FF~Fettered Affection.chp20.p144 23.8.13 - Page 109

hi hammiee

Mishal Raheja as Dutta Patil

Fettered Affection~ Chapter 20

" Let the world slip"..Shakespeare

Her constant finger pricking annoyed him to no end and he held her wrist rather rudely," choor! don't want you want you staining my kurta, other then back chatting kuch nehi ata thujhe!" he muttered and turned away from her.

Roops, barged in with expanded eyes exclaimed, "very cosy, getting button and hole so cute na!, Dutta' s earlier scowl eased into a smile as he warmed to the presence of his baby sister, Roops baat sun! this Naku bloodied her fingers doing the job, so I stopped her, now let's see if can you finish off fixing this button for me?he challenged with a tiny smile. Roops looked flabbergasted, " ummh main Bhao?, Baji gambolled in and added," Bhao tere ye behan only knows how to draw air into her lungs, and chrip , so cute na? he, said cynically.

Naku jumped to Roops assistance,"leave her alone Baji, why should she be any different even I was having a bother..Dutta, jarred their light tones, bas! bahut hogaye tum sab ka tamasha, I'll do without a button ", he felt the hairs of his chest in the dip of his collar bones, and now if you please leave my room".

All paid heed to his order and began to leave. He watched her leave and was tempted to make some silly demand on her, to draw her into some idle conversation. But he flared his nostrils and declined the idea, of interacting with her.. after all he should maintain some distance from her so that her heart grows fonder towards him. He drew some air in , content with his decision.. and left his room to attend to work.

Babi busy body gave the kitchen work services a good wipe off. She may be under privileged in terms of finances, living in the deprived basti zones.. but she has within her a self strong sense of clean and unclean.She was raised that way and in turn reared her children with the belief that a clean heart and mind, surrounded by clean environments is pleasing to the deities. With folded arm she elbowed back a few oily hairs back from her face..and these principles she liked to apply in all walks of life all.."Aye main chale hai kam pe!, Naku interrupted her mother's musings. Babi froze dazed and turned her neck to face her daughter, who stood behind her," haan ja meri baachi , mera aisharwad tera saath hai".She raised her wet hands which she wiped dry against her thighs ,and held her daughters face tenderly and kissed her forehead, and then searched her daughters green eyes for any tell tale signs of her still meeting Bhao.. but since she could'nt find any, she released her daughters beautiful face and let her go..

Babi mopped her brow with her pallu, she consoled herself that she was not being nasty to keep her daughter away from a man like Bhao.. she was foremost Naku's mother and she had right to settle her daughter with the right man.

Naku too knew on her way to work , what her mother sought in her eyes. Tears formed in her eyes, as she headed into her office, if only life was simple.. but seems at this point it was far from that.

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"penny for your thoughts..probed Bob as he noticed the glazed look on his best workers face.. he flicked his pencil before her face to draw her attention, as he stood over her beside her desk..tea?. Naku nodded and he moved over to the urn to fill the insulated disposable cup. look "your boss is serving you Mz.Nakusha..here, let 's see if this warm liquid stimulates you into giving me some answers ,so what is it this time? he badgered her.

Naku, sipped and looked across to Bob across her desk,"to tell you the truth, it's nothing and everything" she began vaguely. But Bob was not the one to give up, "what manner of a woolly answer is this? Ok let me make it easier for you, it's a domestic situation, like family in nature?.Naku was already hyped up, so she said slowly and clearly, "arranged marriage.. a marriage that is approved off by elders!, before you ask me to explain that in your occidental tone".. she said dryly. Bob laughed,"hoo hoo ho! now that sounds interesting so you being set up..? who's the lucky guy?. Naku nodded her head ,"never you mind about the guy, the problem is that I like the guy ,but my family doesn't , I mean not as my life partner" ..she confided helplessly.

Bob, was shrewd enough to respect this local girl's admission. He knew he had to be gentle and allow her pace, to share more.. but within himself, his mind was already drawing conclusions, that a girl like Naku would probably not be allowed to interact with blokes on a social scale... the chances were slim, so the only one in question may well be that stud Dutta Patil, the demi god of this area.. spontaneously he announced, "ok now you say domestic, thats your home!where you live at the moment, and the man.. Dutta Patil, right?.. and it's not really arranged its mutual love.. yes? he quizzed.

