I had thanked him when he brought me the document I had left at home. When I thanked he was very happy and said “Welcome!” giving an extra stress to the second syllable. He was feeling an overweening pride. It was then I said “No mention please.” He hasn’t heard that term used before. I instilled its usage into him. He was very happy. He skedaddled from there reciting those words in joy.

How its true, curiosity is the mother of invention.

Wednesday, August 10

How...And...What..

He was pretty dark, naïve and smiling. After the aptitude test held for the recruitment of the company I was just sipping some juice in their canteen, waiting for the results. This is when he came towards me and said hi. My minimum decency policy prompted to wish back. I offered him a chair besides me. Cheerfully he sat and introduced himself to me. Seeing my name being called out before the test and recognizing a south Indian surname he was of a conjecture that I might be somewhere from his place.

When I started to talk him in English he was a bit reluctant but gave answers. Then he started off with broken Hindi and asked me about tests and my whereabouts and being.

“I feel the scare” he said. What this guy will say in group discussion ahead, I thought.
Ten more minutes of chat with him made me feel sympathy for him. He was very ambitious and in need of a job. He knew his shortcoming about his language but sounded pretty confidant to appear for the group discussion.

After half an hour we both were heading to the conference hall, both in the same group. After self-introductions the topic for discussion was disclosed. Out of twelve or fifteen attendants he was the only one who was not good in English. All twelve spoke about the topic, their views and counterviews. After a furious session of half an hour we all got out. Now is the turn of results. The same guy came to me.

“You spoke well on the topic.” His eyes were sprinkling. “I Wish I talk more about the topic. I was stuck in between. Like stammering.” I looked at him. His eyes shadowed defeatism, for the first time. I recalled what all he talked. Yes, at times I felt like laughing when he spoke. But noticed an upbeat attitude in him. He was one of the three, who really spoke after understanding the topic thoroughly and aptly elucidating his views. Save him good gracious. I simply smiled at him. We had a quick confab related to the same topic given inside. I was very well impressed by his views and thoughts.

We had our snacks and came back to hall. There, the recruiter was with the results. I looked at him. I prayed for him also to get selected. I saw his hands quavering. She called out the names. I couldn’t hear any of the roll calls. But in a few seconds I saw him running to me. “We both is selected” I smiled. “Are” I corrected.

Now I realize, its not how you speak, but what you speak matters.

Tuesday, August 9

Strangers...

He didn’t hear the alarm. Got up late. Did his daily routines in a hurry. “Do you need Tiffin?” his mom asked. He heard, but didn’t reply. He took his bike. His sister came running holding the jacket “Take this if you need. You had asked for it yesterday. Its raining.” He didn’t answer. Wore the jacket and raced towards office.

“Good morning, Sir” Genial receptionist greeted him. No, this time also he didn’t react. He went to his cabin. The whole day he was insipid. He returned home early. Then he went to the sunset point that was very nigh to his place. Hw saw the sun dipping down the horizon. He wanted to shout. He wanted to talk. He looked around. Strangers, he found only strangers. The whole world seemed to him full of strangers. Where are my friends? He searched. Or did I have any? He pondered…

He went to meet his friend who had promised to meet. Waited. Waited some more. Friend came. “Sorry, how long have you been here? Actually I am little busy and have to go.” He didn’t answer. Smiled at him. Bid Goodbye. Came back home. “Come and have food.” His father said. He didn’t react. He went inside and covered himself under the blanket. Strangers, the whole world is of strangers

Monday, August 8

Bunty and Babli...

Does real life heroes exist? If someone asks me this question, sure i am gonna ask him to read about this man. Sub Inspector Kadam. In days of Mumbai deluge when most of the officials and politicians were trying to hide safe in their secured flats and apartments,this person proved opposite to them.

Sounds very filmi. But Mumbai Police Special Branch officer Mr. Kadam showed his bravura by saving lives of two recent born kids in Mumbai. Such incidents prove there are people who really act up on humanity and dare to do anything to save others, albeit all the risks.

Mr. Kadam, who is a very reputed officer among colleagues and a terror for criminals took all the risks to save people who had affected by the deluge. In his uniform he not only gave hopes to common man but also did a heroic act by saving lives of twins who were born on 22nd of July, four days back the flood hit.

Sunil and Rajani Yadav, reminisces about the incident. Mr. Kadam, with his friend arranged a boat and engaged in rescuing affected people, though it was a leaking one. When he heard about the twins born and the couples he didnt waste any time to reach them. Yadav's, residing in the first floor were dubious about his claims to help them. However he managed to convince them and rescued the twins from there who were starving for past two days.

Sunil Yadav, a hard core movie buff, also an Abhishek fan had put his new born kiddies under the names of his hero's recent hit flick 'Bunty aur Babli'



Read the whole story

Sunday, August 7

Smiley...

Beep. Beep..

I took the mobile. A smile flowered on my face. Whenever I see her name on my mobile I smile. Went to the inbox where it read, “Happy friendship day, if you were to dedicate me one song which one you would have been.” Found very funny. Kept my phone aside. Stupid silly girl! Continued with my reading.

But couldn’t concentrate anymore in that book. She was smiling at me and asking “which song?” I picked up the phone and replied back. Within seconds got a bunch of smilies. Nice she would have felt. And now I am feeling very nice. Long live friendship!!

Friday, August 5

Cup of Life....

I kept the phone receiver. It was ten minutes past one. He had rung me up at midnight. Seventy minutes. He is an okey kinda friend of mine. But first time this long chat over phone. Long lamentations. Hectic job, uninteresting activities in the office, lack of social interactions, loneliness, fear of responsibilities, deadline pressures, collegue cold wars, low concentration, low moitvation, aimless office life, affected personal life, many topics he went on. I listened to all those.

After i kept the phone God knows till what time i kept on thinking. He was not the first person to tell me like this. Many more people have the same cord. People wo are elder to me, my classmate, youger ones... All are bugged up with the stressfull life. After passing out in 2004 hardly its been one year since they are into their professional life. And here they are not content with what they got and not satisfied the way life is leading them to.

One complaints me about the never ending work hours, the other comments on their unsupportive superiors. One remarks angrily the way they are trweated and yet another about the tensions due to deadlines. Some laments about the field they chose and others the nature of their work. I kept on pondering for any solution for all these dismays. I am happy the way I am. Why? I was not before. Why now? I digged the conscience and all facts and came to the conclusion,'Am doing what I think what is right and what interests me'. And I think its a defacto thing I believe, now I am content with the way am leading my life rather the life leading me.

I thought of a story read somewhere, which might help my friends who are under stress to re-organise their bedlam life style and outlook towards life.

A group of working adults got together to visit their University lecturer. The lecturer was happy to see them. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life. The Lecturer just smiled and went to the kitchen to get an assortment of cups - some porcelain, some in plastic, some in glass, some plain looking and some looked rather expensive and exquisite.

The Lecturer offered his former students the cups to get drinks for themselves. When all the students had a cup in hand with water, the Lecturer spoke: "If you noticed, all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal that you only want the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. What all you wanted was water, not the cup, but we unconsciously went for the better cups."

"Just like in life, if Life is Water, then the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold/maintain Life, butthe quality of Life doesn't change." "If we only concentrate on the cup, we won't have time to enjoy/taste the water in it.

Thursday, August 4

Mumbai floods...!

