Part 11 FF: Villagers refusal against Bonditha’s education
Bondita is progressing in academics , sports. Every weekend or after completing her studies, Anirudh Bonditha play Tennis and chess.
Sampoorna initially didn't care if anyone praise Bondita but when many of them especially queen vaibhavi in a party insulted her and once Trilochan also taunted that it is because of Bondita and Anirudh you are here which made to start feeling jealousy, her mother Devoleena indirectly instigated that she will always be smart in all ways due to her education and you should show your smartness by gaining husband's love. She also started developing hatred and jealousy and sometimes inferiority complex despite of Bonditha’s consoling and soft nature. Sampoorna started showing her smartness to impress Somnath in their privacy time which Tupur initially failed to do so.
Dussehra holidays have come for Bonditha. On Dussehra is her 13th birthday. Before day Anirudh came late in night, knocked her door , took her to terrace which is beautifully decorated with lights. He made her cut cake, fed her. She also fed him. He told that he will get a gift tomorrow.
Trilochan and Bihari has seen this, he felt happy for them and felt that Anirudh is in love with his wife. Bonditha saw Trilochan, touched his feet and took his blessings. He asked the reason, Anirudh told that it is her birthday.
Trilochan is surprised and told that he will arrange puja for her, both should go to temple tomorrow. Bonditha accepted. Trilochan asked how much is your age, Bonditha replied I have completed 13 years of age. Trilochan smile is vanished, looked suspiciously.
Anirudh admiringly praised Bondita that she came to 9th standard in 13 years age only Bravo Bondita! Trilochan asked them to go to sleep as it is late. He thought that “Why this girl so far not entered womanhood or is she hiding this.? (Remembering his wife) If Gowri is alive, she would have find out the reason by now or she may take her to Daima.” Suddenly an idea flashed and nodded to himself in acceptance.
Next day, Somnath, Sampoorna also wished her. She took their blessings. Binoy also wished her. Anirudh gave her a gift pack. Trilochan asked what is it, Bonditha curiously opened it and found encyclopedia book in it. Bonditha felt delighted but Trilochan felt disappointed “ A husband will give jewelry or saree or Gajra as gift. But this boy 🤦♂️. Bahu is also extremely happy as if it is a valuable one.” Bihari tried to pacify that whatever gift bb has given bahu Rani is happy na! He gave a frowned look and insisted Anirudh Bonditha to go to temple at any cost.
When they left, Trilochan called Somnath inside his room, told that he want to talk something. He asked what could be the age for girls to enter womanhood as per your English medical knowledge. Somnath asked " why. Sampoorna is already a woman and she crossed 18 years age." Trilochan gave a frowning look and told that “he is worried about Bonditha . She is now 13 years and still a girl. Somnath told that sometimes girls will get matured at 14-15 years age also. All girls will not have same physique. You don’t worry about it. “ saying so he left to hospital.
Bihari came and told that “I called Daima on your advice.” He called Daima aside, and explained to check Bonditha bahu thoroughly tomorrow. Our eldest bahu sampoorna, koyli will be there. He offered her money and she took it. Anirudh Bonditha came from temple, saw Daima, Anirudh remembered her and called Daima as she came for his mother's delivery when Bhatuk is born. Trilochan introduced Bondita that she is Daima who helped your mother in laws Gowri and shubra during their deliveries. They took her blessings and she blessed them. Trilochan signaled her about Bonditha and she nodded.
Next day, Anirudh went to court, Bonditha is in study room reading the encyclopedia book and trying to find out the meanings in dictionary. On the other hand, Anirudh is going out somewhere in car. In middle, he saw a woman got pains and her parents, husband is getting worried.
Seeing this, Anirudh stopped car and asked what happened. Husband told that my wife is getting pains, we sent information to Daima and she might be on the way.
Suddenly a boy came and told that Daima went to RC haveli on work. Anirudh is surprised to hear this and got suspicious what could be the reason and who have got necessity with Daima.
He thought of Sampoorna, ( bit smile came on his lips) but immediately thought that Somnath dada doesn’t encourage Daima treatment. Then what is the necessity. Listening to the screams of pregnant lady, he told that he will immediately send her here.
Daima came, Trilochan called Bonditha and asked her to go into her room, she will check you. He asked Sampoorna also to accompany her. She nodded. Bonditha kept on asking why will she check me. I am not ill.
Trilochan ordered not to say a word more and do as Daima says. They went in Bonditha’s room. She asked her to lay on bed and about to check her personal parts. But Bonditha immediately rebuked that what are you trying to do. She hid beside Sampoorna.
Sampoorna tried to convince that she will check your body, if everything is fine or not. Nothing will happen. It is necessary for you.
Bonditha told that "I will talk with Patibabu and do what he says". Sampoorna with a cunning smile told that “ you are too innocent Bonditha. All things will not be discussed with husband. She is just checking if everything is ok or not."
Meanwhile Anirudh came to home, Trilochan is shocked as he didn't expect his arrival in morning. Anirudh asked 'What is the necessity for Daima to come here.' Trilochan is stammering, but he heard Bondita's voice from upside " Nahi Daima, mujhe acha nahi lag Rahi hain yeh sab.."
