FF Apni preet se mujhe rang de - Page 2

Chapter 9

Gulaal and vasant were talking about kesar while kesar and his friend had arranged a motocross

Motocross is a form of motorcycle sport racing held on enclosed off road circuits the grounds were set..flag waved and the bike race started and kesar leaded all the way he was about to cross the finish line but his bide skid in between he completed his race but fell on the finsih line and his hand and elbow hurted badly.his friends came running towards him they saw blood coming out of his hand..vicky and sonu were tensed

Vicky said to sonu "lets take him to the hospital he needs medical care"

Vicky and sonu took him to modi hospital one of his friend rishi also accompanied them?.kesar sonu vicky and rishi were waiting in the doctor's cabin...kesar looked around and saw the name plate on the table gulaal's name was written on it

Kesar and vicky looked at each other...kesar was worried as he didn't wanted to any family member know about his participation in motorcross

Kesar said to vicky "chal bhaagte hai "

And then rushed towads the door... Gulaal was standing outside she was talking to a nurse as kesar headed towards the door gulaal came inside and they almost touched each other they were surprised to see each other...she was confused... kesar was nervous... then she saw the injury...she was scared...she took kesar hand in her hand looked at his hand and asked "kya hua"

Rishi who didn't knew gulaal was his bhabhi said "wo bike se gir gaya"

Gulaal took kesar in the cabin and nursed him

She gently wiped the blood with the cotton and put the bandage around his hand kesar was silent he was feeling awkward..

While putting the bandage around his hand she asked "kaise gir gaye "

Rishi replied " wo hum motorcross race kar rahe the"

Kesar angrily looked at rishi and vicky and sonu were trying him to stop??they stamped his feet...rishi said "yeh kya kar raha hai"

gulaal looked at his friends and vicky and sonu stood stilent

Gulaal asked" yeh motorcross kya hota hai"

rishi said " motocross bike race hoti hai yanha par road par bike nahi chalna hota...aap road k aas pass pathreele raaste par jungle mountain par chala sakte hain... par road par nahi...jo pehle race finish karega jeetega"

Gulaal rolled her eyes and sarcastly said " acha "

Kesar wanted rishi to shut his mouth but rishi didn't understood

He said "bahut dangerous game hai par acha hua... hum jeet gaye"

Gulaal replied "haan jeetna important hai phir chahe 206 bones tut kar 412 kyu naa ho jaaye...right"

Kesar was silently listening to her in embarrassment...

Gulaal put the bandage gave some medicine and started walking out of the cabin

Rishi asked "apki fees"

Gulaal didn't said anything and left

After she left vicky and sonu started scolding rishi "kyu kisne kaha tha bak bak karne ko..."

Rishi asked " kyu kya hua"

Vicky said "hua yeh k yeh kesar k bhabhi hai aur tumne jo bhi baka hai who iski bhabhi kesar k family waalo lo batayengi"

Rishi "oh no ab kya hoga"

Kesar speaked "ab...ab meri peetayi hogi...bike k keys nahi milegi... do mahine k pocketmoney band... aur ek mahine tak ghar mein rehna hoga...sab teri wajah se thanks" and he smacked him

Kesar was tensed panba and vasantbha didn't approve his participation in motorcross...he had promised panba not to take part in motocross but he couldn't keep his promise as he loved adventure and speed

Kesar returned home and saw vasantbha sitting in the sofa he tried to walk away

Vasant saw and him and stopped him said "kesar"

Kesar stopped , he was scared he slowly walked towards him

As he came near Vasantbha said "chot kaise hai kesu theek hai na"

Kesar stammered "w.w wo mein "

Vasant said "mujhe pata hai gulaal ne bataya tu bike se jaa raha tha aur ek herd samne aa gaya unhe bachane k liye fisal gaya haina"

Kesar looked at him in disbelief

Vasant hugged him and said "koi baat nahi jaa kar aaram kar"

Kesr takes a deep breath he looked inside and searched gulaal...she was standing outside the kitchen door kesar slowly walked inside and while passing he looked at gulaal with reverence and awe his eyes talked to her and thanked her...gulaal standing there smiled back

At night gulaal was in her room she gave a medicine to vasant...but vasant refused to take

Gulaal said "yeh kya vasant aap dawai kyu nahi le rahe aap ko jaldi thek nahi hona kya"

Vasant said "nahi bahut kawdi hain mujhe nahi peene"

Gulaal was insisting and vasant was refusing

Gulaal said " aap nahi peyenge"

Vasant said "nahi"

"Yeh aisi nahi peyenge" said kesar from behind with the knock at the door

Vasant saw kesar and called him in

Kesar looked at her and said "dijeye mein dawai pilata hun"

And then he moved towards vasant...he closed his nose and opened his mouth and made him drunk that medicine

Vasant replied kesar "yeh kya"

Kesar gave the medicine back

Gulaal smiled and said "acha way hai dawai pilana ka apne pateint par jarur try karungi"

Kesar said "haan bachpan mein vasantbha ne mujhpar bahut try kiya hai"

Vasant was smiling

Gulaal continued "chalo acha hai kam se kam vasant tumhare kehna to maante hain meri to bilkul nahi sunte bilkul carelees hain"

Kesar in low voice said "wiase vasantbha yeh bhi careless hain " pointing to gulaal?.apko paata hain inhone subah se khana nahi khaya hai...jab se hospital se aayi hain kaam kar rhai hain"

Gulaal looked towards kesar she was surprised to hear this...all these days kesar was very rude to her...she was supirsed and moved...kesar has noticed she didn't took the meal

So was vasant...he said to gulaal "kyu gulaal tumne khana nahi khaya"

Gulaal said "kha lungi abhi itna kaam hai apki masage oil se massage bhi to karni hai"

Kesar said to gulaal very softly "yeh mujhe dejiye mein massage kar deta hun aap khana kha lijeye"

Gulaal gave the massage oil and said haan kha lungi"

kesar went inside the kitchen and came back with food

he gave it to gulaal and insisted abhi khana hoga

she filled with joy and happiness with the kind gesture...it was first time he was talking to her..his eyes were shining with fondness...she took the plate and he took the massage oil

kesar put some oil in th palm and and he gently massaged vasant leg... kesar and gulaal were sitting besides each other kesar was giving massage vasant leg and gulaal was taking her dinner guietly

vasant who was present as connecting link between both of them contendently said" "kesar acha laga jo tune gulaal k liye concern show kiya. Mein to hamesha kaam mein busy rehta hun aur gulaal wo sirf dusaro k baare mein sochti hai apna khayal hi nahi hai."

