Flip side of a coin
"Karma is a store of good and bad actions, accumulated over many lives, and it is this store of actions that binds one to phenomenal existence" (glossary, 163). - Bhagavad Gita
Flash lights, red carpets, gorgeously dressed women, debonair looking men all were prevalent at the venue. The electricity of the atmosphere was drugging. Abhi! Abhi! The scream of young ladies could be heard. "Here comes, the dashing rock star. Millions of young ladies heart beat", the red carpet expert was commenting on the mike. Live take of the stars arrival was being telecasted to the world audience. Yes, MTV awards were being broadcasted. Pallavi Symonns, the world know makeup artist was the red carpet host for the event.
"Abhi! How does it feel to be nominated this year? Excited?" "Yes, very excited. Hoping for the best." "Who are these lovely ladies?" "My sister Alliya and her friend Tannu". "Congratulations and I hope you win". Pallavi turned towards other new arrivals, totally ignoring Tannu who wanted to promote herself on the national TV. "I can't believe this Pallavi. She could have given me a chance. I too am a supermodel. Abhi, you could have introduced me differently, then, stating as Alliya's friend. Then, she might have noticed". "How do you want me introduce you, this is live TV. Everything I say will be broadcasted and picked on later. Daddi would be watching." All 3 went into the venue. Abhi smiling and waving at his fans.
The whole hall erupted. Abhi turned to look, to see what had caused the commotion, the screen had thousands of fans screaming, the arrival of a beautiful lady. She looked simply stunning. Pallavi's animated voice could be heard on the broadcasting system. "Here comes the Diva of all divas. She is not only gorgeous but also a sweet heart. Are you excited to be here?" "Yes, very but more than anything else, I'm extremely happy that the MTV awards would be sponsoring and honoring handicapped children as well as the Prime Minister's relief fund", the softly and sweetly spoken voice could be heard. "Any special person?" "Everyone is special. My family means a lot to me and the special person in my life..." there was shy smile on her face. Pallavi had few more questions for the diva before a gentleman pushed in-front and thanked Pallavi before ushering the lady in. Alliya's face turned red watching the scene. It was none other than Purab. He was the manager for the Diva. The whole venue exploded with clapping when Purab and the Diva entered the arena. Everyone wanted to shake hands with the Diva. Tannu and Alliya's couldn't stomach the attention given to the beautiful singer. "Gosh! What's so beautiful about her? You should see her with her glass, she looks like a bhenji" Tannu gritted her teeth. "Both of you stop it. There are cameras everywhere. Whatever you ladies say, can be captured. I don't want us to be the front page news tomorrow. Then, the media will start digging out lots of dirt. Just enjoy the event and DO NOT comment on Purab or her." Abhi sounded off.
The MTV awards ceremony commenced. The anchor walked in and announced the 1st song of the day. "Ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands together to welcome, our one and only diva, Ms. Pragya Arora". Pragya walked in and started singing in her wonderful sweet voice. The whole venue was gripped in awe of her singing. It was electrifying. The awards presentation commenced. AR Rahman banged various awards. Then, came to the pop section where both Abhi and Pragya were nominated. Best male pop act went to Abhi and best female pop act went to Pragya. Then, the best pop album was announced..."for the 1st time in history...we have 2 winners...the winners are Abhi Mehra and Pragya Arora"... there was a standing ovation from the audience. Abhi entered 1st and followed by Pragya. "Congratulations, Mr. Mehra". Pragya smiled and shook hands with Abhi. Abhi looked into Pragya's eyes, could not even summon a smile. Pragya Arora that was what she called herself. She is no longer Pragya Mehra; she didn't even know that she was Pragya Mehra. Yes...Pragya doesn't recognize Abhi and his family. In-fact she has totally forgotten them...
Everything changed that day, with the toss of a coin. Abhi had no one to blame except for this fate...bad karma needs to be paid back, can't run away... Abhi self-talks to himself...
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