Anirudh saw the guilty face of Trilochan, ran to upstairs. Koyli from outside is also scared of seeing Anirudh there. He knocked the door and asked to open immediately. Sampoorna also got scared and opened it. He saw Daima catching bondita's waist and checking. By looking Anirudh she worried. He asked What's going on. Bondita immediately adjusted her saree and told Anirudh that Daima is checking her forcefully and ran away from there.
He asked what are you trying to do with Bondita, but suddenly remembered pregnant blady and told that there is a pregnant woman whose labor pains are Started in Jogender house go and look after her. She immediately went out. He asked driver to drop her.
Anirudh asked sampoorna to come with her and asked in presence of Trilochan ' what's the matter. Why is Daima needed now. Daima only look after pregnant ladies and help during delivery. Initially I thought you might have called for sampoorna baudi, but why is she here for Bondita. Can u please tell me.'
sampoorna cleverly managed the situation. She told by bending the head catching her pallu, " Devarji, Bondita is 13 years now. Still didn't enter womanhood. I am worried about her. So I only told sasurji to speak with Daima if her health is fine or not. Our Daima can check all the women problems. She is expert in it. There's no fault in sasurji. Bondita is simply scared for checking her thoroughly. I am sorry if you think that I have crossed my limits.' saying so, she folded hands.
Anirudh melted and told that 'you could have told me, so that I can get her prepared. We shall see some more time and I will take her to doctor. You please don't worry.' Anirudh left to look after Bondita.
Trilochan is highly impressed with sampoorna talking skills and praised for her spontaneous nature in saving him.. sampoorna obediently told that she will do anything for the house respect. He blessed her . Somnath who just came and saw this felt delighted that his father is impressed with his wife. He also gave her Jasmine garland to impress her.
Anirudh went to study room, found her in cupboard, pacified that nothing will happen. She came out and told that she is scared of Daima who touched her harshly. I don't want any treatment from her. He promised that he will not let Daima give treatment. He brought roshogulla for her and she felt happy. At a time, Trilochan saw Somnath getting closer to his wife by tying gajra in her hair and on the other side Anirudh is pacifying Bondita like a little girl and Trilochan expressed his disgust and disappointment towards Anirudh Bondita.
After 2 months, Sampoorna pregnancy is confirmed by Somnath and everyone in haveli are utmost happy. Somnath is in cloud nine, became possessive with his wife and child. He also told that Tupur is about to confirm pregnancy before her death. I have lost 2 children.
Sampoorna also cleverly went near Tupur photo, folded hands and told “My child is yours, the baby which you are supposed to give birth is coming into this world through me, but you are the mother.” This impressed somnath and Trilochan a lot.
Trilochan told her to ask for a wish. He is ready to give her anything. She wanted to ask for treasure keys, but hardly controlled it and told “If sasuma is alive, she would have taken care of me like mother. But there is no other woman, Bonditha is younger than me and doesn’t understand anything. Anirudh will also not allow to sit in house and take care of me. If you permit I will call my parents. I promise that they will not rob your money or bring any blame to our family. My life is dedicated to our family as I am going to give you heir now. I will not spare anyone who try to defame our family respect. Be it my parents also. It is a promise of RC bahu Sampoorna Somnath Roy Chowdary. I will make sure that they will not roam around treasury or will not borrow money.” Trilochan nodded and agreed for mama mami to come to their house.
Anirudh Bonditha wished them, out of joy Bonditha made Sampoorna to move around, but Somnath immediately with loud voice asked her not to do that. 'She is having baby in her womb. You are also not a little girl anymore. Behave in a matured way. '
Bonditha belittled herself, Anirudh also felt bad, but controlled himself and left with Bonditha to study room. Trilochan asked Somnath not to be harsh with Bonditha, but he told that "with much difficulty, I am going to become father again. I don’t want to take any risk. I want to see my child face this time at any cost.”
Anirudh went to study room and saw Bonditha under table ( muh phulake). He asked are you angry that Somnath dada reprimanded you. She told that ‘How can I harm my sister and baby. Why did Somnath jamayi Babu think of me like that?’
Anirudh replied ‘He is not angry on you, baby is very small in your sister’s womb. This time she has to be very careful. So it is only his concern to baby, he doesn’t really mean to hurt you.’ She came and asked ‘shotti’. He replied ‘shotti’.
He told that you will become masi and chachi for little baby. Bonditha felt happy and told that you will also become chacha and masa. She asked is it a boy or girl. He replied ‘ don’t know. Who ever it may be it is a god’s gift.’ She thought for a while and asked ‘ when will I get a baby by Durga maa in my stomach.’ Anirudh suddenly got hiccups, Bonditha ran and gave water and after drinking
Anirudh told that ‘you are so special. Durga maa has sent you to become Barrister babu and bring change. Now go and bring books, we should complete our portion before only, because I have 2 , 3 cases in Kolkata court. It may take much time.’ She went and he thought day by day her questions are becoming unanswerable to me.
Sampoorna parents came and behaved very obediently. Binoy told that he got an opportunity to setup an unit business of garments in Surat, gujarat. So to setup a factory it will take nearly 2 years. So I will be shifting there and handle all our businesses from there, Anirudh assured that he will look after Kolkata branch while practicing Barristry. Binoy agreed.
Then Anirudh taught her all lessons in all subjects and asked her to be careful, study well, perform well in final exams and he will be back after 2 weeks. He told that he will be calling her daily, she asked her to give Kolkata address so that she will also write letters. He promised that he will bring ek badam wala roshogullas from Kolkata.
