The Proposal

Ritu is a young working professional. She has followed her passion into her profession. At the age of 26, she is a quite established interior decorator. Her freelancing work and passion for it, has made her successful at a very young age. She always looks forward to enjoy her work and maintain a perfect balance between her professional and personal life. Balancing a profession with being a housewife in parallel to it, is never easy. That too, when an old mother in law comes in to the picture.

Ritu has been married, since a year. She had been in a steady relationship with a guy from her college. But, unfortunately that guy cheated on her. When she broke up with him and started to stay in complete solace, her parents decided her to be married to a complete stranger. She was to young at that time and didn't have the guts to speak against her parents. So, she gave in to the first people who came for a proposal.

Her to be husband, an author and hailing from a well established business family, seemed to be a decent guy to her, at their first encounter. They had a little chit chat. The guy, in the name of "Parimal Chatterjee", a renowned author and also running his family business, was quite similar to what, the story publishers claimed- Unsocial, shy and very less talkative. They met at the Trincas restaurant, the venue, which had been decided in advance by their parents.


At first glance, Ritu had kind of liked him. He was a handsome guy of healthy build, wearing nerd glasses with a french cut and shortly trimmed hair. He seemed purely like a wealthy guy with a don't give a damn attitude. Besides, he was a kind of pretty well known celebrity. Some of his books had sold quite well in the market. In a nutshell, she was eager to meet him and more over, wanted her ex boyfriend to know it. And to add to her happiness, he was quite the guy she imagined him to be. They chatted for long. She had told him about her previous relationship, on their first encounter only, as she felt it would make the process transparent. He also had told her about his past girlfriends and how he have had sexual encounters with them. They both had decided to be open minded at the beginning only, so that, the end doesn't gets ruptured. On mutual agreement, they had married.


Two years have passed by. Things have changed. Parimal remains busy in his work, almost 24 hours. He is not able to give time time, to his wife. Every day he wakes up in the morning, dresses up quickly, and rushes to the office, without even having breakfast, some days. He rarely does have any talk with his wife, in the morning. In the evening and some days late night, after coming back to home, he watches the television for sometime and then after having dinner, goes to sleep. This is his normal schedule. Ritu also has her busy schedule to follow everyday. She also after waking up, dresses up quickly and goes out for client meetings. Sometimes, he clients stay too far, and she has to leave early to drive a long distance. In the evening or night, some days, she arrives home even late than Parimal. They take turns to feed and take care of Parimal's old mother, who is very sick. Ritu operates from her home only, so she has been assigned more responsibilities, to take care of her mother in law.


Although, both Parimal and Ritu try to adjust and co - operate, but, the love and romance between them is lost completely. They are now like strangers, married and living together, but still being strangers.


Then one day, Parimal receives a lottery ticket. His friend gives it to him. Parimal doesn't believe in all this, but decides to keep it with him. Two days later, he receives a call.

"Hello. Parimal Chatterjee speaking." - Parimal picks up the call.

"Hello! Sir. I am calling from Kolkata Lottery. You had bought a lottery ticket from us. So, this was to inform that you have luckily got a couple trip to Goa. Congratulations!! Please come with a valid ID proof to our office at Ballygaunge circle, for accessing it. Thank you. And congratulations once again. For any queries, you can get back to me on this number. My name is Paridhi. Take care" - The girl drops the call.


Parimal thinks for two minutes. He has a very busy and packed up schedule. He will never find time for the trip. Ritu will also be probably busy. And they rarely have any conversation these days. He will not even be able to tell her anything. He decides to hand the tickets over to one of his friends.

However, on reaching home, he decides to ask her once. He parks his car and enters home. Ritu was busy feeding his mom, when Parimal asks her," Ritu, can you come here for 5 minutes? Need to discuss something with you."

Ritu accompanies him to their room. Instances of them being together in this room, flashes before Ritu's eyes. It has really been a long time, since they have stopped loving each other. Parimal asks,"I have got two tickets for a Goa trip. It was lottery gift. I know you are busy and probably, we might not get the time for it. But, still I thought to ask you once."

Ritu nods silently. They don't really interact these days. The flashes of memories had bought tears in her eyes, which comes out suddenly, without a warning. She turns away from Primal, in order to hide her tears. Parimal grabs her from behind, turns and lifts her up and starts kissing her. Kissing her all over her face, he moves towards her neck. Ritu gets surprised by the sudden change of environment, but decides to give in. Probably, she also had longed for this to happen, and felt that the same, was missing since long time. Parimal stops and pulls Ritu more closer towards him. He hugs her very tightly.


Both of them start crying. "I am really sorry, Ritu. I was so entangled in my work, that I completely forgot that our relationship was not for granted. I forgot, that being a human, you would also require my time and support. I gave up everything on you and didn't even care to ask, even once. You single handed took care of mom and all household works, in spite of being an accomplished professional. Shame on me. I could neither be a good husband, nor even a good employer. I realised it today, when I hesitated to talk with you, my wife today and that also regarding a good news. I hope it's not too late to apologise"

Ritu grabs Parimal by waist, and pulls him towards her. She kisses him even more passionately. The colour of her lipstick scatters over whole of Parimal's face. She says,"Let's forget it and start afresh. It was my fault too. I could have talked to you and sorted it out. But, I didn't due to my ego. Let's forgive each other. Now, stop crying. Goa is awaiting us."

They smile and start kissing each other. Passion ignites the environment. And this is how, two people fall in love with each other, all over again...

Someone... Somewhere

There is an old saying: "Someone, somewhere, is made for you." Not everybody, believes in the saying. But, Vishnu does. He feels he doesn't need to search her. She and he will meet by itself, one day. He is waiting for that one day.

Vishnu, an engineering graduate, currently employed in an IT firm, is very enthusiastic about life. He loves to find enjoyment in small things and challenge the odds. A very happy go lucky guy, he never complains about anything. He doesn't drink, smoke and is free from all sorts of drug addictions. Probably, he is the perfect son any mother would wish for and any mother in law would wish, for her daughter to be with. He also has a very interesting side hobby. He practises hand reading. Since class 12 only, he had been studying books and listening to shows on this and now he has acquired knowledge enough, to demonstrate his own skills. He doesn't do it professionally, but always in  a friendly get together, people end up accumulating near him for favours.

It is in this way only that one day he meets Sathi. It was a birthday party of one of his friend's, and Vishnu was invited. Many unknown people were also invited, so Vishnu had decided not to see anyone's hand. But still people ended up accumulating near him and forced him for favours.

He was looking a little girl's hand, and observing, when suddenly, an enchanting voice says,"Hi!! Could you look at my hand also, please?". Visnhu looks up. He sees a beautiful girl, dressed in a blue salwar, with a white dupatta, looking at him, smiling. She is beautiful. She also has an attractive smile. Her enchanting eyes, appealing face, instantly kissable dark red lips and never ending smile makes him completely taken, He wishes to now see his hand at first, before anyone else's, also he wishes to know her name and more about her.


Vishnu goes numb. "Ahem, ahem!!! Could you please concentrate over my hands?" - The girl says and starts smiling. Vishnu realises that he was staring blankly at her and his face turns red. He quickly completes with the little girl's fortune and then turns towards her. She is standing there, waiting for instructions, still laughing. Vishnu indicates her to sit down. He holds her hand.


"Did I tell you to do so?" - The girl asks. She starts laughing even more.  Vishnu turns deep red in shame. Being shy, he starts blushing. " Hey, don't blush. It's okay. I was kidding. Come on. Check me. Oh Sorry, my fortune." - The girl comforts him, while pulling his leg at the same time. She seems to be enjoying in his company.


Vishnu looks at her palm and slowly starts on with his fortune telling. She gives him tickles. Her open minded nature, friendly and go crazy attitude, makes him fall head over heels for her. He feels that the prediction someone somewhere is made for you, has come true for him. Only, he will have to take the initial steps. With this is mind, Vishnu carries on with his fortune telling.

Forbidden: A romantic story

Ramesh has to follow a very strict schedule everyday. Being a private tutor isn't an easy job. When people pay you over and above their normal education routine, it comes with more responsibility and discipline. Handling kids is also a work of great patience. They either are too naughty or too dumb. So, everyday becomes a new test for him.

It all started 5 years back, when after graduating, Ramesh, instead of opting for campus placements, decided to start a private teaching organisation of his own. His entire focus was on teaching kids, not because of business, but because of the fact that he liked being with kids and teaching them. Ten slowly his one room class turned in to an organisation with four branches across Kolkata, with the name "Mukherjee Classes", and Ramesh became a familiar name in the world of kid's education.

