Short Story – Zakhm
Another attempt at writing short ff. More or less AD/Bani story, but ends with Jai/Bani
Excuse, grammar, spelling (english, hindi etc) mistakes as I have to squeeze in writing as time permits, which is not everyday. Comments good and bad welcome.
Tu Hi Bata Zindagi
Jo Bhi Hua Kyon Hua
Khoi Hai Kyon Har Khushi
Kiski Lagi Bad-Dua
Pt 1
In the dimly lit room we see a man talking on the cell phone.
"Kaam ho gaya, baache humari paas hai. Abhi iss aurat ka kya karna."
He waits patiently as he hears murmurs at the other end.
The person at the other end, "Listen carefully, get rid of her and make sure the body is not found. Understand…make sure your boys do a good job, otherwise…"
The phone goes dead.
The man looks at the doctor tending to the woman who has just given birth, "Is she still unconscious" he asks.
"Ji, dere laagegi usko behooshi kaa injection lagwa diya hai."
"Good." He leaves the room and comes back in few minutes with two other men.
He points to the woman and tells them, "Usko leejao aur sunno isska kuch naam nishan nahi milna chahije, big boss ke order hai varna aap dono ki naam nishani mit jayegee."
He leaves them to take care of the job. The two men pick up the body and load it in back of a car and drive out in the dark night. After about two hours of driving they stop near a barren place. Its dark with only the fleeting moonlight visible through the dark clouds.
"Soocha tune kya karna iska, meh nahi maar sakta issko…maini kissi aurat ka khoon kabhi nahi kiya." The man looks at the pale but beatutiful face of the woman lying in the back.
:Kisse khandani ghar ki lagti, kitna masoom chehra hai."
Second man, "chal usse kaalia ghat le jaiye aur uppar se gira de, neeche patthar per uska sir phoot jayeya aur yeh khallas. Kissi ko uski laash nahi milegi ghaheri jungle me koi nahi jata."
The two men drove to the mountainous region and carried the body up a steep hill. It was a struggle to reach the top. Taking breather they look down into the sheer rocky ground below. One of them looks at her mangalsutra and his eyes gleam with greed, pulling it off her, he pockets it. Lifting her up the two them fling her down and walk away.
May be luck was on her side or the God didn't want her to die so soon, because her fall is broken by a bushy ridge where her head hits the rock and than the body rolls down the steep side into the forest below.
Pt2
Bani's eyes flutter. She recoils at the throbbing pain in her head and all over her body. The damp ground and the musty smell make her feel nauseous. Wide awake now her eyes takes in the tall trees and shrubs. She tries to sit up but sharp pain makes her fall back. The filtering sun light falling on her face gives warmth to her shivering body. Unfamiliar with the place she is at now, she tries to remember how she got here. She cannot remember anything, the throbbing pain instead makes her giddy, and involuntary her hand moves over her stomach sensing something amiss but nothing comes to mind.
After resting for about an hour she slowly with the help of a tree pulls herself up in sitting position. The throbbing in her head is still vicious and now her throat feels parched. She tries standing up but cannot, the pain in the leg is unbearable. The need to find water and help is greater now and she slowly drags herself…few inches at a time…she has no sense of direction…just the need to find someone. She doesn't know how long she has been pushing herself to inch forward but after sometime she sees a clearing ahead. Stopping to catch her breath, she glances around. There is no sound except the singing of the birds and buzzing of insects. Tiredness is taking its toll and she lays her head down to rest. The heat of sun and exhaustion soon envelops her and eyes her closes.
Soft thudding of ground brings two riders close to the trees. The eyes of one them fall on Bani huddled on the ground.
"Sonu idhar aa, dekh koi hai," saying the man gets off his horse and walks towards Bani.
He shakes her but sees no response. The other man now comes near.
"Bhaiya isko toh bhari chota laage hai." Looking at the crusted blood on her head and bruises on face and arms, "yahan kaise…chal jaldi isse ghar le chale."
One of them pick her up and gives it to the other sat on the horse and they ride off.
The haveli looms out in the barren land strewn with sparse trees and seems to blend into the hills surrounding it. They ride up and stop in the courtyard. One of them shouts, "Oi, Malti ja majee ko bulawa," as they carry Bani inside the house.
An old lady comes rushing up…puffing she looks at the Bani lying lifeless and looks at the two, "Kahan se layee isse musibaat ko yahaan. AD ko maloom padega toh tume zinda nahi choodega ga."
Sonu glaring at majee, "Kya majee, hamesha hume kui aisa sumja kartee hai app. Raaste ki paas giri thi aur socha marjayee isse pheli aap ki paas le aiye."
"Theek hai…theek hai, ja aur jaldi doctorji ko phone kardi…aur tu isse mera kamre me leja." She walks towards her room while the other man follows her with Bani.
She looks at the young girl, "Malti jaa jaldi se garam pani le ya…"
Taking a sari out of the almari she puts it on the side and starts removing Bani's torn, stained sari, muttering, "Pata nahin kisne iski yehi halat kardi, kitne choti lagti aur laagta yahna ki nahin hai."
Half an hour later Sonu returns with an older man. Putting his bag down the doctor greets majee and then looks at Bani. He examines the head wound and turns to her, "Majee isse hospital le jaana padega, sir ki chot bahut gaahari hai, iska scan karna padega."
Majee looks at him irritated, "Toh le jayee, mei doctor nehi houn, aapko ilaaj karna hai iska. Sonu isko gadi mei rakhde me aayi."
Two hours later at the hospital, Bani is all cleaned up and the wounds dressed, a cast is put on her left leg. The doctor looks at the scan carefully. He looks at majee and explains, "choot ghehri hai, yakeen hai woh apni yadash khoye nehi baithi. Intezaar karna padega jab tak woh jagegi tab tak . Ek aur baat majee, issne ek do din phele bacche ko janam diya tha, kahan hai baacha?"
Majee looks bewildered, "Nahi pata, raaste meh padi thi toh mere bete utha leayai"
Doctor shrugs his shoulders. Knows better to keep out of their business and keep his mouth shut. "Theek hai majee."
Bani remains in coma for two days. Majee stays with her while Sonu or Bhir come and bring food for her and relieve her so she can take rest. On third day Bani regains consciousness but as the doctor had predicted she has suffered amnesia…he terms it post-traumatic amnesia…she will have lost most of her memory. They try asking her questions to find out her name, where she is from but she is unable to answer. The trauma has made her very weak and is frightened by unfamiliar faces and the questioning.