Trilochan along with Bihari, koyli also assured that they will take care of Bahu and her mama, mami will not harm her.
One day while coming from school she saw Dhananjay teasing Niranjan sister Anjali by holding her saree pallu. Bondita came and slapped him for his misbehaviour. Dhananjay ego is extremely hurt and caught hold of Bondita's throat. She used her self defence techniques, hit him hard and hold Anjali hand and both ran away. Bondita carefully dropped Anjali in her home.
Anjali with tears in eyes told everything to her parents and Niranjan. They scolded Anjali for getting late or trying to talk to a boy. Bondita asked that why are you blaming Anjali. What is her fault in this. It is Dhananjay mistake. But with tears, mother told that " no one cares if boy is mischievous or Eve teaser. Only girls get the blame. He is Niranjan friend also. His Dida is a powerful woman who has nearly 100 acres of land. After your family, everyone in Tulsipur respects Dhananjay Dida only."
She replied to Niranjan parents “ Please don’t blame Anjali. If parents themselves don’t support their daughter who will support girl in this world. My Patibabu used to tell that Character and maintaining Dignity is important for boys also. So please talk with Niranjan about Dhanunjay.” Unfortunately, despite of Bonditha’s warnings and advice to Niranjan about Dhanunjay behavior towards Anjali, he didn’t take advice and kept on continuing his friendship with Dhanunjay.
When she reached home, she felt very lonely and not understanding why she is feeling so. She thought that may be Anirudh went out of station, but wondered why is she missing him so much. She involved in studies and diverted herself with great Difficulty. Late night, when Anirudh called Bonditha is extremely happy and spoke with him wholeheartedly. He also spoke with her and felt that his stress is relieved.
Mama, mami are giving all the sweets to Sampoorna and giving less food to Bonditha. They tried to take complete control on kitchen. But still Trilochan made sure that she will get food and koyli is checking her needs regularly. He told that Bonditha room will be kept locked when she goes to school. He asked them to only look after Sampoorna and not more than that.
Dhanunjay tried to make fun of her in school but she gave a splendid answer. Anjali’s marriage is done within few days and she is sent to sasural much to the dismay of Dhanunjay. Bonditha secured best marks in academics in all subjects, took prize from viceroy general in an essay competition.
Dhanunjay Dida Rajeswari, Sarat parents and some other villagers met Trilochan and asked him to Bonditha should discontinue her studies, if she is interested ask her to sit in home and study privately, but not anymore in school. They asked why.
They all told that we have more expectations on our sons. Due to this girl our sons are unable to get good marks. She’s also wearing pant shirts and playing sports. Where are her values. Is this her character. Will it give glory to RC family. Even in our families our girls are insisting that they will also go to school for education. What shall we do. We are normal people, we can’t keep our respect in stake and send girls outside.
Bonditha came and explained that education is very important for girl. It will be very interesting to come to school and study than sitting at home and study. We can know about outside world, how to mingle with outside people, courage to speak in public. She pointed Dhanunjay Dida, then why are you coming out and looking after fields, you are also a woman, why are you not sitting inside. This made old woman ego hurt to the most and shouted that my daughter and son in law died, and no one to look after our fields, so it is necessary for me. Else how can I take up my grandson Dhanunjay responsibility. Bonditha replied “ That means you yourself have proved that if necessity comes women should come out to work. Then I have also done the same thing like you. Why do you find fault in me”
Bonditha with folded hands, told that “ I don’t mean to hurt anyone. Education is necessary for survival of human beings. My husband always tells that education will help us to come out of problems in any difficult situation. When my husband agreed for me to study. Then why do you all raise your objections. Please don’t stop me. If girls are educated, we can understand what is right and wrong. If all the girls come to school it will be a great achievement for me.”
But Rajeswari didn’t give up and warned Trilochan that “ Even I am also a powerful person in this village. Because of your bahu, our boys are getting less marks and feeling insecured. Ask her not to come to school at any cost, else this matter will be In panchayat”
Initially Bonditha requested Trilochan not to get into their words, but Rajeswari has pressurized RCs to the core like Dhananjay posting her pictures as wall papers by insulting everywhere, so he took a firm decision and asked Bonditha to give up studies or she will face insults. She firmly told that she cannot give up her and Patibabu dream at any cost. You and kaki always explained me that to follow what husband says. When I am following my husband words, why are you stopping me.
Trilochan shouted that you always keep your arguments. Upto one level I can bear it. But not more than that. Sampoorna bahu cannot do all the works now. Her mother can only take care of her. Now it is your turn to do all the household works. This is my final order. If anything is there, I will speak with Anirudh. You need not worry about it and you will not write exams also.
She requested Somnath to convince ksj, but somnath replies “ These panchayat people are very tougher Bonditha! I will speak with Anirudh that you will continue your studies from home. Your dream will also be fulfilled and our prestige will also be kept.” She is shocked to see the changed behavior and asked him why you are behaving in such a way. He replied that “ Dhanunjay Dida has spread rumors about you in village. As you have slapped him for a girl right, so they are unable to take the insult anymore. Anirudh is also getting more cases and need to go to Kolkata regularly and he is looking after Binoy kaka Kolkata branch, so it is impossible and most difficult to protect you always, It is for your safety only. Please give up your dream.”