Ramesh Mukherjee, now the Founder of "Mukherjee Classes" and being one of the most prominent teachers in Kolkata, rarely finds time for else activities. His everyday schedule is packed up. After getting up in the morning, he gets freshened up and reaches office by 9 AM. The teaching batches start slowly at 9:30 and the sales team arrive at 10 AM. He has to give them advice and take information from them. He also performs quarterly reviews, after every two weeks, to boost up the business and solve temporary hitches, if any. The head office is in Ballygaunge, where he generally sits. The other offices are at Hindmotor and Uttarpara, where he visits once or twice, every week. Life was going on a fast pace, when suddenly, things take a sudden halt.

Today is 15th August, 2015. Ramesh is sitting in his cabin. His staff is on holiday today, but he felt like to going to office, as everyday. Being in office alone, makes him remember his initial days, every time. The journey had been really memorable. Ramesh is lost in thoughts, when he hears the door bell ring.

On opening the door, he sees a cute little girl, who asks him,"Uncle, classes have started already?". "The girl is too cute. I wonder how much her mother would be?" - Ramesh smilingly says to himself, and bends down towards the girl.

"Today is a holiday, sweetheart. You can come tomorrow, for the admission." - He says.

"May we please come in?. We are in some trouble."- Ramesh hears a lovely voice speaking.

He looks up. A young lady, seemingly in her 30's, dressed in a whitish blue top, blue jeans, with her face covered, is looking across the road, continuously at successive intervals. It appears like she is searching for someone on the road.

"Come in." - Ramesh says, and closes the door, once they get in.

Sensing something uncomfortably wrong, Ramesh asks the lady,"Is everything okay?"

The lady uncovers her face. Ramesh looks at her. Looking at her, makes him stand still. She is beautiful. Her grey hair, too fair skin tone, well toned figure, black eyes and burning red lips, arouses him from within. She unknowingly, casts a spell on him, the effects of which, cannot be diminished.

With great efforts, Ramesh speaks up again,"Is everything okay?"

The lady replies,"Actually no. My little girl and I, were being followed. Somehow, avoiding him, we reached here. He knows we might be here, and we will be facing real trouble, when we get back home."

"He, who?" - Ramesh asks.

"The House owner's son. He follows us, wherever we go. He always has his dirty eyes laid on me or my daughter. Oh I am extremely sorry. I shouldn't be saying you all this." - The lady's face turns red with shame.

"It's all right. Please sit down. You would have some water? " - Ramesh asks.

The lady nods and Ramesh goes in the canteen to bring water. "Something is wrong. They are either in deep trouble, or faking it." - He says to himself, and comes out with two glasses of water.

Once after, drinking water, the lady calms down, a bit. She sits on the guest sofa, and hugs her daughter. She starts crying.

Her daughter gets confused. Ramesh decides to console her, in spite of initial hick up. He concludes that even if the girl is faking, he needs to find out the truth.

"Calm down. Nothing will happen to you here. You can trust me. Now tell me, why is the land lord's son following. Tell me everything in details, from start to end." - Ramesh says.

The lady, after a brief pause of hesitation starts:
"Three years ago, me and my husband came here to live together. Our families were against our marriage, and he didn't have the power to back us. So, we decided to live separately. It's difficult to find a home here and besides, the time was also short. So, without further enquiries, we decided to move into the first option available. Besides, the owner seemed to be a nice and decent old man. So, we decided to stay. We were quite happy. Then one day, Duhita came into our life. We were even more happy. She gave us more reasons to cherish life. Everything was going fine, until the last year, when his son arrived back home, from jail. His son, a criminal with a history of theft, laid his filthy eyes, on me and her, the very first day itself. After that, life also took an unexpected turn. Adding to the problems already present, my husband died in a car accident, leaving us alone. His bike collided with a heavy metal truck, and he instantly, died due to the severe blow. Six months have passed by. Everyday, the landlord's son tries to touch me or my daughter. Being old, the landlord cannot say anything, and his son doesn't even listen to the little, that he says. His son stalks us everyday, wherever we go. I myself only know, how difficult it is to manage my job and her schooling, at the same time. I can't even leave her alone for a split second. Always, when I reach her school, five minutes late after the classes have got over, I fear I may not see her again. " - The lady starts crying, again.


"He was again following us today. while we were coming here. That's why I insisted on getting in quickly. At least, inside a closed premise, we feel temporary relief." - The lady replies, still weeping.


Ramesh takes a deep breath. "World is full of problems, and more number of people, who create it." - A deep thought comes across his mind.

After taking a deep breath again, he speaks - "Okay. Relax. After her admission, I will drop you both to your home. For today, you might get a temporary solution, But, every other day,neither I, no one else, will be able to help you. And this will go on increasing with time. Only you can help yourself. Stand against what's wrong. And I tell you, things will automatically fall in the right place. Give my words, a thought." Ramesh goes in the accounts cabin, to bring a form.

Entering inside, he pauses. "They are stuck in a bad situation. If no one helps them, they might not be able to get out of it. But, who will help them. They have no one. " - Ramesh says to himself. Lost in thoughts, he forgets to take out the admission form. He realises it after 5 minutes. Taking out the form, he comes outside.

Once the process is done, Ramesh keeps the payment in drawer, takes out his car keys and guides them towards the garage. Although hesitant, the lady follows him with her daughter.

Once the car has hit the road, Ramesh asks,"Bdw, I didn't get the chance to ask your name. You are Mrs. Pallavi, right?"

The lady smiles and replies," Yeah. You must have seen it in the form.". Pallavi chuckles and says again,"I however, know your name. So, tell me, how does it feel to run an organisation, of your own. From an engineering graduate to the owner of an organisation, how was the journey?"

Ramesh smiles. The days of initial struggles and defeats, flashes right before his eyes."It was not easy. But, the efforts made was worth the results," - He says.

They start talking more and more. Ramesh gets lost and spellbound in her words. He falls in love with her. Her charming eyes and lovely smile enchants him. "What if I help her. What if I rescue her?" - he thinks in mind, but words refuse to come out.

After a journey of almost half an hour, they reach their destination. Ramesh wished the journey never ended.

Pallavi gets out of the car with her daughter. Suddenly, from nowhere, a bike hastily comes to halt. A young lean guy, probably drunk, incapable to stand on feet, parks the bike just besides the car with a loud sound, and grabs hold of Pallavi. Her daughter hides inside the car.

"Where the fuck, did you go? I had told you to inform me, wherever you are going. Why didn't you, you filthy cunt? What did you think? I won't find out. I will fuck you like anything today, bitch." - He raises his hand to slap her.

Ramesh holds his hand. "Don't you dare. I will break every bone in your body, if you do so. You have disrespected her enough. Now say sorry and go." - says Ramesh, calm but fierce.

The guy looks towards him. His eyes are red, primarily due to alcohol and more due to anger. He raises his hand again, but Ramesh hold him strong. He is unable to move his hand. He shouts,"Who the fuck are you? Oh I see, the bitch finally got a fuck buddy. Why? wasn't I man enough?"

Ramesh lands a tight punch on his face. He falls on the ground. His lips start bleeding. "You motherfucker" - he shouts and tries to rise up. Ramesh gives a strong kick on his face. He falls unconscious.

"Pack your things. We are leaving this place. No one can stay here, more than a minute. I will complete the monetary formalities. Meanwhile, you go inside and pack your stuff. " - Ramesh says, with a silent determination in his eyes. He calls a local tempo provider, giving them the address to come. Duhita was crying inside the car.

Ramesh lifts her up." Don't worry. You will have to see these, no more. Your mom and I will take you, to a very nice place." - Ramesh says and Duhita smiles.

Pallavi feels herself, drawn towards him. For the first time, some one after her dead husband, had spoken for her. She finds Ramesh's caring nature and manly actions, the only qualities a girl may look for in a guy.

"But, I am married. I can't feel it. It's wrong to feel something like this. I can't enter forbidden lines. I can't" - She says to herself, silently. A gentle breeze blows over her face, suddenly, making her face go numb.

"Don't worry. You are not wrong. Everyone has to move on. Take a leap of faith. Let it happen slowly." - She hears a familiar voice, whisper in her ears. She turns around. No one is there. She is standing alone on the road.

"Mom, uncle has gone inside. Let's pack things and leave this place. I don't want to stay here." - Duhita says, holding her mother's hand.

"Yes, sweetheart!! Let's go." - Pallavi smiles and picks her up. She smiles and decides to give a try. They move inside the house to pack things. The tempo also arrives in front of the building gate, where the landowner's son is still lying unconscious. 

The Taxi ride

Bipin lives in Konnagar. Everyday he takes a train to his office, located in Kolkata. The train leaves him at Howrah and he has to take a bus or auto to his office. The whole journey takes about an hour of time. By the time he reaches office, he gets tired to work and takes time to freshen up and get back to work. He is the deputy manager - Credit Operations in United Bank of India.

His office is in Dalhousie, which is far away from Konnagar. Everyday journey of such a long time is slowly affecting his stamina and he feels complete energy less, when he comes back home. Besides, his daily routine of going to office and coming back, he also has his home duties to fulfil. Every Saturday, he goes to the local grocery shops to buy stuff for his parents. He is the only son of his old parents, and so can't ever think of going outside, for better career opportunities.