Mumbai… the worst affected part in Maharashtra due to Monsoon rains. Lots of people already talked about the subject. All national and local newspapers carry related stuff. All television news channels cover them live. So there is no more to tell from my side. Lost lives, broken routines, tossed railway lines, crashed buildings, wading people, relief centers, starvations, epidemics…

Always in a situation there will be two stands. Right and wrong. Many accuse politicians and government for lack of help and support and many praise their timely actions. Normal citizens, businessmen, army, navy all are into relief works. Meanwhile I went through an article about some people who are government employees and are still continuing their help in spite of their family. Kudos to them and all others who are of that genre! Long live humanity….

Read here

As I said there are two parts for a situation. Reading through all those heroic activities found this article, which writes about some fraud also. Along with real victims, double the strength, tries to claim the relief support in form of money. Many people had come claiming of losing their home, family and what not. Down, this breed of people who shadows the magnanimity of humanity. Report says many people come with false identities and documents to prove themselves qualified to get the relief cash amount for the time being. But thanks to the relief team who strictly checks the validity of such claims and get the suffering people only what they deserve.

Read here

Tuesday, August 2

Beautiful Ugly...

Ashok banker is determined. He is going public against one of the heinous crime in this world, Rape.

He is going to make a movie on how a rape victim suffers after the crime against her occurs. The society is defiantly going to be ashamed once this project is finalized.

Ashok Banker a very famous writer is going to make a non-profit movie in which the protagonist will be a middle aged house wife who gets gang raped. The writer, who had given internationally acclaimed ‘Ramayana Series’ a story retelling based on the epic, is a noted columnist. Now his current work is revolving around the script making for his new movie ‘Beautiful Ugly’. The story revolves around a lady who gets gang raped by four people and how she gets discarded from her very own family. A model by profession, she gets nothing but avoidance from her own family. The family gets blackmail calls, threatening of publishing the photos of the incident, gets horrified about the disgrace its going to bring to the family.

By making this movie he wants to dissect the society and show its ruthless attitude towards a rape victim. One thing he never understood is the way his own family members bahaved to her.He wants to make this movie and is planning to telecastfreely in public only to make everyone aware of the pains that a rape victim and her son had gone through. And therby he wants to create moreagainst this social crime.

Deeply moved by this story, the stunning factor is that,this happened in a so called high class society of Independant Democratic India.When such things happen in a highly educated society what more descency can we expect from the lower ranks of society.Let's hope this motion picture will trigger a mass movement and more and more people comes against this injustice. Thereby ensure ensure this world to be safe for woman, anywhere, anytime.


Read more...

Monday, August 1

First.....

I recounted it. There were ten currencies. All of them new. I didn’t know what to do. My hands quavered with those ten green shining currencies. It was written 100 in those currencies. I tried to calculate how much it will come to, but succumbed to the tension and handed those money to amma.

I never expected a bicycle will need this much money to buy. I was around seven and was totally ignorant about the money valuation systems and pricing of commodities. It was the summer vacation I remember when this happened.

My uncle and family usually comes to home during these times. A period when I love to enjoy. Summer vacations will be full of hoopla’s. But at the end when everyone leaves for their own place, seldom we were happy. Before leaving for his place uncle seeing my dejection asked, “What do you want next time when I will come?”

I didn’t even look at his face. Face down, I was fingering on the ground with toes. He repeated the question two three times. At the end he asked, “Ok, leave next time. What do you want now?”

“Hero”, I jumped and said. ‘Hero Cycles’ were the trend those times and dream of kids like me. My mom got embarrassed with my demand. “he was just kidding”, she tried to justify my stupidity, and gave me a dread stare for being impolite. But without any shame I again asked, “You had promised me to get anything. I need a bicycle.”

Everyone laughed and my uncle said, “Ok, but from where I will get you bicycle at this wee hours. Hardly any shops would have opened.” He patted on my cheeks.

“Then give me the money. I will buy it later” While saying that I thought it will be some coins he is going to handover to me. But sans a wait he handed over the money from his wallet to me. Amma tried to take it from me and give it back saying we will get it later. But uncle objected.

Meanwhile I was staring at those currencies.

Sunday, July 31

We,the family.

A sudden meeting was called. Our assistant manger of Quality Assurance department had mailed all of us . I was surprised to see the management also in the invitee list.

It is 2 O'clock in the clock and the board room already was occupied by all other managers and their sub-ordinates. First i felt a paucity of space. Though everyone knew about the topic to be discussed all were muddled thinking why all of a sudden? I kept quite. Why? I might be the only person over here knowing that answer.

In a few minutes our Director of the company accompanied by QA asst. manager came in. Director himself took his chair and gave permission to start the meeting. The whole hall were silent. QA person, Gyaneshwar, came to the podium and took a deep breath. Greeted everyone and started his topic on password security of the ERP system we are using.

He started off, "First of all, I am sorry to summon all of you over here amidst of your duties. But i felt the need of discussing this with you all and help you out from landing into such dreaded situations."

I saw his hands quavering. I know him before i joined this company. very true to heart, very pleasant chap. Nobody will have any bad remark about him. Maybe thats what made him land up here like this.

"Yesterday evening i was almost nigh to get a sack order from management. That too for an unknown mistake i had done, for committing a silly mistake which turned out to be a big problem. I trust many people and had kept my password in our system very open, known to my many of my collegues." His voice was trembling. His fellow mates were staring at him, still not knowing what exactly had happened.

"One of my collegue hacked my password and through that he hacked our ERP system and many of the confidential documents were copied. These were kept in my computer hidden from me. And as all of you know its very easy to find out such frauds from the server." everyone looked at me. I sat proud for finding out that leakage. Months back i had told them in such a meeting, about the importance of networking and server system.

He continued,"So friends, after it was found out in my computer obviously the management will doubt me only. The whole evidance was against me." His eyes got red and wet. He continued his words. Emotionl utterances were hitting others heart. Nobody have seen him like that.

"Please my request is to ensure that your password is only known to you" He stopped. He couldnt controll his tears from running through his cheeks. The room filled with silence. One minute. Nobody spoke. The director himself got up from his seat. "My collegues" He couldnt pull it off from there. We saw his eyes were red. They were watered. Then he started saying something. Slowly increased his pace and gave some wise advices. I couldnt hear anything. My thoughts had already sank into his tears. His eyes showed how much he was moved by the emotional narration of his sub-ordinate. His trembling words showed how much he cared for his collegues.

I turned around and checked everyone. Everyones face showed sympathy for their collegue. After the meeting got over i got up from my seat, trying to wipe tow drops of tears waiting to fall down.

No wonder our Director always says, "We, the company, a family.

Saturday, July 30

Fast...

This one definitly is a boost for our degrading politicians.

While India facing major problems with delays of all sort of executions of plans, here Dr. Man Mohan Singh has proved to be different. After the disastrous rains and flood in Mumbai India's Prime minister had promised an amount of 500 crores for the victims and affected.

As usual everyone took it as a statement from any minister after such deluge. But Mr. Prime minister had walked the talked and within 27 hours of his declaration he issued the cheque for the relief.Kudos to him.

Now one thing that is an agony for me is that, what percentage of the alloted amount reaches the mass. Who knows?


Report Here

Thursday, July 28

Humanity at stake....

While going through news i found this one to be very funny.

Nowadays accidents happen here and there and people are reluctant to help the victims due to the fear of policwe interrogations,hospital routines and all kind of tussles they will have to face.