Sampoorna also told “When I went to temple 2 days before, suddenly I felt dizziness but no one are ready to give water and they taunted me that women in your house are rebellious. Already with much difficulty, I got a life. But due to you villagers taunts are increasing despite of being a RC bahu. Till now our sasural has fulfilled all your dreams, now it is your turn to sacrifice it for our sasural.” Bonditha is completely shattered and went to room with tears. She embraced Anirudh photo and told that she is missing him a lot, she has become alone completely.
Suddenly phone rang in study room, she thought it might be Anirudh and ran to receive it, thinking in mind to tell everything about this mess to Anirudh. But Trilochan lifted the phone, Anirudh on the other side asked to give phone to Bonditha.
Trilochan warned Bonditha by closing speaker not to tell anything to Anirudh at any cost. She felt upset, took the receiver. Anirudh talked “ Bonditha, are you ok? From last 1 hour, I am feeling Very desperate to talk to you. But busy in Father’s office files. Just now completed my work, I immediately made a call. How are you Bonditha, is everything fine.”
Tears are rolling down and kept silent for few seconds. Trilochan signaled to talk with Anirudh , with much difficulty. She told “Yes, I am fine. You don’t worry about me. I am studying.I have to complete my portion. Today. I will talk to you later.” She gave phone to Trilochan and left.
Later Trilochan sent koyli to collect all books from Bonditha’s room and throw away. She requested not to do so. But koyli secretly kept it in store room and pretended to Trilochan that she has thrown it. Bonditha is weeping inconsolably to the core, she didn’t take her food.
Anirudh Bonditha are thinking of each other.He thought that Bonditha! you are in problem, I will start immediately. Bonditha on the other side is thinking that hope you understood my pain. I wish you could be here now.
Next day, Bonditha has not come out of room, fever has come due to continuous weeping. Koyli told that she is having fever. Mami murmured to Sampoorna purposefully knowing that Trilochan and Somnath are listening “ Bonditha is doing this intentionally to show her displeasure. She know that you are having nausea severely in the morning. Daily she is making lemon juice for you. When her sasural has gone against her wish, she is showing her true colors. Ok, I will make it and bring it for you.” Saying so, mami left. They both felt that Bondita is doing drama.
Somnath didn’t even check her temperature despite koyli came and requested him. At this stage, he only felt that she is selfish, she is not thinking of family respect, what is the necessity for her to cry throughout the night as if she is deceived to the worst by her own people. Why can't she study privately. Is she thinking that she alone can bring the change to the whole world. Somnath fumed and left.
Anirudh reached by afternoon, she is in deep sleep. Trilochan is shocked to see him so early than expected. He stammered and asked “ you are here. Why did you leave your work in between? Is everything ok?” Anirudh replied that “I want to ask this question to you kaka! Is everything ok?”
He laughed out hardly and told that yes, why do you think so that everything will not be fine. Do you think that we will not take care of our bahu in your absence. It is not like that. Anirudh told ' I didn’t take Bonditha’s name kaka. So it means you consider that there is some issue with Bonditha. Am I correct? '
Trilochan told “ you practice your Barristry in court, not in home. Your wife got fever today morning. Nothing more than that, she is in deep sleep now. Go and check if you want” He rushed to her room and checked her by keeping hand on forehead. It is indicating that she could have temperature more than 101. He asked koyli to bring the tablets what Somnath dada gave you in morning. She stammered and told that he didn’t give any tablets so far. He is irked to listen this.
Sampoorna just came and rebuked on koyli to tell full matter else difference of opinions will come in between brothers. She replied Anirudh that he got an emergency case today morning and left. He don’t know that Bonditha has got fever.
Anirudh took Bonditha’s hand into his hands and sat there only. Sampoorna asked him to get refreshed and have food. Just then Bonditha is dreaming Patibabu, I don’t want to give up...saying so she slept.
Trilochan also came and asked him to refresh. Koyli will make her take milk. Reluctantly he moved and observed all the faces, and felt something is fishy. He got a doubt and turned back. There are no books in study room. He asked where are her books. He checked her cupboards, but found nothing.
Trilochan asked Anirudh to come out and told him: “Bonditha class boys are teasing everywhere, trying to defame her and our family respect in Tulsipur. so we decided that she won’t continue her education any more. Also took promise from her.” Anirudh is shocked about to say something but Trilochan asked him. Not to force us, it is a joint decision in family if you want to stand on your stubborn decision, make her to sit in home and read. Not to send school. Sampoorna bahu is pregnant, now Bondita bahu has to fulfill all the duties. Till now I didn't say anything against your wish. This time you should also listen to elders. Anirudh argued that you took decisions on her behalf, you are forcing your decisions on others. I didn’t expect this from you kaka. When he is saying Somnath, Sampoorna came.
Sampoorna interfered and told " Devarji, you are telling as if we torture her in your absence. Why will we do that. Entire village is gossiping about Bondita's character after she had rift with Dhananjay, she slapped him, gave him a tight reply.She harshly replied to all boys through her voice and also through her marks. Some days before, Dhananjay Dida Rajeswari came here with main villagers, other parents and asked to give up going to school, else we need to face dire consequences. 2 days before when I went to temple villagers behaved harshly with me because of Bondita. They didn't offer water when I am suffering with dizziness. If this continues, everyone will make us leave the village and we should migrate to other place. So sasurji took decision for our family respect that Bondita will not to school, if necessary she will study from home. He is like your father who have taken care of you and bhatuk like his own children. For this reason only, Bondita is weeping as if she lost the most valuable thing in life."