Alongside, there is also a constant pressure of marriage from his family. Bipin doesn't feel any urge to marry now, but he is now 26 years old and besides there in no one to look after his parents and he alone cannot do it. So, there is no way he can ignore their talks either. But, being workaholic and having given very less time to other aspects of life, he is still single.

Life was going in a slow pace like this, until, one day he met her.

The story focuses on that day:

Bipin wakes up late and as a consequence, misses the train. Catching the next train will make him late by 45 minutes. So he decides to take a sharing taxi. After parking his bike for the second time, he waits for the taxi to arrive at Konnagar Bata. The taxi arrives after 5 minutes.

Once he gets in,the taxi driver receives a second passenger request from Uttarpara. He takes a right turn to drive towards Uttarpara bus stop. The condition of the road is pathetic, with almost all manholes uncovered and boulders scattered across the entire road. This makes Bipin irritated. He is getting late, which irritates him even more. Ultimately, the taxi comes to a halt.

Bipin watches as a lady gets inside. She is dressed in corporate formals - A pink top and a black pant. Soon as she gets inside the taxi, a gentle breeze flows causing her hair to be scattered across her face. She gently move her hair aside, and Bipin sees her face for the first time, since she has got in to the taxi.

Bipin gets mesmerised by her beauty. He stares at her continuously. His eyes refuse to blink. She is beautiful. Her skin is glowing. Dressed in formals, she looks like a broken angel. She has mesmerising eyes, which sparks along lasting effect on him. Her red lips, grey hair and spell binding aroma, cats a spell on Bipin. He gets completely entangled in her.

The taxi suddenly takes a sudden break. She was caressing her hair and suddenly, with a sudden jerk, she falls with her head on the shoulders of Bipin. Bipin had fallen asleep, thinking of her only, and wakes up, due to the jerk. She was still rested on his shoulders. He could feel her fragrance, so closely. He could feel her breathe. Passionate feeling starts igniting deep within him.

After a few seconds, she moved aside.

"I am really sorry. The roads are really very bad." - She says with a shy expression.

"It's perfectly okay. It's not anyone's fault. Bdw, Hi! I am Bipin." - Says Bipin, the passion still burning in him.

"Oh yeah, Hi!! I am Riya. So, where are you going?"- She asks.

"Dalhousie. I actually go by trains. But, today I missed it. And here I landed." - replies Bipin, and asks,"Where are you going?"

"Same place. I work in TATA AIG. And you?" - Riya asks.

"UBI." - replies Bipin, and they talk more and more. Bipin feels a part, which was missing in his life, suddenly no more missing. He feels she completes him.

Thus, an accidental meeting of two strangers turn into something more, and the taxi drives off along the road....

November Rains

Rohan wakes up from his dreams. He was dreaming about seeing her again. Dressed in a pink top and blue jeans, she was desperately trying to get an auto. It was raining heavily. Rohan rushes towards her, but something pulls him from behind. He wakes up, with a thud. One of his classmates is pulling him as the period is over, and people are departing from the class, while he was still asleep.

He smiles gently. He nods and gets up to leave the class.

The story shifts back, three weeks ago:

Rohan is going to a debate competition. He is the only one, selected from his college. So, he must go in spite of  having heavy reluctance. Besides, to add to his grief, it's raining heavily. But, as he has already got a call from the venue, almost four times, he dresses up and steps outside. 

The rain is not seeming to stop. His umbrella along with him, gets completely washed up, only 5 minutes after he comes out on the road. He runs to the nearest stop, and eagerly waits for an auto. An auto comes, after waiting for 15 minutes. He holds his hands out, and the auto stops. But, suddenly out of nowhere, a young girl comes up. She is completely drenched in rain.

Rohan looks towards her. Although, completely drenched, she is looking too beautiful. She is wearing a pink top and blue jeans, with a short hand book and her hairs although folded, is scattered, making her more adorable. She asks the driver,"NIFT college?"

The driver looks towards Rohan, as he had first called for the auto. Rohan was not willing to share, but he changes his mind. After all, who wouldn't share an auto with such a beautiful girl. They get inside and the auto starts.

"Hi! I am Roshni. Thanks for the ride. It's raining too much outside, and there is no auto around. I wouldn't have been able to reach my college,had I not got this auto. Thanks once again." - Roshni says with her loveliest smile.

"Sure. Welcome, anytime. I am Rohan. So, where do you live. You don't seem to be a localite"? - Rohan asks.

"I stay in Bandel, which is about 15 kms, from here. I take a train to Howrah, and from there I board on a bus or an auto to Salt lake. Today, I was late and over that, it's raining so much. So, I ran to get this auto." - Roshni replies, again with her charming smile.

"Okay." - Rohan replies, after which they remain silent for a while. Rohan wishes to talk again, but being shy, he declines.

"So, what do you do?" - asks Roshni, breaking the dreadful silence.

"I study engineering. I am a student in IEM. Today, I am going to attend a debate on behalf, of the college." - Rohan replies, wishing to ask more, and change the topic.

"Oh wow! All the best." - Rohni replies.

She is about to speak more, when the driver says, that NIFT college, has arrived. She pays the fare and bids good bye to Rohan.

"Bye. All the best." - says Roshni.

Post that event, it has been almost three weeks. But, Rohan hasn't met Roshni ever since. He tried many times to wait near Howrah station at the same time and place, he met her, but, to no results.

Besides, the rains have really made Kolkata awful. Generally, rains don't occur in November, but now it strangely, is raining. The roads have turned too much filthy. In such conditions, people avoid roads as much as they can. Rohan however, prefers the other way.

Everyday, he goes and waits at the place, where he had met her. He wishes to see her, once more, He didn't even take her phone number, on their first and only meeting. The meeting was too short, but, she had charmed his heart, right then and there.

The story shifts to present day:
After completing classes, Rohan comes out of the college. Today also, he had gone to the same place, but to no profit. He rides on his bike and lost in her thoughts, moves towards his home. It's raining heavily, today also.

He sees a blue auto on the way. He had seen a similar auto that day also, as per what he remembers. Blue autos are very rare to find these days.

He smiles and rides towards his home. Near Howrah station, at exactly the same place, his bike breaks down. He kneels down and tries to find the problem, but fails to understand. Besides, in this heavy rain, it will be difficult to reach the nearest petrol pump or repair shop. His home is nearby and walking it to his home, would be a better option.

He gets up to walk his bike, but suddenly some one taps him from behind.

"Hi Rohan. How are you? How was your debate? God! I tried searching for you here, so many times. Lucky, that finally I found you, today." - A familiar girly voice speaks.

Rohan's heart starts beating fast. He turns around. Roshni is standing in front of him. He runs at a loss for words. He feels like hugging and kissing her, instantly.

"I was so angry, that I couldn't come out of college on time. But, it is right, that whatever happens, happens for a reason. Today, I guess the reason is you. Come on! say something. Didn't you recognise me?" - Roshni asks. Rohan sees a little drop of tear come out of her left eye.

"Oh yes. I was waiting for this day to happen.Trust me, I have remembered you, at every breath of my life. How are you? Please don't cry. I missed you so much. I Love you." - Rohan says in his mind, but his tongue refuses to co - operate.

Ultimately, he says ,"Yeah, Hi! How are you?". His throat has already dried. He runs at a loss for words.

Roshni gives a sweet smile. She must have understood Rohan's unsaid words.

"Come. Let's go the only tea stall open, there." - Roshni smiles again and says. Rohan accompanies her.

Thus, begins a friendship of two strangers, who met during November Rains......

The Tattoo

Rohini wakes up from sleep. It's 6 AM in the morning. It's too early, but she just can't resist herself from thinking about the mask party tonight. The theme is simple. Strangers meet each other, wearing masks. You can dance with your friends or even a stranger, but face revealing is not allowed. She however, wishes that the music should not be very loud, as she hates it. She is also worried that there might be drugs in the party, the sight of which, irritates her. She is in a dilemma, whether to go or not. Lost in thoughts, she goes back to sleep again.

She finally wakes up at 9:30, because of a phone call. Her friend, Rinki is calling. 

"Must be to confirm my presence for today, evening." - She says to herself and picks up the call.

"Hello" - says Rohini.

"Hi Rohini. So, you are coming surely, for the evening mask party today?" - Rinki asks.

"Yes. yes. Surely. I will." - replies Rohini, hesitantly, after a small pause, thinking about what she thought in the morning.

"Okay baby. See you. bye. - Rinki says and cuts the call.

Rohini freshens up, gets dressed for a business meeting she has to attend and leaves the house. She returns back at 5:30 PM.  The party will start at 6:30 PM.  She quickly goes to the washroom, gets freshened up, wears her party dress on and gets in her car.

She reaches the venue, ten minutes late. Her friends are already waiting for her.  She quickly parks her car and joins them. 