Gulaal said in between "vasant"

But vasant continued "kesar aaj se gulaal ki jimedaari teri hui...jab mein naa hun to iska khayal rakhna...rakhega naa"

Kesar smiled and said "bilkul"

And then looked at gulaal and smiled.

In day or two. vasant regained his health he could walk properly without the stick he even returned back to his work and resume his office work. Everything was fine.in morning panba came to vasant's room and said "vasant ab kaise lag raha hai"

Vasant said "haa baa ab to bilkul theek hun"

Panba said "agar bilkul thek ho gaye ho to kuch din k liye gulaal k saath kahin bahar ghum aayo"

Vasant blushed and said "panba bahut kaam hai"

Panba said "haan kaam to hota hi rehega par abhi jao aur todhi bahut zindagi bhi jee lo..gulaal ko acha lagega"

She smiled and said "mujhe bata dena tum dono ko kahan jaana hai me booking kar dungi"

Vasant in very low voice said "ji baa"

Aftersometime gulaal came in her room.she saw vasant waiting for her...she came near and asked "kya hua apko office nahi jana"

Vasant took her in his arms and said "nahi hume official permission mil gayi hain apke saath time spend karne ki"

Gulaal asked" matlb"

Vasant said naughtly" matlab yeh ki panba hume honeymoon k liye bhej rahi hain"

Gulaal was exited "sach"

Vasant smiled" hmm badi khush lag rahi hain madam?.acha batao kanha jaana chahugi paris greece newzealand"

Gulaal interrupted "goa ,bahut pyaar plae hai mujhe wanha k beach sunset bahut ache lagte hain hum wanhi jaayenge"

Vasant said "thek hai hum goa chalenge mein baa se kah dunga"

Gulaal said "par by road chalenge apni car se.mazaa aayega"

Vasant said "haan baba jaise tum thek samjho"

And then they hugged each other

Everything was arranged panba reserved a one of the best beach cottage for the newly wed and gulaal packed the luggage for her honeymoon she was happy and exited

Next morning vasant and gulaal got ready to leave for their honeymoon

Panba rewa and kesar came to bid adieu... gulaal and vasant touched panba feet and seeked her blessing rewa was talking to gulaal

meanwhile kesar hugged vasant and said in his ear vasantbha" panba 15 days k liye bhej rahi hain aap one month baad anna?. Mein panba se kha dunga goa mein spaceship dekhe gaye hain aur government road seal karke aliens dhondh rahi hain"

vasant replied back in his ear " sirf ek mahina mei 2 months k soch raha hun tu kah dena santaclauz aur elf bhi dekhe gaye hain"

kesar smiled and said "sudhar rahe ho vasantbha"

vasant then took a leave and headed towards the car..

gulaal also parted and reached to the car door...kesar came near and opened the car door gulaal looked at him kesar said in soft voice" take care"

and then said "I will miss " took a pause and said "both of you "

gulaal smiled...gulaal sat inside the car..vasant and gulaal waived their hand and car left the premises

Chapter 10

kesar and rewa stood there for a while and then went inside

it was late in afternoon panba was taking a afternoon nap rewa was talking to her frn raman was busy in his write up and kesar vicky and sonu were playing video game in kesar room?..suddenly phone rang

Phone rang and raman picked up phone...the other person said " ji aap kanha se bol rahe hain"

Raman said " modi house "

Person said "ji mein inspector shinde bol raha haun...abhi thodhi der pehle highway mein ek car ka accident ho gaya hai number hai MH-19P47837?. 2 log car mein the...unme ek ka cell phone mila jisme... yeh number...ghar ka number k naam se save tha...

Raman was shocked and frightened , he said kya

Inspector "ji aap log jald se jald National highway 17 k pass shivaji hospital aa jaiye and then he gave him the address

Raman paniced "panba... Rewa... kesar"

Kesar vicky sonu panba came out they looked at raman who was panic-strucked rest of the family member saw him and they were frightened too

Raman was not in the state to speak to think to mourn he was numbed he looked scared but still he gathered strength and spoke" jaldi chaliye vasant aur gulaal ki car ka accident ho gaya hai"

Kesar raman panba sonu and vicky quickly reached to the hospital leaving rewa and sudhabhabhi

They reached the hospital...raman inquired at the reception counter about vasant and gulaal a doctor and inspector came and said "aap NH-17 mein hue car accident k baare mein puch rahe hain "

Raman was restless he said almost crying "jinka accident hua hai mein unka bhai hun vasant aur gulaal kaise hai wo thek hai na"

Doctor replied " us accident mein jo ladki thi wo bach gayi hain unhe head injuries aur abhi behos hai thodhi der mein hosh aa jayega"

Raman said scardly " a...aur v...vasant"

Doctor remained silent for a moment and said "I m sorry but he is no more"

This news came as a jolt to the family they were paralyzed and numbed they were too shocked and scared to move they couldnt believe their ears

Inspector said "aap sab morgue chahilye aur chal kar body identitfy kar lijeye"

Everyone headed towards the morgue sonu panba vicky raman went inside the morgue but kesar could not?.. he was standing outside the morgue standing in disbelief he thought inspector said about a "body" vasantbha is not body he cant be body...he was like the frightened child cowered in the corner...he rembered as many god he could in fraction of sec "plz don't let this happen. don't let this happen oh lord plz show some mercy" he cried continously but seems like god has turned his back on him

Suddenly he heard panba screaming "vasant " and he ran inside

He saw panba inconsoable in sorrow she was in the deep grief she could hardly stand on her feet...kesar wanted to support her but he was not in the state to understand react

Sonu consoled panba and took her outside

Kesar who was standing there blankly turn around and saw his vasantbha lying silently, a holier grace shone on his meek face?..kesar looked at him for few second and then he saw the blood clot on his forehead kesar got scared kesar remebered the day wen he got injuried and his vasantbha came to him embraced him and gently wiped his blood... he came near to his soulmate his companion his father his best buddy he took the bed sheet in which vasant was lying and started wiping his clot

kesar was like frightened and scared child who was walking in the crowd holding his father's finger...scared with the outside world scared with the crowd...all the child wanted to return home safely so asking his father "father lets go home"...in the similar way he wiped the blood that already dried he cried "vasantbha ghar chalo na" , ghar chalo na vasantbha"

Raman and vicky were standing next to him they tried to console him "kesar yeh tu kya kar raha hai"

But kesar was not in the state of hearing he continusly lamented "ghar chalo naa vasantbha dar lag raha hai, chalo na vasantbha"

Even the dead was at grief and sorrow at the loss...but the fate was decided

Nurse walked inside the morgue and said "inke sath mein jo madam thi unhe hosh aa gaya hai..."