Naku had worked with, and knew Bob long enough, to build a certain trust in him , so she owned up quietly with her eyes lowered, "yes, Bob it is him, but the problem is that it appears my mother won't have it. Bob looked puzzled, "I don't understand it Nakusha, you like the guy, I assume, I mean I am sure, he too fancies you ,then why does your mother have an issue..?

Naku, nodded at his understanding so she replied, "the problem lies therein the fact that my mother had in many ways initially indicated that I should never think of marrying the owner of PN.. she harps on about class distinction.." Bob , as much as he had respect for the cultures and rituals of this mystical land, caste system he found difficult to swallow, so he responded, "ok I get the picture now, this is turning about to be a marriage of mutual interests between you and him, rather then completely arranged, in fact what is being arranged is denial of your soft spot for Dutta Patil!" declared Bob happily , and Naku nodded her head solemnly. But Bob threw a question at Naku." tell me one thing Nakusha have you told your mother how you feel about Dutta Patil?

Wide eyed Naku, confirmed the negative,"ummh noerhh, Bob, of course not! how could I ? after my mother had literally told my family that she had said no to them when they asked for my hand in marriage!. Bob, tried not to be entirely surprised, but this he added," unbelievable, so the sweet moment of proposal and acceptance is side lined here and decisions have been taken by adults. Naku defended "Bob, before that there is a preliminary discussion between the two families, like seeing if there is some agreement between the two families regarding the match, simple as that!".Bob rolled his sky blue eyes, " you mean as simple as the term complication Nakusha? you have me bowled over! I mean your customs, without wishing to be rude. Naku smiled sportingly, "no problem Bob, it's just I do believe that if the family elders are involved at the onset, then the relationship between a couple spells a certain stability ,at least that's what I think.." she explained.

But, Bob was still bent on focussing on the real issue.. of the conflict created by Nakusha's mother."look Nakusha, I respect your views but all said and done from where I am standing why say that your mom is creating the problem?.To me it seems you are the one creating the problem.."look I do not mean to incite you towards a revolt against family customs and traditions, but I sincerely urge you to stand up for your rights!

Naku, took on board what her boss suggested, but replied, "that's fine Bob you are not whipping me up, but you know for me there is thin line in between standing up for my right! and honouring my parents", she paused and continued determined, "and, Bob I chose honoring my parents over standing up for what's my right!.Bob gulped the last drop of his cooled down coffee and looked at Naku warningly, "look, Nakusha..tell your mum you like the bloke, it may make a difference.." Bob persisted one last time. Naku heard him, lowered her eyes and got back to her work...

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Babi, carried a certain baggage in her heart.. yes she does love her Naku a lot..she is the ideal daughter one could wish for.. in a big way she keeps the finances of the family afloat, but more so Naku has brought respect in the lives of Ganpat, herself and her brother, never put a wrong foot her Naku has.. maybe as a good mother she needs to be honest with AS.. and perhaps maintain a fresh out look towards this relationship between Naku and Bhao.

With a mixture of both impulse and careful thought she shared her views with AS in the presence of Kala,"dekho AS, mere dil pe bhoj hai, main bole the ap ko main sooch ke batayie ge.. tu saachi baat ye hai, ke Bhao aacha insaan hai, humare liye tu baghwan se kam nehi.. pun dil mein dar bhi hai ke woh jail ja chkein hain .. bas age chal ke.. aap samhej rehe hain AS...Kala, a little annoyed nearly snapped at Babi, "dekho Babi humhe nehi manzoor ke tum humien batien sunaon..Bhao ab bilkul thek hai.. koi burai nehi us mein.. kaki tum kyun nehi na ker deti ho abhi ke abhi.. bas ye sooch lo.. ke khein teri beti bhi Bhao ko pasand tu nehi kerti..".Babi reacted with a confused look, and replied frankly, "saach phoocho tu Tai, main ne tu Naku se khabi is bare mein baat nehi ke.. tu jab tak hum use baat na kerlien , hum abhi haan ya na nehi kerien ga..."she said mopping her brow nervously.AS, raised her palm and suggested, "dekh Babi tu bole the koi baba hai jis se tune milna hai.. aisa kar ghar pe he bula le.. sab ke samna baat ho jaye ge.. kya kehte hai tu?. Babi nodded and moved forward to feel AS's knee as a mark of respect,"bikul AS, main aaj he Ganapat ko bhaje ge baba ko khabir ker de bilke ho sake tu apne saath he le aye"..Babi assured

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Driving around PV... it was hard to ignore what day it was ,what with all the rakhi's on display and shoppers pressing hard into the shops, for last minute gifts. The small time shop keepers with eyes that beamed and brows that sweat, were knee deep in the midst of operating tills , packing, wrapping goods for their fervent customers..