"As usual sweetheart, you are late." - Rinki smirks.

Rinki smiles and they enter the club. Once on entering, they are given their face masks. 

"Please don't put off your masks. It is mandatory to keep it, as it's the theme of party. You can only take it off, in the wash rooms. Enjoy the party. have fun." - The attendant says and show them the entrance way.

The party is on in full swing. Everybody starts to groove with the music. Rohini doesn't like the loud music too much. She grabs a drink and seats down on the corner sofa. A guy beside her is smoking weed. She feels uncomfortable and leaves the room to a nearby balcony.

She stands there watching the Kolkata skies at evening. It is almost dark.There is a red patch of light covering the sky from east to west. She was lost in observing the nature, when some one calls from behind,"Excuse me, are you okay?"

Rohini turns around. A guy, his face hidden in mask, having a sturdy physique and accomplished height is standing in front of her. 

"Yeah, I am okay. But, who are you?" - Rohini asks,

"Hi! I am Rohan. Actually, I have been seeing you standing here for quite some time now. So, thought to ask? Sorry, if I disturbed."- Rohan replies.

"Oh Hi! No problem. I wasn't enjoying inside. So, came here. I love to adore nature in silence and praise it's serenity. How about you? Bdw, I am Rohini."- Rohini replies.

"Same here. I love to live in peace. Hey, can we go the adjacent hall. I came to know, they offer some really good classical music. So, shall we?" - Rohan asks.

Initially, Rohini felt slightly hesitant as he is a total stranger. But, he had a strange modulation and softness in his voice, that attracted her. Her brain and mind were at a conflict. But, she decides to listen to her mind and accompanies him. 

The hall is almost empty. Rohini feels like taking off her mask, but the attendant requests her not to do so. They start chatting with each other. Rohan's way of talking, habits, nature impresses Rohini. She feels like spending her life with him. He was no more a stranger to her. Everything about him, seems to cast a spell on her, although they know each other for barely not more than an hour. His face is even hidden by a mask. The only visible thing is a  black tattoo on his hand, that of an anchor.

"I don't know him much. But, at least I can try to. Every couple were once strangers. He seems to be a real nice guy. I can at least date him, for sure. " - Rohini whispers to herself, and offers  to dance with him.

While dancing, she tries to remove his mask, but he denies saying,"Don't. We are better strangers and slowly we should come to know each other. If we hurry, we will fail." Rohini doesn't understand the depth of his words, but she decides to dance with him. She decides to loosen herself, up in his arms. After a short period of time, she feels like kissing him. The time being spent with him, seems to be the best, she ever have had. She tries to lift the mask to kiss him, but again he denies. Slowly, time passes by. She doesn't even come to know, that an hour has passed by. 

She receives a call from Rinki. 

"Hello!" - She answers.

"Where are you? Come fast towards the exit no. 5 A. We are waiting."- Rinki says.

"Okay." - answers Rohini, and turns towards Rohan. The stranger has stolen away her heart. 

"Hey, I will have to leave now. Give me your cell phone number. I will save it." - Rinki says.

"Don't worry. You will find me. " - The stranger answers and slowly starts walking away. Rohini tries to stop him but something from inside, stops her from doing so. He vanishes in the blink of an eye.

Rohini runs towards the exit, as her friends are waiting for her. 

Post that day, she tries her best to find out who the guy was. She even tries getting information from the club authorities. But, as the name is very common and she doesn't know his full name, they are not able to help her. Besides, it is not possible for them to keep a track of tattoos every visitor has. So, she gives up all hopes. But, his memories still makes her smile and she wishes someday, she would again meet him. This time, she won't let him go away.

Three months pass by. Rohan is still a stranger to Rohini. She remembers him everyday, but in no way, can she reach out to him. She even doesn't know, how he looks.

Then, one fine day, she is walking down the road, when she sees an astrologer. She has recently, gained a lot of belief in these things. She feels they bring her closer to Rohan. She forwards her hand to the astrologer, which she does almost everyday.

"You once met with the love of your life. But, some how departed. Today, you will meet him, again. Don't let him go." - The astrologer says, leaving Rohini in an utter shock. She doesn't understand what to do, be happy or cry. She doesn't know whether to believe him even or not. She used to show him her hand everyday. But, never did she get such a reply. She hadn't even, ever told him the same. So there is no way, he can know that.

"He isn't bluffing, I guess. For god's sake, he mustn't." - Rohini silently says to herself.

She asks,"What should I do?"

"Wait for things to fall in the right place. Visit the flower shop, nearest to where you live. You will be surprised." - the astrologer smiles and says.

Rohini gives him a small amount of money and runs towards her home. There is only one flower shop, close to where she lives. So, it wasn't difficult to figure it out.

She enters the shop and sits on the waiting desk. Many customers come and go. But. none had a tattoo in their hand.

An hour passes by. Rohini in still waiting, determined to meet him. Suddenly, she feels a soft breeze on her face. She had felt the same, when she first met Rohan. She looks towards the main entrance and sees a man, sturdy and fair, appearances quite similar to Rohan, walking in, He walks towards the tulip counter.

Rohini gets up and runs towards him. He has the same black tattoo, on his let hand. Her heart begins to beat fast. Finally, the day has come. She feels like being in a dreamy state.

Gathering up courage, she speaks,"Hi Rohan. Recognise me? You took too long to meet." - Says Rohini, teary eyed, her voice shaking.

Rohan looks around. He looks even better than she had imagined.

"I had said, you would find me. Surely, you did." - Rohan says  and smiles.

"I am so angry, you left without saying anything. I am not gonna let you leave again. I will kill you, if you try to do so. Got it? What if I never could find you? What would have happened then? " - Rohini says angrily.

"Okay Ma'am. I won't. I promise.But, I knew you would. I left it upon destiny to do the needful." - Rohan says and lifts her up. Rohini starts crying out of joy.

"But how could you be so sure?" - Rohini asks.

"I stay in your building only. That day after the party, I followed your car. I came to know, that you also stay in the same building. But, I decided not to walk in to your life suddenly, and give destiny a fair chance. I followed you many times to the workplace and saw you consulting that astrologer, everyday. So, I paid him some money yesterday, to provide you with my location, today and make it look as if a coincidence. Glad, that he kept his words. I would not have delayed it further, had some thing good not happened. I am and will always be your's. I was never away, and will never be. That night, the feelings were mutual. Don't worry. You never lost me." - Rohan says, and smiles. He hands over a tulip flower to her.

Rohini starts crying again. She slaps him hard and then gives him a tight hug. She gets entangled in his arms and decides to never let him go. 

Tiyasha

Rahul is boarding on a flight from Mumbai to Kolkata. He is going to meet the girl his parents have selected for his marriage. Although marriage is not in his mind right now, he is still going to meet her, as per the order of his parents. It's 4:45 PM, and his flight is supposed to start at 5:00. 

Rahul sits in the aeroplane seat, thinking about how the girl is going to be. Meeting a stranger for marriage, is a difficult choice to make. Rahul was lost in thoughts, when a girly voice speaks,"Excuse me, Can you move a little bit? I need to get inside. The next seat is mine."

Rahul wakes up from his thoughts. He sees a beautiful girl standing in front of him. She is of middle height, very fair in complexion, has long hair, mesmerising eyes and kissable lips. The out fit, she is wearing makes her even more attractive. He feels his heart beating fast, and again gets lost in thoughts, this time differently. 

"Excuse me, can you pleassse move aside?" - The girl again says, audible enough for people to stare towards them.

Rahul wakes up with a startle. The girl is still standing. Ashamed by his mistake, he moves aside, and the girl gets in. After she sits and the flight takes off, Rahul decides to take a small nap, as he is tired and didn't have a sleep properly. He plugs in hi ear phones and dozes off. 

He wakes up with a swing. The aeroplane took a narrow swing, which wakes him up. He sees the same girl besides him, frightened and folding her hands tightly. Rahul suddenly remembers, how his day dreaming had made the girl delayed. He decides to apologise.

"Excuse me", He says and the girl looks at him. He continues,"Hi! Just wanted to say that I am sorry for delaying you at the time of take off. I didn't do it intentionally. Just that I was thinking something and couldn't hear you. So sorry."

"It's okay. I also might have been too loud. Actually, I fear travelling in planes. As that was time for take off, I felt like sitting in my seat and grabbing a blanket. So, me too sorry for that. " - The girl replies.

"Okay. Hi! I am Rahul." - Rahul shakes hands with her.

"Tiyasha" - She replies.

"Wow. Nice name. Unique also. Where do you work in Mumbai, bdw? " - Rahul asks.

"Vodafone. And you? - Tiyasha asks.

"I work in Naukri. Com" - Rahul replies smilingly, and continues."So, you have taken a leave for?"

"To meet my would be groom. And you? - Tiyasha smiles and asks.

"What a coincidence. Me also going for the same purpose, to see my would be wife." - replies Rahul.