Pt 3
(Bani will be called Eesha from now now)
Majee gives her a name…Eesha/Bani. Majee soothes her with kind word and gradually helps her overcome her anxiety. One week later doctor gives permission for her to leave the hospital and Majee takes her home.
Majee's eldest son Aparajit or AD as they call him arrives from Mumbai where he spends most of his time. Sonu and Bhir have already told him about Bani and he is curious to see the woman.
He goes to the room where Eesha/Bani is sleeping. Greeting his mother he looks at the sleeping woman and instantly recognizes her but refrains from saying anything to his mother.
"Beta hospital ke paisa ka intajaam kardena, aur sun kuch pata laga seher mei kissi isko dundh rahi hoge na" Majee knows her son has connections in all the major cities and can find out if someone has reported her missing or are looking for her.
"Jee majee," AD walks out.
In his room he takes a folded page of newspaper and looks at it. Yes, it's her…Bani Walia…reported missing by her husband Jai Walia. She was supposed to be pregnant but the woman on the bed showed no signs. Wonder if she gave birth before they found her and if so where is the child, he ponders. How the hell did she get here? He picks up his cell and dials a number and waits for it to be answered.
"Listen remember a week ago there was a story of missing woman…to be exact Bani Walia," he waits for sort of acknowledgement.
"Theek, pata kaar kya raaz hai. Get some of boys to find out who is behind her disappearance, must have been kidnapped for money, top industrialist ki biwi haina. Aur sun kuch pata chale mujhe update karna." He disconnects the call. Majee said she has lost her memory…amnesia…that's good he thinks, gives time to figure out who kidnapped her and tried to kill her.
He goes in search of Bhir and Sonu. He wants to know details of where she was found. Organize group of there men and search the area to see if they can find any klues to how she got here, tires marks, footprints or any items discarded.
Few days later AD receives a call from his contact in Mumbai telling him they haven't found out anything yet. The only thing they know is she was being taken to hospital when she went missing. Apparently the car was found in the ditch, the driver dead with broken neck. He tells AD who ever is behind it has been clever not leave a trail behind. He informs AD that his boys will still keep their eyes and ears open.
Eesha/Bani recovers quickly from her cuts and bruises. Her cast comes off few weeks later and she is able to walk around. Majee makes sure she does not wander outside of the house and gave strict instruction to the chowkidaar at the gates to stop her from going out by herself. She could easily get lost if she wanders away and it wasn't safe for woman to walk about alone in the hills.
Tall, handsome but tough looking AD awed Eesha/Bani and she avoided him, speaking only when he spoke to her, which was rare as he too acted as if she did not exist in the house. Sonu and Bhir were different. For them a young female face was a pleasant experience, someone close to their age. They liked doing maasti and often teased her and Malti. They never tired of praising her cooking and often harassed there mother to let Eesha/Bani cook a new dish for them.
Most of the time Eesha/Bani helped majee and Malti around the house, in fact Malti loved to spend her spare time with her, the young girl would confide all she found out to her. That is how Eesha/Bani learns that AD's father had been one of the most respected thakur of this area but after his early demise, AD had fallen in with bad company and thus became of a feared name in the area. His illegal activities in the city were widely known here but anyone caught doing anything wrong around here felt his wrath, he was protective of the women in the region…even his own men were not free of his wrath.
AD flits in between Mumbai and house unannounced, sometimes disappearing for days. Whenever he came back he always brought something for her, a new saris or dresses. He never gave them directly to her but would give them to his mother to pass it on.
Pt 4
Six months later…
AD is getting frustrated his men have been unable to get any lead who the perpetrators were behind her kidnapping.
He arrived home last night…it's his father's barsi today and majee is having pooja done… he'll return back tomorrow.
Eesha/Bani and Malti spent most of the day preparing for the pooja. They helped with cooking meal to be eaten after pooja and then cleaning and decorating the room. Majee gives Eesha/Bani her new sari to wear for the pooja and also a small box. Eesha/Bani opens the box and finds a pair of dainty payals, gold with rubies. She is loves them, hugging majee, "Kitne khoobsurath haina."
"Mere the, AD keh pitah ne muhje diya thai. Kitne saalo se bas daabi me par rahe, soocha toh pehne ab toh mujhe aacha lage."
Majee had only three sons, her own son AD and Sonu and Bhir were fathered by her husband's mistresses. Her beautiful jewellery stayed locked up in the safe as there is no other female around to wear them. AD had point blank refused to get married and Sonu and Bhir showed no interest either to settle down. Since Eesha/Bani came to the house, she has softened a little with Eesha/Bani's warmth and gentle manners rubbing off on her.
Malti made gajra for Eesha/Bani to wear for the pooja. She looked at Eesha/Bani putting on the new sari, a pink creation in soft silk with silver embroidery.
"Didi kitne sundar hai na yeh sari. Bhaiya ki pasaand kitne achi hai." Malti fingering the sari said innocently.
"Yeh sari toh mujhe majee ne di bhaiya ne nahi." Eesah tells her off.
"Lekin lei ayee toh bhaiya na." Malti giggled as she helped Eesha/Bani with putting the gajra in her. She sees Eesha/Bani opening a dabbi, she asks curiously, "Who kya hai?"
"Payal, majee ne diye."
Malti rolls her eyes, "Bahut acche hai, lekin aap yeh nayi sari, yeh payal kiske liye pehnaa?"
"Kissi aur ke liye nahi, aaj pooja hai iss liye, aaj tujhe mere koi kapade pasand hai toh mei gift karu." She opens her almari to let her have a look.
Malti browses through and than picks up a red and green gaghra choli in embroidered cotton, "Yeh mujhe pasand hai."
"Toh rakh lei. Aur chaal majee intezaar kaar rahi hogi."
The tinkling of her payal alerted majee and she looks up and smiles at her, she looked beautiful.
"Paas aai tujhe tikka kardu, kissike nazar na lagi. Kitni pyaari lagti hoh." Majee kisses her forehead and applies little tikka to her. Everyone soon assembles for pooja. AD dressed in white cotton kurta performs the pooja. Eesha/Bani catches AD eyes looking her and she smiles shyly at him.
