A celebration of sharing

(This story belonged to the years when the awareness of the harmful effects of fireworks on the Eco system was not fully known)

It was Diwali that day. The air was thick with smoke but full of fun and revelry and the atmosphere echoed with the laughter of children. The houses were all decorated in multi-coloured serial lights. The endless rows of diyas with dancing flames added magic to the ambiance. The children were seen running hither and thither bursting crackers and lighting sparklers. The smell of elachi, kesar and other spices wafted from the kitchens that were preparing scrumptious sweets and namkeens. One could see well-dressed men and women hurrying in cars to make the last minute purchases of dry fruits, gift boxes, sweets and clothes.

Siddharth and Ankita were sitting morose in the verandah watching the brightly-lit houses across the road. Siddharth put his arm around Ankita and gently patted her comfortingly without uttering one word. Both knew what was passing through each other’s mind.

***

Exactly a year before, the scene was entirely different. Their boy of eight years, Aniruddh, was busy a week before Diwali making endless list of crackers he wished to buy and in deciding how much of the money should go for the light and how much for the sound varieties. He liked long Lars that would bring to a stop the entire neighbourhood with its noise and dazzle. He also had a fancy for the multi-coloured fountains and flower pots while his dad had a weakness for rockets. His mother had an aversion for the loud detonations of the country made atom bombs. The boy and dad went with a predetermined budget only to be exceeded by several times. They came home with large packets that seemed almost impossible to finish single handedly even in a couple of days.

It was dark already. The loud explosions and brightness from the rockets and flower pots in the neighbourhood indicated the commencement of celebration. Aniruddh, despite his love for the fireworks, was a timid boy and afraid to light up the noisy stuff. He dragged his parents from the living room to help him in bursting the crackers. The boy let his dad do the lighting of crackers while he closed his ears with both palms and jumped with joy when he heard the muffled sounds.

 There was a slum close by and about half a dozen urchins, half-clad, in unkempt hair, stood outside the gate and watched the display with awe. For the poor and the deprived, Diwali day was like any other day of toil and hunger. The children watched with covetous eyes the vast spread of crackers of assorted varieties kept in a corner. When one of the crackers did not go off, one boy from across the gate rushed inside to pick it up and examine. Siddharth shouted at the boy “You fool, don’t go near, it may burst”

It was then Aniruddh said, “I have a request, Dad. They are all very poor and do not have the money to buy even a shirt. They are as young as I am. Can I call them also to join in the fun? We have so much crackers to burst.”

His mom said “No, give them some crackers and send them away. You don’t have to rub shoulders with them.”

 Aniruddh was adamant “Ma, I want them to enjoy as much as I do when dad lights up the crackers. They are also young like me and not accustomed to crackers. They will be in the lawn only for two hours. I will be happier to see them having fun along with me. Please do not say no.”

Siddharth intervened to say, “Ankita, let them also enjoy. Had I known Ranariddh’s mind earlier, I would have brought some clothes too for these urchins.”

Aniruddh was very happy and called the children to come in. For the next two hours it was a riot of laughter and gaiety amidst the glittering light and colour. The entire lot was finished except for a few stray items which Aniruddh gave away to the boys. When they started to leave happily, Ankita called them in and said “Don’t go away. Come inside and wash your hands. I will give you some sweets and snacks to eat.”

***

A year had since passed but the beaming and happy face of Aniruddh on the Diwali day was still fresh in their memory. A few months after Diwali, the boy died after a short ailment despite all the care and treatment.

When Ankita saw the urchins gathered at the gate again and seemed disappointed to see the dark house bereft of noise, brightness and particularly the pleasant boy. She could not suppress her tears. When Siddharth saw Ankita crying, he said “Get ready, let us go and get lots of crackers and sweets for Aniruddh’s friends. I will ask them to come after an hour for an encore of celebrations like last year. That would make Aniruddh happy.” She readily agreed and asked him to buy some shorts and T- shirts too for the boys.

When they returned back with the bundles the boys were eagerly waiting. Siddharth called them inside and gave them the new dresses to wear. Then under his supervision, the little urchins enjoyed to their hearts’ content the lighting of the crackers watched by Ankita with mixed feelings of joy and grief.

 One little girl in that group innocently asked “Uncle, where is the boy who played with us last time? We enjoyed this more last year when he was around. Has he gone out of station?”

Ankita could not suppress her tears and covering her face with her sari she cried aloud. Siddharth told the girl “Aniruddh is no more. We did this as we felt he would be happy if he could see you all in smiles today.”

As the entire lot of urchins stood speechless as if frozen, the little girl said “We are very sad. Had we known this earlier, we would not have made all this merriment.”

Ankita pulled the little girl to her side and said “Don’t feel sad. Aniruddh will be feeling happy wherever he is. All of you come each year on this day for making him and us happy.”