They continue talking to each other, till the flight lands. Tiyasha's sweet smile, modest appeal and spell binding fragrance had cast a spell on Rahul. He wishes that  their meeting would never be over and that she could be his future wife. He fell head over heels, in love with her.

Post the aeroplane lands, they exchange phone numbers and bid good bye. Rahul promises himself, that he would get back to her.

Rahul's car was waiting outside the airport. His father was waiting to pick him up. Post collecting luggage, he meets his father. They get in to the car and the car starts.

"I had promised to show you the picture, once you come here. Else, I feared you would have rejected this time also. Here, see her picture. How beautiful she is. You would be a fool to reject her." - Rahul's father says.

Although, completely lost in Tiyasha's thoughts, he decides to take a look at the picture. Seeing it, his face becomes fixed with shock. He cannot believe it. His would be bride is the same girl, he had bid good bye, some half an hour ago.

Holding, Tiyasha's picture in hand, Rahul feels overjoyed. Imaginary sky works cover up the entire Kolkata sky. He has never been such happy before.

"Meet her, once. You may reject, if you don't like after meeting, but, please meet her once. If you have some...." - Rahul's father gets interrupted in between.

"I guess, I have already done that. I like her. It's a positive from my side." - Rahul says, interrupting his father.


Rahul's father smiles. Rahul has no idea, that the whole plan of making Tiyasha and Rahul meet as strangers by arranging adjacent seats in the same flight, and helping them know each other, was planned by their parents. They felt this would ease up the process. And, so did it do. At least, for his son,


He will now have to see how the situation is, on the other side.


Rahul, however, unknown of all this is very happy. The first step has already been established by god, He can now safely, go ahead. He smiles to himself, with a glee and the car drives along the road.

The Strangers

It's 5 PM of a gloomy evening. The stars are slowly popping up across the sky. The night is slowly spreading it's wings across the skies of Kolkata. Under such a gloomy evening sky, Rajesh and Meghna are roaming across the jogger's park. They are speaking with someone over their phones. 

Rajesh is supposed to meet Amrita for the first time today. They have been dating each other for four months. But,it has been always a long distance relationship.They haven't met too many times,because Rajesh works in Mumbai. Amrita works in Kolkata. But every time, they met, Rajesh seemed to find a different person, from the one, he knows. Ultimately, too many differences of opinion was ruining their relationship. So when Rajesh comes to Kolkata for a leave, he decides to meet her, for sorting out things.

Meghna, a sweet and simple girl is going to meet Raghav, the man her family has selected for her. Although, Raghav appears to be quite impressive over the phone, but, she is going to meet her for the first time. 

Rajesh and Meghna, talking over their phones, come and sit over adjacent benches. 

"What do you mean? I took a leave just to meet you, and you are avoiding me. Why? When nothing is working out, why don't we stop contacting each other? - Rajesh tell to Amrita.

"Listen baby, I don't care. You might have taken a leave, but not me. I might have committed you, in the morning that I would meet, but now I am not in the mood.You need to wait till tomorrow, for meeting. That too, call me before to remind. I might not be in mood, tomorrow also." - Amrita replies.

"Okay. I guess I was wrong in thinking that things could still be sorted out. I tried to reason, bearing your mood every time. But, from now no more. I guess we should no more be in touch." - Rajesh says and angrily cuts the call.

Meanwhile, Meghna also was speaking to Raghav.

"Why can't you come? I have been waiting for almost an hour. You could have at least informed before? - Meghna says/

"I forgot. How many times do I need to tell you the same. If you are so nagging,I might change my option of marrying you. Think what will happen then. You are a girl. You don't work. So, it is not a big deal to wait. Call me tomorrow and might be, you will have to wait tomorrow also. I will think about it tomorrow."- Raghav says and disconnects the call.

Meghna starts crying. Rajesh turns around.

He sees a beautiful girl, dressed in simple clothes, crying.

"Excuse me. is every thing all right. I heard you crying. Can I know, what the matter is?" - Rajesh asks.

Although initially unwilling to reply, Meghna somehow feels a good thing in Rajesh and speaks,"I was waiting for my to be husband. I wanted to meet him once, before marriage. But, he didn't come in spite of promising he will. He decided to join his drinks party and select it's priority over me. Why does this happen that people don't value those who care for them. I am such a fool to have waited for him."

"It happens. In fact, same happened with me, just now. People some times, don't accept their mistakes. In those specific cases, you have to understand that people prioritise some things less than others. In less priority, they don't really care to commit and keep commitments. I also, understood today. Bdw, Hi! I am Rajesh. " - Rajesh replies.

"Meghna. Sorry, you must be feeling strange about suddenly hearing some one cry. Sorry for that. Nice to meet you, Rajesh."- Meghna says.

"It's okay. You know, it's good to speak your heart out. Sometimes, it's good to cry. It releases your pain and helps you to move on." - Rajesh says, smiling and speaks again,"Anyway Meghna, would you accompany me for a little walk in the park?"

"Sure. Why not." - Meghna smiles and replies.

Thus, starts a journey of friendship of two strangers, who met at a lonely park. Might be, this journey will lead to love again. Who knows???!!!

The Blue Diary

Prakhar moves in to a new flat. The process of shifting is not so easy. He had to hire a mini matador and still complete in two shifts.

The flat is nice. It's quite spacious with two rooms, one hall and a kitchen, fully furnished. Getting such a beautiful flat for such a small amount is really difficult. He came to know, before him, a girl lived here on rent. She moved out without any known reason and that too suddenly. So, he got lucky.

Prakhar sits down on the sofa. He still hasn't explored the flat properly. Besides, the memories of a bad break up are not easily forgotten. He decides to have a bath and take a nap.

"I will arrange the things properly, in evening." - He says to himself.

He wakes up at 5 PM. It's soon going to be dark. He gets up and starts arranging. After arranging the bedroom, he moves to the other room. The room is small, with one dining table and a television. Over the table, he sees a small blue diary. He assumes that the previous resident might have left it. Somehow, the diary arouses his interest. He picks it up and keeps it in his pocket.

The arranging takes about 3 hours. At about 9 Pm, he orders dinner and sits on his bed to rest. He takes out the diary from his pocket.

The diary is written by a girl, probably the previous resident of this flat, who forgot to take her belonging.

15th July, 2014:
Today, I met him for the first time. He is so hot. He took me at the first instance, itself. I myself went ahead to talk with him. I might have made love as well. I will keep on meeting with him. Let's see if he is as good by nature, as he looks.


17th July,2014:
Today,I met him again. I keep falling, the more I meet him. Everyday day spent without seeing him, feels like years. I just wish he would feel the same for me. The date was really romantic. He took me to a movie hall. There was very little audience. He caressed my hair and pulled me closer. I felt uncomfortable. He understood and let go instantly. At that point, I really wish he hadn't. I regretted.


23rd July, 2014:
Today we kissed for the first time. He is a good kisser. I was too much into it, not to let him go. The fire in us kept us going.He took me to his flat and we had some good sex. We were totally in to each other. I never wanted it to end. But all good things come to an end. His room mate interrupted and we had to part ways. I wish similar events would occur again.


27th July, 2014:
We had a nasty fight today. I felt it was really important as it was somehow disrespecting my prestige. I cannot let my prestige go down, for his values. How dare he shout on me. I will never speak to him again. He might fucking die.


10th August,2014:
He called me today. I didn't pick up. I wish we could be together again, but my respect comes above all. He just wanted my body and he wants it again. But, I am not going to be fooled again. Yesterday, I had a talk with his friend. He told me that Rahul loves me. It's just a clash of ego's. We both need to let it go else it might be too late.I don't care. I am not gonna listen. He must apologize, if he needs me. Else, he may fuck off.


19th September, 2014:
He didn't receive my calls. I have decided to ignore him, furthermore. How dare he ignores me. I was so stupid and blunt to call him. I will never again.


20th September,2014:
He was again calling me. I ignored. I have every right to, when he did the same yesterday. He even messaged me sorry. But, who cares? I would always ignore him. His chapter in my life is over.


23rd September, 2014:
It has been three days. He hasn't called or messaged once. He is again ignoring me. Let's see who wins. I will not take the first step.


26th September, 2014:
OMG!! He is dead.On 20th, he was calling me to make things better. When I didn't pick up the phone, he rode on his bike to come to my home. He met with an accident on the way. How stupid of me to let my ego guide me. For a moment, I should have thought of us together, the moments we had shared. God, I am crying. I saw his dead body. I should have let it go. I will never be able to see him again. Please god, bring him back to me. I promise to make everything right. Ego really destroys relationships.


The diary has no more content. Other pages are blank. Prakhar is saddened by the story. How the poor girl might have felt. He took out his phone and dialled a contact.

"Hello Kavita. How are you? Listen yaar, I am really sorry. Please, can we meet?" - Prakhar says.

"But, why? When you said that everything is over between us, why do you want to meet? To hurt me again? - asks Kavita.

