Mukti Bandhan: a different perspective- SS - Page 14

Originally posted by: chandaursitare

Sonali, take a bow! That was the most beautiful reunion I have ever read. It was seriously perfect and went way better than I could have ever imagined. I always think of Maa Parimita as someone beyond my understanding. The way she spoke, thought; it was just so real and I simply love the writers of MB for giving us her character. You have a great grasp at her character. The way she talks in this chapter, I can imagine her saying the same thing in front of baba's picture. She gave both of them hope - IMV and D. IMV decided not to take it, but D will because she understands CP like IMV never wanted to. I think I need to rewatch whatever little we had seen of her again.

thanks a ton Chanda I am sooo glad you liked it..coz you were among the ones who was anticipating Parimita's part for a while.. and one of the big CP/Parimita admirers like me.. 😃.. I too love her philosophies.. and esp the way Deepti Naval portrayed it.. she was like this calm stream.. her presence made you peaceful. even without her speaking.. I remember the IMV-Parimita scene when he narrated his perspective and she stood listening.. not a word.. but her subtle expressions were each a statement.. of how she felt.. of where she was in life.. and what she still owed to her past.. sigh.. I can watch tht scene gazillion times.. both IMV and D were 2 ends of the string that was somehow attached to her spirit.. She gave IMV her journal.. more than she gave D.. and somewhere she knew he wont take it.. she knew he had time.. to see and accept the truth.. but all she could do was try one time honestly.. to redeem herself of this attachment that plagued a whole family through this man.. as for D.. if you notice.. she asks her if she has complains.. she studies D.. and where D goes I saw this fondness.. that I hadn't before.. she has already gauged this girl.. how simple she is.. hence the dont bear the guilt that isn't yours line.. Parimita by then had decided what D deserved to know.. and just about how much.. its again her part to give it.. to accept or not is the receiver's prerogative..

Maa Parimita was ready for this meeting and she must have been preparing since she wrote that diary for IMV. I would love to read that diary and the book that D read. I also love that she was so sweet with D. She didn't get defensive and explained CP's circumstances as best she could. She also knows that eventually D will find out about IMV-CP. Another amazing track..

Bang on there friend.. as in when she told Charu.. dont stop your DIL from meeting me.. if its destined it will happen.. she hadn't foreseen meeting her father but got through that surprise with her strong convictions.. that scene was probably one where she was the most vulnerable.. so i gave tht element to her here too.. she could remain stoic.. but she had to have moments of weakness as a mother.. Parimita can never be defensive.. she is way above that..she has that inherent security and peace to wanna project anything.. and yes.. like I said you are bang on.. you caught her line in the end.. where she does expect the truth about IMV-CP to befall D sometime in her life.. and hence her word of wisdom.. one can either get caught in the questions.. or walk the truth..😃 but she wasnt someone to tell her anymore than she did.. coz discretion is her second nature..in her dealings with everyone.. I loved how she kept Charu, D, IMV everyone separate in her dealings..

Oh and it was nice of D to tell CP everything. She always wanted to - I am a little surprised she told about the contract marriage, but I shouldn't be. D never had anyone to talk to about it.

are you surprised.. hmmm.. i took the cue from the shradh scene.. when she confesses to her mother's pic.. about the reality of her marriage.. about what V was to her.. etc.. so it was only befitting that she would ramble away in the one chance she had..😆 I purposely made her the lost child here.. coz that was the only place she always was.. wid her mom's pic.. with everyone else he maintained a brave front..

Lastly, I am also happy that D got to meet her mother through Maa Parimita. She deserved that. 😊

yup it was all of our unfulfilled desire.. through all of it D got a real raw deal in the show.. people walked all over her.. for being who she was.. while she only fended.. her little grievance in the last scene with IMV.. where she tells him.. you are my parent.. father i never had.. mother passed away.. all that remains is maa parimita and she is not my mother.. tht was the only bit given to this huge track with gazillion possibilities..😆

and how perfect! I still cannot bring myself to watch the last few episodes because it would mean an official ending and goodbye and I don't want to do that.. Why couldn't we get it back on another channel? 😔 I hope that at the very least we can get another show from the team? But I'll leave that in my dreams..

thats like my ultimate desire too.. to see the same team.. if not with the same cast to make something this worthwhile.. but after the audience reception and untimely demise of MB I wont blame them if they didnt want to waste their time effort and art on a mediocre medium like tv

Thank you so much, Sonali! You're such a good writer and you have done full justice to this mother-daughter reunion.

once again.. really glad you liked the experience..