Raman looked back blankly he said "ji mein aata hun and asked vicky to look after kesar

He left kesar who was still crying and pleading "ghar chalo na vasantbha"

Gulaal who was comatose revived slowly. Gulaal saw raman standing before her she closed her eyes and then she remembered that her car was hit by the truck she got up all of sudden and shouted "vasant"

Raman hold her and said "gulaal shaant ho jau "

Gulaal asked "vasant kanha hai"

Raman stood silent

Gulaal hearts was sinking in fear

She said in cracked voice" ramanbha aap chup kyu hai"

Raman didn't have the strength to tell her the verdict of the destiny

Raman silence made gulaal more supicious she was frghtened

She said "ramanbha aap bol kyu nahi rahe vasant thek hai na wo kanha hai bataayi na ramanbha kanha hai vasant"

Raman broke down completely and cried vasant...vasant hume chod kar chala gaya wo morgue...and he cried his heart out

Gulaal couldn't stand there and she rushed to mougue

Kesar was still standing there he was still crying "ghar chalo na vasantbha"

Gulaal went inside she threw her straining vision below and she shrinked back her spirit refused to comprehend the meaning what she saw...at length it forced...it wrestled its way into her soul it burned itself in upon the shuddering reason

Kesar saw gulaal and said "aap kuch kariye naa...dekhiye naa vasantbha ko kuch ho gaya hai aap theek kariye" he looked upon her with hope she is a doctor she had the spell to bring vasant back to life...kesar was looking at her...she was his last hope

And gulaal she didn't wanted to be logical...she began her vain attempt to ressurect vasant... she cried "vasant...vasant kuch nahi hoga tumhe and she started CPR on him"... But the body was cold, the loss was irrepearable no sorrow now could touch his heart and after several attempts she was no longer left in doubts she struggled no more and the agony of her soul found a vent in one loud long and final scream of despair..she shouted "vasant"

She began to cry she began to wail her screams rose to the heaven...sheshattered completely

Kesar who was looking upon her... shuddered as if with the fit of ague...he buried his face in his hands and weeped bitterly

Vasant was no more..his suden desmise was the severe blow to the family member.

Next day raman kesar and other family member brought vasant's body for the funeral rituals. With heavy heart kesar was performing the rituals he looked up gulaal was standing in white saree lifeless motionless...he was in tears and amidst tears he looked into her eyes gulaal looked back tears also fell from her eyes?? With heavy heart family bid farewell to vasant .everyone was mourning feeling pain and grief at the loss

Gulaal was present as the body, pale, vacant and lifeless, an apparaent caricature of all that she was...the one who only a few days back was so alive with her beautiful eyes flashing was now locked tightly in the mask of sorrow greif and pain

Void, empty, hollow inside
My dreams have fled, my hopes have died
Existence has no reason
Life's just passing with each season
he was my life, my hope, my love
All is gone, passed by thereof
The hurt is such no one should bear
What's to life, why should I care?
I weep all night for my love gone
My heart is sick, for death I long
Mine eyes well tears for love that's lost
I'll mourn always for the great cost

After all the funeral rituals poonam and revji took the permission to take gulaal with them...panba also gave her consent as this was best at times

month passed but the pain and grief was still the same...the family was in deep pain one morning panba heard the doorbell she opened and saw bank manager and yogesh standing oustide

She ask them to come in

Bank manager yogesh and panba sitted on the sofa

Bank manager " hume mr vasant modi k deadth ka behaad afsoos hai"

Panba with wet eyes said "shayad bhagwaan ko yehi manjoor tha?..she paused and said ji manager sahab kaise ana hua yanha"

Bank manager reluctantly said " Mr. Vasant ne humare bank se business loans and overdraft limit li thi uski reapyment date nikal gayi abhi tak loan ka repayment nahi hua hai agar 7 days mein repayment nahi hoga to hume vasantji k saare bank accounts aur lockers seal karne honge"

Panba was shocked tp hear this news she knew vasant's deadth will create a financial turbulence but this was least expected panba in panicstate said "par manager sahab aap tp jante vasant ko gaye abhi ek mahina bhi puara nahi hua hai agar aap hume kuch time de de de to"

Bank manager " mrs modi I wished aisa kuch ho par hume rules and regulations follow karne hi padege"

Panba said to "kya humara ghar aur business bhi seize ho jayega"

Manager "ji nahi vasantji ne loans banks accounts aur apke locker k against liya tha..hume sirf un accounts and locker se hi matlab hai..aap jald se jald business loan repay karne ka intzaam kar lijeye"

And manager left

Panaba was worried she inquired yogesh who was the research scientist and confidante of vasant about the business condition

Yogesh said in despair " auntyji apse jhoot nahi bolna chahta business k condition thek nahi hai...vasant sir k jaane baad humare competitors ne humare bahut saare business clients chin liye aur jin clients ne hume orders diya hai unka order pura karne k liye humare pass funds nahi hai...we are going through a rough phase"

Panba asked "aur financers aur investors"

Yogesh replied "ji wo bhi ek ek karke apna paisa nikal rahe hain sab kuch vasant sir se connected tha ab humare business mein paisa lagna waale log bhi nahi hai..."

Panba replied sadly "mein samajh sakti hun...mere pass itna cash nahi k bank loan aur business funds arrange kar saku haan vasant k insurance policies..meine humare insurance agents se baat k..unhone kaha k insurance amount bahut bada hai pehle pure tarah se accident k investigation hogi uske baad hi fund release kar paayenge..in sab mein kareb 5 -6 month lag jaayenge"

Yogesh replied "itna waqt hum business ko nahi de sakte...agar halat aise rahe to...
and then he didn't speak

Panba was shocked yogesh stood and walked he saw kesar and rewa they were listening the whole conversation?..