As soon as pooja is done AD disappears quickly. He returns much later when everything is cleared up. Majee and the rest have been waiting for him to return to have their meal as they always ate together at barsi time. This is one day where majee insists AD be home.
Later at night Malti and Eesha/Bani go up on the balcony on the roof terrace, they often go up there and sit there gazing at the stars. Today Malti left early as she felt tired, but Eesha/Bani stays as she doesn't feel like going to bed. AD is walking by the stairs and hears the noise of her payals and walks up. Eesha/Bani looks towards him as she hears him come up on to the terrace. She feels embarrassed and nervous and looks away. He watches her noticing how pretty she looks in the pink saree, her hair blowing softly in the breeze. "Its quite late, can't sleep?" he asks.
She turns her face and looks at him…beautiful khol lined eyes that were deep, dark brown. A shy smile lights up her face and she tells him "It's a beautiful night. I enjoy sitting here and just looking out." She continues to hold her gaze on him, there is something different about him compared to Sonu and Bhir, he gives her goose bumps when she looks at him.
"You look beautiful in the sari." He compliments and is rewarded by a smile from her.
"I should thank you. Malti said that you bought the sari."
"I only did what majee asked. She doesn't like to go to city, so when ever I am away she will ask me to shop for her," he replies matter of factly.
"Kuch chahiye aapko? I am going to Mumbai tomorrow." He looks at her slender fingers tracing pattern on the floor. An urge overtakes him to take hold of her hand and clasp her fingers in his.
He moves abruptly away causing her to she look up to see his back facing her. A feeling of intrusion runs through her, she stands up, "I like to read books…yahan jitni khitabe thi who maine padhli."
The simple request seems to amuse him and he turns and smiles at her, "In Hindi, English or other?"
"Either. Thank you." She gives a shy smile and he watches as she quietly glides away, her payals singing in the still of the night.
baar-baar tohe kyaa samajhaaye paayal ki jhankaar?
kyaa?
tere bin saajan laage na jiya hamaar
chhup-chhup ke karata hai ishaare chanda sau-sau baar
kyaa?
aa tohe sajani le chaloon nadiya ke paar
tere bin saajan...
chalate-chalate ruk gaye kyon sajan mere?
milate-milate jhuk gaye kyon nayan tere?
jhuke-jhuke naina karate hain tum se ye iqaraar
kyaa?
tere bin saajan laage na jiyaa hamaar
aa tohe sajani le chaloon nadiya ke paar
dariya uupar chaandani aaee sanbhal-sanbhal
in laharon par man mera gaya machal-machal
ek baat kahata hoon tum se na karana inkaar
kyaa?
aa tohe sajanii le chaluu.N nadiyaa ke paar
tere bin saajan laage na jiyaa hamaar
na biite ye raat ham milate hii rahe.n
bas taaro.n kii chhaa.Nv me.n chalate hii rahe.n
naam tera le-le kar gaaye dhadakan ka har taar
kyaa?
o, tere bin saajan laage na jiyaa hamaar
baar-baar tohe kyaa samajhaaye paayal ki jhankaar?
tere bin saajan laage na jiyaa hamaar
aa tohe sajanii le chaluu.N nadiyaa ke paar (AARTI 1962 Mohd Rafi/Lata)
Pt 6
Mumbai…
AD's residence in Malabar Hills is a large sprawling bunglow with tight security. There are several security guards patrolling the perimeter at any given time. He is meeting with his right hand man Nattu who has been handling orders from him. Nattu informed him police had closed the case presuming Bani Walia is dead as they had found man who admitted to killing her…he was found with her mangalsutra.
Nattu said he didn't trust the police, the whole case stinks. His men regularly made rounds of all the joints criminals usually frequent in hope of someone letting his tongue loose but so far nothing…the guys who are mastermind behind the plan must have paid pretty hefty sums to keep mouth closed. They had checked out the list of people who may want to avenge Walia, but the guy has never crossed anyone in his business dealings. Nattu suggested may be one of the family may be involved…you know how it is with the rich, there is always jealousy between family members. His older sister Jigyasa is known to have harbour a grudge against him as their father always favoured him and Jai was given sole control over the family business. There are also Bani's two sisters who live with Walias…the younger one is married to Jigyasa's second son, Shahil and the middle one is not married and works as model. The sisters do not have any other family.
AD wants more information on family members, their activities and the circle of friends and associates. He wants everyone under surveillance and get the case file from the police…want names of officers involved in the investigation and if anyone is filling their pockets. As Nattu get up to leave, AD stopped him by saying, "Nattu she was pregnant when she was missing but there was no child with her…maybe they wanted the child. Try and find the doctor, someone must have hired a doctor to make sure the child was delivered safe, he can give us a name."
AD goes to his home gym…he needs to analyze facts. He liked working out not only to keep himself but also used to relieve his stress. He could outrun and wrestle down any of the men working for him. His personal trainer was also a martial arts expert and AD had become well honed in akido, kendo and karate. He loved the challenge of kendo as it was both physically and mentally demanding…it helped him focus and keep his mind sharp.
Tonight… he is to attend a party held by one of his business associates. He puts on one his designer suit, his preferred colour black. Gives himself one more glance in the mirror before making his way out.
When he reaches the venue the party is in full swing. Scanning the room his eyes rest on his friend Mohan Khandewal…his arms draped around a stunning woman. He moves slowly towards them. Greeting Mohan he shakes his hand and sweeps his eyes over the woman. Mohan well aware that eyes of most of the men in the room were on his current girl friend, pulls her closely to him and introduces her to AD, "AD this is my friend Pia."
AD takes her hand and kisses it lightly and suavely drawls "Enchanted to meet you, Ms Pia"
Pia flutters her eyelids and keeping her hand in his "It's a pleasure to meet you too." She removes herself from Mohan and gliding her arm through his, she smiles and Mohan and announces "I'll take him around Mohan."
"So AD what do you do?" Pia asks him stroking his arm. Her eyes move inch by inch, admiring his six-foot, well chiseled body.
Gently disengaging her arm, he gives her a cold glint, "Well I have my fingers in many pie as the say…I have an import export business, as well as some manufacturing and financial companies."
He looks at left hand clad in silver and pearl hand glove. Pointing to her hand, "Interesting piece of jewellery!"
"Yes, it's a Turkish design. I brought it from there on my last visit."
"So you visit Turkey often." AD asks arching his brows.