Dutta turned towards Baji whilst he drove his black jeep, "chaal yaar it's good to see that our utsavs, usher in money into the pockets of our small time traders.. beechare kitna intezaar kerta hain, pura saal koi celebrations hoon tu humare maal ke bikri ho.. Baji , agreed but extended the thought a bit.."waise ye hai khoon paise ke kamia.. haina Bhao?. Dutta nodded, hummh , you're right.. humari kamie, kiska khoon? aur kiska ka pasina Baji?, but to be honest Baji, mujhe kiya is se lena dena.. bas satta only Baji.. for if you have power you have everything.. Dutta impressed dangerously..

Baji steered him back to the importance of the day, after all Bhao had sisters who grace his life.."Bhao, tumhe pata haina ghar pe rasam ho ge, rakhsha bandhan ke?.. Dutta swayed his steering and looked ahead and commented breifly "pata hai..sab, Baji.. hummh" and despite, the fact it was a happy day for him as a brother.. he went silent as he parked near a shop to buy gifts presumably.

Baji sensed Dutta's quiet.. and pulled his phone out..haan ummh Madhu ,main Baji.. woh main bolon ke aaj tu aye ge ghar pe.. hummh?..Madhu was very touched but went silent , then added, "want to Baji, but you know this day is special so have to see Digu bhai first..."Baji who also kept an eye on Bhao carrying on transactions in the shop, cut his call short.."aacha theek hai main baad mein baat kerta hai thujhse."..and he ended the call.

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Naku, thought about Bob's words , tell your mum the truth.. she gripped her pencil hard till her knuckle hurt. May be she should, it would perhaps make her Aye revamp her decision.The phone by her side rang and she attended to it,Nakusha kaise hai? long time no see? no news ? about you or him?..Naku, laughed pleasantly surprised, .."haan, Supriya you could say no news is good news..!,Supriya in girlish excitement exclaimed ,"really? bata kuch hoya kiya? I have a feeling kuch tu hoya hai?. Naku, was in no mood to faff about.. so in all honesty she said briefly,"unka ristha aye hai mera liya..".

Supriya far from restrained, almost threw her professionalism to the winds!kya? ye kaise hoya ?have to say saw it coming! what with you two living in the same house.. waise bhi Dutta Patil in all his acidic broodiness is not a bad looking man.. is he Naku!? she probed.Naku's bottom lip quivered, replied," ooh Supriya you make it sooo not so right! but before you progress your further, rishta reject bhi ho gaye hai", and her voice choked a bit...Supriya, raised her voice, "reject ho gaya! who ?what? why? tell me Nakusha?. Naku explained and Surpriya reacted, "this is so ridiculous Naku! how can you put up with such behaviour from your family?, if you ask me this is the difficulty within our families! they can only do two things; one, force their daughters into marriage with blokes their girls don't fancy! even disregarding age barriers! between their girl and her spouse! or parents oppose vehemently what if by chance, their daughters go and select someone out for themselves. Naku laughed,"which category do your parents fall in Supriya?,she teased. Supriya, replied, "to tell you the truth Naku both, they tried several times to force me into marrying a man who I could not relate too, but Naku, I dug my heels.. and clearly opposed the idea.Today, I am in a position to choose someone I like, but with that too I fear that they might say, no the boy is not established enough, or comes from another sect, class!. In short there is so much nit picking it's unbelievable! Supriya complained.

Naku was quick to ask Supriya what of considering parental wishes and community binds .Supriya nodded her head on the other side of the phone, "yes doing what our parents wish, is something we daughters are expected to do as it underpins our respect for our them. If you ask me Naku, in many cases it turns out to be girls sacrificing their lives in unhappy marriages, so they could honour the whims of their families and communities which I think is not necessarily right in itself for what duties are parents carrying out towards their daughters? think about it Naku", mooted Supriya.

Hearing, Naku's disinterested silence, Supriya, eased off her criticism of seeming well wishing parents, "dekh Naku the trick is to convince one's parents that a daughter has an identity and opinions which parents and family need to be aware of.." she advised.

Naku took Supriya's point of view, with a pinch of salt, "but Supriya, within our cultural framework in the main, it's not that simple to tell your parents that one likes someone..she said timidly. Supriya half exasperated argued,"why can't you tell your mother? or, are you not that close to your mother?.. they say mothers are daughters closest confidantes after their friends!.Naku too was not going to refrain from saying what she believed in, "yes I am very attached to my Aye, and so her wishes are vital to me.. for I belief that she genuinely wants the best for me, so yes Supriya I admit that it will be difficult to tell her apne dil ke baat,".Naku, confided.

