Chapter Fourteen: Saharay
Evening Showcase was initiated with a grand opening performance that included everything from dance, gymnastics, illusions, and solos. Visitors were quite impressed by the amount of talent that they had witnessed, but the opening to the showcase had them stunned and glued to their chairs. Judges were completely taken aback by the hard work and creativity with which the small town school had put on such an exquisite event.
Khanak had dressed herself in a beautiful cream and maroon Anarkali suit. The shirt was cream in color with gleaming embellishment that complimented the dark maroon bordering lace. Her churidaar was also dark maroon while the silky veil had both colors to match perfectly with her simple yet elegant dress. She looked like a princess with her straightened hair pulled up half way, supported with a glittery hair pin in the middle. Bangles adorned her right hand and the small dome shaped earnings matched perfectly with her outfit. Her only make up was kohl lining her eyes and flushed cherry pink lip shine.
Shaantanu and the gang had not seen her after the award ceremony in the afternoon as she went home with Adi Bahiyaa to change and freshen up before the Showcase. Hanging out with Adi at home also gave Khanak the perfect opportunity to fill him in with the details about her part in one of the most awaited performances in the Showcase. She was not direct about Shaantanu's connection with the song but did mention his part in it as well. Khanak expected Adi to question or inquire about her sudden inclination towards singling, but was surprised to find him encouraging and supportive in her new venture. Adi knew Khanak had the potential in her talent and he would never cause his senseless doubts to get in the way of his kid sister's accomplishments. He wanted to live out his dreams of success and satisfaction through Khanak, just as he had for the past several years of his life. Investing in her education and believing in her strengths and talents was his way of assuring his relation of a brother and not just a provider.
Shaantanu, Khanak, and the gang were waiting eagerly behind the curtain of the main stage where performers were doing all sorts of impressive acts for their audience and potential employers. Judging by the loud applaud and cheer from the audience, Shaantanu could clearly tell that his performance had huge shoes to fill, but at the same time he was confident in his ability to entertain everyone with his music. Sir Shekhar had already made his way on to the podium to announce the most awaited performance of his favorite students, two in particular who were currently standing next to each other stealing knowing looks and subtle smiles.
"…And now I give Manali and my respected guests one of my own…Please prepare yourselves to sway to some beautiful tunes…!"
The gang broke from a group hug as Sir.Shekhar concluded his introduction and walked out of the stage, blinded by the lights that were shining just below the stage. Only the first couple of rows below the stage were visible from the center stage where Shaatanu was standing with his guitar. The crowd whistled and cheered as Sam, Lucky, and Abhay took their positions, Khanak remained behind the curtain for now as she was told to make her appearance right when her part of the song started. Shaantanu took a quick second to look back at her before starting and as always he found her smiling and nodding confidently; displaying him her undivided attention and support. He smiled and then signaled the rest of the band members to let the music take control
With the intial strumming, Shaantanu started with "ghuzray ga yeh pal" in repetition… Lucky joined in with his drum and soon Abhay's violin was synchronized with Sam's keyboard. The crowd swayed with rhythm and experienced the first gist of the magic that Shaantanu was capable of performing.
…Aisa Lamhaa Tha, Ke Man Karta Tha
Jeeloon Main Baar Baar
Aane waala Kal… Na Jaane Kispal
Le Jaata Hai Kahaan.. Hai Kisne Jaana
Ab Kya Afsaana, Likhta Hai Aasmaaa…
Karle Thoda Intzaar, Jaaye Naa Tu Phisal
Guzrega Ye Pal, Itna Kyun Hai Bekaraar
Kal Ki Hai Fikar, Guzrega.. Ye Pal…
Sir Shekhar smiled with immense pride and delight as he found his predictions about Shaantanu's capabilities coming true. Furthermore, his confidence leaped several skies the moment he noticed one of the chief guests from India's biggest record lable looking excitedly at the young and talented artist on the center stage.
Achchha Lagta Hai, Chaahe Sapna Hai
Parwaah Nahi Hai Yaar
Par Main Deewaana, Ye Bhi Naa Jaana
Hai Jeena To Ek Baar…
Shaantanu moved about the stage from Sam's side to Abhay's, completely lost to his music. His heightened vocals complimented the pitch beautifully. His voice had that unique intensity which captured hearts and not just ears. The crowd was extremely pleased with the performance as Shaantanu made his way towards the front of the stage to witness their reaction.