Vasant was not only the dearest member...but the only breadwinner of the family...his sudden demise was the emotional and financial blow to the family

Panaba raman and kesar tried to arrange the fund...they asked every known person for help but the attempts were in vain...and bank sealed all the bank accounts and lockers of vasant panba kesar and rewa

After a week yogesh returned in modi house he looked worried and tensed he talked to panba and kesar he said "aunty company bahot loss mein jaa rahi hai, ek mahine se saare emloyers k salary due hai, creditors bhi bahot ho gaye hai samajh nahi aa raha mei kya karu"

Panba didn't said anything she went inside and brought all the cash, jewellery she had kept for herself and rewa she handed it to yogesh and said " vasant k rehte hue is company mein koi daag nahi tha uske jaane k baad bhi koi daag nahi rehna chahiye yeh jewellery aur cash le lo aur jitne bhi employees and aur creditors unka paisa unhe de do."

Kesr looked at her helpless

He asked yogesh "yogesh bha ab company aur factory ka kya hoga

Yogesh said in distress "ab factory ko band karne k siwa humare pass aur koi raasta nahi hai"

Kesar couldn't bear this news he went outside and cried bitterly

yogesh settled all the debt and salary of the employees and the factor was locked so was the vasant dreams

panba was tensed and worried panba had spent past one month coping with the crisis her family had undegone.this moment was the first time she had for the momentus impact of the event to hit her. What would she do now...she was lonely she was acutely grief sticken she was worried about her two children ,both of whom were seriously affected by vasant's death..she paicked

one day panba ws counting the money she had left with rewa came to her and said "panba humare pass ab jyada paise nahi hai?na"

panba replied sadly" tum chinta mat karo mein hu na mein kuch intzaam kar lungi"

rewa "panba mein janti hun ab humare pass ghar k kharch ko chalane k liye bhi jyada paise nahi hai. Mein job dhoondh rahi hun baa shayad achi job mil jaaye"

panba put her hands on her head , rewa continued " panba hum yeh ghar kyu nahi sale"

panba interrupted in between" nahi rewa yeh hargiz nahi ho sakta yeh ghar vasant ka hi nahi motabha k bhi sapna hai meine dekha tha motabha kaise din raat ek karke is ghar ko banaya hai mein ise nahi bech sakti is ghar k ek ek saman mein vasant aur motabha k yaadein hain hum koi raasta dhondh lenge...though she said to console her daughter but she knew now she didn't have the sufficient money to run the houshold expenses

next morning panba came to raman's room, raman offered her chair

panba said raman..."tum to jante ho vasant k jane k baad humari financial position kuch thek nahi hain bank ne humare saare banks accounts aur locker seal kar diye aur cash aur jewellery thi wo business k karz chukane mein kharch ho gaye hain...rewa job dhundh rahi hai mein bhi kuch kaam karne k soch rahi hun...tab tak agar tumhare pass kuch paise ho to".she speak hesistaley.".mein waapas kar dungi"

raman was in tears to hear it he said "panba mein apka beta hun aap mujhse kaise baat kar rahi hai vasant k jaane k baad saari responsibilty meri hai...mere hote aapko paiso k baare mein fikr karne k jarurat nahi hai"

and he took some money from the almirah and was about to give it to panba but sudha came in between she stopped raman

she said "raman yeh kya kar rahe ho tum"

raman said "sudha tum beech mein mat pado"

sudha said "kyu na bolo"

she continued "vasant k antim sanskar mein humara kitna kharcha ho gaya aur phir tumne apni saari saving bhi bank k karz mein chuka di..aur ab jo thodhe bahuit paise bache hai use bhi tum in logo ko de doge"

panba was hurt to hear it

raman shouted "yeh log mera parivaar hai meine apni parivaar k liye kiya hai "

sudha "aur mein aur sunny...kya yeh tumhara parivaar nahi hai...agar tum sab in logo par luta doge to humare liye kya bachega aur phir sunny k school uski fees kaise hoga yeh sab...raman tum ek freelance writer ho koi bahut bade businessman nahi tumahare salary mein kaise guzara karti hun yeh sirf mein jaanti hun...mein tumhe aisa nahi karne dungi"

raman was boiling in anger he shouted at the top the voice he said "mein abhi zinda hun san intzaam kar lunga"

sudha cried "to phir sab de do aur laa do hume raste par and she took out her gold bangles panba aap yeh bhi le leijye ab to khush haina na aap"

panba was shocked and she had tears in her eyes with wet eyes she said " nahi sudha raman k paise par sirf tumhara aur sunny ka haq hai mujhe maaf kardo mujhe nahi pata tha tum logo ko bhi financial problem hai nahi to mein yanha kabhi nahi aati"

then she turned to raman and said "raman sudha sahi kah rahi hai yeh paise sunny k kaam aayenge fikr mat karo mein koi intzaam kar lungi"

raman was ashamed with th sudha's behaviour and sudha didn't moved..panba left the room...unknowingly that kesar had heard all the conversation from outside the room he didn't felt so helpless and frustrated in his life he was ashamed of himself he left the house immediately...

meanwhile in pune gulaal was vulnerable she was like a living dead...the girl who was livid cheerful few months back was now colourless...for her day night food happiness counted no more she was living but her soul was dead...

one day she was standing outside her window

poonam came and said tumahare liye phone hai modi hospital se

gulaal received the call...dushyant was on the other side

dushyant asked "gulaal kaise ho"

gulaal said "thek"

dushaynt said "mein janta hun tum par kya gujar rahi hogi par honi ko kaun taal sakta hai

She paused and said "aapne phone kaise kiya"

dushyant gulaal" tumhare saare pateint ko mein attend kar raha haun ward no 11 ka pateint case discuss karna tha who humari treatment ko respond nai kar raha"

gulaal said "ji aap chinta mat kariye mein kal hospital aa jaungi wanhi discuss kar lenge"

and gulaal ended the call

poonam who was listening the whole converstion asked " kal tum mumbai jaa rahi ho"

gulaal said "ji maa hospital ka kuch kuch hai socha jaakar khatam kar lu"

poonam "to kya apne ghar bhi jaugi"

gulaal "pata ahi maa" she paused "maa wanha vasant k bahut saari yaadein hain pata nahi wanha jaakar un yaadeino ka samna kaise kar paungi".and she broke down...poonam wanted to console her but she couldn't she queitly took her into her arms

next morning gulaal went to modi hospital she was heading towards her cabin and she heard her colleague voice and she stopped outside his cabin it was doctor seithi who was shouting at a person" aap log humara time waste kyu karte hain jab aapko aapke products k baare mein thek se jankaari nahi hai to kyu aate hain yanha

the other person requested " plz doctor aap meri puri baat to sun lejiye aaj meri job ka pehla din hai isliye...plz aap pure baat"

doctor said "mein kya karu agar pehla din hai abhi yanha se jau aur jab job karne k liye ready ho to aana"

and he asked to the man to leave his cabin

gulaal was listening the whole conversation she saw the man coming out of the cabin in distress

he was kesar...gulaal and kesar looked at each other kesar she was shocked to see kesar...