Supriya was het up about Naku's stance, but as a professional she also had respect for Naku, and therefore finished off her conversation with the words, look Naku, it's your life, goes without saying that it is an important opinion, which you must make known to your parents, for in future if life turns sour for you, your parents may not treat your present silence as a mark of respect for them! the likelihood is that they may blame you Naku, if you don't tell them that you actually like the man! reminded Supriya.. and the call ended..

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Madhu, stared sullenly at the rakhsha bandhan thalli she had prepared for her brother. Her mother caressed her daughter's head, "udhas maat ho beti, koi kam ho ga zaroori, is liye nehin aya tera bhai abhi tak..."Madhu, accepted her mother's statement, it was pointless to discuss the subject any further, this is deja vu..

Being absent even on special occasions was something that was a repeated occurrence. It was easy for him, he never had it in him to hold this small family of a mother and sister together.Tears welled up in her eyes as she gazed upon the road out of her rooms window.There was general festivity in the air, all the media, entertainment focussed on this special day.Lyrics of a song sung by a sister for her brother, from her radio, finally toppled the tears and sadness in her heart out in the open. She pulled her phone and dialled a number..

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With an aggressive turn Dutta entered the slight gradient drive of his household. Music and sweet smell of fresh flowers mixed with aromatic incense enveloped the entrance of his household.. He heaved and hauled himself out of his jeep and passed the keys to Kaley who stood before him with folded palms. Without further thought Dutta climbed the wide curved marble steps into the main entrance of Patil nivas..

Bajis phone rang and he answered as he saw Dutta disappear into the house."haan Madhu bol what's up..?.All he could hear was her crying and her sorry tale. Baji scratched the side of his head and with an angry expression he replied gently, tu rok main ata hai abhi give me twenty minutes! and he yelled to Kaley. ayeee! chabi de edher, main ate hai abhi! thore der bad , phir park kar dena jeep!.

Baji jumped into the jeep and raced down to Madhu's house..

Dutta progressed through the hall and was greeted by flower arrangements, mobile orange marigold garlands suspended from the door posts arches, bright yellow and red , fresh flowers swags hung all the way from the bottom to the top of the curved main stair case of the house.. divas were lit in the small decorative niches running all the way on the curved adjacent wall of the stairway.. and before him stood his three sisters dressed and eye catching to the full. He could see they were dressed to compliment the one of the many wonderful festivals that celebrate familial bonds.

Roops dressed in a modern semblance nearly hugged her brother.."oh Bhao so glad you could make it early today..AS interceded and said firmly,"hai lardkiyo! choor humra beta ko phele tayeer tu ho jaye, ja Dutta kamre mein , kapre badal le she instructed. Dutta gave her a stiff look ,"kyun is kali pathiani mein kiya burai hai ?! jaisa hoon waisa he dekhon ga! he said awkwardly.. Sethji popped up from nowhere, and stood before him in a purple kurta and white pyjanma ,flashing a toothy smile,"dekho Bhao aaj tu maine bhi rapchak kapre pehne hain! cute dehkon ga tu meri Tai aur zayeeda pyar de ge! He giggled, and Dutta had a good mind to say to this little lad , that cute or not his tai, has flipped over Saab anyway...

Baji, stopped the car before Digu's weather beaten haveli.. and for all good purpose it was best that he went in to, offer his respect and then collect Madhu. Dutta's step mother.. was in no position except to show Baji, affection. She held his face in her palms, and smiled kindly at this boy, Dutta's adopted brother. She felt Baji's shoulder with grimace as she wished , she would gladly exchange her own son for this Baji.. she looked into his innocent round eyes. She saw sincerity towards relationships in his heart.".Baji , ye Madhu udhas hai , Digu nehi aya rekhe bundhwana.. tu soocha", she said quietly and then became silent. Baji tapped her shoulder,"aap dono ne thek faisla liya, rakhi tie kerne hai tu chal mera saath Madhu.. and moved his head to bade her come, and folded his palms before Madhu's mother, "main chalta hai..."he stopped as he didn't quite know what to call this woman..

In the car he crumpled his mouth angrily and he mumbled,"tera bhai , bhai nehi qasie hai salle! har ristha ko kat deta hai salle!.She heard and no she was not going to defend her brother, especially today. Digu had broken her heart and the sad bit was he was probably unaware of it...