"One of my best friend lives there and I enjoy visiting her. Have you ever been there?"
"No, heard it's an interesting place to visit though."
Flashing him a smile, she tells him "May be next time I go, you can come with me."
"Tell me are you so upfront with all the men you meet?" AD mockingly asked her.
Pia runs her finger down his arm seductively and looking him straight in the eye, "Only with the ones that intrigue me."
"I'll keep it mind, Ms Pia. Now if you'll excuse me, I see a friend of mine…" AD bows lightly and walks away. Pia stands and watch him weave his way with smooth agility through the crowded the room.
Nattu visits him couple of days later. Handing his some files Nattu lights a cigarette,'here is info you wanted on the Walia family's activities."
Tells him what his men found out about tracing the doctor. Most of them said the same thing. They were approached to do a job few months back…the payout was hefty sum, refused because the deal sounded fishy…to great a risk of winding up dead. One of them mentioned a friend of his, a gync was shot dead two weeks after Bani Walia's disappearance…didn't know if he his friend had taken the job.
Looking at AD thoughtfully, Nattu ventured, "AD bhaiya, why don't we set a trap by staging a fake job…lure the guys with a big payout." Nattu feels greed will open mouths.
"What do you have in mind?" AD asks.
"Set up a job kidnapping and see who turns… paise ke liye koi toh muh kholega." Nattu waited patiently for a response from AD. He knew bait would work, greed in their business is also one of the major downfall for some.
After few minutes of silent contemplation, AD tells him "Ok, set it up."
Nattu stood up, "We will get the copy of case file and the list of police officers involved in the investigation by tomorrow."
Picks up the envelope on top of the files and glances through the photos and his eyes catches the photo of Pia Dixit.
Grabbing the files now he flicks through the info and than dials a number and barks some instructions.
Pt 7
Late in the evening Bhir calls and informs him that majee is not well but not to worry. She is complaining of chest pains and the doctor has kept her in hospital for observation.
Following afternoon AD reaches home. Majee has returned home and is resting. He goes in to see her. She admonishes him for running back home. Tinkling of payals diverts her attention for a brief moment. Eesha/Bani comes with tea and sets the tray next to the bed. She pours out tea and hands a cup to majee and AD. Majee notices AD staring at her as she leaves. Being blunt, "Pasand hai yeh laadki shaadi karva du? Bol de jaldi."
AD glares at her, "muh bandh kar, maina bola muje shaadi nahi karni."
"Toh phir usko ghur ghur ke kyun dekhta hai?" she challenges him.
'Toh kya hua, dekh nahi sakta…" he snaps at her.
"Nahi lekin meri baith sune, bahut sundar aur acchi hai, dusri aisi nahi milegi. Soch le jara aur karle shaadi." Taking a sip from her cup she watches myriad of thoughts flashing across his eyes. She smiles inwardly. She's going to make sure her plan works…he is going to be married before he leaves.
AD goes to his room and picks up the package wondering what to do with it. He'd picked up some books and sarees for Eesha/Bani. Throwing it on the bed, he swears silently, trust his mother to complicate things. Wonder if she is really sick or just pretending.
At night he notices Malti going up to the roof. He stands at the bottom of the stairs and listens to hushed voices and soft laughter. After some time he hears footsteps and moves away where he cannot be seen. Malti runs down the stairs and along the hall. He waits to see Eesha/Bani also coming down but no sign.
AD walks back to his room and picks up the package and makes his way to the rooftop. He sees her sitting along the ledge staring out. She is oblivious to his approach and he clears his throat to catch her attention.
She looks up see him holding out a package. Putting it in her hand, he says, "I brought some books."
Opening the package carefully she looks at the books. There was another package and she opened it to reveal a blue and yellow saree with silver embroidery. The material felt soft and silky under her hand. She looks up at him, "Thank you..." Holding her gaze, AD moves closer to her, "Wear the sari for me." It almost sounded like a command and all she could do was nod her head. Feeling her pulse racing she tears her gaze away from his intense eyes and quickly walks away.
In her room she holds the sari against her in front of the mirror and admires it. Folding is back neatly she puts it away in almari and picks up one of the books and settles down on the bed to read. Close to midnight AD sees light on in her room and muses she must be reading a book.
AD announces to majee he is returning back to Mumbai. Majee getting upset with him, admonishes him "Toh aya kyun? Kuch aur din rukh jayee to kya hoga."
"Kuch urgent kaam hai iss liye janaa hai." AD tells her quietly.
Pretending to cry now she wails, "Toh mera kaam kaise hoga."
Baffled AD asks, "Kaisa kaam, muje abhi taak kyun nahi bataya?"
Majee stops crying and nudges his head, "Kaal maina bola tha, shaadi ke bari me."
AD now getting angry, tells her in icy voice, "Aur maina maana kiya tha."
Before he can leave, majee stands up and yells, "Sun le, tuh muje naraaz kareki jaa raha hai, waapas nahi aana mera muh dekne ke liya."
Stupefied by her outburst, AD turns around and glares at her. "Kyun har baad zidd karti hai."
Smiling at him and putting her hand on his head, "karle shaadi, bhir nahi zidd karungi."
AD giving in to her, "Theek hai teri maarji, lekin muje aaj hi jaana hai."
Majee quickly arranges for a quick wedding between AD and Eesha/Bani.
The pandit is performing the rituals and finally tells majee to bring the bride. Malti quickly runs and brings Eesha/Bani. Clad in the yellow sari that he gave her last night and jewellery majee gave her, she looked made picturesque bride. Throughout the ceremony, Eesha/Bani sat looking down at the floor, except when she lifted her head slightly so that AD could put sindoor in her maang. For some unknown reason she felt uneasy and tears formed in her eyes. Majee blessed them both and Sonu and Bhir hugged and danced around them.
AD left in the afternoon, after telling Eesha/Bani that he couldn't take her with him as majee needed her…take care of majee for him.
At night, the headache that had started developing earlier was now severe throbbing pain. Eesha/Bani pressed her hands to her head and laid down, closing her eyes to ease the pain. It was almost midnight when she woke up found suddenly breaking out in cold sweat. She must have been having a nightmare. The headache was just a dull ache now.