The second chance-Part II

Ms Neharika Rajagopalan, a regular reader of my blog and a blogger herself suggested that I write a sequel to my story ‘The second chance’ 

At my request that she herself write the sequel as a guest post in my blog , she readily agreed. It is published as The second chance- part II. It has interesting and unexpected twists and turns for the reader to enjoy.

Ms Neharika, a post graduate in economics from UK, a professional in development sector is the founder of DESHA DHWANI, a mental wellness awareness initiative. She has a blog ‘Straight from the Heart’ 

With immense delight and happiness, Sadasivam rushed home to inform his wife about the developments. She, too, displayed unbound ecstasy at the turn of events, and immediately started preparing for Vedagiri's stay, setting up his bedroom, desk, and other amenities. She went shopping for clothes on the same day, and stocked his cupboard with new clothes of various styles. She cleaned the house over and over again, and prayed to God for having provided her with a fresh lease at life. Her depression seemed to vanish completely, and Sadasivam looked on with satisfaction at the smile on her face, which had been non-existent for years.

Meanwhile, Vedagiri's parents were getting ready to move to the outhouse in Sadasivam's house. Sundaresan was upbeat, dashing around the little tenement to pack whatever little they had. Sundaresan's wife, Kamala, however, was moving around slowly, doing the same things over and over again. Sundaresan, who had stepped out to bring a carton box, smelled something burning as he entered the house. He saw that Kamala had left some milk on the stove, which had boiled and spilled over. Sundaresan immediately switched off the stove and looked around for his wife, only to find her folding a piece of cloth, lost in thought. He walked over to her and reprimanded her for her act - when he noticed her troubled face. 

"What happened, Kamala? Why are you looking so lost? God has finally showed gratitude and given us this opportunity. What is there to be worried about?", he asked.

"Hmm? You're right. However, I am only wondering how this arrangement will turn out, and whether this will create a distance between us and our son", said Kamala.

"Nonsense. We are going to be right next to him, in immediate proximity. He is going to get a good life. What's there to brood about? Come, let's get ready quickly", Sundaresan said.

Reassured for the moment, Kamala went back to packing and soon enough, the family moved into the outhouse which Sadasivam's wife Kamakshi had graciously prepared for their arrival. Days passed, and a comfortable routine set in. Vedagiri stayed with Sadasivam and Kamakshi, who officially adopted him as their son. Vedagiri would leave for school with Sadasivam, who would drop him in his car. Sundaresan would also ride along with them to go to office each day, in order to mind the canteen. He received great praises for the quality and taste of his food. Kamakshi and Kamala worked together in the kitchen and did the household chores together, while Kamala regaled stories of Vedagiri's childhood to Kamakshi. The latter would revel in these stories, and be amazed at the similarity between them and her own son's Vedagiri's pranks. Sometimes, she would shed a few tears while thinking about him, at which Kamala would comfort her and make her a strong cup of coffee to revive her spirits. 

Evenings were the best times at the Sadasivam household. Once Vedagiri returned from school, Kamakshi would rush to take his bag and listen to his stories. She would pile him with tasty snacks prepared by her and Kamala each day, and then spend time with him to complete his homework and studies. For dinner, both families sat together and had breezy chat sessions, after which Sundaresan & Kamala would retire to their outhouse, and Vedagiri & his new parents, to their home. Life passed on peacefully in this manner, and years flew by. 

Vedagiri was now working as a manager in a reputed bank, and Sadasivam had slowly started reducing his responsibilities at his business. He had found a bright and enterprising young girl to take over his business, and she was gradually taking on the role with efficiency. Her name was Spandana, and she was beautiful, with big eyes, a sharp nose, and full lips. She had a humorous nature, and would be at Sadasivam's house almost every day. She would spend hours with Kamakshi, cracking jokes and helping her make evening snacks until Vedagiri returned. She would leave just as he entered, and Kamakshi did not miss the coy stares they shared. 

A month passed, and Spandana started lingering longer in the house, well after Vedagiri returned home. She stayed for dinner on most days, and Kamakshi noticed the budding romance between the two. One night, she decided to discuss this with Sadasivam.

"Our Vedagiri has grown up so fast. He's nearing 27. Isn't it time to think about marriage?", she said.

"Yes, I have been thinking about it as well. I have been reviewing a few offers that came my way", Sadasivam replied.

"Why look for something when we have someone ready?", Kamakshi asked.

"What do you mean?", Sadasivam said.

"Have you not noticed how Spandana and Vedagiri look at each other? They are definitely interested in each other. We, as loving parents, must make the match by understanding the children's feelings", she said.

"Oh, I never noticed! That's great news. Let's ask Vedagiri once tomorrow and then visit Spandana's parents for talks", Sadasivam said.

The next day, Spandana was out on some errand. Vedagiri had returned home early. Kamakshi and Sadasivam were with him, drinking their evening coffee. Sundaresan and Kamala were also there. Kamakshi, therefore, decided to broach the subject.