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Dutta sat on the settee, his knees slightly parted, his brother in laws, his mother and Sethji all around him. Babi looked at Bhao and remarked to his mother who stood by her and whispered,"Bhao na kapre nehi change kiye?,AS, turned to her and replied,"hum na tu bola tha pun woh bola aise he thek hai,".Dutta eyes shifted much amused that he was the centre of attraction. He looked at Kala, his most attractive and impressive sister, she was glory personified , no mistaking that she was the eldest sister. Her manicured painted fingers held the arti thalli ready to adore and bless him.Then came Leela ,second place dressed in an equally festive sari, like her older sister ,standing next to her husband Sudarshan. Roops, looked around and noticed that Baji was missing, she walked up to her brother and alerted him. Dutta still sitting frowned as his eyes scanned the huge hall and finally in a loud guttural voice, he asked,"kisi ne dekha hai Baji ko kahan hai woh?.This was all too much for him, no festival major or minor is ever celebrated minus Baji.

AS, tried to chivvy matters plus treated Baji's absence as a temporary glitch, "ah jaye ga Baji, koi kam ho ga,. Dutta was not having it, Baaajjjeee! he bellowed as the complete solemnity of the house hold, shook with the thunder of his roar.."hooo Bhau main ye hai! responded Baji as he walked on the marbled floor of PN, alongside him walked an awkward Madhu, all eyes turned to them and Dutta stood up tall on his feet.Baji walked straight up to his Bhao, but spoke loud enough for all to hear, "ye Madhu haina, ghar pe ekele the ghum sum.", Dutta raised his palm and bowed his head and raised it up again,"pata hai waiting for that excuse of a brother! He moved and rested his palm on Baji's shoulder, "tune aacha kiya Baji ju ise yahan le aya.. then he cranked his head as his narrowed eyes scored over all present, "and I sincerely hope kis aur ko bhi koi problem nehin.. Dutta ke ghar har koi welcome hai" he said, curtly.

AS, assumed her motherly role and made things easier for every one by moving over to Madhu who bent down and touched AS'S feet, "jeti raho beti.. Kala, Leela, too welcomed her with a hug.Whilst this was going on, Roops almost collided deliberately with Baji, and hissed in his ear ,"you Baji Rao! Madhu ko yahan le ka ana ,you kept it a big secret, aisa kyun Baji?.. He looked at her a tad worried and moved away from her, discreetly, and rebuffed her "behave yourself Roops ke beeche! sab dekh rehe hain", she ignored his snub and grabbed his arm forcefully,"that does not answer my question,!" she persisted and he took her aside and hurriedly explained,she rang me, complaining about her brother, so I went to collect her, now if you'll excuse me, rasam shorru hone wala hai" and he gently held her by the elbow and both headed towards the rest of the family.

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AS, once again invited her son to sit down for the ceremony to commence. Dutta pulled his mouth to one side ,and nervously rubbed his palmed briefly, as he stood imposingly in his black pathiani. He moved his slanted head slowly and noticed Kala all poised with the arti lit on the laid out thali with little holders of chandan, oil, rice, and turmeric..

His heart turned within his rib cage, he was most moved and this was one of those moments where he had to lay bare his soul, but his eyes vacantly looked for one person who was amiss.

She was late back from work but finally she entered. Dressed in a simple, pink floral punjabi suit, her chunni conservatively upon her bosom. Dutta disinterestedly threw back his head a little and with narrowed eyes looked across at her fine featured face, mid parted hair with a loose plait that hung casually on the side of her neck. Embarrassed at being late she quickened her pace and the short side parted wavy fringe danced on either side of smooth fair forehead.. he took a deep breath as he continued to watch her from his height. Silently she stopped beside her mother..and for a split second Dutta assumed that she noticed his presence. But rigidly he picked up on what he was meant to do before she entered the room.

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He stood before them and raised both his palms, Baji.. shushed every one into silence as he could see that his Bhao wanted to say something.. Baji felt his Adam's apple and slowly rolled his eyes upward, Bappa , ye yehra kuch rang mein bhang na dal de..

Dutta could see his friend's anxiety and he bowed his head once as he assured Baji.. and so began Dutta.