Such kind of attitude developed among Indian citizens is very disastrous and outragous. Our Police system carries the blame for such a situation. But when people are ready to do such humanitarian acts despite of these consequencies are really worth plaudit. But the report of a man who tried to help out a man and how he settled in hospital is very funny.

Anand Miraljkar, was on his way to office and saw two accident victims and tried to help them out only to find himself landing in a hospital, hit by a unrecognised car who fled away from the incident point. And the very funny part is that the first victim had only minor injuries and left the hospital soon without consoling Anand, who now still is in coma state and his family in quandary how to manage money for his ailment.
Report here

How thankless man can be???

Is there any value for humanitarian activities???

Saturday, July 23

Why me?...

`
Why me?

This is one question I always ponder on. Many instance in my life generate lots of frustrations, blocks my thoughts, disable my activities; makes me feel am one of the worthless creature in Adam’s series. Sometimes I sink into dejection thinking why the hell I am entangled to all these monster problems flitting in my life.

But seldom does it kill my courage or belief in myself. And the only reason to that is the realization of various truths in our lives. Many stories and narrations help me get out of my frustrations effectively. And this one pinnacles them. It had left an indelible mark on my conscience.

Arthur Ashe, the legendary Wimbledon player was dying of positive for HIV. Doctors told him he most certainly contracted the virus by getting an infected blood transfusion in during his heart operation. From world over, he received letters from his fans, one of which conveyed: "Why does GOD have to select you for such a bad disease "?

To this Arthur Ashe replied: The world over 5 crore children start playing tennis, 50 lakh learn to play tennis, 5 lakh learn professional tennis, 50,000 come to the circuit, 5000 reach the grand slam, 50 reach Wimbledon, 4 to semi final, 2 to the finals, When I was holding a cup I never asked GOD " Why me? ". And today in pain I should not be asking GOD " Why me?"


Should I say anymore?

Sunday, July 17

What then....?

She was stern on her decision. He was immovable from his. She found no need of him. Though he needs her he didnt wanted her. Few venoms spit from mouth. Some arguments. Few more fights. He moved to another place. She stayed back.

One day. Second. Third and fourth passed. They never checked each other.

What their children ought to do? If both were reluctant to listen to them. They had learnt to live with that.

Saturday, July 16

Far away....

He came running without his slippers. Zigzag way he ran and braked in front of his home. He saw his aunt chatting with his granny. Granny was very much excited explaining something to her. He went inside like a jet. He wanted to know what they were discussing. But didn’t dare to ask granny. He went inside and peeped out through the keyhole. He was able to get the gist of their conversation, ‘his uncle and family is coming.’

He is like that. Though only ten he always used to enjoy listening to elder’s talks. He was always fascinated by their knowledge on various matters, which were unknown to him. He used to sit with curiosity and study each other’s way of explaining things and their behavior. But he knew his granny is always harsh to kids.

‘Uncle is coming’, the thought itself generated enormous excitement in him. One person he loved in this world is his uncle, after his parents. He knows his uncle very little but whatever he knows about his uncle is very kind and gentle. He liked such people a lot. Uncle to him was a person who brought lots of gifts, embrace him with a warm hug one first meet, asks him about his school, join him in all games; do everything which he likes. It is the other way also.

He went to check his mother. She is taking tuition class for neighborhood kids. As soon as his brother came back from playground they grabbed their towel and headed for the river. A swim after a play was something they never compromised for. They both loved to sink deep into the depths of the river after getting their body muddy and sweat. Meanwhile sinking down the river they would open their eyes and explore the world inside. Corals, shining sand, flitting fishes; they used to enjoy them. They used to float above the water for hours and their eyes used to get red. It will be dark enough when they get out of water and back home.

“It seems you are happy today”, asked fisherman Johny. He looked at him. Did he see his smile breaking out on his face while thinking about uncle’s arrival? Might have. He did not say anything. Just passed a glee and ran mocking a motorist. He brakes screeching and took a reverse. “He will be here tomorrow, my uncle. He will be here to swim with me and play cricket”, he whispered into his ears. Raced his bike along the macadam and ran. Johny looked at him wondering how happy he was.

“Vishnu…” screamed his mom. “Come and have your dinner. Dad is going to be late today.”

He is sitting on the edge of verandah. He hasn’t combed his hair yet. Gazing towards the gate he is waiting for his dad. He wanted to tell him first about his uncle’s arrival. He heard his mom calling him. But didn’t reply.

Someone opened the gate. He got up. He couldn’t see in the dark who it was. Though he is scared of dark, being so impatient he ran towards the gate. “Dad uncle is coming…” He hollered, but only to realize that it was someone else. He ran back home and called mother out. “amma, someone is here.” He was still gazing at the gate while mother was talking to that person. It seems he had come to give her fees for his daughter’s tuition. Who cares!

“Vishnu, are you waiting for your dad?” he asked pulling his cheeks. Vishnu mocked a smile. He hates people pulling his cheeks. His cousin sisters always do that to him. They say it’s very sweet. What sweet? As if they had tasted my cheeks! He thought. That man was still pulling cheeks and talking to his mom. He felt like pulling that mans beard so hard that in one go all his beard will be pulled out and will be in his hand. Then he can shout at him it is very sour. But he remembered mother saying, “never scream at elders.”
These elder people only know to make rules. Don’t do that, don’t do this; and this cheek pulling is ok to them. God save me, he thought.

“Ok Vishnu bye, take care and study well” he bid goodbye to his mother also and went. I will take revenge. Tomorrow I will pull his daughters cheeks and shriek “how sweet”, he thought.

“Vichu come, enough of now. Come and have food. It’s getting late.” She fondly kept her palm on his cheeks. He loves it when his mother does that. He closed his eyes and placed his hand on hers. It was so chilled. He can’t say no to his mom when she calls him vichu. And he never liked others calling by that name other than his mom. Like an obedient boy he moved in with his mom.

“Vishnu”, His father’s voice. He heard gate opening sound. So excited he ran towards gate. Jumped and said “Uncle is coming tomorrow.” His father knew it already. But seeing his elated mood he pretended. “Very good” He gave the chocolates he brought. “Now no need to eat chocolates, go and have food.” Mother gave a strong reprimand. But he didn’t mind. He was so happy to pass the information to his dad.

“Papa, who did teach me how to swim” he asked abruptly while having dinner.

“Your uncle” father said. Vishnu knew that very well. Just that he wanted to hear it again from someone. The story of his uncle trying to make him swim, when scared pushing him to the water; then while gulping water holding him by stomach and teaching him how to swim. All he knew but just wanted to hear it again.

“Papa, how did he teach me cycling?” as soon as he washed his hands he jumped to the sofa and asked. His father smiled at his excitement and described everything to him. Then explained how his uncle taught him to play cricket, how he made him sleep, how he brought two kittens to home for him to play with, how they both went to the neighbours farmland to steal mangoes and many more stories. While describing all these Vishnu was listening to his dad with his eyes wide open and ears sharped.

“You don’t have to sleep or what. Otherwise you were the one who sleeps at eight. Now already its nine.” Mother screamed.

“Tomorrow is a holiday mamma. And uncle is also coming. Let me hear stories.” He pleaded.