"Vedagiri? I have been observing you since a few days, and have noticed a tangible change in you. You have started smiling a lot, and are literally glowing. Is there anything that you want to tell me?", asked Kamakshi.

Vedagiri was flustered. "What? No, Amma, nothing like that. I am normal", he replied.

Sadasivam said, "We're your parents, my boy. We know what is on your mind. We like Spandana, too, and think she is a great match for you. Would you like us to talk to her parents?", he asked. 

Vedagiri was utterly amazed, and gaped like a goldfish. Slowly, a smile started spreading across his face and his face reddened. 

"Thank you, Amma, Appa. You're right, of course. I am in love with Spandana and I think she is, too. It might be a great idea to talk to her parents. Just let me talk to her once to confirm", he said.

Kamakshi and Sadasivam were elated. Vedagiri added, "Meanwhile, I also want to ask Sundaresan Appa and Kamala Amma about this. Amma, Appa, are you also okay with this?", he turned and asked. Sundaresan immediately agreed and blessed Vedagiri. 

"Amma? What about you?", Vedagiri asked Kamala.

"Oh, great, have you remembered me finally?", asked Kamala.

There was utter silence in the room. Everyone was looking at Kamala, and Vedagiri's smile slowly faded from his face.

"Amma, what do you mean? You are the mother who carried me and brought me to this world. How can I forget you?", Vedagiri said.

Kamala looked mutinous. "Really, son? Can you tell me when? Did you remember me when I lurked in the corner, and you ran straight into the arms of your real mother when you came back from school? Did you remember me when I stood and watched as she fed you snacks and food, yearning to be there instead? Did you remember me when you first graduated with distinction, and came and fed sweets in her mouth first instead of mine? Or when you got your first job and handed the offer letter to her first, instead of me? Tell me, son, did you even notice that your Spandana didn't even spare me a second glance whenever we spent time here? She treated me like a servant, and what do you expect me to say now? That I will happily bless you if you get married to her?", she asked, without a gap.

The silence became even more pronounced. Vedagiri's face was a mask of shock, and he couldn't move his lips. With great effort, he opened his mouth and said, "Amma, how much have you hidden from me all these years? You have harboured this much resentment, and didn't it ever occur to you that you could have spoken to me about this? I have been observing Spandana, as well, and never noticed her avoiding you. In fact, you stayed away from her - and at that time, I assumed that it was because you were busy. What brought all this on?"

Kamala said, "Really? You were too busy making your own life, having conveniently forgotten that we gave you life. When could I have told you?"

Sundaresan intervened: "Kamala! What are you saying? Didn't we agree that we came here for Vedagiri's own good, and that we would willingly accept Ayya and Amma caring for him? What's wrong with you now?"

"When did I ever agree? You forced this decision upon me and I came without choice, since I had already run away from home to get married to you and could not go anywhere else. Nobody ever looked twice at me after coming here!", she said.

Kamakshi, who had been sitting quietly until then, spoke. "Kamala", she said, and her voice cracked a little. "How can you make such accusations without considering our years of friendship? I treated you like my own sister, and took extra care to ensure your well-being. We spent so many days together, discussing life and other things, and grew so close to each other. How could you think I treated you like a servant?", she asked.

"That was until your greed overcame your affection for my son. Isn't it your intention to use his money, now that he is earning so much?", Kamala lashed out.

Kamakshi fell on the sofa as if she had been electrocuted, and Sadasivam watched her in horror, afraid of what this would do to her. They both looked at each other, and their eyes met. They never shifted their gaze for 5 minutes, and when they looked away, it was in silent understanding.

"Kamala, you are like a little sister to me. When we adopted Vedagiri and asked you to come home, we thought we had got good friends. Little did I know that we would find a family to live and nurture Vedagiri with. We still think of you the same way. However, it was never our intent to push you away from him. It is sad that you feel sidelined - but this is not good for his life. A mother must always feel happy when her son gets married, without any negative feeling. Therefore, Kamakshi and I have come to a decision. We both will go away from here, to a place where we have built a rest house. We will never contact Vedagiri, you, or Spandana again, until we die. You can approach Spandana's parents and finalise the marriage - we promise not to tell her about it until then. We had already spoken to a lawyer and written a will which makes sure all my property is transferred to Vedagiri's name as soon as this happens. We don't want his life to be affected, because not being able to stay with a person one loves is the greatest form of misery that can be inflicted upon a person. I am sure you know this, having come away from your home to stay with Sundaresan. All we want is for Vedagiri to be happy. I hope this is agreeable to you", Sadasivam said. 

The tension in the room was unbearable. Finally, after a full ten minutes, Kamala gave a slight nod and said, "Very well, I agree to the marriage if you keep your promise".

Sadasivam held himself together and said, "In that case, Kamakshi and I will leave by the train early in the morning tomorrow, after settling things here. I had already started putting others in charge since I am getting old, so there are only a few things to be done".