"Nooo... Please, I beg. I love you. Please meet me." - Prakhar starts crying.

"Hey!! Don't cry, Okay. I will, surely. Meet me today, at Ballygaunge CCD at 7 PM. Now, stop crying. I love you too. - says Kavita.

Prakhar smiles and disconnects the call. He starts crying even more out of joy. The girl's story in the diary has made him learn a big lesson. He will not let his ego ruin everything, any more. It's not too late. He will make everything right. He surely will....

The Interview

22nd June,2015:

Ratnakar is very happy today that finally, he got his posting. But he is somehow sad also, because he will have to leave his hometown shortly. More 15 days are left, after which he will have to bid adieu to this place. All his memories started flashing before his eyes. Then, Seema popped in to the flashes of his memory.

1st September, 2014:

Ratnakar is in the final year of college. Not many companies are coming for campussing and so he is very tensed about his future. In meanwhile of this, he gets a call from a multinational company for interview.

Tensed,he goes to the given venue for interview. It is there, that he meets Seema for the first time. Her well dressed attire, firmly tied hair and a beautiful smile, instantly makes him weak. But, the tension of cracking the interview and getting placed, makes him forget his feelings. 

Finally, after a round of 4 interviews, Ratnakar finally bags the job. Being overjoyed, he calls his parents to inform the good news. 

"Congratulations." - A lovely voice calls him, from behind.

He turns around. He sees the same girl standing before him, whom he wanted to interact. His heart started beating fast.

"Hi.. I am Seema. And you are?" - Seema asks

Ratnakar is still staring at her. After an uncomfortable sound by Seema, Ratnakar answers,"Oh Ya. Hmm, Hii!! I am Ratnakar. Thank you. You also came for an interview and have got selected?" - Ratnakar asks, pretending to not know anything.

"Yeah. We are the two from Kolkata. As we are requested to wait for an hour or even more for the documentation, can we go to the cafeteria to wait as well as eat something?" - Seema asks.

Ratnakar accompanies her. They chat for long. They talk about their families, their background, their studies as well as hobbies. Ratnakar never wanted these moments to end.

However, after 1 hour, Seema is called inside for verification. Ratnakar waits and waits for her to come out, so that they could exchange phone numbers. He is really stupid enough not to ask for a phone number, even after such a long chat.


30 minutes passes by. An attendant comes out and he is also called in. He exhales with grief, as he wanted the process to be delayed and he could see her once. But, all his wishes resulted in a toss of the bad coin.

After his documentation gets over, he comes to know the girl has already left.

"Did she tell anything?" - Ratnakar asks the canteen attendant.

"Yeah. She left a note for a guy, she said would come looking for her. She told to inform him that she was in a hurry.So, she had to go.I guess you are the guy." - The attendant replies, and adds,"But, unfortunately, I have misplaced the note."

The little happy face of Ratnakar fades away. He looks palely at the attendant.

"I am sorry" - the attendant replies and walks towards the customer table.

Ratnakar stands there thinking about how he missed his chance, and that the same would never come back again.

He exits with a dull face.

Post that day, Ratnakar tries every possible way to reach her. But, he gets nothing. Slowly, he gives up hopes and with time, her memories fades away.


22nd June,2015:
It's been almost a year and the joining letter has finally arrived. Seema's story is however, still incomplete.

"It's almost a year. The joining lettr arrived so late. Don't know whether she is even joining this company. Might be she is already working somewhere." - Ratnakar says to him and gets up o go downstairs, as his mother has called him.


25th June, 2015:
Ratnakar gets an e-mail from the company. The required venue where he has to go as well as all other details are mentioned in the e-mail.

He was going through the e-mail, when his phone suddenly rings.

The call is from an unknown number.

"Hello!" - Ratnakar picks up.

"Hi. Ratnakar, right?" - A girl speaks from the other end.

"Yes. Who is this? - Ratnakar asks,

"It's Seema here. How are you?"- The girl replies.

For some time, Ratnakar becomes numb.He pinches himself, thinking he is dreaming.

"Hello! you are still there?"- Seema asks.

"Yes. Tell me. How are you? How's life? Are you working anywhere? How did you get my number?" - asks Ratnakar.

"Go slow, baby. I got your number from the HR. I checked the mail and called the HR to ask whether you are joining or not. Although hesitant, but she got carried away, when I told her about our past romantic encounter. She gave me your number and wished me luck." - Seema replies.

"For what. I mean luck, for what?" - Ratnakar asks.

"As if you don't know. Stupid!!." - Seema replies, laughing.

Both knows what the other is talking about. Ratnakar laughs. "Let's meet!!" - Ratnakar tells Seema.

"I thought I would never hear it from you. Today, 6 PM, New Alipore Barista. Done?" - Seema asks.

She knew the answer. Ratnakar gets up to dress. It's already 4:45. He has to go a long way.

He has got his chance again. He will not miss it this time....

Love at first sight

People say there is something called as love at first sight. Ramesh never believed it. According to him love takes time and understanding to happen. But, one day he himself, fell in love at first sight. This story narrates the incident from beginning.

22nd January:

Ramesh is sitting in the college canteen, with his two buddies. The topic of discussion is love and humanity.

Rajeev says,"Love is a wonderful feeling. I believe love at first sight is the best. You see her, feel her and you get drowned away in her"

Ramesh laughing says,"You mean like what? Is she a sea or river, that you get drowned away?"

Rajeev replies,"Dude,I know you don't believe in love. But, trust me, one day you will fall in true love. You will then understand it's essence. But, why insult something when you don't believe it. Avoid it."

Tanmay supported Rajeev. Ramesh laughed the words away. He then changed the topic.


Ramesh is a 22 years old, college student. Very much practical and down to earth, is what he feels he is. And yes, he doesn't believe in love. According to him, it's a waste of time.


14th February:

Today is valentine's day. People are enjoying with their life partners. Ramesh is all alone, watching a movie. But, all that doesn't matter to him. He is fine with it.

"Oh shit. It's 8 PM. Parimal sir had called. I will be late,"- Ramesh says to himself and gets up to dress and takes out his bike.

He reaches the tuition house at 8:30, already 15 minutes late.

"May I come in sir?"- Ramesh asks, On being nodded by sir, he enters the room.

"What Ramesh. Everyone is absent today. All are out enjoying with beloved. You are from one rare species. Why are you at home. Seriously, you found no one?" - Parimal sir asks

"No sir. I don't want it. I guess I am not born for all this shit. I am happily single"- Ramesh replies with a smile.

Parimal exclaims. After a short pause, he says,"Ohkay. Ramesh, I believe love is for everyone. One day, you will also fall for the same. May be, today only."

As soon as his words finish, a sweet voice comes from outside,"May I come in?"

Ramesh's eyes move instantly, towards the door. Standing there is a girl, of almost same or similar age. Fair in complexion wearing a decent dress. The colour was green,

On hearing a yes, she comes in.

Ramesh's eyes fixed on the girl. He couldn't move them from her. For the first time in life, he felt his heart beating fast. In fact, too fast. The feeling couldn't be defined. The girl had seized his heart. This is love at first sight. And yes, it exists. Thoughts clarified itself, before him.

"Shikha, meet Ramesh. He will guide you regarding the missed classes. Ramesh, this is Shikha. She had joined a little late, and so, she missed two classes. You have any problem?" - Parimal sir asks.

"Absolutely not, sir. Hi Shikha, Ramesh here. Nice meeting u." - Ramesh says, his heart still beating fast.

"Hi." - Replies Shikha. She is shy.

"I would surely help her. I will have to. So, love exists. I was wrong. Now, let me see, I succeed or not"- Ramesh says to himself, and moves towards her.

Strangers

Two strangers meet on a road side park,
There was no one, no sound around, except some dog's bark,
They smiled at each other, they exchanged a glance,
Destiny might have given them a chance,
They chatted, they smiled, for really long,
The guy could remember a beautiful song;
Ultimately, promising to meet again, they parted ways,
The memory was no where to go, it stays!!


They kept on meeting again and again, in a similar way,
Every meeting turned into a cherisable memory to stay,
They exchanged glances, they exchanged words,
Might be the god of will had loosened his swords,
Never did they try to take things deeper,
They felt it would make the relation cheaper;
Ultimately, promising to meet again, every time, they parted ways,
The memory was no where to go, it stays!!