Chapter 11

gulaal asked kesar "tum yanha?..aur yeh sab kya hai"

kesar replied " maine ek parmaceutical company mein medical representative k job kar li hai?doctor ko presentation dene aaya tha.

Gulaal looked at him and said chalo mere cabin mein

She took him to her cabin

In cabin

Kesar asked " aap theek hai"

Gulaal said in haste " meri chodo tum mujhe batao yeh sab tum kay kar rahe ho

Kesar remained silent

Gulaal continued" tumhe apni padhai par dhyaan dena chihiye tumhe job karne k kya jarurat hai "

Kesar said "meine faisla liya hai ab mein apni padhai puri nahi karunga mein job karunga"

Gulaal was shocked she remembered vasant had said to her that kesar is his biggest dream he wants him to be a sucessful educated and respected person like him

Gulaal said in a sock "what? Tum pagal ho gaye ho...tum jante ho tum kya kah rahe ho...tum abhi undergraduate ho tum is tarah apni padhai kaise chod sakte ho...tum jante ho na vasant ka sapna tha tumhe bahot educated aur successful person bante hue dekhne kya tum aisa kaise kar sakte ho"

Kesar interrupted "is samay meri padhai se jyada jaruri mera parivaar hai...mere parivaar ko meri jarurat hai.mujhe unhe support karna hai...is samay mein apne aur vasantbha k sapne k baare mein nahi soch sakta"

Gulaal asked "matlab mein kuch samjhi nahi. kya hua"

Kesar then expalined whole situaition to gulaal

Gulaal was shocked to hear this

To some extent gulaal knew about the happening she had received the bank letter informing that her joint account was sealed but she didnt realize the gravity of the situation... now she was feeling guilty that she wasn't there with her family wen her family was going through the rough times she remebered she had promised vasant that she will always take care of his family...how was she so indifferent these days?

She was in tears to hear it

She said "itna kuch ho gaya tumne mujhe kuch nahi bataya...mujhe itna paraya kar diya"

She continued "kesar mere hote tumhe yeh sab karne k koi jarurat nahi hai mein ho mein sab sambhal lungi"

Kesar said "plz bura nahi maniyega par mein apse help nahi le sakta...ab mere parivaar k jimmedaari mujh par hain mein kar lunga"

Gulaal said in between "nahi kesar mein apni baat nahi kar rahi hun ?.mein vasant k baat kar rahi rahi hun..tumhe kyu lagta hai k vasant tum logo k liye kuch bhi nahi sochenge aur tum logo ko secure nahi karenge?.unhone mere pass kuch investment aur kuch paise rekhe ?.unhone yeh paise apne parivaar k liye bachaye the?..wo paise aur usese mila interest itna hai ki humari saari financial problems solve ho sakti hain"

Kesar looked at gulaal with hope

Gulaal said in the soft voice trust me" tum sirf apni padhai par dhyaan do?vasant ka sapna tumhe pura karna hai kesar apne vasantbha k liye tum apni padhai par dhyaan do"

Gulaal continued " kesar, panba se kehna unki bahu kal ghar aa rahi hun mujhe kal lene aa jana."

Kesar noded his head

Kesar was about to leave gulaal said "kesar agar mujhe jara sa bhi apna mante ho to tum yeh job chod doge"

Gulaal and kesar looked at each other and then he left

In evening gulaal reachd her home she told her mother about the whole situation?..poonam was sad to hear the financial crisis of the modi's family..gulaal started packing her bags

Poonam asked " kya tumhe sach mein vasant ne paise diye the

Gulaal replie "nahi maa mere pass koi paise nahi hai infact mere jo bhi paise aur jewellery thi wo vasant k saath joint account me tha wo sab bhi bank ne seal kar diya hai"

Poonam said "tum kaho to mein kuch paise de du"

Gulaal "nahi maa iski jarurat nahi hai apki beti doctor hai mere salary itni hai k usese mera ghar kharch aur kesar k padhai puri ho sakti hai"

Poonam asked "par tumne jhooth kyu bola"

Gulaal said " maa agar mein jhooth nahi bolti to kesar kabhi mujhse help nahi leta mein janti hun panba aur kesar bahut khuddar hain unhe pata chal gaya to mujhse kabhi bhi paise nahi lenge"

Poonam said "to tum wanha jaana chahiti ho"

Gulaal "haan maa wo mera parivaar hai wanha k log mere apne vasant k jaane k baad unse mera rishta khatam nahi hua hai mein apne parivaar k saath nibhane jaa rahi hun?maa unko meri jarurat hai aur mujhe bhi.."