Kamakshi turned to Vedagiri and said, "You've grown into a wonderful young man. We are very proud of you. Make sure you lead a happy life with Spandana and your parents. Please don't worry about us as we have reached the twilight of our lives. Goodbye, and good luck to you". Without saying anything further, she rushed to her room and closed the door. Vedagiri stood like a statue, his eyes wide with shock, and went outside an hour later. He did not come back until it was very late in the night. 

Early the next day, Kamakshi and Sadasivam reached the station. Kamakshi laid her head on his shoulder and shed a few tears, grieved that she could not see the wedding of her beloved son, whom she had lost once again. Sadasivam patted her head, and both of them sat side by side, waiting for the train. Suddenly, he heard a voice call out, "Uncle!", and he turned around. He saw Spandana running towards him and his wife. 

The girl came to a stop, panting, and said "Did you think you could leave without telling me?". 

Sadasivam said, "But, I did tell you that I was leaving and that it is your responsibility to handle the business henceforth".

Spandana said, "But, Maama, you never told your daughter-in-law that you're leaving town! Did you not think that I need to know?", and smiled a cheeky smile. 

Kamakshi and Sadasivam raised their heads in shock. At the entrance of the station, another person appeared - Vedagiri. 

He walked towards his parents, and said, "Amma, Appa, how could you think that I can get married without you? You are the ones who nurtured me, cared for me, and helped me become what I am. It is true that Kamala Amma and Sundaresan Appa cared for me when I was young - but I have hid something from you all this while. Did you know that Amma always beat me if I did not pass? Appa would be understanding, but Amma never thought that better circumstances could maybe help me study well. She always had enough money to spend for superstitious beliefs & instances in which relatives questioned her - she even made Appa borrow money for it. But she always made my needs secondary. I never mentioned all of this to you because I still respected her as the woman who gave birth to me and fed me, no matter how she was. However, her hurtful words yesterday taught me that she had never changed. After all, that you have done for me, without even making me feel obligated, how can she suddenly expect you to get out of the picture? So, I visited Spandana's parents last night. I told them the full truth - because, as the parents of the girl I am going to marry, they need to know everything. They agreed to our marriage. I am willing to get married only if you both rightfully take your places as my parents in the wedding. I also took my dad, Sundaresan, aside and informed him of my decision. He is going to take Kamala Amma and move to a rented home, and will up a catering contract elsewhere. I will provide them an amount of money each month for their maintenance. 

I know that this rest house you refer to is in Bangalore. I have requested a transfer in my bank, and owing to my good performance, they have agreed to an immediate move - and have also arranged for my accommodation near your home since I am going to be newly married. We also know that you are reaching ripe old age and need some time for yourselves - and hence will live in proximity, but not with you. Spandana and her parents will join us in a month, to conduct our wedding amidst a close circle of family and friends. Her parents have agreed to this as well. I cannot imagine for a moment that I would give your affection up just to get what I want. Words are not enough to express my affection for you. I will always love you, forever, for showing me the true meaning of parenting. I got a second chance at life, and I will not cast aside those who gave me this. Let's go, Amma, Appa", he said.

Kamakshi and Sadasivam hugged him with tears flowing in their eyes, as the train's horn sounded. The three of them boarded the train, and Spandana waved happily, the excitement of her new life in front of her eyes. Vedagiri smiled back serenely, realising that he would have to learn to live with a bitter taste in his mouth. His childhood flashed before his eyes, and he remembered every day, when he would come back from school only to find the house empty because his mother had gone to satisfy some obligation or the other. He remembered waiting for her to talk to him, so that he could tell her that none of the concepts reached his head because he was hungry. He remembered her reacting to all the relatives' demands, shouting and swearing at Sundaresan appa whenever he had a slow day with less business. He remembered how she would hit him when she learnt that he had failed his examinations, and how she would never talk to him for days together after that. He also remembered how he, by himself, would then hug his mother as she slept, justifying to himself that she had her own problems. He also remembered how all of this was reversed by the pure affection Kamakshi and Sadasivam showered on him. He had regained his lost childhood, but would forever feel that a part of his life was missing - for his love for Kamala Amma had never changed. He would have to live with that yearning for the rest of his life, but would never chase that yearning again. 

Life is all about compromises. One can never gain true love without some sacrifices, but will definitely lose it if he falls for pretentious and material love. 

Seshu's travail

(A translation of a Tamil story of mine சேச்சுவின் கவலை)

” Both the saris that I have are torn at several places and are beyond mending. I am shy of going out,” lamented Alamelu in a voice that was almost inaudible.

“I am fully aware of your plight, Alamelu but I am presently  in a quandary. I have in hand only 300 rupees and the annual festival of the presiding deity is approaching within a week. The sari of goddess is in tatters like yours and however much I try to conceal, they are still visible. When devotees observe the torn condition though without commenting, I cringe in shame. I have pleaded with some devotees who seem well to do to help but to no avail,” bewailed Seshu, the priest at the local Kodandapani temple.