Dil Tode Saare, Par Sunle Pyaare
Sab Chalta Hai Yahaan
Karle Thoda Intzaar, Jaaye Naa Tu Phisal
Guzrega Ye Pal, Itna Kyun Hai Bekaraar
Kal Ki Hai Fikar, Guzrega.. Ye Pal
His eyes roamed the visible first row as he carried his energy and song simultaneously. He was able to recongnize familiar class mates and some of university's faculty, but then he found his glance come to a sudden halt at Akshay, Sunil, Madhavi, Khushboo Bhabhi, and Daadi. They were all there, cheering him on just like he had wanted them to. The moment was too good to be true, he couldn't afford the distraction and moved back to the right side of the stage where he went and stood next Lucky who shared a moment with him in supporting his vocals on the same microphone.
Is Jahaan Se Us Jahaan Tak
Is Zameen Se Aasmaan Tak
Hooo... Dhoondhte Manzil Ko Har Kadam…
Naa Mili.. Tu Phir Lenge Janam, Ho...
(guzrega Ye Pal) O Ho….O Hooo….
Shaantanu concluded the most powerful high point of the song with great intensity, completely indulging himself in the moment to get it right on. Khanak watched him with tears in her eyes, she was witnessing the hold of music on Shaantanu like the first time she watched him play. Her part was just after Shaantanu's acoustic solo, she was prepared; prepared to be his support.
Shaantanu gestured with his head, urging her to come on out as he continued to strum the soft acoustic in the song, the crowd followed the new spotlight on the stage as Khanak's figure made the surprise appearance. Loud clapping and wooting raidiated from the crowd soon after she settled herself next to the lead singer, it was obvious that her presence was approved and appreciated.
Shaantanu, Abhay, Lucky, and Sam took part in synchronized whistling which was the lead to Khanal's lyrics and vocals. Khanak swayed with the rhythm while inviting his eyes in to hers, he accepted the invitation by obliging and maintaining their eye contact. She begins softly with her repetitive lines…
Guzrega Ye Pal, Guzrega Ye Pal,
Guzrega Ye Pal, Guzrega.. Ye Pal…Oh..Hoo..hmm..hoo..
Shaantanu joins in at his part after her vocal stretch, giving his first song the perfectly synchronized duet ending…They once again exchange knowing smiles.
Guzrega Ye Pal, Guzrega Ye Pal,
Guzrega Ye Pal, Guzrega.. Ye Pal
Karle Thoda Intzaar, Jaaye Naa Tu Phisal
Guzrega Ye Pal, Itna Kyun Hai Bekaraar
Kal Ki Hai Fikar, Guzrega... Ye Pal
Acsoustic towards the end concluded with the gang joing in for chorus with the lead and his lovely partner…the end was so well put together that even after the vocals concluded, Shaantanu's acoustic maintained hopes of another verse for the spell bounded spectators.
It was clear that the impact of Shaantanu Khandelwal's first performance will be the talk of the town for the next several months. One of the best moments that Manali University could proudly claim as its own was concluded with loads of glitter and glam.
Moments after the curtain was drawn in and everyone made their way towards the dressing room, Shaantanu was bombarded with congrats and hugs from Sam, Lucky, and Abhay as well as others who experienced his spell from the dressing room itself. Khanak was standing at a distance, watching people gather around Shaantanu to congratulate him and praise him. She felt happiness taking over her senses, they way Shaantanu's smile was reaching his light brown eyes made this moment special for an entirely different reason.
Shaantanu looked at Khanak through the flock of faces that surrounded him. He was aware of her gaze and was politely making his way out of the pool of people he was being englulfed by. He had so much to say to her. He wanted to express his heart and the feelings that he had been meaning to for some time now. He could hardly get it all down in words. Lost in his own thoughts he was working on decreasing the distance between him and Khanak when a familiar face walked in front of him, blocking his intended destination to Khanak.
"Shaan!..." Akshay's voice startled Shaantanu as his brain registered the familiarity of his face and presence.
"Bahiyaa?!... app…I don't believe this…" Shaantanu spoke up as Akshay embraced him warmly.
"Haan Chotey! Hum sub… Dad, Mom..Daadi…Khusboo…Everyone is here!" He informed Shaantanu and pointed at the rest of the family who were just a few steps behind Akshay.
"Rocking performance Shaan! I am so proud of you bro…!" Akshay complimented Shaan who was still trying to grasp this reality as he watched his family approach him.