Mumbai…
Nattu quickly fills in AD with the latest developments. He visited the guy jailed for Bani Walia's murder. Bani Walia had delivered twins before she an attempt was made to kill her. The babies were taken away as soon as they were born but who took them was yet to be known. He got names of the two other guys involved…but hasn't been able to find them. It was possible that they are also dead. He also told him about Pia's frequent trips to Turkey where she visited Jai's cousin Karuna. It was interesting to note no one knew the where about of Karuna at the Walia house or about the children living with her. Pia was also said to be obsessed marrying Jai Walia but he will not have anything to do with her. In fact he blames her for Bani's disappearance.
AD decides that he will go to Turkey and find out what is going on between Pia and Karuna. Nattu finds out when Pia is flying out to Turkey and books AD on the same flight.
Pia is delighted to find AD is flying on the same flight as her to Turkey. She monopolizes AD's attention throughout the flight. AD barely conceals his irritation at her continues banter. When they land at Ankara, Pia gives him the address and phone number where she is staying and gets him to promise he will call her.
Next day AD calls up Pia and tells her he is coming over to see her. An excited Pia tells Karuna about AD. Karuna is uneasy about a stranger visiting them but Pia dismisses her fears and tells her that AD does not know anything about them and she has never talked about Jai with him. AD reaches the apartment, bearing flowers and gift basket. Karuna is cautious of the suave and sophisticated AD. Pia tells him the twins are Karuna's adopted children. AD is amazed at the resemblance of the children to their parents, Jai and Bani Walia. No wonder they are hiding the children away here where no one would put two and two together. He stays couple of days in Ankara, sightseeing and entertaining Pia, wheedling out info before leaving for Mumbai.
He and Nattu discuss the discovery of Pia being behind trying to kill Bani and taking children away. She has been unsuccessful at replacing her sister in Jai's life so why is so holding on to the children. Nattu asks him what he plans to do now. AD replies nothing much can be done, he has to think through how to bring Bani Walia back to Mumbai without endangering her life and to get her children back to her.
Week later…AD arrives home to find his mother is seemed fully recovered until he told her that he was going to take Eesha/Bani with him to Mumbai. Majee gave him a piece of her telling him she got him married so he would give up Mumbai and make home here. He should start taking responsibility of taking care of his family and his people. Doesn't he care about the family reputation…his father who worked so hard to help his people? She was tired of all the work she had to do in her old age when she had three sons who should be taking care of her. AD just walks away as he knows better than to answer her back. He goes off to look for Eesha/Bani to tell her to pack for the trip.
Sonu and Bhir are upset too but they know better than to voice their opinion. Once AD makes a decision no one goes against it. At night Malti cries clinging to Eesha/Bani, she keeps on telling her not to go. Majee comes to see her and make sure she done all her packing if she needed any help. Eesha/Bani asks her to come with them but majee refuses saying she has never gone away from her home in all this time and is not about to do so. There is nothing in the city for her, what would she do there? She makes Eesha/Bani promise to call her if she is not happy in Mumbai. She will send Bhir down to bring her back.
Everyone was up early next day to see her off. Eesha/Bani had tears in her eyes as the car pulled away and she watched people she had grown to love fade away as the car gathered speed.
Pt 8
It was late afternoon when they reached Mumbai. Eesha/Bani looked out the window at the cars whirring by, people bustling in the streets, the noise of car horns and people shouting. Her head began to spin at the kaleidoscope and she felt as if she would pass out. When they reached the house, she was glad as the car turned into the quiet driveway, away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.
AD showed her around the house and introduced her to the servants. He left her in her room, telling her one of the maids will be sent up to help her settle in.
Eesha/Bani was fast asleep when the maid woke her up. She got freshened up quickly and went downstairs to find AD and Nattu. Introducing her to Nattu they sat down for dinner. Eesha/Bani listened as the two men talked among themselves. Nattu noticed her sitting looking nervous once the dinner was done. He made a silent gesture to AD that he was ignoring her.
"I am sorry we have been ignoring you, Eesha/Bani. Would you like to join us in the living room?" AD said softly while rubbing the back of his neck. She told him quietly that she was still tired from the journey and would prefer to go back to her room.
Nattu watched as she went upstairs, turning to AD, "She is different…beautiful yet different. There is something about her…hard to put into words. Hard to believe she was married to Jai Walia."
AD looked at him arching his brows, "She is not like a typical socialite…she exudes quite confidence and elegance." Nattu looks at his boss…wonders if he has fallen for her. It is hard to figure out AD, most of the time he is like a closed a book.
"Why did you bring her back to Mumbai?"
Shrugging his shoulders, "Don't know, may be I want to see if she remembers who she was…"
Changing subject, AD tells Nattu tells him about going to Turkey and bringing the babies back.
"First I want to get the children back and then I am going to deal with Pia." The chilling tone of his voice made Nattu shudder silently…he knew too well how ruthless AD could be.
"Book tickets to Turkey for you, me and Eesha/Bani as soon as possible." AD turned towards him, "get one of your men to watch Pia 24/7."
Late at night majee calls AD on his phone telling him she wants to speak to Eesha/Bani. AD walks to her room and gives her the cell phone. He moves out to the balcony so she can speak freely. Few minutes later she returns the cell phone back to him. She shivered as his hand touched hers. Their eyes locked for a brief moment, a myriad of emotions seems to flit across his face and he tears his gaze away and walks away. She stays still unable to comprehend the feelings he evokes.
AD is jolted out of sleep, feels his heart pulsing rapidly. An uneasy feeling envelops him and he silently moves out of his room and scans the dark hallway. As he moves further down he hears moans coming from Eesha/Bani's room. He pushes open her bedroom door to see Eesha/Bani thrashing her arms. Rushing up he calls out to her but she doesn't respond. Realizing that she must be having a nightmare, he grabs her arms and shakes her gently. Her eyes flickered and than fully opened as she saw look of concern on AD's face. AD gently sat her up and brushed her hair off her face. With a look of concern, "I think you were having nightmare…" he said. Seeing her press her hand to her head, he asks, "Do you have a headache?"
Shaking her head, "sometimes I get headaches all of a sudden and nightmares, but I don't remember anything…everything seems garble...nothing makes sense."
"Tomorrow I will call a doctor to come and see you. I will get you something for the headache." He leaves the room to return with a couple of pills and a glass of water. He sits down next to her and hands her the pills and water, "Take this and try and get some sleep."
He watches her close her eyes and stays until she falls asleep.