She continued "maa vasant ne mujhse vada liye tha mein unke parivaar ka khayal rakhungi aur unke sapno ko pura karne mein saath dungi vasant to nahi hain bas ab unka sapna hai mujhe use pura karna hai"

Poonam said "aur tune apne baare mein kya socha "

Gulaal "sochna kya hai maa mere saare sapne saare ummede saare khushiyaan vasant k saath jaa chuki hai meri zindagi mein to kuch bhi nahi hai...bas ab yeh parivaar aur uski khushiyaan hi mere jeene ka maksad hai...shayyad bhagwaan ne us accident mein mujhe

Isliye bachaya taaki mein vasant ka sapna pura kar saku"

She said in cracked voice "maa mein vasant ka sapna pura jarur karungi kisi bhi kimat par"

and she remembered vasant dream..."rewa k shaadi ache ghar mein ho jaaaye aur kesar wo padh likh kar mujhse bhi jyada suceessful insaan ban jaaye bas yahi sapna hai mera mera yeh sapna oura ho jaaye mujhe shaanti mil jaayegi"

next morning panba was sitting in her room rewa came

panba called her in rewa sat beside her and said "panba paiso ka kuch intzaam hua"

panba said " ho jayega "

rewa " maa meine ek school mein job k liye apply kiya hai shayyad ek do din mein call aa jaaye.

panba "acha kiya par chinta mat kar..maine yogesh se kaha hai wo vasant k car k liye ek achi deal de dega...use bech kar kuch paise aa jayenge"

she said sadly" vasant ko yeh car kitni pasand thi?..socha tha uski har cheez sambhal kar rakhungi par"

sudha who was lisening the conversation had some scheme in her mind she knocked the door and said "panba mein andar aa sakti hun"

rewa overlooked her panba called her in

sudha gave her some money " panba yeh kuch paise le lijeye"

panba refused "nahi sudha yeh tumhare paise hai sunny k kaam aayenge tum chinta mat karo hum manage kar lenge"

sudha "panba aap mujhse naaraz haina"

panba said affectionately "nahi naarazgi ki koi baat nahi hai tumhe apne bhavisya k baare mein sochne ka pura haq hai mein bilkul naaraz nahi hun

sudha said "rakh lijeye naa mein bhi to apki beti hun apko meri kasam"

panab didnt said anything

sudha continued "waise yogesh mujhe raasta mein mila tha kah raha tha ap vasant k car bech rahi hain"

panba "haan halat k aage kisi ka zor nahi chalta"

sudha said "wo to theek hai panba par car bech kar bhi kitna paisa aa jayega jyada se jayada 2-3 lakh?".

She continued "panba apke aage bahut saari jimadaari hai kesar k padhai aur rewa k shaadi aur ghar kahrch yeh sab itne paise mein kaise ho ga"

panba looked tensed she knew sudha was right

panba said "haan sudha par aur kya kar sakti hun"

sudha said hestitately "a?.aap chahe to yeh ghar bech?"

panba interrupted "hargiz nahi yeh ghar motabha k amanat hai mein ise bech nahi sakti

sudha said "haan panba sahi kah rahi hai aap...ap yeh ghar kisi bahar waalo ko to mat becheiye par kisi apne ko to bech sakti hain"

panba asked "matlab"

sudha "panba raman aur mein aapke bete k tarah hain kyu na aap yeh ghar hume de deti hain...she said "dekhiye naa aisa karke yeh ghar parivaar mein hi rehega modi house motabha k amanat bhi bani rahegi aur apko paise bhi mil jaayenge"

sudha continued "mein to yuhi aapko saare paise de deti par yeh paise mere papa k hai unhone kaha k wo pasie tabhi denge jab aap raman k naam par property likh de?..aap to janti hain baa mujhe koi lalach nahi hai mein to sirf aapki bhalai k liye kah rahi hun?"

panba was in deep thought she knew sudha was taking advantage of her situation but at this moment she had no other option she was about to give her consent ?.suddenly she heard the voice

"iski koi jarurat nahi hai sudha bhabhi "..

sudha and panba looked behind they saw gulaal and kesar standing

gulaal came near to her "sudha bhabhi acha laga aapne humare baare mein socha par ab apko jyada sochne k jarurat nahi hai ishwar sab thek kar denge" and she handed her the money that she gave it to panba and said "yeh sunny k liye rakh lijeye uske kaam aayenge"

sudha left in anger

panba and rewa were happy to see gulaal , gulaal touched her feet rewa and panba hugged gulaal they were crying?gulaal wiped their tears and said "panba ab pareshaan hone k jarurat nahi hai apko ?mein aa gayi hun naa sab thek ho jayega"

panba said "gulaal kanha chali gayi thi hume chod kar kitne akele ho aye the hum sab

gulaal said" ab aa gayi huna ab kabhi nahi jaungi" they hugged and were trying to console each other?kesar was standing outside the room he was crying outside quietly

late afternoon kesar told panba about vasant's money and invsetment that was with gulaal

gulaal was in her room she was arranging her clothes?panba came inside the room and said "gulaal"

gulaal turned behind and said "panba aayie naa"

panba said gulaal "sach sach bata kya vasant ne sach mein tujhe koi paise diye the"

gulaal was nervous she tried to tell lie "haan panba vasant ne?mujhe"

panba said "gulaal jhoot bolne k jarurat nahi hai mujhe pata hai aisa kuch nahi hai tu jhooth bol rahi hai"

gulaal didnt speak a word

panba said " gulaal galat mat samjhna par mein tujhse pasie nahi le sakti"

gulaal said "kyu panba kyu nahi kya mein is apki k beti nahi kya mera aapse, is ghar se koi rishta nahi"

panba said "aisi baat nahi hai ?beta wo tere paise hai tere kaam aayenge mein nahi le sakti"

gulaal said wih tears in her eyes "panba yeh paise mere kuch kaam k nahi hai mein apni khushi se apni paise apne ghar ko dena chahiti hun?.mein apke aage haath jodti hun mujhe yeh karne dijeye mein vasant ko to nahi laa sakti par unka sapna to zinda rakh sati huna vasant ka sapna hai kesar aur rewa ko ek achi life dene ka, panba mujhe yeh sapna pura karne dijyeye?bahut dino baad mujhe meri zindagi jeena ka maksad mila hain mujhse mera maksad pura karne dijeye panba"

panba looked the determination in her eyes and couldn't say anything

gulaal said "panba aap kesar ko yeh baat mat batana use yeh baat kabhi nahi pata chalna chahiye"

panab noded her head and left

days passed and gulaal took all the responsibilites on her shoulder

one day phone rang gulaal picked up

the girl at other end said kesar modi hain

gulaal said "nahi wo kahi bahar gaya hai koi message ho to bata dijeye"

girl said " mujhe unski dance class mein enroll karna tha college se uska number mila aap kah dijiyega madhu ka phone tha"

gulaal put the phone back and called vicky about kesar dance classes?.vicky told her that kesr has joined a dance school as dance instructor and then he.gave her address

gulaal reached in the given address she went in the dance class and saw kesar was teaching dance to some student...she stood there and waited for the class to get over?..