Originally posted by: ssshhh

U know Sonali a few days back, I decided 2 PM U asking 4 d next part, but then stopped myself as I knew that this would be a very challenging part for u to write nd u deserved ur own pace. BTW thanxs 4 d dedication.😉

its amazing what a weekend trip can do to your life.. completely throws your scedule haywire.. all the chores you do in the weekend is split btw d week.. and moreover it was diwali.. tht too midweek.. so took a lil longer.. more than writing.. its the urge to sit and deliver😆 that eludes me.. writing a part takes all of an hr or 2.. but I procrastinate so much.. its not funny

Simply stupendous (ah I'm running out of adjs.) U hv done a great job of bringing the charged-filled mother-daughter encounter nd hv done total justice 2 it. Although I suppose as U know I do hv my differences which I'll tell U abt in another post as this post is for unabashed admiration. U hv brought forth d essence of Maa Parimita very well nd also her pholosophical nd serene take of kismet nd karma.👏👏👏

Awww am glad you could at least suspend your disbelief.. but I am more than eager to read about the contrasting conviction here😉 speaking of which I added an entry into our adda.. and awaiting your take.. and then again.. like I was saying.. I had to dedicate this part to you.. you know why.. 😆 I thrust my perspective down your throat coz I CAN.. jk.. we reckoned even that day we will not agree on the imp we give to individuality.. our STRONG contrasting conviction.. and I admire both..

BTW I'm falling in love wid V all over again.😳😍 He's a darling nd U hv brought our V 2 life so well.

Oh I had to erase the image of the wimpy V from my mind.. so I am re-creating the guy.. I so loved.. we so loved.. the completely objective intelligent man.. who had a damn good reading of people.. very rarely does a young man with such definition comes alive on fiction.. its just easy to write about him.. 😆once you know the basic sketch of his convictions

D is fulll on wid her positivity.

Koi shak🤣 her selflessness always baffled me.. I did sit and try to rationalize why she was like that.. so accepting.. and I think its coz of the insecurities she lived with.. someone who wanted to lap whatever she got as she had lived without her parents.. not sure; she deserved any more or better.. she was the opp spectrum to CP😉

I do not hv words 2 express my heartfelt gratitude (actually not quite d right word, if u know wat I mean) for bringing 2 lyf d characters we appreciated so much.😊

Its something I am doing for myself just as much as for all of us MB lovers..so no fuss.. just hope I can keep the motivation alive..😛

Originally posted by: ssshhh

Disclaimer: Sonali I'm just posting my POVs on certain parts tht I don't agree wid, though I totally agree wid the story U hv given us as it is ur prerogative to tell d story d way u want it nd u hv done full justice to ur story. Wat I'm doing is giving a different perspective.

you could really do away with this disclaimer.. as I know exactly on what page we both are on it.. and trust me I was..raring to read this post more than the other..it did even act as a motivation.. our warring convictions on CPs choice and Ds abandonment..

My major disagreement is tht CP/ Maa Parimita got away way too easily. It's not tht I don't understand Y she did it, but d magnanimity of her abandoning her daughter should not be allowed 2 resolve so quickly.

Let me get this clear.. you think the story-tellier let her off the hook too easily for her choices.. or she took the next exit in her life little too easily..😆 on the latter.. everyone's threshold and expectations are relative.. and on the former.. well thts what it was about MB.. each character albeit with definition had flaws.. and the story-teller never really got into taking any as an ex to preach his pov.. it was fascinating to see how he paid due respect to both IMV and CPs strong POVs.. I kept thinking till the end what the story-teller believes.. as for letting off the hook easy..😆 everyone was given a tame redemption.. whether it was VVs lack of thoughtfulness and sensitivity.. or IMVs lifelong that affected so many lives.. letting off CP cant be your major grouse.. come on now😆

there was no resolving issues.. much like mahabharat.. the story dealt with cause and effects.. or that's how I see it.. what BB did costed IMV.. and CP.. in turn IMV going on his rampage..😆 which in fact effected everyone around.. what CP did.. affected D.. in her being extra benevolent.. with zilch expectations from others.. if you look at the holistic picture.. it came full circle.. the law of karma.. if D weren't the person she grew up to be thanks to CPs abandonment.. there wld be no redemption for IMV.. so as I see it.. there is no resolving matters.. its way beyond that..