“My god, I did not know. Do not worry about me. I can manage for a month more. It does not matter much as I hardly go out. Why don’t you ask the trustee to do the needful explaining the sad situation and the ensuing annual festival? After all he has a responsibility too,” said Alamelu.

“Do you have to tell me? I had already done that many times and he gets upset whenever I linger before him. According to him, there is practically no income for the temple from the lands and that he is already spending his money for the daily pujas and rituals. He has told me many times that I have to request the regular devotees to contribute for the expenses and charged me that I am not doing my duty properly. I am really at my wit’s end how I can get a new sari for the goddess before the festival,” he bemoaned wiping his eyes with his upper cloth.

After some silence, Alamelu said,” I have a suggestion. You should not object to that. I have this pair of gold bangle though it has become very thin over the years. Please dispose it off with the pawn broker in the bazaar and buy a good sari and blouse piece and good dhotis for the god with the money and use the rest for expenses. It matters little to me whether I have gold bangle or not. I will buy glass bangles for me.”

Shocked at the suggestion, Seshu was quick to respond saying, “No, no, I have never bought you even a gram of gold after our marriage and I cannot agree to take away the only semblance of an ornament on you. Let the god and goddess find a way to buy their needs. They are aware of our extreme poverty and cannot thrust this responsibility on me.”

“Such a wise man as you are, how do you think the bangles belong to us? Everything we own is given by Him and we are only returning Him in the hour of need. I think He is deliberately testing you to the extreme. Listen to me, sell these bangles to Seth and after getting the money buy the needed things. There are hardly three or four days,” Alamelu said with a finality.

“Welcome, Sami. It is very unusual for you to visit my shop. I am blessed. What can I do for you,”? the pawnbroker greeted Seshu warmly.

“I need some money urgently. Here is a pair of bangles that I wish to sell. Kindly give me whatever it is worth.”

Seth examined the bangles carefully and said,” Sami, please do not take me amiss. There is more copper in it than gold. It will not fetch you much money.”

When he saw Seshu’s face fall, he asked with concern, “What for you do you need the money urgently, Sami? Is anyone sick at home? Tell me how much you need? I will pay you.”

“Not like that. By god’s grace we are well. In four days the annual festival of the temple is to take place. I am ashamed to confide that the sari of goddess is torn all over and it is not possible anymore to conceal them from the eyes of devotees. It has to be replaced immediately. That is why the urgency,” explained Seshu.

“Why do you have to sell the jewel of your wife? Why is trustee not coming forward to help?”

“The trustee tells that he is already spending his money for daily puja and rituals and that I should ask the devotees to help. It is not forthcoming. If the god and goddess who shower their blessings on all of us suffer and wear torn vastrams, I feel anguished. It was at my wife’s suggestion that I wished to sell the bangles and make use of the money. It is unfortunate that is also not feasible,” said Seshu

“When is the festival starting?”

“It falls on coming Friday. We have just four days.”

“Please do not worry. God will find some way to help you celebrate the festival in a fitting manner. Today is Monday. If no one comes forward to contribute by Wednesday evening, please come to me. Take these bangles with you,” Seth said in a comforting tone.

It was 8.30 Wednesday evening and the temple usually closed at 9 pm. Seshu was crest fallen as there had been no positive sign of help reaching. There was no word from trustee too. As Seshu was in Janakavalli thayar’s sanctum praying with tears in his eyes, he heard some commotion at the gate of temple. The regular flower seller along with his wife were seen entering with heavy cane baskets on their heads. Seshu rushed out to see the baskets placed outside the sanctum.

“What are these? Who gave them?” he asked them.

“We don’t know. Someone came in a car and requested us to take the baskets inside the temple and give it to the priest. He saw us placing the baskets here from outside and left,” one of them said.

When he removed the coloured clothes that covered the baskets, he found four bundles on one of the baskets and in the other big packets containing raisins, sugar candy(kalkandu), almonds, cashew nuts, packets of kumkum and turmeric, incense sticks, a tin each of ghee and gingelly oil besides a few other things.

When he turned his eyes on the other basket that contained bundles, he found the names Kodandapani and Janakavalli thayar written on them. One of them contained two pairs of dhotis with big zari border in red and green and the other with a pair of Kanchipuram silk saris, one in maroon and another in dark green with large zari borders in gold with two matching blouse pieces.

When he opened the other two bundles specified for ‘priest couple’, he found inside one, a pair of dhotis and upper clothes and in the other a pair of cotton saris of high quality with matching blouse pieces.

There was five thousand rupees in the bundle for god and a two thousand rupee note for the priest. There was a slip of paper with the note, “Let Friday festival be my humble offering every year. I will be there by 5 am on Friday with flower garlands, flowers, basil garlands, fruits of different kinds and sandal paste. Let us make it a great celebration…a devotee.”

A thought ran across Seshu’s mind whether it could be from Seth but the large size of bounty made him confused.

