Chapter 2

Chapter 1

An Unexpected Encounter

Kolkata, Year 2014, Jhanak’s residence

It was a serene evening, and Jhanak, a vibrant 20-year-old, was gracefully practicing her dance moves in the living room. Excitement buzzed through her as she anticipated the announcement of the National Film Awards. Her heart was set on one thing: her idol, the rising superstar Aniruddh Bose, winning the coveted "Best Actor" award. She glanced at the clock anxiously, each second feeling like an eternity.

As she waited, her thoughts drifted to the journey of her life. Orphaned as a baby after losing her parents in a tragic accident, Jhanak had been abandoned by her relatives and left with no one—except for an unknown benefactor. This mysterious sponsor had taken care of all her needs but insisted on remaining anonymous. The only connection Jhanak had to this person was through letters she was allowed to write on her birthday, delivered via her beloved nanny, Shrabani Mashi.

Shrabani Mashi had been Jhanak's rock, a surrogate mother who nurtured her and became her entire world. For as long as Jhanak could remember, her life revolved around the gentle care of Shrabani Mashi and the quiet generosity of her sponsor.

Lost in her memories, Jhanak didn't notice the time until Shrabani Mashi called out, "Jhanak, tumi ki korchho?(What are you doing?) It's time for the Filmfare Awards! You've been waiting all day!" Jolted from her reverie, Jhanak glanced at the clock. It was already 5:15 PM! She rushed to the television, relieved to find the broadcast still midway, with the "Best Director" award being announced.

As the moments ticked by, Jhanak's anticipation grew. Finally, it was time for the "Best Actor" award. The nominees were revealed, and there he was—her favorite, Aniruddh Bose. Jhanak's heart raced as the presenters opened the envelope. The room seemed to hold its breath. And then it happened—the presenters announced, "The Best Actor of the Year 2014 is... none other than our youth icon, Mr. Aniruddh Bose!"

Jhanak erupted with joy, spinning in circles and crying tears of happiness. Shrabani Mashi entered the room, smiling at Jhanak's celebration. "See, Jhanak? With fans like you, how could he not win?" she teased. Jhanak hugged her tightly and signed, "Aniruddh Bose won!" before dashing back to the television to watch him take the stage.

On the screen, Aniruddh Bose confidently accepted his award, waving to the cheering crowd. The host asked, "This is your third consecutive Best Actor award. Who would you like to dedicate this to?"

Jhanak leaned forward, wondering if he would mention his parents, his fans, or someone else entirely. Aniruddh paused, his expression shifting as he recalled a moment from his past.

Three years ago, after the loss of his father, a grief-stricken Aniruddh sat alone in his room. Consumed by despair, he contemplated ending his life. Just as he was about to take a drastic step, a knock at the door interrupted him.

Returning to the present, Aniruddh addressed the audience, "I owe this award to many—my late father, who was my greatest support, my incredible coworkers, and, of course, my fans. But above all, there's one person to whom I owe everything..."

Jhanak's curiosity peaked. Who was this mysterious person? Aniruddh smiled faintly, adding, "I can't reveal their identity yet, but I promise, the next time I'm on this stage, I'll be standing with them."

Jhanak, along with the audience, was left in suspense. The crowd erupted in applause as Aniruddh exited the stage.

Meanwhile, in a car a few streets away, Aniruddh watched the recorded telecast with a smirk. His driver, Ravi Dada, couldn't contain his curiosity. "Sir, who is this person you owe so much to?" Aniruddh chuckled and replied, "Even I don't know who they are, Ravi Dada."

Ravi Dada stopped the car abruptly, startled by a figure blocking the road. Aniruddh looked ahead and saw the reporter, Arshi Mukherjee, standing in front of the vehicle.

Back at Jhanak's home, Shrabani Mashi fed her dinner lovingly. Jhanak, still elated, signed, "Aniruddh Bose won the award!" Shrabani smiled. "Yes, he did! Now finish your dinner quickly. Tomorrow is your birthday, and we have to visit the Maa Kali temple early. Now eat this last bite." Jhanak resists however Shrabani Mashi forcefully feeds her. After a few minutes, Shrabani puts Jhanak to bed and sings her a lullaby. Gradually, Jhanak falls asleep.

As midnight approached, Jhanak was startled awake by the sound of a gate creaking. Trembling with fear, she grabbed a vase and crept toward the source of the noise. In the dim moonlight, she saw a shadowy figure. Just as she prepared to strike, the figure caught her hand, put a finger on her lip and whispered, "Shh!"

As the clock ticked 12, the moonlight illuminated his face, and Jhanak froze in shock. Standing before her was none other than Aniruddh Bose himself. Her idol, her inspiration, had arrived like a gift on her birthday.

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To be continued.