Similarly D shouldn't be so low in expectations nd should hv been more demanding. I was just thinking tht, whn I came to d part abt V sending a silent prayer nd 2 qoute wat u had said, I laughed out aloud:)

Then I read abt D nd demand being oxymorons nd realised tht U hv already given me d answer, before I even demanded one.😆

oh I had to insert my sadistic humor at Ds expense even if it meant abusing the authority of a writer..😆 but that's where we see it diff Munira.. you evaluate on the SHOULD.. I see her as she is.. trying to see why she is that way.. to me she did have confidence issues on what to expect from life.. maybe she was inherently like that.. Dali too had tht streak.. or maybe her lonely childhood.. and sudden exposure to this big loving family made her go all the way in trying to gather as much love and affection.. where she lost her self.. her expectations from life.. there was people who keep themselves at the back when it comes to their love for others.. besides she was CP/Parimita's daughter.. who did not have it in her system to judge anyone.. who could only try to understand the other.. and be compassionate.. this reminds me of Charu.. did she expect a lot of IMV after finding out about CP and him.. in fact her heart was full of compassion for him..apparently that's called spiritual wisdom.. which I am far far away from..😆

BTW whn Maa Parimita asks, "So you have complaints"...D should hv given her a earful.😆

In your dreams.. you knew way too well D wldn't...😆

Guess u know where i'm heading.😆 DO I? 🤣Every person is a part of a whole...totally agree nd also agree tht each part is important...but don't agree dat tht is above nd beyond all others.

I dont think I want to project that individuality is above and beyond.. but when it affects your productivity and duties.. it better be given precedence is what I tried to say here.. exactly what the makers showed with VV.. and to some extent IMV..😉 VVs strength of conviction in his fantasy driven love eluded me.. too bad.. but CPs conviction of living a half baked life.. where she started out living it coz of her father.. but somewhere she did hold him responsible.. I read her exp a lot.. in the scene with BB.. she did have some inch of disapproval.. somewhere.. she was more human than D was.. in being selfish.. yet as objective and forgiving as D.. its about choices.. Charu stayed in the unsavoury matrimony for her kids.. looking fore identity in her spirituality.. and her little anand ashram.. CP went a step further.. and became a recluse.. coz she could do it when D was a child.. would have been tougher to do it if D were a lil more grown up.. what Charu did small scale Parimita went global about.. no wonder I inserted the whole world is my oyster.. there are days when you question your purpose.. and she did.. and followed the path of enlightenment.. that was her right.. her statement to herself..IMO

Also agree tht loosing touch wid oneself gets projected outside, but don't think tht tht is wat happened wid CP.

I dont know what you think happened with CP.. yes am sure putting Ishwar in the equation was also a part.. but that is not for D to know through her.. Parimita knows where to draw the line about revelations.. thats why she started with.. I CANT TELL YOU WHY AND WHAT HAPPENED.. thats not the point.. In fact after our first debate.. I took the adv of mom watching the show and asked her.. as I am no mother.. so I could be overestimating the sense of self here.. but she told me.. that she had read and come across loads of such recluses.. who forego their family and worldly ties to look for that enlightenment.. look at gautam budhdha for eg. is it graver offense if a mother does it.. Mom re-iterated what I have somehow written here.. its a conscious choice taken by one.. to try to look for that grand purpose in life... not a lot of people can do it.. in spite of the fact that they feel like.. coz they are bound by duty.. affection etc.. like Charu.. and that is equally respectful.. but for those who want to.. should deserve the equal respect for their choices.. is my opinioin.. and hence Ds reconciliation of it.. she is at peace without knowing the root cause.. once she does the whole picture would be clear for her..😃

Part 9: Homecoming

I found him sitting on a bench soaking the bright afternoon sun, a delicacy in London; lost in translation.. He looked up as I barely touched his shoulder.. snapping out of his reverie.. I smiled genuinely.. with a new perspective already.. glad he was a part of my life.. someone I could come back to.. from an arduous, tiring journey.. I sat down beside him as he uttered

"Welcome back.. a day and I missed you.. "

"But I was.. " I realized what he meant.. as he elaborated..

"Can't tell you how extremely healing and assuring that complete smile of yours is.. So I gather you aren't disappointed?"

I shook my head and confirmed, "I haven't come out empty-handed"

"I can see that" he smirked looking at my hand and pointing at the book I held.