Next day a doctor comes to see her. AD had already explained her condition to him and so the doctor just examined her and prescribed some pills for the headache. In private he tells AD that she may be recalling some memories whilst in deep sleep but she doesn't remember them when she wakes up. AD frowns as the doctor's word reverberate…seems there is good chance of complete recovery of memory.
Pt 9
Two days later, Turkey…AD, Eesha/Bani and Nattu arrive at the hotel. AD has booked a large suite with four large bedrooms, a living room and a small kitchen. After making sure Eesha/Bani is comfortable AD and Nattu leave the hotel. Eesha/Bani wandered around the suite, she had been unhappy about making the trip, she hated living in Mumbai, it is lonely in the house by herself. There is no one to talk to and nothing to do. All her needs are taken care of. If AD is in the house he hardly talks to her accept to ask her how she is. Now he has brought her to Turkey even though she had mustered up courage and told him she didn't want to go. He'd just ignored her and told her he needed to go on a business trip and he was not going to leave her alone at the house.
She looked out of the window and took in buildings with interesting architectural details, the minarets of various mosques, and the shimmering blue sea in distance. The sun felt warm on her skin and she sat for a while in the lounger on the balcony. She must have dozed off as the sound of AD and Nattu talking as they walked into the suite woke her up. Getting up she walked into the room. AD noticed her tousled hair and smiled at her, "Are you ready to go sightseeing? Go get ready, we will eat before we go."
She freshened up quickly and they went downstairs to the restaurant. Nattu didn't join them for the sightseeing. AD had booked a private car to take them around. They visited historical Byzantine palaces, mosques and bazaar where they browsed through shops selling gold and silver jewellery, carpets and antiques. AD saw her admiring an antique silver and precious stone bracelet and bought it for her ignoring her plea not to buy. He put it around her wrist and ran his finger over the charms adorning the bracelet.
It was late when they returned back to the hotel. She thanked him for the outing and declined dinner as she wasn't feeling hungry.
Next day she woke up late, AD and Nattu were already up and ready when she came out from her bedroom. AD had already ordered breakfast and asked her to eat something as they would be going out. They drove through the city out towards affluent neighbourhood of tall apartment blocks and luxury residences. The car stopped outside a low rise modern building. Taking the elevator up to the Karun's apartment, AD told her they were visiting a friend. A maid opened the door and showed them in to the living room. Karuna's face paled as she looked at Eesha/Bani. She gasped, "Bani…" and looked bewildered when there was no reaction from her.
AD taking control, introduced Eesha/Bani, "Meet my wife Eesha/Bani, Karuna. I hope you don't mind my coming without prior notice."
Karuna shook her head unable to utter anything more than a "No!"
Eesha/Bani looked confused, the way Karuna was staring at her made her feel uncomfortable. Telling Nattu to take her outside, AD waited until they left before turning to Karuna, "Seems like you have seen a ghost, Karuna." He mocked. "You know why I am here don't you? I want the children."
"I suggest you go get them ready and take minimum necessity required, you will be coming with me." The cold authority in his voice sends chills down her body and Karuna gets up to go. "Oh and don't try to phone anyone. Your phone line has been temporarily disconnected."
Karuna returned few minutes later with a small bag and a maid carrying the two babies. He motioned her to follow him. When they reached the car, he asked her to sit inside and taking the babies from the maid handed them to Karuna and Eesha/Bani. He turned to maid and said something in Arabic to them before getting in. The car drove out back to the hotel.
Mumbai…Karuna is held under tight security at AD's house, even though she moves freely inside the house, she under constant surveillance. Karuna revealed to AD that Pia has been using the children to blackmail Jai Walia. Jai Walia has transferred all the assets under the children's name. Pia also threatens him with the safety of the children and the rest of the family to get him to give in to her demands…but the one thing he refuses to do is to marry Pia.
Unaware of the situation, Eesha/Bani is glad of Karuna's company. Her time is occupied now with helping take care of her children.
Pt 10
Pia is frustrated, she has been trying for days to get in touch with Karuna. It's not like Karuna not to call her. Her calls are not going through to Karuna's cell phone or to the phone in the apartment. She books a next available flight to Turkey.
It's the fifth time she rings the doorbell of Karuna's apartment. No one opens the door. Finally she makes her way to the security office downstairs, only to be told that Karuna had left few days earlier but had not told them where she was going and how long she would be away.
Pia dials on her cell phone, "Listen, I need to trace someone, anyone traveling from Turkey to Mumbai using the name Karuna and if she did land at Mumbai, where she is staying in Mumbai. Get this done quick and get back to me."
Few hours later, Pia gets a call telling her that Karuna did come to Mumbai but they haven't been able to find out where she is staying in Mumbai. She didn't travel alone but with two men and a woman. They had checked all the hotels and several residential complexes but unable to trace her.
The banquet hall at the Taj Palace is buzzing with business clients of the Walia Group at the annual function. Jai Walia is acting as host with the help of his sister Jigyasa and sister-in-law Rano. AD and Nattu wanders in and mingle in with the crowd. They make there way to the bar and observe Pia with Mohan Khandewal having drinks. Pia walks over and greets AD and sits down next to him. Whilst they are talking AD notices Pia's eyes discreetly following Jai Walia. After a while Mohan wanders over and takes Pia to meet some of his friends.
AD walks over to where Rano is standing alone and introduces himself. Pretending to be a client he engages her in general chitchat slipping in personal questions now and then regarding the Walia family. He figures out that she is smart and she gives evasive answers when she doesn't want to divulge personal info. AD excuses himself and leaves the party.
Pia followed AD outside, she watched AD get into his car. She takes out her cell phone and dials a number. Giving instructions to the person at the other end, she tells them to follow the car and to let her know when it reaches its destination. It was too much of a co-incidence, AD turning up at Mohan's party and now here and in Turkey. AD is the only who knew about Karuna in Turkey. Her private investigator had been unable to find out much about AD…not much was known about him except he had successful businesses…she felt his suave and sophisticated faade was false.
By next morning Pia knew the location where AD is staying, there is tight security around his place and the only people they have seen go in and out of the place have been AD and his manager Nattu. She orders the house to be watched twenty-four hours, she wants AD's every move watched.