Seshu jumped with joy at the pleasant turn of events and turned to look at the Goddess only to sense a fleeting grin in Her face. He prostrated before Her gratefully for the miracle and got ready to attend happily to the huge load of work before him.

On Friday the temple wore a festive look with festoons of mango leaves and plantain trees at the entrance. Sharp at 5 am, a car stopped at the entrance of the temple and Seth along with his family members alighted followed by his servants with several baskets. Seshu welcomed them with a broad smile and folded hands.

“Sami, are you happy now that the God had answered your prayers? This function will be henceforth mine every year. You must however remind me a week before,” said the Seth. “I have also brought a big brass Hundi to be kept in the hall for devotees to contribute. Suddenly the temple bell started tolling loudly signifying the start of celebration.

It is a tiny bit of news that Seth visited Seshu’s house on the following day and handed him a small packet saying, “Kindly accept this small token of affection and   both of you bless me and my family.”

After blessing them, Seshu opened the packet to see a pair of shining bangles in gold. Flabbergasted he opened his mouth to protest when Seth implored, “Kindly accept this token of gratitude for turning my attention from the material world of making money towards god. Ever since Friday I am suffused with joy and peace of mind that I have never experienced.” 

Alamelu beaming with happiness cast a furtive glance at the glittering bangles. 

The second chance

It was getting dark and the sky was overcast. The crowd had thinned out in the park and the children playing on the slides and swings had also gone back to their homes. The park was almost empty. When he felt a drop of water fall on his face, Sadasivam too decided to leave. As he was walking back slowly on the long bridge over the river to reach his area, he saw a young boy a little away standing at the edge of the bridge holding its railings on hand. The boy stood motionless with his eyes fixed on the vast space of water moving slowly beneath. Sadasivam felt it odd for a young boy of about 15 to be standing alone gazing at the water below at this hour. He knew the river was deep there. He suspected the boy’s intentions may not be good and hurried his pace towards him.

When he went close to the boy, he looked at him vacantly possibly waiting for him to pass leaving him alone again. But Sadasivam had no mind to do that.

“Why are you standing here alone when it is dark and about to rain?” he asked the boy.

The boy did not respond but turned his face towards the river.

“Haven’t you heard me? Why are you here? Go back home before it rains. Is your home nearby?”

“Leave me alone, Sir, I beg of you,” he mumbled. It was then Sadasivam noticed his swollen eyes and surmised he must have been crying. It did not take long for him to figure out that the boy must have failed in the annual examination and afraid to go home.

I will not pry much into your affairs but have no intention to leave you here alone. You can come to my home which is very close by, eat something and share your problem. We can discuss and find ways to resolve it. I will help you. I am living alone with my wife and servant in a big house. You can stay for the night if you wish to and decide what should be done next. If you still want to go to the bridge, I cannot prevent you but I may alert the police. But right now you are coming with me,” Sadasivam said with finality.

The boy then started crying inconsolably. Sadasivam put his hands on his shoulder and led him home without talking much.

“I have brought a young guest home. I found him standing on the bridge alone. He will stay here tonight with us as we have some important matter to discuss after dinner when you can also be present. Can you give him some fruit juice before he freshens himself up?” Sadasivam said explaining to his wife about the  boy’s presence.

“What is your name?” she asked when she handed over the chilled orange juice.

With his head hung low, the boy mumbled,” Vedagiri”.”

When she heard the name, she was startled and kept silent for a moment. With a twinge of sadness and  much affection, she said, “I like the name and it is my favourite,” even as she started wiping her eyes with her sari.

Meanwhile Sadasivam handed him a towel and asked him to have a quick wash and come to dining table

As they sat down comfortably after dinner on the sofa with Vedagiri by the side of aunty, Sadasivam prodded him to tell his story truthfully without any fear. As the boy was perspiring, aunty switched on the AC.

“Tell me first about your parents, siblings if any, where you live and then proceed with your account of today’s happenings,” said Sadasivam in casual tone.

“We are a poor family. My father Sundaresan works as a cook for marriages and such like occasions. The income is not enough. He will be away for four or five days in a week and come for one or two days only to go back. My mother manages with limited income. I have a sister two years younger to me and studying in class 7 in the government school. I have also a brother who is just 8 years and in class two. We are living in a small portion adjacent to perumal kovil (temple),” and paused awaiting their reaction.

“Good, tell me now what all happened since morning and why you were standing near the bridge. I can tolerate anything but a lie. Speak truthfully I warn you,” Sadasivam said in an admonishing tone.

Aunty intervened to tell her husband, “Please do not threaten the child. He looks scared already,” and turning to the boy said affectionately,” Vedagiri, do not be afraid but tell uncle in your own way what all had happened.”