"Oh! I almost forgot… this is for YOU.. from Ma Parimita…"

I handed him the book as he looked at it.. intently..

Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho

Intrigued, he opened the book feeling the words with his eyes

Tapolap from Maa Parimita…

A small smile emanated on his face as I fondly looked at him and he turned yet another page.. the smile broadened as he happened to read something… something in the prologue that caught his attention..

'A warrior of light values a child's eyes because they are able to look at the world without bitterness. When he wants to find out if the person beside him is worthy of his trust, he tries to see him as a child would'

Closing the book he looked up at me, the adorable smile still adorning his face as he held my hand…

" this is a gift from your mother" he concurred as my eyes went misty again and he gave my hand a squeeze before rising up.. still holding my hand… I followed him.. As we walked out, I turned to look at the place one more time.. reminiscing the short parley with my mother reconciling that it may have been the last.. as I felt his hand around my shoulders..

I returned his assuring gaze with a nod.. and walked to the car in his arms.. towards my world..

************

We had a quiet lunch at her favorite restaurant in town, then shopped for some gifts for the family and finally got back to the hotel; hoping to rest a while besides packing up and catching the evening flight home.. I walked out of the bathroom post another refreshing shower to find her packing our clothes.. her mind some place else.. Attempting to divert her; I sneaked up behind her and wrapped my arms around her, dropping a quick peck. Startled by this sudden unexpected gesture.. she dropped the shirt she was trying to fold. A moment after gathering momentum she turned towards me still in my arms and rested her head on my shoulders.. I wrapped her further providing the warmth as she completed the embrace.. whispering

"Thank you for everything….for being there.. for agreeing to marry me.. for giving me the feel of what a big loving family means.."

I moved apart, cupping her face as she continued "for bringing parents into my life- mummyji and pappaji.. and for giving US a chance.. for making me feel complete…"she choked before continuing in a broken voice "I got a glimpse of the deep dark emptiness that had surrounded my mother through her last days.. "

Wiping her tear, I interrupted her chain of thought "If we are giving our vote of thanks.. let me return the favor by thanking you… for taking care of my family.. for making life simple for me and them.. for blending in the requisites of a Virani with such ease without compromising on your beliefs and for honoring the request I made by displaying immense patience"

She smiled as I lifted her up and placed her on the bed cuddling up with her… Resting her head on my shoulders, she continued "On Mumma's shradh you had told me.. that things happen for a reason.. some much beyond our comprehension.. I found some answers today while some still elude me.. but one thing that I am convinced of today is what you told me.. there has to be a big purpose in everything" I was involved in her thought process as she continued "take our marriage for example.. there was this enigmatic circle of reason.. which made me meet every Virani.. like I belonged with them.. and after our marriage, I did feel I did.. as a daughter, a friend, sister.. and now a wife.. Vaibhavji.. the karmic bond I feel with our family.. I felt it stronger today in this cryptic detachment I encountered while, with my mother.. Although I found the benefit of meeting her fleetingly, there was something not in place.. she was Chandraprabha for a while.. yet something was amiss even in her remembrance of Chandraprabha.. may be the same reason that was the root of the void in her life.."

I looked at her curiously, as she lowered her eyes and played with my hand.. drawing circles on it.. somehow symbolizing the circle of thoughts revolving in her mind.. yet she was unable to point to the core "A reason apart from my father.. different from the unfulfilling marriage.. I respected her silence… and even understand that what I wasn't told was not for me to know.. and trust me, I am at peace with it.. but through all of it.. I have this strong, strange feeling.. that there is a some reason.. for who I am.. Devki Shah Virani.. and why I am so.. I don't know why but I feel it.. I don't think I make sense"

"It doesn't matter if it draws sense.. I would only further your thought.. and put a seal on it.. you feel there is a reason.. and I feel our karma has led us to each other.. I am not wise enough to decode the cause and effect here Devki, but going by what mumma told me.. and the recent turn of events in our life; I know one thing.. you were always a part of this family.. my mumma's daughter, my sister's friend.. and chotha Gaurav's kaki" I chuckled and she laughed. I dropped her a kiss and added in "and you will be, by right.. irrespective of any reasons".