Nattu walks in the house while AD is having his breakfast. Helping himself to a cup of coffee, Nattu informs him the security guards have told him about the house being watched. They have noticed a car parked in a secluded corner but within viewable distance from the house. AD told Nattu to tell the men not to approach the car, just keep an eye on it. He is certain Pia is behind this, he had noticed her watching them as their car drove away last night. He tells Nattu to find out if his suspicion is correct discreetly…he didn't want them to know that he was aware of being spied on.
After two days of nothing knew coming from the private investigator, Pia decides to give AD a call and invite herself to his house. This was the only way to get inside his home through the tight security. AD receives Pia's call and when she suggests coming over to see him, he invites her to come over when ever it suited her. Informing his security staff to let her in when Pia arrives, he let Eesha/Bani know that he is expecting a guest and he would call her as he wanted her to meet his guest.
Pia arrived around noon. Her chauffeur driven car pulled into the parking space in front of the house. She walked up to the house and was shown in by the security guard at the door. AD walked in from his office to the living area where Pia had been seated. He eyes lingered on Pia…immaculately made up and dressed in the latest designer salwar suit. Greeting her he joined her on the sofa and ordered drinks for them. Pia looked admiringly at the interior design of his home and told how beautifully decorated his home was. As the butler brought their drinks, he asked to tell Eesha/Bani to join them and then turning to Pia, AD offered an explanation to Pia's inquiring look. "Eesha/Bani is my wife, she is here for few weeks in Mumbai before returning back to my ancestral home where my mother and brothers live."
Pia faking a smile, "Wow AD, I didn't realize you were married."
Just then her eyes fell on the figure walking down the stairs. Pia controlled her shock at seeing the resemblance of AD's wife to her sister Bani. As Eesha/Bani came near them, AD stood up, "Eesha/Bani this is a friend of mine, Pia."
Eesha/Bani smiled at Pia, "Nice to meet you Pia," and took a seat next to AD.
The resemblance was uncanny, but if she was her sister, why would Bani pretend she didn't know her. AD watched as the two women sat uneasily looking at each other. Eesha/Bani looked at AD nervously, unsure of what she was expected to do. Living away in isolation with his mother, the social interactions with people had been sparse. Pia she felt no connection to ease the awkwardness she was feeling. To ease the tension, AD called the butler to bring some tea for Eesha/Bani and asked Pia if she wanted to look around the house. Taking up his offer, AD took Pia around the house, avoiding the part of the house where Karuna and the children were. When they returned back to the sitting area, Eesha/Bani smiled and offered snacks to Pia which she had brought from the kitchen. The more Pia observed Eesha/Bani she was sure she is Bani…but why is she pretending to be someone else and how did she end up marrying this guy. Pia took leave shortly, telling AD he must bring his beautiful wife next time he came to out one of the social events in Mumbai so that she gets opportunity to meet new people.
AD watched Pia's car drive away. Even though she had pretended not to be shocked at seeing Bani Walia, he knew for sure that Pia didn't fall for someone who looked like Bani. At least seeing Pia had not triggered any reaction in Eesha/Bani to recall her memory. He wondered what it would take to get Bani Walia's memory to return. He glanced at the beautiful woman sitting unaware of the injustice that had befallen her at the hand of her sister.
As Pia's car sped she sat thinking why her sister had pretended not to know her. Back there was her Banidi. How did she escape? The man who she had hired had shown her the manglesutra Bani always wore. And if she was Bani why didn't she go to the police? Why was she hiding in that house? Did she have the children? She hadn't heard any noises of children in the house whilst there but than AD hadn't shown her all the parts of the house. Reaching for her cell phone in her purse, she made determined decision to use whatever means to find out who else was living with AD.
PT 11
Fury narrowed Pia's eyes, she should have taken care of this herself. All her planning and plotting down the drain…the guy who has been jailed for Bani Walia's murder had narrated what he and his partner had actually done, though it seemed a miracle that she had survived being thrown off from such a height and in such wild place. After few days of trying her private investigator had finally been able to get hold of one the maids that worked at AD's house and bribed her to reveal that beside Eesha/Bani there was another woman with two small babies living there. Eesha/Bani and Karuna never left the house and the security inside and outside the house is very tight…no one gets in or out unobserved. Pia whispered her thought out aloud …It's time for me to take care of Bani Walia forever…Bani Walia will never be his again.
Jai Walia was in a foul mood as Pia had called him up and insisted on meeting with him. Agreeing to see her he had told her that he would meet at her designated place in an hour's time. When his car drove up, she was waiting outside her car and telling him to sit inside as she wanted to talk to him in private. They drove to AD's house and Pia told the security guard to tell AD she wanted to see him. Getting approval to let the car in, Jai Walia glared at her, "Pia what is this place you brought me to. You said you wanted to talk."
Pia smiled, "Jai you worry to much. Believe me you will be glad I brought you here. Shall we go?" she stepped out of the car and waited for Jai Walia to follow her.
The door opened and they were shown into the sitting area and told to wait. AD stepped out of his study and if he was surprised to see Jai Walia with Pia, he concealed it. Greeting them he sat down asking Pia what brought them here.
With unwavering eye, Pia looked at AD, "I think you have something that belongs to Jai Walia."
Arching his brows, AD retorted "I think you are mistaken Pia, I have nothing that belongs to Mr. Walia."
"Oh! But you do, Bani Walia is here with you and don't dare deny it, I can recognize my sister anywhere." Pia tilted her head and looked coldly at him.
"Let me prove to you that I don't have Bani Walia. I think you are mistaking my wife because she bears close resemblance to her." AD calls his butler and asks him get Eesha/Bani.
Jai Walia face pales as Eesha/Bani walks down the stairs. He stares at her…surely it can't be his Bani. Fury consumes him and he turns around slowly, "How dare you …" but he is cut short as AD stands up and pulls Eesha/Bani next to him. "Mr Walia I think you are mistaken, this is not your wife, if she is your wife than why isn't she acknowledging you?"
"Bani…" he looks at Eesha/Bani with pleading eye.
Eesha/Bani looks confused and whispers to AD, "I don't know him, why is he callin me Bani."
Hugging her lightly, "See Mr Walia, she doesn't know you and you are scaring her. I would advise both of you to leave."
Pia sneered at AD, "If you think that we are going to leave without her you are mistaken." She reaches into her bag and pulls a gun out. Aiming it at her she tells AD to let her walk towards her. Eesha/Bani is rooted to the spot, eyes fraught with fear she looks at AD horrified. AD keeps hold of Eesha/Bani, "I don't think you will pull the trigger and kill her if you believe she is Bani, your sister."