“Okay aunty. The results were out today and I failed for the second time in class 8.I got fair marks in all subjects except mathematics. Previous year too I failed in the same subject. Last year the teacher suggested that I take tuition from him but how can we afford it? The school will not keep boys who have failed twice in same class. I am terribly ashamed and feel bad to face my parents. My father would be shattered by the news as he pinned all his hopes on me. I did not know what to do. I came to the river with a crazy idea but got afraid of the deep water. I did not know what to do as my mind was blank. It was then luckily uncle came and took me away from the spot.,” he stopped as he broke down into sobs.

“Do you have any interest in extracurricular activities like sports, music or anything else,” Sadasivam asked.

“I have not participated in sports as I wished to return home quickly to help my mother. I fetch water daily in the evenings from public tap. I like Carnatic music but have not learnt.” he said.

“There is nothing serious to worry about. With good tuition for a year, you can top the class. We have no child and we are alone. If aunt agrees, you can stay with us permanently. I will engage best teachers to coach you. I will take care of your entire education till you reach post graduate level but on one condition,” he stopped looking at the face of the boy.

Vedagiri looked at him anxiously unable to guess the condition uncle was talking about. He turned to see aunty simply smiling.

Sadasivam laughed and told, “Vedagiri, do not be afraid. I will talk to your parents first and then let you know. Tell me now whether you are comfortable with us and like the surroundings here. If you give me any contact number, I will convey the message to your parents that you are safe with us and that you would return tomorrow.”

“I like the place very much, uncle. It is so spacious and bright and I have never tasted the kind of food served by aunty. The house is very big and posh looking like a palace to me as I am accustomed to live only in a dark single room tenement with broken floor and dim light,” Vedagiri said with a smile.

Aunty drew him close and hugged him to say,” The way you speak is exactly like our Vedagiri,” putting the boy again into confusion.

Uncle cleared it saying, “We had a son of your age by same name but he is no more. Come with me and I will show your room,” and took him away hurriedly.

The next day when Sadasivam went to drop the boy, his father was also luckily there. After the initial pleasantries, Sadasivam told him about how he met the boy and how he persuaded him to come to his home and how much of instant liking his wife and himself took for the boy.

Vedagiri unexpectedly interrupted to say,” Appa, uncle had a son of my age with the same name but he is no more.”

“It is true I had a son of his age. It was all my fault. The boy was not doing well in his class and failed once. Busy as I was in making my company prosper I neglected to pay attention to his progress in studies. I should have discussed with his teachers and engaged a tutor but I was all the time touring across the country and outside in my race for wealth.My wife was also fully busy in taking care of office administration.Both of us were naive in not realizing the gravity of the situation till it was too late.The boy was also not fully open about what was happening at school.

Being a highly sensitive boy, he could not bear the indifference of his class mates and taunts of the teacher and suffered in silence till one day he committed suicide putting us into immense grief. I lost all interest in business but running the company for the welfare of the employees. My wife unable to bear the grief became dazed and silent.

Luckily your son Vedagiri appeared for us and I could see a streak of smile and joy in her face. We wish to make amends for our mistake by making your son reach top of the class and succeed in life. I will talk to a friend of mine who is the correspondent of a well known private school and get him admitted provisionally in class 9 without loss of a year.

I am sure the boy’s presence would bring some life and joy to my home and our lonely existence. Pray do not think I am selfish. If you are agreeable you can be in charge of the canteen of my company and only supervise its efficient running. No hard work and all in air conditioned atmosphere. The salary would be good. You can move into our outhouse that served earlier as a guest house. That way Vedagiri would not be missed by you. I will also meet all the expenses of the education of your other children. I will get them admitted in the same school. I will employ a music teacher to coach Vedagiri and his sister. God has given me abundant wealth. I would implore you kindly to agree.”

Both Sundaresan and his wife fell at his feet and expressed their gratitude, “Our life has been one of utter penury thus far and we have not been able to feed and clothe the children properly. We regard you as god come in human form in answer to our prayers. We will make no claim on Vedagiri as we are interested only in his wellbeing. You have saved him from the jaws of death and you are rightfully his father. While I am beholden to you for what you intend to do for Vedagiri, we will be in eternal debt of gratitude for what you do to me and my family. We both fully agree to abide by your wishes. Anytime you find our presence inconvenient. we will move to some other place.”

“That would not be necessary. All of you come with me now to convey the good news to my anxious wife. Besides Vedagiri, your wife also would give company to my wife. Tell me when I can arrange movers and packers for shifting into the outhouse soonest?” concluded Sadasivam.

Bhagavathi's blessing

Nandini was in a happy frame of mind as the plane taxied to tarmac at Mangalore airport. She would be meeting her only sister Bhargavi, elder to her by six years, after a gap of five years. Bhargavi has been pleading with her all these years to take a break and spend a month with her. The exigencies of work, her frequent tours abroad and her husband’s schedule somehow stood in the way of her visit to this coastal town till this day. Luckily she could do now as her husband was away on tour to China for a week and she was relatively free having just completed her project.