Anirudh replied "yes, education is most important thing in life. I thought that you all will support her in my absence, but nobody has given courage to face the situation.”
Somnath lost cool but sampoorna intentionally stopped him telling that he is your brother,and worried by his wife's condition. Somnath asked 'will I not be worried about your condition. Bondita intentionally spoiled her health and trying to frame us as monsters in Anirudh's perspective. I didn't expect this from her and my brother also blaming us simply.' she took him aside and pacified that with these little difference of opinions we should not break our relations, previously your mother always tried to keep our family united. It is my turn to keep family united whether Bondita support me or not.'
Trilochan thought that now brothers ar getting into arguments because of Bondita. I always thought that Sampoorna is not an eligible bahu and Bondita is eligible bahu. But now situation is completely reversed. I should warn Bondita bahu to leave her stubbornness.'
Anirudh is struggling to make turmeric milk in kitchen. Meanwhile Trilochan came and warned Bondita who just gained consciousness, that you should not start studies at any cost. She cried.
Later Anirudh came and she raised from bed. He made her to sit comfortably by keeping pillow to her back, first asked her to take milk. When she drank, she told by bending head that she will study from home privately. Everyone are thinking that I am behaving revolutionary. He simply said 'ok'. She is shocked and asked 'Did you say ok'. He said :yes'.
Anirudh continued 'What did you expect, I will shout and say no. It is your struggle Bondita. Unless you show your interest and dedication to your passion, how long can I shout and provoke you to come into right path. Today, Women's education will keep on getting refusal, Bonditha, tomorrow all the parents may ask children irrespective of gender to concentrate on studies in your age. People always will throw stones and thrones who always try to bring change and pave new path. It is upto you that if you are willing to remove all those and give new direction for other girls or will you give up this struggle in middle only. Will you be Arjun in this kurukshetra or not is your wish. If you wish to become Arjun, I will guide you like Krishna guided him. Sometimes you need to fight with own people and sometimes with outsiders also. Remember one thing Mann ka haar hi haar, mann ka Jeet hi jeet.'
Anirudh forwarded his hand and next second, Bondita caught his hand and told that she will become Arjun and you will always be my Krishna. I will not give up my struggle in middle. She told that kaka sasurji asked koyli to throw all my books outside. He is irritated with this.
Just then, koyli came secretly and apologized them. She told that she kept all the books secretly in one trunk box in store room and left. They are happy. He told that first we will complete this year final exams and think other way to continue your education. She nodded. He felt hurt with Somnath behavior.
The other day, initially he met principal of not to remove Bonditha’s name from school, principal told that he is not willing to do so, but how will you convince villagers. Everyone are gossiping about her.
Anirudh replied ‘Sir, you also know how much fact is there in those gossips. Please give her a chance.’ Principal agreed that they should take risk for this. He can only allow to write exams but they have to make their own arrangements for the next year, he agreed.
He met Rajeswari, other parents to give up their domination on his wife. It is both of our dream that my wife will become highly educated, pls don’t stop her. But none agreed with him and warned him to keep his wife away from education. Anirudh shouted but Somnath who is passing on the way, stopped the dispute and told Anirudh that being impulsive, rebellious will always bring problems and cannot lead a peaceful life. He has shown Bonditha’s posters in some places and asked him to decide. He also advised that every time being aggressive cannot be an answer. Think wisely. Anirudh thought that this time he should be calm, let her finish exams and decided not to give up and motivated Bonditha also in that night.
Next day morning, he came early and gave her boys uniform. He told that " I spoke with principal early in the morning, he agreed to to write exams. But by the results time everyone will come to know about it. Then we will reveal the truth. Our family members may get convinced by seeing your marks."
She said yes, may be Somnath jamaibabu will be happy and if he is impressed he will convince kaka sasurji. He asked her to change uniform and come. She changed it. As per his advice, she tied her hair tightly kept a cap. Anirudh also dressed himself in school uniform. She is surprised and asked why you have dressed as school boy. He told that to protect you, actually if any one asks your name tell your name as Neeraj. My name will be Avinash. They laughed, peeped out of window. They already informed koyli not to tell anyone. They pretended that Bondita is sleeping.
Next day Somnath also felt bad that being a doctor he didn't check her temperature and gave medicines. He knocked Bondita's door but she told that Bondita Malkin is in deep sleep. Trilochan came and asked 'where is Anirudh'. She told that chote Malik has gone out in an important work early morning.
Trilochan thought that these couple are like Toofan. How will they easily accept their defeat. Somnath gave medicines to koyli and told " if temperature is high, ask her to take this. Else ask her to take another tablets" saying so, he gave 2 types of tablets. He insisted not to forget and ask Bonditha to read before taking any tablet. Koyli nodded.
They reached school premises. They saw 3 boys making fun of Bondita that we defeated her, we shall be happy now. Both husband and wife fumed with anger. They called them and asked who are you.