As I held her close.. she played with my hair murmuring "Love you Vaibhavji"

*********

We reached home well after breakfast but we had eaten so much in the flight that we didn't care for much. We were greeted by the enthusiastic Nirali.. and excited Rajvi Bhabhi and Rupal. Their loud shrieks drove kaka, baa and bapuji out of their room. We took this opportunity to share the gifts which gave rise to more exultations.. Amidst the cheerfulness and leg pulling by kaka, rupal and Nirali, Vaibhavji bailed himself out by declaring he had to get to office asap as Pappaji must be expecting him and he was to discuss loads of business proposals with him through the day. His declaration met more teasing, this time from the ringleader himself- bapuji. I felt so relieved to be back in my little domesticity, where I belonged.. my comfort zone.. my sheltered life.. as I tried to accompany Vaibhavji he softly told me to take the day off; his eyes reflecting the understanding we both shared away from the knowledge of the family members. I chuckled… it had always been this way between us, even when we called our marriage a compromise.. I slightly blinked my eye and nodded in my silent understanding of his implications.

After humoring my company I asked bhabhi where mummyji was; holding her gift in hand. To this baa replied "She is meditating. Something has been bothering her for the past two days. But you know Charu, she never shares her grief"

Bapuji was quick to retort " how much can she vent Kesar, Ishwar must have said or done something else" .his tone was of sharp disapproval

I simply chuckled mentally at their assumption.. feeling bad for Pappaji.. I excused myself and walked to their room.

I found her sitting in front of baba trying hard to focus, but her rosy cheeks were wet. I quietly sat next to her and wiped it as she opened her eyes and turned to look at me. Just looking at her warm gaze made me melt.. as she threw her arms at me.. and I hugged her.. crying myself… Patting my head gently she said "I am sorry, beta"

Breaking apart, I wiped my tears and held her hand "Don't say that mummyji.. I know you did what you thought was best for me.. you tried to protect me from the harsh reality of my life.. just as a mother would.."

She nodded her head comprehending my heartbreak.. I smiled "I have no complaints Mummyji.. I was destined for this journey.. for the reality of my parents to stare me in the eye at some point in my life.. but trust me, I can only be happy that I have this family.. I found my parents in you and Pappaji.. who would support me walk this path… just as you have ever since I stepped into this house."

I lay my head on her lap as she caressed my hair, divulging "I am sorry that I wasn't by your side in the toughest phase of this journey."

"Your shadow was Mummyji.. in the form of Vaibhavji." I sat up " You were right, I got my mental peace after meeting Maa Parimita.. even met my mother fleetingly" I reminisced with a glint "She told me.. she knew that this family could give me the love and affection my parents couldn't"

She nodded in understanding and replied "I promised her I would live the faith she bestowed on me as your mother and beta.. you are right.. This family loves you.. just b'coz there is no other way.. who wouldn't want to love my simply sweet yet strong daughter."

I smiled as I remembered the slight hesitance in Maa Parimita. I raised my doubt to Mummyji " Could I ask you something?"

She nodded "Of course"

"Does BB know?"

She sighed.. and lowered her eyes.. and faintly nodded.. I held the mat for a minute gulping down my fear.. the pain BB must have borne alone..

Reading my mind Mummyji divulged "He met her before she left.. when you all were in the picnic.. it is a deep-rooted pain but Bha has reconciled that his daughter is no more.. that Maa Parimita is her mere re-incarnate.. he has resigned to fate.. and decided to respect her choice. Beta, don't tell him you know. It will break his heart. He wants to protect you from this truth. "

I wiped my tear "I wont. I cant be a cause of any more grief in his life.. at this age.. Does anyone else know.. " I continued shakily " anyone in our family?"

Mummyji nodded, a tad bit nervously, adding in "Your Pappaji.. and unlike Bha he doesn't approve of your mother's choice.. not surprising, as he doesn't approve of her philosophies either" she drifted as I looked on, silently acknowledging it myself. Going by how fiercely protective he was of his family, I couldn't see him relating to my mother's choice, I concurred.

But I still couldn't envision that this awareness and comprehension would prove grossly insufficient for what lie ahead..

Sangharsh ka maidan chhodkar mat bhago tum "Kuch kiye bina hi jai jaikaar nahin hoti " koshish karne walon ki haar nahin hoti... Harivansh Rai Bacchan...

Originally posted by: ayesha_80

SONAAA!!! Finally read both the updates...and seriously...i really don't kno wat to say atm.

Sooo emotional...LOVEDDD every bit them. It is sheer beauty, Sona. Really, the way you have conceived this whole story..hats off to u...and ur writing is the icing on the cake.