Sunil came forward and gave his son a hug as well; there was no formal exchange of words, just a proud smile and a simple hug. Madhavi and Daadi were clinging to Shaan lovingly while Khusboo simply ruffled her brother-in-law's hair and moved to Akshay's side after hugging him. Shaan was finally able to adjust his mind to the reality of the whole Khandelwal family in Manali, in front of his eyes. What he had seen on stage was not a faade, it was all real.
Khanak was watching the entire interaction from distance; she was able to figure out the fact that they were his family. The Daadi he had talked so much about was exactly like the way she had pictured. A part of her wanted to go meet them all but she knew that it would be intrusive and so she held her desires back and moved out of his sight.
"Aap sub yahaan per kub…I mean mujhay bata…"
"Shaan surprise tha, abb aggar bata detay toh phir surprise nahi rehta…" Akshay said with a wide smile and Daadi came forward and lovingly kissed Shaantanu forehead.
"Humari yaad nahi aaye beta..?" She asked with a teary tone.
"Daadi… App jaanti hain iss sawaal ka jawaab…I missed you so much…!" Shaantanu embraced her with love, knowing the emotional turmoil he had put her through. Madhavi also came forward to praise and reunite with her youngest child who she had missed more than anything in the world in the past few months of her life.
Reunion with his family on the day of his first performance was an accomplishment in itself. He was surrounded by the warmth that he was beginning to forget as time went on without any concern from their side. Shaantanu's guilt of breaking away from his loved ones was no longer lingered his burdened heart but even with in this moment of relief and comfort he missed her presence. His mind and eyes reverted back to the place where she was standing but by then she had already gone from his sight.
Khanak met up with Adi Bahiyaa shortly after she walked herself away from Shaantanu's sight. He was waiting for her with a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers and a mini card that read "Congrtaulations, on your accomplishment my Chutki, may all your dreams come true!" It was an exquisite and expensive bouquet of flowers but for the sake of his sister's lit up face he willingly spent extra on tonight's celebrations.
"Bahiyaa! Itnay khoosorat flowers!...meray liye?" Khanak's smile could hardly be contained on her small face as Adi presented her the boquet.
"Bilqual…yeh flowers meri Chutki ki iss pyaari si smile kay liye jo iss waqt uss kay cheray per hain…Bahut achi performance thi Chutki...pehlay sirf mujhay lagta tha kay tumhari awaaz special hain per ajj tumne audience per bhi apna jadu kar diya…!"
"Nahi Bahiyaa…main toh yunhi shauq kay liye gaana gaati ho…Performance toh Shaantanu kit hi..main sirf saath de rahi thi…" Khanak said quietly, brushing her fingers over the light pink roses in the boquet.
"Arey haan…Kahaan hain mera employer?! Ussay bhi toh congrats kehna hain…"
"Voh..voh kuch busy hain…shaayad Sir.Shekhar kay saath…hum baad mein…I mean app baad mein mill kar keh dena…" Khanak replied hastily, trying to divert his attention from his desire to meed Shaantanu right now.
"Lakin…acha chalo theek hain…mujhe lagta hain tum bhi kaafi thak gaaye ho…chalo gahr chal kar ajj meray haath se bana dinner kar ke jaldi soojana...Kafi dino se late sorahi ho, ajj rest kar lo…" Adi complied as he noticed Khanak's tiredness and decided to meet up with Shaantanu the following morning.
Meanwhile, Khandelwals ran in to Shekhar on their way out of the University. Shekhar met with Sunil and Akshay pleasantly and admired Shaantanu's talents repeatedly. His conversation with Sunil and Akshay made Shaantanu realize that they were actually acquainted through old family friends but Shekhar's dry attitude towards the mention of his Dad by Sunil also revealed the distance that he still kept with his family; he was obviously uncomfortable with that topic. Moreover, Shekhar quickly took hold of the conversation and instructed Shaantanu to meet him around noon the following day as several people from the record companies were eagerly waiting to make deals for his launch and help him kick start his career in the industry. Shaantanu was in no position to argue with Shekhar's perspective and simply obliged to his arrangements and promised to meet him after lunch the following day.
"Akshay Shaan ko lekar tum cottage ajao…dinner sub saath mein kartey hain?" Sunil advised Akshay after bidding Shekhar good night.
"Jee Dad…Shaan ko lekar main ajao ga Khusboo kay saath…App Mom aur Daadi kay saath cottage chalay jaaye…"
"Theek hain beta…Shaan please don't be late…tum bus apnay bags or stuff le kar Akshay kay saath dinner kay liye jaldi ajao…" Madhavi instructed with a smile and Shaantanu nodded in obidence.