Anirudh managed that we joined in last month of academic year, our principal agreed to write exams. If we clear it, we will get admission to X class. They are about to tease Bondita/Neeraj by pulling out cap, but Anirudh stopped and diverted that principal is coming. When they saw back and again turned front, they both are disappeared. They hid and when the exam is about to start they came atlast minute
Teacher also got suspicious, but Bondita managed. She wrote her exam well and ran from back compound of school so that they need not face boys again. They successfully peeped through windowbin rc haveli, changed dress one by one in washroom. Anirudh again went out and came through main door successfully.
Trilochan asked where did you go early in the morning. He told that he went to Deenpur on client work. He told that he will convince Bondita to give exams at any cost, I don't like her leaving education so easily. Trilochan tried to convince but Anirudh didn't listen and went inside.
From inside (as per their plan), Bondita is telling that "Patibabu, I can't come into your words now. I don't want to listen people taunting me." He started shouting "we have worked hard for admission, your ambition is to become barrister babu...." But still she pretended that she didn't come into Anirudh's words.
Trilochan felt happy , thinking that finally Bondita bahu agreed with me and happily left from there. As soon as he left, they signaled that they should maintain this secret as lock and key🤐🤫. They laughed.
At night, they pretended to be angry with each other.
Sampoorna is wondered how can Bondita accept defeat so easily, I need to check her if she is playing any game, but couldn't find anything in room. Bondita came and gave badam milk to sampoorna, asked her to take milk. Still she maintained fever ( as per Anirudh's plan),kept onions in underarms. Sampoorna asked her to take rest for few more days, to get recovered.
Anirudh is not talking with Bondita infront of his family members and Bondita is pretending to be sad. Trilochan is consoling her that his anger will be gone in few days and you should take rest. Except koyli no one knows about their drama.
Next day also, he got ready and told Trilochan that he has work and need to go out. Koyli came and told that Bondita's fever is not reduced. Anirudh told koyli ask her to take rest, but I will not look after her till she come into my words. Trilochan tried to pacify but Anirudh left angrily. He is waiting outside near window. Somnath came and asked Bondita about fever. She tricked him by putting thermometer in hot milk and it shown high. He gave medicines and went away. Later she changed herself to boy uniform peeped through window. Later went to school. They took teachers help this time, entered exam hall and completed the exam. Mami tried to open Bondita's room door but stopped by Trilochan.
On 3rd day , boys stopped them before entering exam, they tried to tease both of them, asked Bondita to dance. With difficult, she did it. Anirudh lied that we want to do friendship with basketball player Dhananjay and praised him. Latter is impressed and melted for them. He introduced himself as Dhananjay. They almost about to touch his feet and requested to teach basketball for which latter agreed. They also praised how he made a girl named Bondita out of school.
He told that Bondita is a talented girl, and is coming in my way everytime be it studies or basketball. So I took my Dida help to stop her. Now she will be cooking food for her husband and in laws. All the boys laughed. They controlled anger to complete exams.
Before last day of exam, in the evening time, suddenly she felt stomachache. She didn't understand why is she feeling so. She saw blood spot on her bed sheet, didn't understand what's going on , till now she didn't read about this kind of change in science subject. (Her subject only told about body functioning, not dealt with human reproductive system. She observed that she is bleeding , about to tell Anirudh but felt ackward to face him. Koyli also went to her village that day only.) She went into washroom and cleaned it but still not stopping. She is crying, her saree is getting spoiled. She prayed to Durga maa what's happening with me. Is it any disease. Am I going to die. It is flowing in room. She is hardly cleaning the room and body but still uncontrollable.
She thought of sampoorna. Went to call her, she has shown her condition. Mami also noticed it and told that it is a curse on women, you shouldn't show your face for 3 days to anyone and stay in dark room. It will occur for 3-4 days in a month and you are not supposed to go outside, don't go to pooja room, kitchen, don't let any man know about your condition, don't touch anyone. Bondita is shocked 😲 and cried.
Sampoorna tried to explain by touching her, but Devoleena stopped sampoorna from talking so much. She told sampoorna that you are pregnant and should not touch a girl who is affected with this curse. That is not good and told by elders. Mami dragged Bondita to dark room near store room, asked her to stay inside & I will look after your needs. There is a way out and go outside for using washroom. If you touch or talk to anyone it will be a bad omen. Every woman will isolate herself at this time. You go for washroom outside early in morning and come back quickly. You are not even supposed to take bath. Saying so she locked in dark room and went away. Bondita felt very scared, thought of Anirudh and cried deeply.
On the other side, Anirudh is also searching for her in the entire haveli. Daily they used to read secretly near store room for exams. Only one exam is left and he thought that no obstacle should stop Bondita now at any cost. He went near store room, but Bondita is not there also. He wondered where she could be and felt restlessness. Suddenly he heard someone weeping in dark room which is near store room. He carefully listened the sound and screamed Bondita. Latter remembered mami words and thought not to see him, covered her mouth with hand, controlled her cry. But the blood drops are not stopping.
On the other hand, sampoorna went to Trilochan room and told that Bondita entered womanhood. He felt extremely delighted and told that your child is bringing all the luck. Bondita stopped education, now entered womanhood. After 3days, we will call pandit for rutu puja and all rituals.