“No dear, go and have a good sleep now. Or else you will be sleeping like a pig tomorrow morning when your uncle comes.” Father tried to convince him. Though not ready to sleep, but not willingly he went to his bedroom. Jumped on his bed and switched of the lights. Looked towards the skies through window and started thinking. Uncle will come and hug him. He will give him a big pack of toys and chocolates. He had mailed his uncle to get a cricket bat for him. With that both can play cricket from morning itself, despite granny’s tantrums. Slowly-slowly he went off to sleep.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

He could hear birds chirping out. He could feel the chill of the breeze that entered through the open window. Slightly warm sunrays were peeping into his room. He opened his eyes. Got up suddenly. Checked the clock. It’s 8.30 already. Uncle was supposed to come early at five in the morning. He got angry on himself for not getting up early. He felt to shout at his mother for not waking him up early. What uncle might have thought? He became furious and got down from bed and ran towards visitors hall.

“Amma, why didn’t you call me early?” shouting at his high pitch he entered the hall. There he saw everyone. His granny is lying down on the sofa. Their maid is trying to pat her. His mom was sitting near the door looking out. Some of his relatives are there who were not at all expected. He searched for his dad and uncle. He ran out to the verandah. There he saw more crowd. Somebody is talking to his dad in front. Many others from the village are assembled over there. He ran to his dad and asked about uncle. His dad just picked him up and hugged him tightly. He saw dad’s eyes getting wet.

He heard the gates get opened. Vishnu looked back. A white vehicle is coming inside. His dad kept him down and headed towards the parked vehicle. He saw two three people getting one stretcher with a body on it. He didn’t understand anything. He could hear all women crying inside his home. He looked all around. He couldn’t find his uncle. He saw everyone with a morose face. He went inside to ask his mom, while he overheard someone say, “death comes anywhere, anytime it wants. These train accidents are very common nowadays.”

Death. Vishnu ran fast. Where is amma. He searched everywhere in between all other bereft relatives. His heartbeats rose. ‘Death.’ He knew death means end. He ran to his bedroom. Crawled down his bed. Covered his face with his sweating palms. Last time when he heard the ‘death word was when his grandfather expired. He remember very well his mom saying, “Vikku, now you cant ever meet grandfather. He is going for a long journey without us. Far away. He will never come back.” He felt his heartbeats pounding like a race horse. He closed his eyes. Darkness. Total darkness. He saw his uncle going for a long journey in his car. He screamed, “Uncle, take Vishnu also with you” His shouts didn’t reach his uncle. It got dissolved in the thick air of the darkness.

Sunday, July 10

No wonder...

.
He never went from office before eight. He was one of the hardworking employees out of many I have seen. All the directors were impressed with him. Perks and promotions followed him without a break. He never had applied for a leave nor he did complain about over work.

But now things had changed. He comes half an hour late. Brings lunch box to company. And leaves company exactly at five. If there is work after that, he assigns it to his juniors. Everyone wondered at his change. In the corridor’s I heard someone whispering, “he married last week.”

No wonder, I thought.

Saturday, July 9

Mall...........

When i was a student.................................................................
..........................FLASHBACK..........................................................
We were running here and there in pretty awe. Attires ranging from kids to youth to elder ones. Casuals-formals, cotton-woolen, sweaters-jackets, shoes-caps, the whole mall was filled with posh attires.

We were there for the first time after it’s inauguration last month. It self-advertised to be the biggest mall in the city. True to its advertisement. Ground floor was full of women’s wear, all types of accessories, perfumes, glares, belts, watches, ornaments, bracelets. Everything arranged and decorated in an appealing way. Second floor treated us with gents formal section and traditional attires. Third floor was overflowing with all branded casual wears, large collection of shoes and all.

We spend almost two hours surfing through all aisles and corners of that mall. We all were happy and were exiting through the main gate, when we noted the security. They were staring at us in an atrocious way. We looked each other. We couldn’t figure it out why? When we collected our bags, which we had kept before entering, it seemed they were asking, “Came for sightseeing”. That time our empty wallets were chuckling
from the pockets. Poor we !!

Friday, July 8

Weekends....

I know him for past four years. He had been in love with her since then. Friends called their love to be unique. They never hold hands of each other. They never coochy-cooed. I never had heard them uttering some romantic stuff to each other. They were like two friends in front of us. Nobody believed that they were in love.

But when weekend comes I always see a shadow of morose expression on her face. He will be perturbed for definite, but never let others know. Reason: They wont meet each other for next two days, till Monday comes. Grief is the same, but way of expressing it is different. It’s always true. Girl’s show their emotions and guys know it to hide.

Sigh..!

Thursday, July 7

Choice...

He was more than a friend to her. She confided to him more than anyone else. He have been a help for her in taming many situations. She believed him more than anyone else. She loved him like an elder brother. She was possessive about him.

She loved her parents. She adored her parents. She respected her parents for being so kind, affectionate and forgiving towards her. Her parents always did and planned good for her.But, her parents never appreciated her relationship with him.
They warned her either him or family. Choose now.

What else she can choose?

Tuesday, July 5

"Good day...."

It was raining heavily throughout the week.
Today first thing I noticed after getting up was sun rays falling on my face through diaphanous curtains. Was so enthralled to get up and finish my quotidian activities.

Got my bike repaired yesterday. My good old RTZ. Well dressed, exuding joy, I went to parking lot to get on my bike, but only to find the front tire punctured. Could sense a volcano erupt within me? “Damn! it has to happen now only.” Felt like kicking my own ass.

Anyways, no other option, but to clear it as soon as possible. It was already getting late. Trying not get disturbed, humming one of my favorite tune rolled out my bike to the mechanic. Worse was yet to come. It started drizzling. No, it was showering heavily. Cursing my fate, swearing myself for being happy after seeing the sunrays, reached the mechanic, Jameel bhai.

“Is it a puncture”, he asked smiling. Seeing his curves on face I just felt smacking him tight.

To check that only I came here. Can’t you see it? I was boiling out of anger. Dam it! Was there any need to ask that question? Seeing my redden face he took a spanner and came out of his shop. “Its raining heavily, isn’t?” he tried to change the topic. One more nail on my head. Bugger, I can see it’s raining. Will you please do your job and get my tire fixed? I felt like shouting to him on a mike sitting inside his eardrum.

Sensing the situation he stopped pleasantries and got into work. My mobile rang. Picked it up to hear the voice of Amit. Our ‘Quality Assurance’ Ass. Manager. “If you have done with that document. I will come to your cabin in five minutes.” I was mum. “Hello, you there.” He was asking. “Am not in office.” I cut the phone. Looked Jameel bhai. He was checking the tire. Three punctures. Holy shit! This has happen with me only.

Jameel Bhai was fixing the problem. He will be around forty and ever since I pass through this route I have been seeing him. Always carry a smiling face. He looked at me. Made a consoling face, “It happens dear. Don’t get upset and disturb your day.” Saying that he took went to fix the tire back to the bike. I just looked at him. He had a raincoat. Still while working he was getting drenched. His cloths were wet, yet was working. His face never shadowed any frustration for that. He takes everything in its positive stride.

The look on his face swept all my frustrations. It was more soothing that the rains. When I was giving him the fees for his work I felt like thanking him for extricating me from my frustrations. I gazed him. Then also he was smiling. “Good day” he said.

Saturday, July 2

Ironies in Life

Scene 1

Its raining outside.
Temperature inmy A/c cabin is 26 Degrees.
Sitting on my chair, i can feel the chill.
Its yummy to have one hot cup of coffee.
Life is cool,life is going on.....