Within the next hour Khusboo and Akshay helped Shaantanu check out of the small motel where he had been staying and drove him over to the cottage where Khandelwal's were residing for their stay in Manali. Shaan was a little concerned about the sudden rearrangement, not sure what came ahead, but for now he did as he was told by his loving Mom. Akshay and Khusboo filled him with details about Mumbai on their short drive but he remained aloof and distant is his own thoughts, speaking only to answer questions that Khusboo asked in regards to his time in Manali so far. He kept Khanak and Adi's acquaintance hidden for now.
Dinner was arranged by Madhavi, almost all of Shaantanu's favorite continental cusine. Sunil didn't enjoyed watched Daad and Madhavi pamper Shaantanu by stuffing his mouth with various items at once. Khusboo and Akshay were also enjoying the gala time that the Khandelwals were having after so long, every now and then teasing Shaantanu about his song, they even did their own parody for him. As they concluded their dinner, Sunil directed Akshay and Shaan towards the living room to talk while the ladies looked after the left over and after dinner coffee arrangements.
"Dad I…I wanted to Thank you…app yahaan aaye main…" Shaantanu started out with a shaky voice, not sure what would be appropriate for the moment.
"Shaan please…It's me who is thankful today… Truly thankful to God for bestowing me with two true sons…main yeh pehlay samajh nahi paaya…I am sorry…"
"Nahi Dad…app aisa kyun keh rahay hain…Baroon ka haq hota hain, app toh meray Dad hain."
"Issi liye aur bhi zayaada sharminda ho…I should have supported you but I was scared…arrogant even…Lakin I wish to correct all that…abb main aik rockstar betay ka awesome Dad bana chahta hoon…"
Shaan smiled at his father's genuine affection, he simply went ahead and hugged him warmly. Akshay watched in awe as his father finally opened up to Shaantanu. Sunil could hardly contain the tears that were bulging in his eyes.
"Dad I love you…!"
"Love you too son…! Ajj pehli baar keh raha hoon per main suchay dil se keh raha hoon…" Sunil said pulling away from Shaantanu and looking up at him proudly.
"Jaanta ho Dad…feels good to hear it…app please mujhay sorry na kahay…galti meri bhi thi, gazbaati toh main bhi hoon…appkay jaisa" Shaantanu reconciled all the differences in that moment, Sunil felt light hearted upon his reconciliation.
"Well abb father son ki reunion ho gaye toh phir tayaari kartay hain hum Mumbai vapis jaanay ki…What say Rockstar…? Career toh Mumbai mein he set hoga na tera…"
Shaantanu paused as Akshay's questions echoed in his mind. The fact that he had to leave Manali, meaning he would have to leave…No…he couldn't …how could he…Once again life had brought him to another crossroads where his decision had consequences.
"Shaan?...kya hua…itnay chup kyun ho…?" Sunil questioned Shaantanu, observing his tensed expressions.
"Dad…voh main…I can't…main abhi Mumbai vaapis nahi asakta." Shaan spoke up glancing back and forth between Akshay and Sunil.
"Kyun chotey?...abb toh Dad bhi teray career choice se khush hain…supportive hain…tu yahaan reh kar kya karay ga.."
"Shaan hum sub tumhay lenay aai hain…aur phir Shekhar ne bhi toh music companies ko Mumbai se he toh invite kiya hain…Manali mein yahaan unhay tum jaisa talent zaroor mila hain per establishment toh Mumbai jaise bari city mein ho gi…" Sunil added to Akshay's reasoning while Shaantanu remained frozen in his palce, all his mind could think of was Khanak, his feelings for her, her trust, her hopes for him, and to top it all off the white lie that he had told Adi Bahiyaa about his identity. He needed to make amends; he needed to fix things before leaving…leaving with Khanak. It was all happening too fast.
"Shaantanu Kuch bolo...?" Akshay's voice once again interrupted his thoughts and he was brought back to reality in which Sunil and Akshay were both waiting for his answer.
"Bahiyaa…Dad…iss waqt main app kay saath Mumbai nahi ja sakta…mujhay Manali mein thoray din aur rukna hoga…I hope you understand…" Shaan couldn't find better wordings for his reasoning at the moment and without giving Sunil or Akshay any chance to protest them he walked away from the living room quietly.
P.S: Here it is..! I hope the wait wasn't too long this time...Kinda of a rollercoster update with loads of stuff going on...I hope you Like it...Please give me you feedback after your read it. Thanks...Have Fun... -Imane
Cricket