"now before you start this rakhsha bandhan ceremony, Kala tai, Leela tai, Roops.. he paused and his voice faltered a little as he swallowed hard, and spoke, "Madhu".., both Naku and Baji's eyes welled up.. he noticed but carried on, "mujhe ap se kuch kehana tha, the thing is that ap se dor jail mein main ne Rakhi ke thavar maniya tha bahut dafa.. those times were hard, very painful, my heart pined for you.. mahsoos kerta tha ke tum mera pas hote tu kiya hota?.. his tearful eyes travelled to his baby sister, "Roops thujhe dekhna ko bhaut mun kerta tha..I use to imagine how you looked like.. after ten years..I left you when you were under ten years of age.. there were inmates who spoke about having received rakhi messages even rahkis.. pun mera pas kuch kehna ke liye ne hota tha.. my heart over the years become more and more brittle.. laga ke mera koi nehi hai... it was a burdening sense of feebleness that felt like it would never end. But end it did! and so I find out here and now that waqat ek sa nehin rehta.. aaj main Dutta Patil is celebrating Rakhsa Bandhan as a free man.. but I do want to say.." and he stopped with tears in his eyes as he walked serenely across to Kala, and reached out for her hand which he gently held between his palms, "tai, I was so unfortunate, that for ten years I loved you my sisters, pun mere ko dukh is baat ka hai, that I was unable to protect you three from the rough patches of life you went through in my absence.. main ap ke rakhsa na ker saka ", he said emotionally..charged.

Kala reached out for him and hugged him, with a pat on his stubble cheek,"Dutta, how can you say that you never protected us.. how can we forget that you went through a baptism of fire when you saved us from a match that could have set alight all of us.." sniffed Kala and the rest of the sisters came towards the standing Dutta and with weeping eyes all three spreads their arms, and covered their brother with love.AS, wiped tear with a fingertip ,and Babi too openly dabbed her eyes.. melted down to bits by the bhai behanoon ka scene.. Baji.. yelled from far, "rasam aur arti bhi karo.. zaroon ke bhook bhi lage hai!

Dutta, shyly freed him from the canopy of his sisters arms and moved towards the settee , where he sat.. leaned forward his wrist raised and ready. Kala being the eldest with love swerved the arti thalli applied chandan ka tika and grain of rice on Dutta's broad forehead and finished it off with feeding him meetha, a gentle showering of flower petals on his smiling face.. once Kala straightened up Leela gently took the thalli from her and repeated the ritual. Baji smiled at Bhao who sat all content and patient, till Roops took her turn. Once she finished, Dutta gradually moved his head sideways and gave a gentle look towards a subdued Madhu who stood beside Naku..Dutta stood up non threateningly and beckoned her towards him and he smiled when he saw how she happily.. came and met Roops midway with Bhao standing between them. Moist eyed Madhu held the thalli and carried out the arti and Baji , nodded approvingly at AS..

Today his Bhao had proved his large heartedness yet again.. after the Arti ritual finished..Dutta looked across to Naku purposefully, but she gave him a vacant look, annoyed, he sighed, collected himself and asked somewhat irate , "ayee Naku tuna nehi kerna arti apne bahi ke liye.She gulped and lowered her eyes, blushed and Dutta moved his head sideways and his lips parted..as he thought...such an attitude queen she is.. is occassion pe bhi.. she is full of hot air,kya ho gaya hai ise?. He glared at her sharply..and that quickened her pace and she took the thali from Madhu and carried out arti for her brother, who smiled expectantly ..

Roops all excited, yelled, "so cute na ! abhi Bhao ka haat sab rakhion se bhar jayen ge!. Dutta shook his raised palm.."ummh nehin.. I don't think so!..he informed firmly and all present exchanged concerned glances, so much so for his good behaviour!..

Kala came to the rescue, "ok no problem, since its Bhao's day.. so he can decide how best he can resolve this issue.."she paused and looked at Dutta who stood with his arms folded against his broad chest. Finally, he looked at all his sisters who stood with all manner of ornamental Rakhi's in their palms.. and after some thought he let his arms drop by his side and announced, after careful consideration, maine ye decide kiya hai ke main ek rakhi apne kalai pe tie karwaoon ga... and after a slight pause , he raised his eyes and slowly walked towards Madhu and held his broad wrist before her.. overcome with tears in her eyes.. she tied the plain red threaded symbol around his wrist.. and he raised his free hand and placed it gently on the top of her head.