afert class get over she came near to kesar , kesar was suprsied to see gulaal

gulaal said "kesar meine tumhe job karne se mana kiya tha na phiir tum yeh sab kyu kar rahe ho"

keasr said "yeh part time job hai?2-4 hrs k hi classes hai .college k baad aaramse manage kar leta hun aur phir dance mera passion bhi hai is bahane mera shaukh bhi pura ho raha hai aur kuch paise bhi mil jaayenge"

gulaal said "paise k fikr tum kyu kar rahe ho meine tumhe vasant k paiso k baare mein bataya tha"

kesar said "haan par wo paise rewa k shaadi k kaam aayenge?jo bhi thodha bahut milega wo ghar k chote mote kharch mein kaam aa jayenge"

kesar said "plz mujhe karne dijye"

gulaal looked into his eyes...kesar was suddenly grownup and matured...vasant deadth has made him a responsible man

kesar and gulaal were supporting their family in their own way

2 moth passed

to some extent gulaal had cover up the financial loss of the family but what about the emotional loss.the place that was home once..was now a house as slient as barren land as griefstricken as graveyard house has lost its soul, a stricken silence falls over the sudden emptiness that no one fill again. And all the noises that were made later in that house was like a scandalous din, ugly echoes from one room to another, from one corridor to another, sharp and discordant as if the walls are no longer able to absorb any music once the source of harmony has been taken away

how many times kesar stared blankly at vasant bha dining chair and his plate with the hope that a vasantbha will come to feed him but noone came and kesar had left his food uneaten.how may times rewa cried looking all those gifts vasant had given her in rakhi..how many times panba had called vasant name unknowingly and kesar and rewa came running in the hope that some miracle had taken place and their vasantbha have come from the deathland?but noone came their hopes were dashed and the silence of barren land prevalied

and then was gulaal who always had tears in her eyes but she never cried infront of her family member There was a sacredness in tears. They were not the mark of weakness, but of power.. They were the messengers of overwhelming grief... and unspeakable love...she never cried infront of everyone but cried all alone...only one person to witness it... kesar, who noticed her from distance who saw her breaking down who saw her in bereavement in grief in pain...

one day kesar was feeling very low he was missing his vasntbha he searched for vcd that contained the memory of his vasantbha..strange there were so many vcd but no one never looked at it..but today he wanted to refresh his memories ..he played vcd and sat in the sofa he saw his vasantbha...he saw his vasantbha teaching him to walk .he saw vasant holding his hand and make him walk slowly slowly he saw his vasantbha leaving his hand in middle and with open arms called him "aaja kesu jaldi aa jaa vasantbha k pass" and he came running in his arm..he saw vasntbha palying hide and seek with him he saw vasantbha playing toy gun with kesar he saw his vasantbha acting like a deadman as kesar aimed toygun at him and wen he kesar got frightened vasantbha started laughing, saying don't worry I m here...he saw his vasantbha hugging him wen kesar was afraid with crackers noise vasant put his hand on his head and said don't worry I m here...he saw his vasantbha bringing lots of gifts for him even wen he didn't asked just to see kesar happy...kesar was looking at it and sobbing bitterly...

I would have loved you then. Had I known,
I would have asked less questions...
Followed my heart a little more.
Had I known one day you'd be gone,
and I couldn't show you anymore.
I'd have lived each moment as if it were the last.
Remember every word... not let time go by so fast.
But I was wrapped in my own image,
afraid to let it show,
But now I wish I loved you.
Why couldn't I know that you would leave me,
and I'd be caught in the past.
In the moments I could have changed,
the times that were your last.
I would have lived a lifetime in a few short days.
Instead I have a few brief moments,
that I let my heart show.
Memories of a love that I refused to know,
until it was almost too late.
Then it was over, and I was all alone.
In a daze, I wonder...
Did you know I loved you all along?

He was crying...suddenly he saw gulaal standing there and looking at the vcd kesar quickly searched for remote to put it off?..but guaal asked him to continue?.and now gulaal was looking vcd with affection fondness and pain and kesar was looking gulaal..

at the point in the vcd vasant said "kesu kya tum meri recording karte rehto ho mein kanha jaa raha hun,??..mein kahin nahi jaunga mein hamesha tum logo k pass rahunga??"

gulaal heard this and she couldn't control herself she ran in her room and she broke down completely

kesar came behind her he wanted to console her but didn't have the strength he stand outside her room watching her crying and he shattered... the earth and the moon were miserable as their sunlight was no more with them he sat outside her room crying bitterly staring at vasant photo...who was talking to them

When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, as much as I love you,
And each time you think of me I know you'll miss me, too.
For all my life I'd always thought I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for and so much yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible that I am leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad,
I thougth of all the love we share and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, I thought, just for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see your smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be.
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.

So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart,
For everytime you think of me, I'm right here in your heart

Next morning panba called kesar.she said they have to do some pooja in the pitra paksh.every one got ready and headed for the pooja in banganga..they reached the destiantion kesar performed the rituals and pray for vasantbha...after pooja panba rewa and raman sat inside the car gulaal and kesar were also walking towards the car

They were walking together in the same direction in the same raod but in the two different ends they were walking lost in their thoughts and pain ??kesar looked at gulaal ..gulaal was walking quitely?..her duppata was half on her shoulder and half brushing on the road kesar bent down and lifted the duppata...he looked at gulaal an gave her duppatta an she took her white duppatta unknowingly the kumkum that was in kesar 's fingers had stained her duppatta red...

Chapter 12

one day panba recived call from poonam she inquired about rest of the family members and then asked for gulaal

panba said "gulaal hospital gayi hai aap cell mein laga liejeye"

poonam said "uska cell hamesha busy hota hai meine bahut baar try kiya par who hamesha busy rehti hai"

panba said "haan apne aap ko kaam mein busy karke apni dard ko bhulane k koshish kar rahi hain"

poonam said "par panba aise puri zindagi to nahi chal sakti naa"

panba said "poonamji bahut dino se man mein ek baat chal rahi thi...kyun naa hum gulaal ki dusari shaadi k baat chalaye"

poonam said "panba mein bhi yahi chahiti hun ki meri beti k jeevan mein rang phir se aa jaye par mein gulaal ko janti hun wo kabhi raji nahi hogi"

panba said "aap chinta mat kijeye mein manaa lungi"

poonam said "jaisa aap thek samjhe"