When sampoorna came out, mami scolded sampoorna "why did you tell your father in law about Bondita's periods. He will arrange suhaagraat for Anirudh Bondita and she will also give heir with in 1 year. We could have locked in dark room, let her suffer and we can project her as stubborn girl infront of everyone."
Sampoorna asked her to "stay calm, what do you think of Anirudh. Do you think he will make Bondita as his wife in all means. Never. He will not even touch her. He is only willing to get her educated. Nothing more than that. By listening about Suhaag raat, he himself will burst on his kaka, I will pretend to my husband that his paternal cousin Anirudh is rebuking on his own father which leads to dispute between brothers. Already some difference of opinions are going on in between them. If we project that Anirudh is not having gratitude towards his kaka who have raised him and his brother like own sons after his mother's demise, my husband will not keep quiet. This time he will listen to all my words, because the day we started our married life, I fulfilled all his desires, I also understood that his first wife Tupur took much time than me. So it is obvious that my husband will come into my words easily." They both smiled.
Anirudh pretended that he went away but silently came and listened near dark room. He clearly heard her weeping sound and wondered why is she crying. What could be the reason. He also found that someone locked her from outside and suspected that if anyone came to know that she is writing exams secretly.
He remembered that there is another door to go outside and came through other way, went inside room with lantern which is dark, she is lying on floor , suddenly saw Anirudh. He asked 'What is she doing. She tried to hide her face, and told that he should not see her face or touch her. Right now she is a bad omen, asked him to leave.
He asked what are you saying.who locked you here. She couldn't say anything. He came near, found blood stains on floor. Initially he thought " Did you get hurt anywhere" , took her hand and observed her face, feet but couldn't find. Suddenly a thought came into mind and looked at her in surprise.
She ran from him, her clothes are getting spoiled. She screamed 'Don't come come near, mami and sampoorna didi told that I got cursed. I am impure now. I shouldn't see any man, I shouldn't touch anything. They asked me to go out near river side for using washroom.'
Anirudh is moved by her words, he told her with tears in voice that 'Aisa bilkul nahi hai Bondita. Yeh shraap nahi, isse mahavari kehta hai. Aisa har ladki, har aurat ke saath hota hai.'
She tried to argue, but he interrupted and asked her to let him explain " Tum Ashudh nahi ho. Yeh har ladki, aurat ke saath hoti hai. Yeh poore prakriti nirman ka mool beej hai. Isliye aurat ko janani kehte hain. Bhagwan ne aurat ko diya hua tofa hai. Tumse milne ya choone se mujhe ya kisiko kuch nahi hoga. Teri mami tujhe darana chahti hai, bas. Aisa har maheene hota hai, ladkiya badi hone ka nishani hai. Maano ki tumhare shareer tujhe keh rahi hai ki ab tum badi ho rahi hai. Samay ke saath saath tere shareer, mann mein aur bhi badlav aata hain. Is mein kuch bhi ghalati nahi hai Bondita.
Meri Maa, kaki ki zamane mein aisa alag rahte hain. Yeh toh hum badalna chahiye Bondita. Somnath Dada ne mujhe ek baar kaha ki Tupur boudi bhi aisa alag nahi rehti. To tum kyu alag rehna chahti ho. Mein dekhloonga ki koun aayega aisa kaal kothi mein tujhe bandne ki. Chalo, tumhare kamre mein chalte hai hum.'
Still she didn’t want to come near to him, shook her head as no, moved backward with an unknown fear. He came forward, extended his hand and touched her head. 'Dekha, kuch nahi hua. I will not die by touching you or seeing you but by the thought you got scared of me, you are afraid to share your pain with me. Am I a stranger to you Bonditha?’
She became emotional and embraced him. 'I thought of you when mami is forcefully dragging me here. You removed my fear. I am not impure... I am not impure."
He replied with tears 'You can never be impure. Impure are those persons who think that women suffering with menses cycle are impure. Let us go to your room .' she asked 'How can I come. My clothes are spoiled. I am using cotton and curtain clothes to control it, as you told while teaching science lesson but it isn’t sufficient. I am unable to move.' He thought for a while and told that he will be back in sometime.
He immediately observed all clothes, took one cloth which can absorb water and stitched it with cotton by recollecting as he saw once Bonditha used to stitch her clothes. After 1 hour, he brought her other saree and napkins. He asked her to change dress and use the napkins so that she can come outside. He will be waiting. Saying so, he left.
After a while, she came through another door to outside, they hold hands and came near the main door and knocked it. All are awoken from sleep. Mami, sampoorna shocked to see Bondita with Anirudh and worried now what will happen, they have to handle situation carefully. Trilochan asked 'What happened Anirudh. (Looking at Bondita happily) Now our bahu is grown up. I think sampoorna bahu asked her to stay in dark room. Why did you bring her here? She should stay there."
Anirudh replied "Kaka, she is locked like a kalapani prisoner in dark room. She is asked to go outside for washroom purpose. Why kaka? Why is it happening with women?"
Looking at mami, 'Being a woman you have locked a girl in dark room and making her to scare for new changes. What are you trying to tell her that being woman , getting menses is a curse.’
Mami cleverly told ‘I cannot belittle Bonditha, but there is also a preg woman in house. A menses girl shadow is not good for pregnant woman. Elders used to say this. Sampoorna is going to give heir to your family. Already Somnath jamayi Babu has lost 2 kids before coming into this world. So this time he will shatter completely if anything happens. For this family’s happiness I have done this. I don’t have any other intentions.’