All were overcome by this gesture.. but Roops yelled spontaneously "Bhao! that's not fair aap ne apne real sisters ke rakhi nehi phene!..she sulked. He looked across to her tenderly and said, with his finger raised up,"Roops! aise nehe kethe..tumhara pas main har waqat rehta hoon, bole tu I live with you.. pun Madhu ke pas nehi.., he reasoned and turned to Madhu, "but this I speak in front of everyone, tera saath rahon ye na rahon lekin ye Dutta tera rakhsha hamesha kare ga..".Baji saved the moment from descending into ill feeling,"areee.. Tai! baki mujhe bhi to koi rakhi pehnai?! woh kiya haina Bhao ke hase ke!. All laughed as, Kala, Leela and Naku tied rakhi's on a beaming Baji's wrist.

Gifts were exchanged and vachaan of a brother impressed, upon his sisters ..and the day came to a solemn end..

Baji said to Naku, "you impressed by my Bhao..? he never fails to amaze does he..? Naku smiled knowingly.. Dutta watched from far and laid back sauntered over to these two people close to his heart..Baji smiled at his Bhao and gathered from his expression that he wanted him to scram..so he turned to leave, but to Naku's dismay her Saab too began to leave. Before it was late she felt his arm, and he paused and gazed at her hand upon his person ,then slowly raised his narrow lion like eyes and gazed into her green eyes,"hummh, kuch chahiye?, she shook her head coquettishly, "nehin tu,, bas bolna tha, aachi laagi aap ke batien aaj Rakhsa bandhan par.. slightly put off by her remark he gibed, "batien nehin the woh, mere jeevan ke ek haseh ka dukh tha! That I experienced, pun tu nehi samjhe ge Naku, you never suffered the trauma of separation from your brother or from your family for that matter!, he said stiffly, and off handily moved away. Naku watched his back, wide and taut, as it proceeded down the corridor and created distances between then, till finally he disappeared around the corner.Fear gripped her, why was he being so terse with her? was her manner responsible for his coldness.. if so she'd better ensure she doesn't lose him.. losing him.. the thought nearly choked her.

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Next morning dressed ready for work, Dutta came down his wooden stairs and was surprised to see an unknown.. sadhu babaa , sitting by his mother. He drew nearer as his curiosity was stimulated by the presence of Naku's mother too at the feet of this pious man.. Dutta decreased his speed but then confidently picked it up again.. he didn't take too kindly to unknown visitors ..alright seemingly the man seemed holy, but still in Dutta's trade he cannot afford to take chances.. behroopia bhi ho sakta hai!

He moved forward, yet from a distance he called his mother.. she could well imagine what he must be thinking, so she called out.." ye babba hain, Babi ne buliya hai inhe tera lagaan ke baat kerna ke liya.." Dutta blushed and lowered his eyes. But after second thought he called out boldly and firmly," woh tu thek hai pun security ka problem hai.. why is it that I am always the last to know AS?..ap jante hai mera liye apne family ke surekhsha sab se important hai...

Satisfied, he made his way out of the house, with a quiet sense of apprehension. It may well be, that both mothers are perhaps discussing the compatibility of his pairing with kali gori, now if that is the case ,then it has to be a good thing, he reflected with a smug slanted smile..to be continued. Hamlet53~ 23.6.13

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Precap ~ with a glazed look, his cold palm slowly spun the cylinder of the revolver..

Happy Rakhsha Bandhan to all my readers.

update nakku clumpsy attempts at button dutta shouting baaji roops entry
roops baaji bickering dutta irritated sending them out duuta thinking that nakku will realise his importance if she stay away from him
babi in kitchen nakku going to work babi tensed for nakku and nakku hiding her feelings
bob nakku bonding nakku telling him her problems bob trying to find solution as true friend
babi trying to reject dutta as he was in jail kala angry and asking babi to understand nakku feelings finally pandit is solution
rakhi mela
baaji pointing it dutta restless baaji calling madhu to join them
supriya calling nakku telling everything supriya advice i love that
madhu waiting for digu madhu mother consoling her
dutta coming in angry mode
madhu callling baaji asking him to pick her
sisters celebrating
baaji sscolding madhu for trusting digu
celebration as asking for changing but dutta being lasy
madhu joining as loving her no sense of not being family
dutta searching for nakku finally saw her but dutta showing indifference dutta emotional speech madhu mingling with them

dutta showing cld shoulders to nakku and nakku scared for loosing dutta
as talking to panditji dutta happy inside but safety point not to forget

Enjoyed every part a lot...Specially that Raksha bandhan part was mind blowing...Oh!!!..Naku's finger was hurt by the needle...Awe..This Roops is so cute na...Dutta's tensed eased into smile when he saw his baby sister.,,,Awe...Baaji teasing Roops.Soo cute na.