Scene 2

Its raining outside.
Temperature below 23 Degrees
Sitting near the window, water all around.
Mobiles dicharged. Starving for two days.
No coffee's,no chaya's, no more vada paav's.
It's heavy raining outside,water level increasing.
Its 2 feet high in the train compartment.


Ironies of life,isn't?
600 people stuck in a train in Gujarat for two days, Read

I Fear

Love is such a thing,
A man with a wing.
Love makes you happy,
Makes him fly to sky.

But whom to love;
And how to love.
That is the one thing
I fear, I dont know.

Friday, July 1

Concern...

“What the hell…” he shouted. She didn’t reply.

“Am not a kid and I know to take care of myself. Don’t make me repeat these sentences daily. I will have food when I will feel like” He cut the line in anger.

Few minutes went by. He calmed himself. Took his handset and dialed….

first ring..second ring..third ring..fourth..
She must be angry, He thought.

“Hi, you had your food.” He enquired as soon as the line got connected.

No reply.

Silence.

“You had.” Voice from other side.

“No, am going to have in ten minutes. You…” his voice was low.

“Ok.. Now even I will have. You go and have food..”

Concern. A sweet thing hard to find in this world.

Tuesday, June 28

Rain..Rain..

I looked out through the window. It was not raining though cloudy. It was heavy raining since morning. This is the best time to leave office, I thought. Packed my bag and came out of my cabin.

“So early”, Archana asked. She knows mostly I leave by eight or nine. I checked the clock. Its only ten minutes past five. Passed a bye in a hurry and headed towards the parking lot. Got the bike and left company office campus in a jiffy.

Fifty meters. It started drizzling. I started cursing my fate. Always it happens. Till I leave for somewhere it will be perfectly fine climate. But as soon as I leave it will rain. Today also it had to happen with me. But good gracious, I love rains. I love to get wet in rains.

It’s always a fun to get wet. In Kerala start of monsoon is with school re-opening. We used to play cricket in the grounds even if it was drizzling. Chasing for a ball in the muddy field is a never-explainable enjoyment. By the time we reach home we will be sneezing. But never we used stop playing cricket in rains.

I was looking both sides of the road. Just to find how others were enjoying rains.

I saw a man running down under a tree in order to cover himself from rains, but failed from saving himself get wet. Then there was a kid in school uniform. His shirt and trousers were already wet. His hair were wet and ruffled. He was trying to hide bag from getting wet. A group of schoolgirls were standing aloof, not knowing what to do.

When I reached the junction I saw the flower-selling lady trying to cover her cart with a plastic cover, cursing the rain. A bike suddenly overtook me. There were three guys shouting, but very visible they were very happy to drive in rains. While an old man was showering swears on them for splashing water on him. A beggar lady was trying to take shelter under a parked truck.

There is a huge crowd assembled in front of a leading bank’s ATM. They all were taking shelter from the rain. Most of them had raincoats, but still were not willing to ride in rains. Some females already wet trying to set their cloths properly. Still the street is very crowded. Some two-wheeler riders were rushing towards their target when some were having a smooth ride embracing the drizzle drops and enjoying the chill of rain. Four-wheelers seemed to be not affected with this climate. But some were driving very carelessly splashing all the mud rainwater on pedestrians and bikers.

I enjoyed all the scenes involved with rains. I enjoyed everyone’s reactions towards rain. I raced my bike. Raindrops were falling on me and the feeling of pin pricking on face is something that I love most in monsoon season. And my cloths were getting wet; I could feel raindrops percolating my dress.

Who the hell sang?

Rain rain go away…
Come again another day..
Little johny wants to play…


It should have been

Rain rain come again..
little vinu wants to play…
la la la….

Monday, June 27

What a disgrace!!

I wonder how such an incident could have happened in a place nearby to Lucknow, a much-developed town. I wonder, in India, so called secular-democratic country, such systems still prevails.

She is mother of five and un-educated. Her own father-in-law at their home allegedly raped Imrana, wife of Noor Ilahi earlier this month. Leading newspapers had reported this heinous crime occurred. I think rape is the worst crime against a woman, which can destroy her individuality like anything. Though the thought of that incident is boiling, the proceedings after that leaves me numb.

Panchayat held at Charthawal village in Muzaffarnagar district near Lucknow ruled that she would have to live with her father-in-law as his ‘wife’ and her current husband should treat her as his ‘momma’. Courageous after this incident also, Imrana resisted the panchayat’s decision. Her husband, coming out from an exile due to fear of father and panchayat after three weeks, had supported her decision to go against Panchayat. That time, around three days back, they had showed their full confidence on judiciary system.

But today reports came that Darul-Uloom Deoband, their local apex body had rules out that Imrana is no longer fit to remain as wife of Noor. The fatwa {ruling order} issued by them clearly states that, even though the father-in-law is the culprit, since she was raped Imrana is ‘haraam’ for her innocent husband. They state that she should treat Noor as her son, but Noor should bear all the expense of their five children.

Noor, who was supporting his wife {now onwards used-to-be wife} had said he wanted to stay with his wife only but will definitely abide fatwa rules.

So disgusting his stand is. Being a man, had promised to take care of her while marrying her, taking such a stand is ridiculous. I pity on that female for having such an unfortunate fate. She is willing to protest against all the injustice happening to her. How one can expect to lead a life with the person who had raped her, who never has a respect for her.

I wonder where are those human rights activists, those NGO’s who run after silly matters.
No wonder, people have lost faith in our judiciary system. And no wonder more and more females are loosing their confidence on their counterparts.

Sunday, June 26

Ban on mobiles......Reminds me...

.
Kerala Government had ordered an ordinance to ban usage of mobile phones in Campus, reports Hindu.
The latest trendsetter, mobile camera phone, is always in limelight since its launch. Be it new model launch or be it MMS scandals. It became common household equipment in cities throughout.

The ban of mobile phones in campus reminded me one of the incidents that happened in my college. Let me tell you this is a second hand report.

All the students were getting bored with his lecture. Not only that day. His each and every lecture never ignited that urge to learn that subject. As a professor he was a total failure, but was able to stick to his post just because of some high management holds he had over they’re in college. That might be the reason; even students feared he could do a lot with their internal marks if not attend his lectures.

So all were busy checking their dials and waiting for him to disperse the class. But he was not in mood to free the birds. Dictating from the notes he had brought in a file format he was continuing his ‘lecture.’

Suddenly somebody’s mobile rang. It was a Hindi song ring tone. Everyone’s attention went to the corner of the class and smiled at the owner of the source. He was busy fiddling with the instrument trying to reduce the volume. {Later only came to know that one of his friend only kept it in high volume profile and gave him a ring.} Seeing his embarrassment all other fellows broke their laugh’s.

"Silence", Prof. took his eyes from his notes and peeped through his spectacles. Everyone turned on to silent mode and the professor towards the board with file in his hand. {We always used to wonder how would have he taught us if we had abandoned those files.} Students again got relieved and started hissings.

It was not even five minutes after the incident, some other person’s mobile buzzed aloud. This time he could control in a second or two, but the crowd went ablaze with laughter. Cursing the caller, the guy changed the profile to vibratory mode. The Prof. though disturbed continued his drawings on board, copying from his file. In a minute a third mobile started screaming. Everyone broke into a louder laughter. This time Sir got frustrated. He turned around and stared at the culprit.