Gosh...the CP-Devki meeting...i'm at a loss of words for that. I was right...tissues were indeed needed there 😳 And this recent update...the light at the end of the tunnel, finally seems to be spreading and lighting up the entire place for Devki.

For now...just wanted to thank you for giving us this awesome story. Details comments very soon! Now gonna read these last 2 updates again. 😳

And yeah...haven't seen u ol for quite some days. All well na?

Originally posted by: mbloves

@sonali, I was on long but stressful vacation, that's why I m not keeping good & couldn't reply ur post. Now I am improving & so I am here again. Sonali.'"well said"'. Short of words to praise ur beautiful imagination once again. I got totally touched & Surprise ,when D introduce herself as Devki Shah Virani & maa parimita controlled her emotions to give her blessing. It was a not easy moment, but both are trying to understand the harsh reality of life i.e. life takes unexpected turns changing things upside down, that is too on times when u least expect it. Day One to the End of MB I got attached with 3 characters D- CP- IMV. I really wanted to see CP- D- IMV track, which unfortunately not happened in the show. I feel very sad to saw a good concept melting away in a compromising end which I didn't like. D is most imp character of MB. I really wanted to discover the way the D & CP's personality will complement to each other. I m very impressed with your perfect justice to both characters. The moment, when D told CP to everything about her so called compromise marriage, is not shocking b'coz that is her character's strength i.e. never give up easily. I am impressed with VV as he extends his full support to devki portraying him as a perfect lover & husband, which shows he is not only imv's but also charu's son. The meeting of D with charu was a emotional moment. U know I love every aspect of D's character. She accepted charu as her mom & IMV as her papaji, which shows she always believe to lives in present not in past. I always believe when two compatible persons meet, they can face all problem of life like "VAIKI". VD can face IMV's past & set him free from CP's memory & his past. They can & will transform IMV in to ISHWER. Thanx for all ur beautiful efforts.... There's no Special reason for this message, I just wanna steal a single moment out of ur busy life & hope I can make u smile n say:"I Miss YOU "& here's one of my fav.lines...

Sangharsh ka maidan chhodkar mat bhago tum "Kuch kiye bina hi jai jaikaar nahin hoti " koshish karne walon ki haar nahin hoti... Harivansh Rai Bacchan...

Part 10: To You.. I will always return

The day was full of pleasantries and light banter. Siddharth bhai briefly joined us for lunch with the news that both him and Vaibhavji had a meeting in the evening and he was here to give his attendance to his loving wife.. which earned praises from bapuji.. as he turned to me and mummyji; chiding us for not exercising the iron-hand privilege of a wife. I smiled and looked at Mummyji as she softly smiled with a tad bit of disappointment somewhere.

Bapuji continued he was impressed that Rajvi bhabhi had learnt it rather quickly from Baa to which Sid bhai retorted- "dadaji Rajvi has another lethal weapon .. our chota champ.. I have to suffer silent treatment from both of them.. "

"Siddharth.. what are sons for.. even my son was always by my side.. in Mangrol before I even opened my mouth.. Ishwar knew what I wanted" divulged Baa proudly as I looked on fondly .. Pappaji is so fiercely protective of anyone he loves, especially Baa.

Our chit-chat continued after lunch.. While Sidharth bhai took leave, bapuji retired for his afternoon siesta.. hence all the Virani women along with Pravin kaka sat huddled on the first floor lobby.. I spoke about London while kaka pulled my leg a little about how thankful I should be that Vaibhavji didn't forget me in the airport.. I added my wit that he couldn't risk it as I was an important part of the presentation. This invoked a loud laughter as Mummyji softly defended her beloved son. I chuckled as I met her gaze and nodded conveying how precious he was..

In the evening I went to Manhar kaka's place to give them their gifts. Baa, Bapuji and kaka took this opportunity for the extended parley- our theme for the day. There we sat around discussing the proposal for Sonal. The topic soon travelled to Nirali's impending marriage and I divulged that I had met Kunal Rajput in London. I quenched everyone's restless doubts that he was a rather affable and pleasant person and would definitely be a good addition to the family; to which Jyotsna kaki affirmed "One thing I can say with finality that motabhai does chose well for his children" to meet a smug approval from Baa. I smiled curiously; I could never figure the eclectic equations between Baa and Pappaji. Sometimes I felt, it was easier to see through Pappaji than Baa.