..Naku protected Roops...Finally both three went out from Dutta's room...Yeah!!...Dutta's idea was nice...Poor Naku struggling a lot because of Babi...Loved that whole part dear...Naku opened her heart to bob.like their convo...Babi worried about Naku...

Loved Baaji ka convo wit Dutta...Dutta bought some gifts to his sisters...Why Baaji called to Madhu???...I can't understand him...But he hide his convo from Bhao...Poor Naku...She is totally confused ...Loved Naku & Supriya ka convo dear...Feel sad for Madhu...Baaji worried about Madhu..

.I Hate this Digu...BAD BROTHER...Awe Raksha Bandhan ceremony...Nooo words dear...Totally awesome...Enjoyed every bit...It brings LTL ki golden moments...You penned it very well...Totally wonderful dear...Dutta's family whole kindheartedly accept Madhu's presence...Dutta felt little bit uneasy with AS ka gesture...He didn't forget the past yet. Dutta's family loved him a lot.

.Awe..Loved the way Dutta was looking at Naku...Your writing was amazing dear...Awe...Dutta is looking emotional...Loved his words dear...

.

...Awe..This dutta is a gem of person...He asked Madhu to tied the Rakhi first..Poor Roops..baaji adjusted the difficult situation...Totally awesome part dear...Loved it so much...Thanks a lot for your mind blowing update dear

AS arranged her dearest Sadhu baba for Dutta's marriage talks...finally some smiles from Dutta's face...

Yeh kya action precap hai...Dutta is in his Sher mood...I think we'll have some zabardast update on next week...Oh nooo...Now 6 days more...Eagerly waiting for the next update...Please update soon dear...

Hammie..Its a totally wonderful update dear...Enjoyed the Raksha Bandhan part a lot...Sooo sweet of you...Thanks sooo much dear

hi hamlet

awesome ud raksha bandhan celebrated with pomp missed LTL days why did baji had to call madhu? he is trying to get her fix in PN roops is better i don't like madhu .. naku convo was good with bob dutta is blushing marriage talk babi pls agree ud soon

Hi hammiee

Loved the ud.dutta is following time tested rule distance makes one fonderhere its avoid to get more attention😆

Oh! Hammiee I got the point babi isnt abt sweaty pohashe maintains hygiene & cleanliness

I got the point babi wants best for her daughtershe isnt wrong eithernaku I guess is at fault..She never spoke her mindeven though they are too close

Nakus convo with bob & sups was well writtenfor once naku needs to know wht she wants

Hammiee raksha bandhan brought LTL alivedutta missed many been in jail..I just cant figure out why baji called madhu.wht has she done to deserve to get his attentionshe has her fly..Mom..Brosince dutta has become rich ..I thought that must be reason to get closebut it strange baji is missing her on raksha bandhan..I thought he wanted her to tie rakhiso called her & in vited to PN😆

Dutta has out of this world sis he tied rakhi first to madhu roops who spend all this yr yearning for himhe gave her preference over her .to someone he met few days back..she isnt orphan eitherother sisters kept quite maybe not to annoy their rich bro.otherwise in normal situation sis dont react in this manner.fly allows u to be the way u r & express ur self.without been civil

I liked the naughty look dutta gave to naku naku gave him blank expression..😳What else

Baba aur babi ke maulaqtthanxs hammiee there was no show downab baba aur babi kuch acha faisala karenaku girl better speak Ur mind

Enjoyed the ud hammiee.plsss ud soon.as always Ur amazinggg😊

Tammy loved your feedback as usual its awesome and very apt pics picked 👍🏼

@ Tammy

Hi Tammanna🤗
Wow...Awesome job dear....Loved it sooo much......Thanks a lot meri sweet dhost🤗.Totally eye catchy.& Perfect..Hats off to you dear..🤗.We all are really lucky..🤗..Thanks sooo much for your sweetest treat for Hammie's awesome update.❤️👍🏼🤗...Sooo sweet of you🤗..

@ Warda
Hi Warda🤗
Really😳😳😳...Thanks a lot for liking Twinky baby's naughty works dear😉🤗.Soo sweeet of you🤗

Originally posted by: Warda.

Tammy loved your feedback as usual its awesome and very apt pics picked 👍🏼

bob has got very innocent looks lol

all the captions are too good😃

Twinky...loved your feedback too👍🏼

all the pics and captions are great

a visual treat to read yours and tammy's comment😃