"Is this the decency you have learnt from home. {A gap. Students stopped laughing.} Don’t you know that you are supposed to switch off the mobiles while entering a class? Don’t remember that you are going to be engineers and lots of good manners are expected from you people. {Everyone started looking down. Some were still in playing mood.} You are not going to gain anything by disturbing me in my procedure to teach you. {Everyone looked each other startled as if not understanding what he was saying.} Don’t repeat this anymore. If continued I have to take strict action against you. Whoever it might be. So please switch off your instruments." He was shouting at the pinnacle of his voice.

Everyone switched off his or her instruments. Some were asking quietly, "which instrument", with a naughty smile on their face. The situation was very silent. Prof. once again covered the whole class with his deadly stare {which was supposed to generate fear} and turned towards the black board and started scribbling some notes.

Students were impatiently waiting for the hourly bell to ring, looking intermittently their dials. Prof. busy is copying his notes on board. All of a sudden some mobile rang in high volume. Annoyed, Prof. turned back, "who the hell haven’t switched off the mobile? I am going to report this." He was very furious.

All students chorused, "Sir SWITCH OFF YOUR CELL. IT’S ON YOUR TABLE." Class turned out to laugh more lauder. This time they couldn’t control their laughter. Some were humming to the ring tone.

By the mean time Prof. picked up the phone and was trying to hide his embarrassment.

.

Saturday, June 25

A Conversation with..........

Just woke up and sat in my bed. I was feeling very light-weighted. I felt like someone lifting me. I looked down. Yes indeed, am flying. My body was down there on my bed. Sound asleep. I looked up. Stars were twinkling at me. Clouds passed. I could feel them. Then came a bright hole. I was thrown into it.

Suddenly I came to a big hall with no floor. All the four walls were decorated with flowers. I could hear birds chirping.

In a minute an image came. I was trying to look at his face. But cant see anything. In fact it was leading to infinity. Only I could see is a broad smile. He had worn a red color robe, my favorite one. He or she? I couldn’t recognize. An image. That’s what I found in front me.

“Where am I?” I asked. It seemed to me as heaven.

“You have come to a hall from where GOD decides where you to go. Heaven or hell.” The image answered calmly.

“I don’t believe in GOD.” I said arrogantly.

“Then in what you believe.” it sounded very calm and undisturbed.

“I believe only in a mighty power which is the creator of everything. It doesn’t have any name or identity.” I answered back.

“Am I dead” I didn’t want to. I was anxious.

“No, not yet. Your time haven’t come” He {or she or it?} came nearer to me. Still I couldn’t see anything but only an image. Maybe this will be the almighty power in which I believe.

“Then why am here?” I couldn’t resist my doubt come out.

“I know you are suffering from many problems. I wanted you to share it with me”

“But you are the almighty power which is supposed to know everything before me saying.” I think I was in a fighting mood. No surprise. For the past two months I have been like this.

“I know it. But I want you to share with me. Sharing is the only way to vent out your feelings. If sorrow it reduces and if joy it doubles.” Same old philosophies! “I know all these. Please don’t preach. It’s very easy to preach. Even I try to do that with others. But to implement it is very hard. I came to know when I faced those situations. Huh! Sharing divides the sorrow…all crap...” I was getting furious.
“What is your problem? You got such a nice family. You have a wide range of friends. Lots of intimate friends who love you more than you do.” He touched my face. He or she? I will call ‘HE’. His fingers gently covered my cheeks. I love that feeling. Maybe he knows it. It gives a feeling of being cared. Or can say a feeling of getting protection.

I couldn’t see how his hands looked like. But yeah, it was there on my cheeks. I was able to feel it.

“I can understand your feelings. You feel no one understands your thoughts. When you share also you never feel anyone understands. Am I right?” He was absolutely right. He knows everything about me. Then why need all this drama? Why should I speak out? Why can’t he give ready answers for my sufferings?

“I want you to share it with me. I never give solution. But few options to choose from. Its you who have to choose from them.” He said as if he read my mind.

“I have lots of problems in my life. Related to my education, my future, my family, my friends, what to say nowadays in whatever I think. I am not able to give the love others are giving me. No one understands me. Neither I am happy nor are they. I sometimes feel like worthless.”

“You are the one who created the universe, who created emotions, who created senses, who created everything. Why all these imbalances in life? Why some people suffer while others enjoy. Wherever I look, I look injustice. People suffering without doing any harm, some others still going smooth with their life even if they goes against emotions and good deeds.” I was not in a mood to stop. I felt like asking him everything and make him justify.

“Child, I will show you something” Still he was so calm.

I didn’t look up. I know he will start preaching. I hate preaching. And I hate someone calling me child. It gives a feeling of lack of maturity.

“We have to balance our lives and do our deeds. That’s why I have sent you to earth so that you complete your tasks and come back to me in one lifetime. For everything I have to create a balance. That is a mystic rule I have to follow. That’s why I had to create hatred, ego, jealousy, enmity and all with love, care, friendship and all. But these all are options. It’s all up to you to choose from them. Those who do the right choice, suffer no more. Their life is enlightened and will be back with me. Happy forever. But those who do the wrong deeds are never called back. They might be happy over there. But after their lifetime they are again send back for their misdeeds to complete there pending life tasks. To complete your karma”

“All these things I know. This is what I believe in. This is what makes me go. But at times I get frustrated. Seeing things happening in my life I get a feeling that whatever I believe in is wrong. I can’t see my friends or family suffering. I can’t see myself suffering.” I was tired. My voice was low.

“I will show you something. I feel you are ready.” He again asked. I looked at him.

He touched my hand. My eyes were drooping. I went to some other place. The atmosphere was filled with smell of blood. I could see a father killing his daughter, a mother being raped in front of her children, a kid working in minefield, people starving, being robbed, heated fights, people cheating their closed ones, lots of trickeries and what all. I closed my eyes. I was sweating. “Get out me from here”, I was shouting. In a moment I was back to that decorated hall.

“Child, this is what I am seeing daily. A thousand times magnified version. I should get more frustrated than you. But I know whoever does all these are going to stay there only, till they get their share of punishment and repent for what they had done. Its how nature balances things.”

“But how do you stay calm seeing all these”, I was startled. My blood was still boiling seeing all those crimes. “I will show you”, his gentle words somewhat relieved me. He again touched my hand. In a flash I went to another world.

I could see a mother breast-feeding her kid. How calmly that kid was lying on her lap with her hand support. I saw a father writing letter to a distant daughter who went for studies, saw a sister trying to tease her brother, their fight and then share of hugs and kisses, saw a pair of couple holding each others hands and being within themselves, saw a grandmother teaching her grandchildren to cook, a boy happy reporting to his parents about the award he won, a gentleman getting down from his luxurious car and offering help to an orphanage, a lady helping an elder person to cross the road amidst a heavy traffic, thousands of smiling faces and what all. I wished I could run to them and join them in their happiness.

“How are you feeling?” I looked around. I am back to that hall. In front of me was the same image. I looked at him. “I see a thousand times magnified version of these every second. Are you still wondering how I am not frustrated?” I was numb in front of him.

“But I can’t see all these. Then how can I remain not getting frustrated? I don’t have your super abilities to watch all these. No one understands me or no one loves me the way I want.”