Her mouth twists into a mocking smile, "You under estimate me AD, I will kill her if you don't let go."
Jai Walia looks at Pia as if she is demented, "Pia what's the matter with you, put the gun away. We can discuss this without resorting to this."
Without looking at him and the gun still pointing at Eesha/Bani, "Jai, you think he is going to hand her over just like that. He must have something big in his mind to keep her hidden this long. What are you after AD? It can't be money as you seem to have plenty of it." Her chilling laughter rang loud in the room. Suddenly Eesha/Bani screams "Jai…Pia" and stares at Pia. She clutches her head as she feels a surge of throbbing pain and her vision blurs. She stumbles towards Jai Walia, Pia swings around and pulls the trigger back. Swiftly AD lunges forward and pushes Eesha/Bani, throwing her out of the way as the bullet leaves the gun and hitting him in the chest. Before Pia could pull the trigger again, AD's security men fired a round into her and she fell to the floor. Terrified, Eesha/Bani looked at the two bodies on the floor and crumbled slowly to the floor. Jai Walia cradling Eesha/Bani tells the security guards, he is unarmed. The security guards keep their guns pointed at him until Nattu arrived. He tells the men to put their guns away and rushes to where AD is lying with blood pooling around him from the wound. Pulling his phone out, he calls police. Pressing the bullet wound to try and stop the bleeding, he looks at Jai Walia cradling Eesha/Bani, "Is she ok, did she get hit?"
Jai Walia, still in shock, "No…I think she just fainted."
In few minutes, siren from several police car is heard as they pull in. Nattu handles the situation with the police and asks AD to be taken away to hospital straight away. Eesha/Bani is taken upstairs to her room and Nattu calls for the doctor to come to the house. Several hours later, police removes Pia's body after the investigation team has concluded their work. Jai and the security guards give statement to the police. Nattu left for the hospital as soon as the police allowed him to.
Jai calls up Rano and ask her to come with Adi to AD's house. Karuna who had locked her self in the room when she heard the gun shots finally comes out. Jai is shocked to see her here and is furious at Karuna for helping Pia…how could she, whom he loved like his own sister, try and destroy his life. He is overwhelmed when she tells him that his and Bani's children are here in the house. She takes him to the nursery where the children are and is unable to stop tears flowing as he holds them for the first time.
Rano is sitting next to Eesha/Bani waiting for her to open her eyes. The doctor told her that she was fine and suffering from the shock of events that had taken place. Eesha/Bani stirred and opened her eyes, she saw Rano sitting and trying to sit up, "Rano…how did you...where's Jai…"
Rano smiling at her, "Di Jai is fine. He asked me to come here. He is with your children."
Eesha/Bani looks bewildered, "my children…"
"Don't you remember, you gave birth to twin, a girl and a boy? Di they are beautiful…I am so happy to see you and the children." Patting her hand, Rano stands up, "I am going to go and get Jai."
Outside Jai Walia is talking with Nattu when Rano comes to call him. Telling Nattu he will see him in few minutes, Jai Walia walks into the room to see Eesha/Bani is.
Sitting down on the bed next to her, he holds her hand, "Bani are you ok?"
Shaking her head, she tells him, "Jai I am so confused, what happened? Why did Pia try to shoot me? AD, is he dead?"
Jai Walia looks at his wife lovingly, thanking God for keeping her alive after hearing all that had happened to her, "Pia is dead and so is AD. Why don't you just rest for now and later I will tell you all that has happened."
"Can I see the children? Jai, why did Pia try to hurt you by keeping the children away? If she truly loved you she would have wanted you to be happy."
"Please Bani don't think about it, no one knew what went on Pia's mind, please rest now, I will ask Karuna and Rano to bring the children to you." He gently kisses her forehead before leaving.
In AD's office Nattu tells him how Bani was found and how AD's mother took care of her. He explained that AD had only married Bani to keep his mother happy. Bani had no memory of who she was or the fact she was already married. AD would have eventually returned both Bani and children to Walia house, once he knew she would be safe. He only tried to protect her. He told Jai that AD's wish was that Bani be told that he is dead. It would be easier for her deal with the trauma knowing she was free of him.
Nattu asked Jai if he was going to file charges against him. Jai told him, what charges could he lay against AD and him, in fact he is grateful for what AD and his family did for Bani. Jai requested he would like to meet AD once he is discharged from the hospital.
Pt 12
Walia Mansion, few weeks later…
Maasi is having pooja done for safe return of Bani and the children. Initially Bani had been depressed when Jai related all the events that had occurred since her kidnapping. She blamed herself for Pia becoming obsessed with Jai to the extent that she would kill her own sister to get what she wanted. If it wasn't for the babies, who demanded her attention constantly, she would still be depressed. Maasi had the naam-sanskaran ceremony done earlier and Jai had named the children, Atharva and Krishna.
Bani readies the children and hands them over to Rano and Maasi before getting ready herself. As she was taking out sari to wear, the door opens and Jai walks in with a package. Giving it to Bani, "Bani wear this for the pooja. Maasi has bought it especially for you."
She opens the package to reveal a beautiful pink sari with heavy zardosi embroidery. Her eyes fills with tears as she recalled the time majee had given her a pink sari. AD had bought the sari as majee insistence. Her hand reached out onto the shelf and she brought down a small box and gently took out the payals. As she stared at them, Jai asked. "They are beautiful Bani. When did you buy them?"
She looked at Jai with moist eyes, "AD's mother gave them to me. They were hers and as she didn't have any one to give them, she gave them to me. Jai about AD…" Jai didn't give her chance to say any more as he roughly cut her off, "Bani I don't want to hear any more about what happened. It's past…it wasn't you fault. Just be thankful that he and his family took care of you."
Wiping her tears away, he lifts her face up, "No more tears please, I want to see you happy today. Just go and get ready, they are all waiting for us."
An hour later, Maasi beamed with pride as she took in Jai and Bani doing pooja with the Rano sitting next to them with the children. She prayed silently to God to protect watch over them always.
Far away a lonely figure stood on the rooftop terrace of his home and stared out into the night. Suddenly he turned as he imagined he heard the sweet sound of her payals on the terrace.
THE END
Anupamaa