Then, one day, he came, but she didn't come.
The moment was disturbing, if not for all, for some;
He waited for long, he was anxious with thoughts,
He felt thirsty, but there was nothing, he had brought;
He ran to her home, his legs were shaking,
He wanted to talk to her, but it was not in the making;
Ultimately, he reached and rang the door bell,
An old lady opened and when asked, cried out "There is nothing to tell"



She had cancer, she knew she was about to die,
She loved him too, but that's why, she never said that, that's y
Finally, she passed away, her life was too less,
She however died smiling, with a dignified grace!!!
He ran away from the door, he was crying out loud,
He felt something shaking beneath, he felt it was the ground;
He tried to kill himself, he wanted to join her in any way,
She appeared suddenly from nowhere and stopped him,advising to stay,



She said that she would never want him to die, but live long,
She said she wants him to get over it and be strong,
She finally bid him goodbye and vanished in the air,
He looked around, he cried, he looked around in a teary stare;
Finally he decided to live long, fulfilling her last dying wish,
He smiled across looking at the sky, the sky was blackish,
He threw a flying kiss to the sky, he felt she returned it,
He imagined it all, a definite visual treat:
And thus, promising to never meet again, they parted ways,
The memory was no where to go, it stays!!

South City Mall

Thud!!

Rohan wakes up with a loud thud. The car ran over a bumper. 

"Wake up fucker!! How long will you sleep?. Come on man, we are going to enjoy. What is the fun, if you sleep all the way? or is it that you are thinking of her again?", Rajeev asked.

"No, I just fell asleep", Rohan said. However, in actuality, he was thinking of her. 

The story shifts two months back:

"Beep.... beep"!!!

Rohan woke up. He had fallen asleep in the car. Why will he not? It's 5 AM in the morning. He is however, very happy. He is finally going to Singapore for 12 days. His B - Tech semester is over and it's time for vacation.  

The car reached airport. Rohan got out of the car with his family. As it was an agency trip, he had to wait for the other families and the agent to arrive.

After 10 minutes, the agent arrived, followed by the families. There were total seven families. Six had already arrived. One was yet to come. It was almost after a wait of 30 minutes, that the last family arrived.

Until then, everyone was already introduced. It was late and the international immigration processes take lot of time. Everyone was eagerly and angrily waiting for the last family to arrive.      

Rohan was also feeling angry, because he didn't like waiting. But, it is then he saw her for the first time. His heart started beating fast, in fact too fast. The family that came last had four people; parents and their two daughters.

She was probably the younger one. She was of middle height, a little dusky in complexion, may be not so to be called an angel. But, at the first instant itself, she had his heart. Her curly hair, smoky eyes and a moderate visual appeal, made him fall for her steeply.


Then what followed was a memorable trip for 17 days. Everyone was nice. But, she seemed to be the nicest. Her curly hair, lovely lips, mild fragrance and sometimes, attracting curves, had made him lost completely in a separate world. Rather than the trip and the scenic beauty, he was more in to her.

On a particular day, she was sleeping on the last seat of the travel bus and he was just observing her. She looked even more beautiful, while asleep. She also had a beautiful name,"Mimi". Everything about her was so perfect to him. Slowly, the trip came to an end. Rohan could feel that he has completely fallen for her, and he will no longer be able to see her anymore.

On the departing day, Rohan was too sad. The memorable trip had come to an end as well as she will no more be seen. However, being of shy nature, he couldn't ask of any contact details from her. All he said was a good bye and departed. She also bade him the same, and there itself, the could be budding story, came to an end.


After coming back, he had tried many times to reach out to her. He had requested all his friends who stayed near to where she stayed to try and provide her contact details. But, all his efforts resulted in vain. he realized that in actuality, these things don't happen so easily and he gave up. But, he couldn't erase her from his memories and everyday, he prayed to god, that he might get a second chance.



Two months passed by.

Present Day:
Rohan and his friends are going to South City mall. Rohan has understood that he will never be able to reach her in any way and has slowly given up all hopes. In fact, he is now trying to forget her.

"Yeah!! Let's play antakshari. I won't fall asleep again."- Rohan replies to Rajeev. They start playing antakshari. The car reaches the mall in about 30 more minutes.

Rohan gets down. Rajeev had to buy a girl's salwar kameez for his sister. So, they plan to go to Pramod. They decide to chill after the shopping gets over.


After the required shopping, they sit, eat and relax at CCD. Rohan gets glimpses of her many times and even feels that she is nearby. But, he decides to give the feelings a rest, and enjoys with his friends.

After an hour, they get in to the car.

"Shit!! This is not the dress, I bought. I must have been misplaced. Let's go to the shop, once again."- Says Rajeev.

"Nah bro, we are tired. You go alone. Meanwhile, we stay in the car" - Vinod replies.

"Okay.I am going with him. You all please wait." - Rohan says, and they both get down from the car.


They enter the shop. After a short brief at  the payment counter, they finally get the lead. The name of the woman is Mrs. Rimi Datta. Her address as mentioned in the bill is Behala, not far from the mall. Rohan typing the number, dials it.


"Hello!!" - A heavy voice answers the call on the other side.

"Hi Ma'am. I am Rohan calling from the south city mall. It appears that our purchases have been interchanged." - Rohan speaks.

"Really? Let me check. Ok! Yes. Shit! God!! It is a gift, I bought for my niece. Can you please drop in at my home. Her birthday is tomorrow. I thought of presenting it to her tonight. Please can you help? - The woman replies exhausting. She seems to be panick.

"Okay. Don't worry. We will. It's almost 10 PM now. We will be reaching in another 40 minutes. Meanwhile, please keep your parcel and bill intact. It's a gift from my friend to his sister." - Rohan says.

"Okay. Thanks a lot. "- The woman replies, with a relief in her voice.

Rohan cuts the call, and tells Rajeev of his plan. They both decide to help the girl. After departing from the rest of the group, they board a cab with the mentioned address. Due to heavy evening traffic, they reach the place at almost 11: 30 PM.

They ring the bell, and a good looking woman, probably in her forties opens the door. " You both are from the South City mall, correct?" - asked the woman, even before opening the door.

Rohan replies,"Yes, we are. Here is your package. Can we have ours?"

The woman heartily takes her package and says,"Thanks a lot to both of you. It's my niece's 22nd birthday, and so I decided to gift her. Please come inside."

They entered the flat. It was a nicely decorated flat, with many antiques. They sit on the sofa. The woman who had entered the kitchen, comes out with two glasses of water.

"Please wait. They will be coming in no time. You both cannot leave with out having a piece of cake. Please stay." - The woman says and before listening to them, rushes to open the door as the bell rings.

Three people enter the flat. Parents and their daughter. To his utter astonishment Rohan sees Mimi entering the flat. So, the dress is for her and it's 10 minutes left, for her 22nd birthday. He had always wanted to see her, but never had he ever thought, that would be true. In his imagination, he danced with joy.


Rohan marches ahead. "Hello aunty, uncle. Happy birthday."- He says looking at Mimi. Mrs. Datta introduces him and Rajeev.

"Thank you.",Mimi replies. "I have seen you somewhere before"

Rohan laughs. He will stay here until the event gets over. Good has forgiven his foolishness and given him, a second chance. He will not let it go. He will not.

Unusual Love Story

The wall clock ticked 7 AM. The alarm started ringing too loudly. Sahil woke up from sleep with a loud thump. The alarm clock fell on the floor.

Sahil looked up. The curtains were open and he felt a fresh breeze over his face. "Good Morning bro"- He said to himself and got up. It was Thursday and he had an important meeting to attend at 8. So, he got up and rushed to the bathroom.

Half an hour have passed away. Sahil is standing in front of the main gate of an office. The sign board reads "Truewall Publications". He has come with a proposal to get his writing published. All the struggles and moments of frustrations he had to bear, flashed before his eyes, in a glimpse of seconds.

Dressed in proper formals, he entered the building and was redirected to the new acquaintance department. He enquired at the reception, wherein he was told to wait, as the concerned person is busy. He sat on the waiting lobby, and got submerged in thoughts.

After 15 minutes, the receptionist girl called in. "Mr. Sahil Roy. Please come in." Sahil got up and entered the discussion room. Entering, he saw a well dressed man, probably of the same age he is of, sitting on the opposite side of the deck.

"Hello Mr. Roy. Samarendra here, from the new acquaintance team. Please have a seat."- The person said. Sahil observed that the person had an impressive modulation in his voice, that may compel people to do work, as per his wishes.

Sahil sat down on his chair, took a sip of water and started " Good Morning Sir. I am Sahil Roy from Ballygaunge. Since child hood, I have always aspired to be a writer. I have had written many stories, amongst which the one, which I feel the best, is submitted to your company. I wish you would like it."

Samarendra smiled. Somehow, Sahil felt a little uncomfortable. He started " Mr. Roy. This doesn't work this way. We have our own editing and approving team, in the Konnagar branch. The story has been forwarded to them. They will approve your story, if they feel so. Then we will call you for discussing the commercials. Till then, you can check in at the Konnagar branch, for enquiries as well as fastening the process."

Samarendra paused for a moment and then asked,"You have anything to ask, Mr. Roy?"

Sahil's hope was not completely fulfilled, but it wasn't destroyed either. Of Course, these things take time to be accomplished. He smiled and asked,"Can I have the number of the Konnagar branch?"

"Yeah, surely. Please collect it from the reception. Anything else?"- Samarendra asked.