Anirudh is about to argue, but Somnath and Trilochan also rubbed off and told not to make any drama. At that moment, both Anirudh Bonditha felt themselves as strangers and unwanted in their house. Anirudh firmly told that Bonditha will take rest in her room, she will not be in dark room anymore.
Somnath strictly told Bonditha that not to wander around Sampoorna for next 4 days. This time I don’t want any risk to happen with my wife and child. Anirudh completely understood the reason in his brother's changed behavior. Trilochan asked mami to make sure that Bonditha will not be around Sampoorna for next 4 days. She nodded.
Next day, mami came to check Bonditha but found room is locked from inside. She tried to break the lock, but Trilochan came and told that ‘Leave it. Let Bonditha bahu relax. She will open when she want to.’
Bonditha completed final exam, came out and told Anirudh that they have done this successfully. Anirudh went inside principal room, thanked him for the help. Principal raised concern that if villagers came to know about this, it will be a big issue. You also know Rajeswari ji is a powerful person, don’t know how you will collect her marks.
Anirudh thought for a while and requested ‘If any necessary comes, please keep her marks sheet, Transfer certificates aside. I will collect it personally or tell you the address so that you can send there, this is the last favor I am asking.’ But at the same time, Bonditha’s clothes have started spoiling, she felt tensed with this. She stood alone in ground near some trees. Suddenly boys started coming.
They decided to tease the new comer. She stood beside a coconut tree, but they have grabbed her out, asked her to come with them. Anirudh came out and saw this, pushed boys aside, hold Bonditha’s hand and started running. They ran in streets. Dhanunjay gang chased them. He shouted to all villagers that they are thieves, catch them.
Anirudh Bonditha didn’t expect this, but suddenly they have climbed a wall and jumped to the other side. In that process, her dress is getting spoiled. Anirudh understood that she can’t run anymore. They hid in one place, took help from an old woman changed her clothes to old woman saree and started to return back to house late in the afternoon.
But unfortunately while biology master discussing with other teachers to keep Bonditha’s marks aside in staff room, Sarat heard it and informed to all boys.
On that day Binoy also came to Tulsipur on some work and wish Sampoorna for giving heir. Trilochan happily told about Bonditha, panditji will come tomorrow and fix muhrat, they are arranging Anirudh Bonditha suhaagraat.
Just then, villagers came out and created ruckus outside. They came out and asked the problem. They all told the entire truth that Bonditha disguised as a boy, came to school and written her exams. Just then Anirudh Bonditha are arriving, some women dragged her despite of Anirudh’s warnings.
The entire family is dejected to learn that Bonditha didn’t give up her dream and stood adamant. Some women noticed blood stains and reprimanded that “ Such a shameless girl! She came out during periods time.”
Anirudh shouted on everyone to keep quiet 🤫 and told that she has done on my advice. Don’t you dare to raise your voice on her. If your boys have guts, ask them to compete with her in exams not by creating hurdles to my wife.
In that ruckus, they were about to throw Sampoorna, but Bonditha caught hold of her, she reprimanded Bonditha that because of you, I may lost my child .
Binoy pacified villagers that either Bonditha will give up her education or she will not be considered as our bahu. That’s final and this is a promise from our side. Anirudh Bonditha are dejected to listen this. All the villagers left.
Later in home, Somnath erupted like volcano for creating hungama daily and told that he will leave haveli with his wife, can’t stand with Anirudh Bonditha anymore. He want a peaceful and respectful life, not a krantikari life. He accused that Anirudh doesn’t have gratitude on my parents who took care of him and Bhatuk from childhood.
Anirudh tried to defend that he always consider them as his parents, but this kind of narrow minded thinking..Before Anirudh completes it, Somnath bursted ‘Wah Anirudh, wah! Khoob bhalo. Today my father thinking has become narrow minded. Am I correct? He always think of you both brothers equally with me. You are showing your true colors. That’s enough. Either you both will go out of Haveli or I and my wife will go out of haveli,that’s final!’ Trilochan is about to stop, but Somnath sweared on him not to stop today. Else these couple are ready to keep everyone’s lives in risk.
Binoy requested Somnath not to leave your father like that, who is going to become grand father. I always consider you as my son more than Anirudh. The one who always goes against elders wishes, who doesn’t consider elders words, who consider themselves as great and disrespect others will leave.
Then finally Anirudh declared that he will leave the house with Bonditha forever. Bonditha felt bad and cried deeply. Anirudh placed hand on her shoulder and explained with eyes that it is needed to keep their respect. They both hold hands together. They packed their things, books from study room, came to the living room, tried to take blessings of elders. But none are ready to give them blessings.
Bonditha folded hands infront of Durga maa to take care of family. Bihari and koyli shed tears while they are leaving. Trilochan told with tears, ‘I didn’t expect this from both of you. You always do what you want to do, not even for a while you thought of family members.’ Bonditha is about to say but he left from there.
Sampoorna came outside, taunted Bonditha that you don’t obey our sasural but you want all the jewelry from here. Bonditha immediately took out all jewelry and handed over to Sampoorna. She has shown that she is taking only the sarees that her husband has purchased for her and the books that her husband has bought with his hard work. They left the haveli by holding hands together.
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