By the time we got back home from Manhar Kaka's place it was almost dinner time. So I had to scrap my plan of meeting BB. Once home, I rushed to the dining table to see the spread was already being laid out. Reading my mind Rajvi bhabhi retorted "Devki we do manage decently without you.. what say mummyji" .

"Rajvi, I don't want to make it a habit.. so I pass off my skills to Devki.. you both take over from tomorrow" Mummyji smiled.. as we heard the paternal voice from behind..

"Yes! Devki resumes all her responsibilities from tomorrow, at work too" I turned back glad to see him after 4 days as I moved forward and touched his feet.

"God Bless". There was a very subtle softness in his voice. I looked up to see the little smile at the corner of his lips that I waited for like an excited schoolgirl, as rare as it was.

I chimed excitedly "So what If I didn't make something special for you.. I can always do my deal by serving you tonight".

He let out his characteristic laugh "HAHAHA…. Sure you can… So what are we waiting for.. I am rather hungry. " turning to Gaurav he continued in the same vein "come tiger.. let's get dinner while your mother and kaki wait for my sons".

*****************

Post dinner Pappaji asked me to meet him in the study. I walked in with the fluttering butterflies in my stomach; something I had to nurse every time we met alone.. it was hard to know what was on his mind. I didn't know if Vaibhavji had told him about Maa Parimita or if he just wanted to discuss business. Either ways I was slightly nervous.. strange! the same nervous excitement on meeting him the first time in the Mumbai floats auction still prevailed, although we had come such a long way from then.

I could see him through the glass door; sitting sprawled on his reclining chair, legs extended on the ottoman in front, reading a magazine. I walked in as he looked up

"Come in Devki"

I sat on the chair across him as he continued "How are you?"

I began my ramble "Oh I am good, feels so good to be back home. But the trip was successful Pappaji. The conference was rather satiating" he cut me short by raising his hand slightly

"I didn't call you to discuss business"

I gulped and tried to deviate once again " Oh! I forgot to tell you. I liked Kunal a lot Pappaji. He came across as a sensible human being apart from a good businessman"

Losing patience, he got to the point "Why didn't you bring your mother back Devki?"

I drew in a breath, realizing I stood another acid-test of my convictions. But this was Pappaji; he deserved an explanation.

"My mother is no more, what lives is Ma Parimita and she is not my mother", I affirmed in a soft voice, my eyes lowered.

His voice rose a little but still had his characteristic restraint "Oh come on Devki, you are a smart and practical girl. Don't tell me you buy and uphold this so-called spiritual awakening philosophy"

"But Pappaji it is such. She seeks awakening and lives to spread that awareness. It is her karma now"

"No. Its simple and plain escapism- escaping from the reality of life, from responsibilities towards the relationships she left half-way and there is no glorifying that, Devki". He rose up and walked to the glass wall, his back facing mine. I breathed in again.

"Pappaji, that's one way of looking at it. And even if it is, isn't it better to set one's soul free from the shackles of an unwanted life, a half existence and let them live by their beliefs and convictions. You knew my mother; would you wish for her incomplete existence amidst us versus a satiated life away?"

He looked straight at me, a hint of amazement at something. His eyes were clouded but I wanted to look beyond it as I felt like he wanted to say something. I wasn't sure he agreed, maybe b'coz of his fiercely protective streak. I felt blessed at the thought and its implications.

"Pappaji, I have merely grown up with her picture. I have no memories of my parents. Its not like I lost her presence in my life because you can't lose what you never had." I almost choked continuing "I have realized the essence of parenting, from mummyji and you. I have felt a mother's warmth from her and a father's sheltered presence from you. I have a family now and I don't want more"

He refuted, "You may not but what about the old man who has more than a picture of his daughter. He has lifetime worth of memories, how do you justify the misery he has to live with; knowing the daughter he presumed dead had decided to lead a life away from him. Abandonment is not just a child's burden but a parent's too. I am sure you are well aware of that having spent so much time at your Mummyji's Anand Ashram tending to this very void left in many."