She had not decided about the visit till Bhargavi rang up two days back and mentioned,” Nandini, I know you are busy and cannot take a break. But I insist that you come down for your own sake. The Bhagavathi temple here is celebrating its famed quinquennial function this week and young women are thronging to seek the blessings of goddess. There is no question of your disregarding my request as you are wont to since childhood days.”

“Akka (elder sister), I know why you are particular about my visiting the temple. I have lost all hopes of bearing a child and all the medical opinions support such a pessimism. Please understand that I am really not keen about a visit to the temple. I will nevertheless come for a couple of days just to meet you and your two daughters.” Nandini said.

“Yay, inform me your flight details, I will be at the airport. We can decide the rest when you are here,” Bhargavi said in jubilation.

Nandini saw from a distance her sister standing tall and beautiful as ever belying her 38 years in age but a little worn out in these intervening years. She rushed to her dragging the suitcase and hugged her tightly.

“Nandini, believe me, there has been no change at all in you. You look the same charming and graceful young thing that I saw five years back. I am so happy you could at last make it,” said Bhargavi holding her hands warmly.

“Akka, you have also not changed much except for a few strands of grey hair. What is the secret of your youth?” Nandini asked with a twinkle in her eyes.

As Nandini lay in her bed that night after a sumptuous Palakkad dinner with her sister and nieces by her side, she felt as if she was in her ancestral home with her mother who passed away when she had just joined college. It was Bhargavi who was married by then who took care of her till she finished her post graduation and found a good job at Delhi. The two sisters talked into the late hours of the night after sending the nieces to their room.

“Nandini, I am not pressurizing you but having come this far especially at this opportune and auspicious time, why miss offering prayers to the Goddess. You know amma was a devout devotee of Bhagavathi and regularly visited the temple,” said Bhargavi.

“Do you really believe, akka, that visiting a temple during this time helps in conceiving a child even where doctors have ruled it out? I think it is as ridiculous as circambulating peepal tree for getting a child,” said Nandini in a taunting tone.

“I cannot answer your question to your satisfaction except saying that there is a strong belief long held by our past generations and in such matters only implicit faith helps. You need not come as a supplicant but as a devotee of the Goddess whom amma revered much.

Let us have fun afterwards in the beach as the temple is close to sea shore. The scenic beauty of the location, the incessant waves, the blue sea, the azure sky and the boats of fishermen setting into the sea is a delight to watch. Get up early. We will all go in the morning. Sleep well as you must be tired,” Bhargavi said and bade her goodnight.

The next morning was spent in the crowded temple, offering prayers and going around the sanctum thrice. While Bhargavi prayed for Nandini, it is not known what she sought for. The rest of the time about an hour were spent on a long walk in the beach and watching the waves striking the shore.

On the way back home, Nandini asked her sister, “Have you heard of cases where women without children for long years having conceived after visiting the temple? Be truthful.”

“Frankly, I do not know. It is all hear say but still people throng here. Your case should tell me whether it really works or not.”

“That means you used this ploy to drag me here, is it?” asked Nandini in an accusatory tone.

“Take it in whatever way you like. Is it wrong for an elder sister wanting to have her younger one with her and shower her affection?  Do you really know how much I miss you? Who else is there for me except you after our parents passed away,” Bhargavi said wiping her moist eyes.

Struck by remorse by her own rude remark, Nandini pleaded,” Akka, please forgive me. I was a fool to talk like that. I really enjoy my visit here. I would do anything you ask for unquestioningly,” even as she bent to touch her sister’s feet.

Once back in Delhi, Nandini plunged into her work. In about two months she had to go to Seattle for three months on a project.

It was a rainy Sunday at Seattle when Bhargavi invited her on FaceTime. “Nandini, I am in a mess and I feel highly embarrassed to talk about it. You know I have completed 38 years and my younger daughter is nearing six. I have not had the monthly thing for the last two months. I actually went to pray for you but I wonder whether Bhagavathi misheard me,” she said hiding her pain behind a smile and added,” I wished to abort but your brother in law dissuades me from it. I am very shy to go out these days and remain confined at home.”

“Wow, I concede Bhagavathi is indeed powerful though her blessings are misplaced! Why do you care about others? Let us hope it is a boy for a change. When it is time for delivery, I will come to be of assistance, I assure you,” Nandini spoke to her encouragingly.

Six months later, when Bhargavi was blessed with a baby girl, her husband offered the baby to Nandini who was there telling,” We had already decided accordingly. We felt since Goddess Bhagavathi could not help you directly due to you some medical issues, She perhaps used this ploy to give you a baby. Kindly accept this baby girl as yours. We are sure your home would be filled with laughter and fun and you will have someone to aspire for and shower your affection.

Nandini gladly took the baby in her arms to give her smooches even as her heart was filled with gratitude to Goddess and no less to Bhargavi. Her joy knew no bounds as the baby snuggled close to her and smiled. Bhargavi looked on with tears of joy in her eyes.