He smiled. He offered me one more trip. This time I moved my hand in front in a position that he could hold my hands. He again smiled and touched my hands. I was taken to another world. I was surprised. It’s my world. I could see my parents sleeping. I could see them dreaming about me. I saw my siblings. They were talking to their friends about me. I saw my colleagues who were confiding to their dear ones about the beautiful relationship they are having with me, I saw my friends enjoying my company. Then I saw my friends with whom I fought yesterday night not being able to sleep well, getting up intermittently and thinking about me. My eyes were wet. I hate to cry. Men never cry. But my eyes were wet. I closed my eyes. I don’t want anyone to see my tears rolling down. I shut my eyes tightly. He was whispering on my ears, “Child, there are lots of people who loves you, who wants you to be happy, who wants you to make them happy. Who shed tears for you without your knowing, who have sleepless nights without your knowing, who pray for your well being without your knowledge, who wants to place a kiss on your cheeks, who wants to hug you and show their love. There are much more than sufferings in your life. Get back to them. Don’t think about those who had hurt you. There are people who love you more than you do them. Don’t cry for lost relationships. But be happy, you got a bunch of dear ones whose love, if showered all together, you cant handle.”

It was silent. No more voice came. I opened my eyes. I was lying down in my bed. I got up and sat on my chair. I saw a dream. No. It was not a dream. I didn’t want to believe it was a dream. All those images were still running in my mind. All those who love me were smiling at me in my mind. I laughed at myself for yesterdays fight with my friend and felt bad that I have hurt them. Sorry friends. Sorry my family. I realize I am one among the luckiest one to get you all. And I promise I will do care not to hurt anyone.
Thinking of everyone I loved I went to sleep again. With a joyous mind and soul.

Friday, June 24

Refugee...

It was touching. Indeed alarming.

I had read about him on newspaper when Chinese Prime had a visit in India. That day he had a demonstration of protest against Chinese delegates visiting India and was shouting slogans for Tibetan Independence.

Young, educated in India, labeled as refugee, Tibetan poet-activist Tenzin Tsundue he is. The article which he wrote recently winning the Outlook/Picador award points out the agony and helplessness faced by ten thousands of Tibetan refugees who had fled from their mother country{I doubt whether I can call it a country},escaping from Chinese tortures.

Tenzin, who was born in India, whose parents had a bad trek along Himalayas, had never being to his motherland. In his writing we can see the pain inflicted in him right from his childhood when we read

Perhaps the first thing I learned at school was that we were refugees and we didn't belong to this country.


When he narrates the helplessness of some Tibetan youths, I wonder whom to curse. Their fate to be born in an oppressed country or the mighty power of not-to-be-questioned China. The tears that rolled down finding the absence of his country in Olympics, realizing its non-existence in the world political map was carrying all the heat of Tibetan peoples who were butchered by the Chinese government.
What can I, a refugee, talk about except the wish to go back home?
When the author puts a question, we all are numb. There we can visualize something, which, not even our freedom fighters had experienced.

They only dream about a free Tibet. It can be clearly seen when he says about the decision not to fix a full proof roof or to plant short term vegetations. They are always in the hopes of returning to their motherland and once again enjoy the beauty of their valleys and cattles. But towards the end author fears his hopes to remain as hopes only. In a near distant he cant see a re-union of his family.

A well-crafted article, which really makes us aware of a dreaded situation that, prevails in our neighborhood. I feel ashamed of not being of aware about this. But now I do join them. If ever I meet a Tibetan refugee, I will try to give him support for his never-dying hopes, a free Tibet.

Wednesday, June 22

Zhooom....!!

Boring hours in office makes me think lots of things. And after a hectic day it is almost Impossible for me to get into some other activity other than sleeping. But yes there is one thing I love most. One matter, in which I won’t say no to. Some activity, in which I am ever ready whenever and wherever. It’s my foremost passion engrossed within me. Driving!!

It’s my passion. Ever since I learnt driving in my uncle's car when I was around fourteen it had been my passion. It doesn’t matter to me which car. I just need a conditioned car with four tires, an engine, a steering and a body. That’s more than enough for me. Yeah, some fuel to spare.

Whenever I get a chance to drive, I don’t let it go. Be it for a short distance or a long route. Be it in the wee hours of morning or late night. Be it a maruti 800 or a Tata Safari.

I can say driving actually is a skill. I don’t think most of the people will be enjoying. Many learn and continue driving just for the sake of driving. Or just for the sake of transport. But for me apart from these needs, it’s something, which relieves me from my tensions. Which brings hell lot of refreshment for both mind and soul.

Driving, rather than a skill is an art. It’s simply like a painter canvassing his thoughts or imaginations. Without good judgment and a strong vision he cant portrait what he wants to. Like that a driver can’t drive a vehicle without proper judgment and calculation.
It’s one of the simplest things in this world we can learn provided we understand certain basic things. One of them is the understanding of the gear-brake system. Once a person understands this mechanism {not a by heart of the procedure} its so simple for him/her to drive. And the second one is judgment of the size of the vehicle. Once vehicle size is carved in mind, I think there is nothing primarily needed to have a safe run.

For the past six years I had been driving so much that I have a great exposure to the driving attitude of others also. According to me majority of the accidents comes just because of the mistake people are making judging their vehicle and the speed of others. For a sharp judgment we have to very cautious while driving. If you are cautious and judgmental, I can assure how much fast you drive or rash you drive, it’s going to be safe drive.

But definitely these are to be acquired only by constant practice and interests. Thanks to my uncle who gave me the courage to think and drive properly. Last month I had a very long drive. Starting from Pune way back to Kochin, a distance of 1400 kilometers in a stretch and return. The best drive I had till date after my drive to Goa.

Driving through expressways and traffic free highways are not interesting. But if in a heavy traffic, two-way road, its fun. I can say driving in Kerala roads; especially Kannur-Kozhikode area is the best I had experienced. So congested roads, heavy traffic and high-speed vehicles in the opposite direction. For those who love driving, I recommend, once in their driving career, try these roads.

Anyways I think its time for me for a drive. Rest regarding drive, later…..

Monday, June 20

Tiger Caged

I don’t have any personal grudge towards Nawab Da Pataudi. But definitely I was very happy to read about his remand in all the lead newspapers.

Why?

By now Pataudi had spent two full nights in a special cell, not with much luxuries except a cot, a pair of table and chair and few bottles of mineral water. He is jailed in a cell like any other offender, but in a clean one. He had to get up early in the mornings than usual due to temperature and mosquitoes, contrary to a sound air conditioned sleep in his bungalow in the capital.

This definitely increases one’s belief and trust in police. The ex-cricketer has all the filthy contacts and rich by which he tried to avoid an arrest for the past two weeks. But Police had acted well to bring this ‘hunter’ into custody and had proven their capability and determination.

Now lets hope the trial begins and if found guilty the culprits get their share of punishment. But still I have a tincture of doubt in me. Same had happened with his son Saif and his mate Salman. Both of them also had been booked under ‘Black buck shoot’
Case. And the trial is still going on, around five years after their arrest also. Lets keep our finger’s crossed and look forward to.

Saturday, June 18

Ticket Less...!!!

We are way back to our own places.