I shed a tear. "I know it must be hard for him, Pappaji. But if he hasn't reconciled with this bitter truth, he will have to eventually for his daughter's sake.. for his own sake.. and he is fortunate to have the whole Virani family by his side.. we are fortunate to have all of you.. to fill that void.. to render us this peace of mind. Pappaji, I take your current anger, disagreement at my decision as a blessing. I feel blessed to have your love. From the time I have known you, especially since I have met you I have always secretly desired for this affection. I have taken you as a father but tonight I feel fortunate that you take me as much as a daughter as Nirali. What more can I.. or for that matter BB.. wish for"

I bent down again to touch his feet and looked up at him shedding few tears of gratitude. His wavering hand rose up and lightly touched my head; his eyes still reflecting cryptic emotions beneath the steel as he looked away, his body language still showing a farcical disapproval before he walked out of the study. I looked behind him smiling amidst my tears- feeling delighted at getting a chance to scratch beneath the surface.. the solid steely surface..

**********

I walked up the stairs to see her sitting by the couch on the first floor lobby, lost in thought. I sat on the stand and hugged her "Mumma, how are you? Didn't get to meet you this morning."

She held my hand, her warm smile spreading at my presence "I am glad that you both are back. We missed you both"

I sat next to her still holding her hand "Oh really and I thought you were the one who filed an application for the extension of our trip to Pappaji"

"Of course I did. You both haven't even gone for your honeymoon and left to both of you only business would make you get out of this house. I wanted you to spend sometime with each other away from the daily routine and get to know each other a little. Beta in the long term every healthy relationship needs that time, that nurturing. But alas! Looks like destiny has other things in order. Even the two days you kept aside ended up being a battle."

I smiled , kissing her hand "Mumma, since when did you imagine life as a bed of roses. You had once told me, every struggle is precious for what it teaches us. And the best part about this little quest for knowledge was me and Devki were in it together. We have come to know each other much more than we would have sans this episode in our life. We have learned together, grown together and been by each other. Isn't that what you vouch for - a perfect recipe for a spousal relationship" I joked, as she merely nodded.

"All I can say is both of you are lucky to have each other and may god bless this togetherness to gather more strength and solidarity. Did you get to meet Maa Parimita."

"No, not this time. Although I did get her blessings."

"I know, Devki told me. In fact even showed me the book. Devki must have put in a good word for you. I am glad you earned that book from her."

I nodded as I heard the object of our discussion.. speak up

"Vaibhavji when did you come?" She came and stood by us.. as both of us were slightly startled, from our discussion.

"Sorry did I disturb you?"

"No beta." Mumma assured while the mother-daughter duo exchanged some look of assurance beyond the current topic. I looked on amused not wanting to intrude in this non-verbal communication. Once the assuring optical exchange was over my beloved wife turned her attention to me.

"I'll lay dinner while you freshen up"

"But I already had dinner" I chimed nonchalant to receive a wry "Oh" from Devki as mumma pounced on me "Vaibhav, when will you remember to tell her things like these. Poor girl has been waiting for you. There is no excuse for such carelessness, You know I don't like such behavior" She made a stern face as I jumped out of my skin

"Good lord! now I have to think twice before messing with my wife. I often forget she is Ma'am Charulata Virani's daughter". Devki blushed and nodded at me, conveying in her own simple charm 'the game was on' before leaving the scene.

Mumma chuckled and slapped me in jest before concluding "You humor your wife while I tend to your Pappa. It's time for his medicines.

*****

I walked into our room to find him lying on the couch listening to his favorite song on the gramophone- Bade achche lagte hain. I gathered from the mood in the room that his conversation with Devki had in some ways affected him. Sighing, I purposely dropped a coaster on the floor making noise in the process, breaking his reverie. I dilly-dallied in picking it up giving him time to recover as he turned off the music looking back at me. I had mastered the art of reading his silence by now. So I quietly came up to him, not meeting his gaze

"Your medicines"

He calmly took them and gulped it down before walking towards the bathroom as I softly said " Jai Shri Krishna"

"Good night Charu" he solemnly offered, turning back at me, a painful smirk on his face.

I sighed. Feeling claustrophobic in that haze engulfing the room, I walked out to the lobby. Holding on to the railing I drew in few breaths to stop myself from crying out my helplessness as my eyes rested on a soothing sight.

Vaibhav and Devki sitting next to each other, enjoying their dinner in each other's privacy; amidst their conversation. I saw Devki lift her hand and casually brush something off Vaibhav's face before resuming the conversation between her bite.

My mind at peace now, a smile had found its way as I sent a silent prayer for the welfare of all the relationships in this family that had found some functionality. In more than some ways ever since Devki had come to belong to us, Vaibhav Villa for the most part was slowly becoming a home from a mansion..

A home.. where the family would always return from their individual spaces.. to togetherness.