"Not at all sir. it was nice meeting you."- Sahil replied, shook his hands and came out of the room. He collected the number from the reception and exited from the building.

Following that day's event, seven days passed by. He didn't get any call from the publication house. He had tried calling both the editing branch, as well as the head office, but nothing fruitful occurred. Slowly, he was loosing hope. He decided to pay a visit to the Konnagar branch, for further queries.

Visiting Konnagar from main Kolkata, is a tedious task. Changing train twice, after a bus journey of almost 45 minutes, made Sahil sweat with tiredness. Once reaching the office and asking for the concerned person, he was told to visit Ms. Rupama Banerjee, on the left most cabin of the ground floor.

Sahil knocked the door. It read, Ms. Rupama Banerjee, AGM, New Acquisitions. A sweet voice from inside said,"Come in.".

Sahil went in. There was a lady dressed in black, sitting on the cabin. Seeing her was the most beautiful sight to look at. She looked like an angel down on Earth, to shower blessings on it's people. Sahil's hear started beating fast and imaginary sky crackers covered up the skies of Kolkata. At first sight only, the lady had taken his heart.

Sahil asked ,"May I come in?"

The lady replied,"Yes Mr. Roy. Please come in. Have a seat."

Sahil came inside and sat down on the sofa. It was cozy. Rupama started ," Mr. Roy please give me 10 minutes, before we begin. I am occupied with some important work. Meanwhile, would you like to have tea or coffee?"

Sahil nodded and Rupama ordered for tea. She then went back to her work. Meanwhile, Sahil started observing the cabin. Compared to the standard professional ones,the cabin was pretty much well furnished and decorated, seeming more like a living room of an individual. The lady had received plenty of awards and accolades, which clearly indicated that she was a valuable resource to the company.

15 minutes passed by. Rupama closed he dairy and looked up. She started," Hi. Mr. Sahil Roy. It is stated that the book you wrote has been submitted for review, about 10 days back. Well, it's a very less time to get some conclusive results as you see we have thousands of people asking for same, in the pipeline. But, it takes time.Be rest assured, that the due steps have been taken from our end and the results will be reached out to you in no time."

Meanwhile, Sahil was lost in thoughts. At that time, rather than the novel, he was more interested listening to the girl. He seemed to be lost in thoughts and very word of the girl was like an enchanting spell. He forgot everything but only the girl.

Her glossy lips, neatly tied hair and pretty face had cast a strong spell on Sahil. He was completely lost till 10 minutes, 

Rupama spoke again," Ahmm.. Ahmm.. Excuse me, Mr. Roy. Are you okay?"

Sahil came back to reality. "Hmm.. Ahmm... Yes, yes, tell me. I am okay. In fact, the best right now."

After a small pause, he started again,"So tell me Rupama, where do you live. Who all live with you. Are you a localite?".Okay, all right. I guess I am going too fast. So, tell me something about you, Rupama?"

Rupama was surprised indeed. Firstly, because no one had ever asked her something like wise. Secondly, similar asking can't even be predicted in business to business relationships.

She thought for a second and replied," Mr. Roy, I think this conversation is going somewhere else. Well, I live in Konnagar, living with my parents and yeah, I'm a localite. But, why do you want to know?"

Sahil replied,"Inquisitiveness, you can say. Anyway, you can give me your card, so that I can call you once, the book publishing stage has it's progress."

"Certainly"- Rupama replied and handed over her card.

"Okay, goodbye. See you soon.", replied Sahil and came out.

He had fallen in love. He was however trying to go too fast. He would be slow and firm in his approach. May be one day, Rupama will be ready to go out with him for coffee.

May be or may be not. But at least, he can try.

This was the beginning of an unusual love story. One sided or two, is still to be seen.......

Lonely

He is lonely, he is too shy,
But did anybody care to know why?
People said he is such a freak, too freaky to see or touch,
But may be, he was a socialite who once cared too much;
There's always to sides of a coin, regardless of any situation,
You must listen to both sides of the story, before any conclusion!!
He is lonely, he is too shy,
But did anybody care to know why?


This shy guy has a story of his own,
He had suffered deep tragedy, before even he was grown;
His mother was a hooker, being traded after his birth,
He spent his dark childhood, seeing filthy hand's across his mother's girth;
He never even saw his father or talk to him,
Everything around seemed to be dirty grim;
He is lonely, he is too shy,
But did anybody care to know why?


One day, a local goon came to their pimp house,
He laid eyes on his mother, grabbed him and teared her blouse,
He screwed her, he raped her, right in front of his eyes,
His mother was crying, but no body listened to her cries,
He was numb, he was deaf struck, he couldn't move a bit,
The goon left his mother for dead, and didn't care a shit!!
His mother died there, lying hurt and crying a lot,
She gave him her locket and there was his picture in the slot;


He took out the fruit knife and stabbed the goon, he slit his throat hard;
The nearby associates beat him like anything, there was no one to safe guard,
He spent his rest childhood, being slaughtered and tortured in a criminal jail,
He was released after five years, both mentally and physically weak and pale;
It is then after that, he became antisocial, he became shy,
I guess that explains an answer to the big why.
Everybody say he is lonely, he is too shy,
So, this is the reason why...

Ghost

It was dark, it was gloomy, it was 2 PM at night,
I woke up with a sudden sound, I shuddered with fright;
I felt the sound bang again, on the front door,
I picked up the torch, but it failed to score;
I cried, I panicked, I found my hands go wet;
I felt my feet tickling, It was difficult to set,


Gathering courage, I rose up, I walked towards the door,
A strong breeze passes over my face, I fell on the floor,
I heard the voice all over again, this time someone screamed my name.
I found the voice somewhat similar, My grandfather had a voice, almost same,
I rose up again, I gathered up courage, I opened the door,
I saw with shaky eyes, my grandfather stood on the floor,


With shaky voice, with trembling legs, I asked him how he is?
He fut his hands on my forehead, and gave me a good bye kiss,
I realised it was the same day he had died,
I suddenly felt my self fall down, I cried,
I looked up to see him, he wasn't there, he was long gone,
I cried and cried, I wanted to see him again, I felt grief running across my every bone,


I realised how much, I miss him, I promised to be better,
From then I have risen, I have learnt to administer,
I still miss him, But, I know he is there with me,
He must be very happy, smiling with glee,
With this, I end the poem, the experience was worth sharing,
I don't know how you may feel, good or boring!!!

The Season of Love

Along comes the season of love,
With hopes of a better life, with the spices of a clove;
It blossoms in the atmosphere, like a free bird in the sky,
The tree leaves go evergreen, not even a single turns dry,
People seem to become happy, people seem to cheer up,
Words become difficult to come out, even with a burp;
Along comes the season of love,
With hopes of a better life, with the spices of a clove,



Love brings tears, love brings joy,
Some depict love as moments, some as a playing toy,
The feeling of loving and staying by their side,
Imbibes a sense of affection, a sense of pride;
Lovers realise the moments, they will cherish,
These will stay together with them, till they perish
Along comes the season of love,
With hopes of a better life, with the spices of a clove.

Stand Up

Stand up for what's right,
If required, don't hesitate to fight!!
Look around you, feel free to try,
Keep on trying, make your efforts rectify,
Stand Up, go ahead, believe in you,
Make all your wishes come true!!!


Stand up, march alone, keep forward all that you demand,
You must learn the art of getting things done, you must be able to do it in grand,
Make the world kneel, make the world bow,
Slowly you will see yourself rise, you'll see yourself glow,
Don't panic, don't fear, just give it a go,
learn from your mistakes, go steady, go slow,

One day, you will rise, you will be the winner,
But for that, have patience, nothing comes easier,
To win, you need to focus, you need to give 'em a fight,
You need to keep an eye on everything, justify and never keep out of sight,
So, Stand up for what's right,
If required, don't hesitate to fight!!

The Banyan Tree

Firm stood the Banyan tree,
For every passer by, who came to see,
With it's soul stretched and body straight,
It greeted everyone, who ever came to the nearby gate,
It has stood there, almost for 50 years,
It has seen everything, from most honest people to worst liars;
With it's largely spread shelter and a lovely glee,
It safe guarded any one, who came beneath the tree;
Firm stood the Banyan tree,
For every passer by, who came to see!!


A lonely beggar, once lived beneath the tree bark,
People say he was a wealthy man, torn apart by a loan shark;
With a blanket and a small piece of bread as the only possession left,
He tried to indulge himself, in an act of theft.
People caught and beat him, took his everything away,
He came under the tree, as that was the only place, where he could stay,
Being beaten, injured, he soon passed away,
People covered him with a blanket, death is much kinder, was all left to say,
But the tree stood still, with it's spirit high,
It did not make a noise, it didn't cry!!!


With it's largely spread shelter and a lovely glee,
It safe guarded any one, who came beneath the tree;
Firm stood the Banyan tree,
For every passer by, who came to see!!