Naveen also joined us. His father dropped us till railway station. It was real fun. One full week of roaming around the capital, sight seeing, beaches and babes, restaurants, driving {I just love it}, forts, museums and what else? The first day we reached here was quite boring. Had to be. This trip was planned in a jiffy. Sree had come to my place last week. After two days day’s we were getting bugged up and it was my uncle who put up this idea of visiting Trivandrum. Since we had nothing other to do we just packed in a hurry and headed to this city. We were staying at Naveen’s place.

“What if we don’t take tickets?” I asked.

Sree and Naveen looked at me, unbelievingly. We were discussing it while we were in the car way to station. After sending his father back we decided not to cheat railways. It was me who opposed to the idea first. Maybe I don’t dare that much. But don’t know why, now suddenly I felt I should dare. After I said that, three of us didn’t wait in the queue for tickets. Train had already arrived in the platform. We boarded in the middle one, with the hopes that in case Ticket Checker comes also he wont reach our compartment.

What prompted us to take this decision? When we came here we had taken the ticket and no one checked us. We had discussed about if we hadn’t taken the tickets that time. So why not dare this time? It sums around 250 for three of us. So if we can save that we can have another blast. And the time is 5 O’ Clock only. We will reach our destination by 9.00, soon before some TC comes in. If everything went well and fine, its time for a blast for us. We were so excited to start our journey, can say of adventure.

I was having some worries till the train started. But once the train set off on rails we forgot that we are having no tickets. The train had become crowded. The train started in a good pace and is passing through amazingly greenery areas. And we were running through various topics on what we did throughout the week. The swim in Kovalam Beach, the Masala Dosa from Indian Coffee House, Bikini clad foreigners basking in the sun, old forts we visited and their architecture, culture prevailed in the city, so on so forth.

A loud noise made us stop our talks. Naveen stood up and looked from where it was.
“We are dead, it’s the TC” Naveen screeched. Those words went like a thunder through our minds. I was at jolt. I felt as if world is going upside down. I closed my eyes. My thoughts got blocked.

“What to do?” Sree’s voice was breaking. I looked up. He was looking at me helplessly. There was no trace of confidence he had a minute ago. By the time Naveen had gone to the bedlam corner of the compartment. I didn’t know what to do? I looked outside. There are five more stations to reach our destination. “We are dead” Naveen came back and repeated and gave a drooled look. The TC caught someone who was traveling ticket less and was having a brawl. Till the moment the climate was chilled, but I feel a sudden rise of temperature. I looked up. He is reaching us.

“We will get down at next stop, wherever it is. Then catch next train or go by bus.” I couldn’t think of any other option but this. Both of them nodded their head. Naveen already folded his hands and closed his eyes. Must be praying. Should I? No! Why should I do something I don’t believe in? That too, during my hard times.

“What if he comes before the train stops and hold us?” I hate such questions. What if? Why we think of such a situation. Face it as it comes, whatever it might be. That’s what I believe in. That’s how I had come till here in my life. Never ever I felt I was wrong. Minutes passed like years. And felt as if the train is crawling. My heart began pumping like a horse set on a race. My face blanched. There is no sign of reaching any station. Yes, Naveen said it right. ‘We are dead.’ I closed my eyes.

“Tickets” Somebody patted on my back. Opened my eyes. Who else it would be?
I gave a bare stare. And he smiled. He was not even looking at me.

“Rupees. 150” He took a booklet from his old-black-worn-out-leather bag. He turned to others for tickets. Seeing their faces his lips tore apart with smile.
“Paisa illande lokam kaanan irangiyirikkya makkalu{Are you children traveling without having a single penny}” He spoke in a Trichur Malayalam tone. A.A.Nambeesan. His nameplate spelt. “Nootti anpathu, thala onninu{Pay 150 each}”.

“Sir, we lost our money way back in Trivandrum” Sree uttered. I looked at him amazed. We had almost thousand bucks remaining with us.

“Yes sir, I lost my wallet during our swim in the beach.” It took some time to say that only after reminding all of the money is inside the bag, which is kept under our adjacent seat. I opened my wallet to show only thirty rupees in it. “No, No. You have to pay at any cost. Or we will get down at next station and meet railway police.” He growled. I felt a thousand volcanoes erupting inside me. Why the bloody hell did I decide to dare. Wanted to feel pride of traveling ticket less and not being caught. Who the hell thought things will be like this. Now one thing is for sure. Either we have to pay fine or go to railway police. Either of them its embarrassing.

Many people started peeping inside. I saw everyone’s face. Some were enjoying the scenes, some pitying us and some staring at us not knowing what’s happening. Sree is pleading to pardon us and swearing won’t repeat it again. Naveen, dumbstruck is silently witnessing all.

“Children, what exactly had happened?” I looked beside for the source of that voice. A white robbed, bearded person was sitting beside me. I didn’t notice him even once during the 2-hour journey. His gentle smile put me at ease for a moment. His look prompted me to speak up the truth. But since already had made a false statement it will self branding ourselves as liars in front of these people. But somehow I felt this guy could help us out from this tussle.

“We went to Trivandrum for our holidays and while our swim and plays in the beach I lost my wallet which contained almost thousand rupees of ours. Since there was no one back at home we couldn’t arrange for money from anyone which left us only one option to cut short our trip and board a train without tickets. That’s why we caught the very first train where we thought no TC will be there and we will be safe back home.” In a single stretch I vomited. Sree and Naveen are totally supporting me with their facial expressions and gestures. Together we are making a good team, I thought.

I overheard some saying, “poor chaps, what else can they do?”

“I don’t wish to create a fracas over here” TC showed his impatience. “Pay 200, I will let you free from railway police.” We looked at him.” Sir, pardon us and please let us go. Just think if your children is having this situation.” Sree is good at emotional blackmails. But there is no trace of sympathy on his face.

“How much is it?” The same gentle voice asked. And before the TC said something, to everyone’s dismay he got 200 from his wallet and paid the bill. “Them or you, I only need the fine to be paid” giving the priest the token of bill he moved ahead, “Tickets, tickets.”

We three got shocked. So the others who are witnessing. I hold his hands in a way to thank. “Its ok dear. Its God’s decision that I made a sudden plan to board this train and believe I was destined to help you three out from this.” We were word-stuck. What to say? A person is helping us even though we are at fault and that too without knowing the fact. It is total silence in the compartment. I was filling with guilt. Should I say the truth? Only to him! How? The train is crowded and no privacy is there. Everyone is staring at us showing empathy.

For five minutes no one spoke. I looked at Sree. Took my wallet and found 40 rupees in it. Sree nodded. I think he understood what I was up to. I took the money and gave it to the priest. That’s what we told in public, “we have only few currencies.” He didn’t accept it. He smiled at me. “Child, don’t evaluate a generous help.”

“No father, Its just what we have. And we don’t have to feel guilty. That’s why.”
I tried but in vein. After ten minutes I enquired about his church keeping in mind that next day I can return the money at his church. But he read my mind. “No child. Just don’t try all these things. Be at ease and go to your home”

Ten minutes. Train reached our destination. We got up. Looked at the priest. He smiled. We said good-bye to him and all who sympathized us and then stepped out. Through the window he was saying to us “If you really want me to pay back do some generous act with that money for the poor. It will reach me.” In a minute the train left.

We walked down the platform. It was very crowded. We could see another train coming towards the platform. We three looked at each other. A small smile blossomed on our face. I understood we were thinking the same thing. We came out of the station. We are approaching the bus stop. A bus is coming fast towards us. Out of blue we all three chorused, “Once more!!!”