and she ended the call

next day kesar was in his dance school tiya came and said "kesar chalo kanhi bahar ghum k aate hain"

kesar said "nahi abhi nahi abhi mood nahi hai"

tiya said "oh common kesar tum kabhi bhi mere saath nahi chalte ho hum log kanhi bahar nahi gaye itne dino se...chalo na kesar"

kesar was angry he said in frustration "r u mad tiya mere life mein itna sab kuch ho gaya aur tumhe ghumne k padi hui hai...mein sirf apne padhai aur apne parivaar k support karne k baare mein concentrate karna chahta hun"

tiya replied angrily tum pure samay sirf apni padhai aur is classes mein busy rehto agar tumhe mera saath pasand nahi hai to y don't we break up

kesar in anger said "fine do whatever u want to...I don't care"

and he left her

kesar returned home he was walking towards his room..panba called him "kesar"

kesar came in drawing room panba was sitting with a match maker she gave some photo and biodata to panba and she was looking them

kesar came and sit beside panba

panba continued "kesar yeh suman ji hai yeh ek matrimony chaliti hain kuch photo layi hai"

kesar said in between "photo kiske liye panba"

panba said "gulaal k liye"

kesar was surprised to hear it

kesar looked at panba, panba said "kesar mein gulaal k dusari shaadi k baare mein soch rahi hun"

kesar said in low voice "yeh to bahot acha socha apne panba"

panba gave the photos to kesar

kesar looked at photos...as he went accros the photos and the biodata he lost his temper

he said angrily "yeh kis tarah k rishta le ke aayi hai yanha"

panba was shocked she asked restlessly "kya baat hai kesar tu itna naraz kyu ho gaya"

kesar said "naraz nahi hun to aur kya karo yeh dekhiye yeh koi rishta hai yeh photo dikheye iski umar 40 saal hai aur yeh pointing at other biodata iski 37...aur yeh 45 years k hain bache 15 saal k hai...yeh rishta leke aayi hai aap"

matchmaker said in between "dekhiye bura mat maniye par aap ek vidhwa k remarriage karwa rahe hain agar kuwari ladki hoti to mein ek se badh kar ek rishto k line laga deti par gulaal widow hai uske liye aise hi rishte milenge"

kesar interrupted "par wo abhi sirf 25 saal ki hai"

matchmaker said "isese koi farq nahi padta kesarji maaf kijeye ek vidhwa k jindagi sawarne bahut kam log aage aati hain...jitne jaldi aap is haqeeqat ko samjhe utna hi acha hoga..."

kesar looked at panba who turned her head down as she knew to an extent she was right..indain society is always partial to woman..ostracized by society they are forced to live a miserable life. They cannot remarry they must not wear jewellery and typically wear white. Even their shadow is considered black...lifelong mounting is imposed on them. The prespective of the society is same even in the educated circle...panba remembered how many eyebrows were raised wen panba insisted gulaal to wear colourful clothes...inspite living amoung the elite circle gulaal was avoided in ceremonial occasion in neighbourhood...

panba was silent as it was bitter but true..

kesar left the pace in frustration

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

gulaal was in the hospital.she was sitting in her cabin..dr dushyant came.dr dushyant was always there as a friend he asked to come in

gulaal called him in

dushyant "gulaal hamesha kaam mein busy rehti ho"

gulaal replied "kaam karto hun to man laga rehta hai aur phir rewa k shaadi k liye paise jodna hai isliye thodha extra work kar leti hun"

dushyant "gulaal apne baare mein bhi dhyaan dena shuru karu"

gulaal didn't speak

dushyant said "mein tumse kuch baat karna chahta hun"

he was about to say something suddenly gulaal's cellphone rang

gulaal recived the call... devika was on the other end

devika "gulaal bhabhi"

gulaal said "kaun"

devika said "mein devika "

gulaal said happily "arey devika kaisi ho talsagra mein sab kaise hain jamuna kaki gigaka diaba"

devika said "bhabhi sab ache hain bhabhi apko ek news deni thi meri shaadi fix ho gayi hai ise week hai"

gulaal said "yeh to bahot achi baat hai mein bahut khush hun"

devika said "bhabhi hum to rukna chahte the.vasantbha k shok manana chahete the par ladke waale jaldi kar rahe the"

gulaal said in low voice "nahi devika tum yeh sab baatein mat socho tum bas apni shaadi ki tayyari ache se karna"

devika said "ji bhabhi par aapko ana hai meine specially apko call kar k bula rahi hun aap aayengi naa"

gulaal said" haan jarur aaungi"

devika said "thanks bhabhi" and she ended the call

gulaal was exited to hear this

dushyant saw her he asked "kya baat hai bahut khush lag rahi ho"

gulaal said "duhyant ji meri nanad k shaadi tay ho gayi hai...mujhe ghar par jaake sabko batana hoga"

and she was about to leave the cabin she turned back "arey jaldi mei mein apki baat to bhul gayi..ap batayi aapko kya baat karni thi"

dushyant said "phir kabhi..."

gulaal said "ok"

gulaal reached home she shared this news with panba

panba said "mujhe pata hai jamuna ka phone aaya tha"

kesar also came home panba shared this news with kesar he was very happy to hear it

panba said "hum sabko aaj hi talsagra k liye nikal janna chahiye"

kesar said "panba kya mera jana jaruri hai"

panba said "kesar tujhe kya hua hai tujhe yeh jagah sabse jyaada pasand thi tu kyu mana kar raha hai,,,,kesar tu nahi jayega to devika ko bura lagega"

kesar didn't said anything

in the evening kesar panba rewa gulaal raman sudha and sunny started their journey for talsagra

they reached talsagra

talsagra is is the mixture of tranquillity serenity quietude and innocence. Alongwith numerous small and big grass field, several rivers, chirping of birds, swining of mango trees and a clear bkue sky gives a mesmerizing . captivating and bewitching effect to talsagra.

Everyone came out of the car...kesar was nostalgic to see the place...for him talsagra was the best place in the world he loves everything about talsagra his best childhood memories were present in this place...he came out of the car and moved towards the cowshed, his favourite place in the house...he remebered he and vasantbha played there..this was the place where they use to hide rewa's and devika's doll and sit on the pasteur waiting for rewa and devika...he saw the peepal tree under which he and vasant use to sit they use to eat imli and raw mango that they have stolen from daiba kitchen wen noone was there...he saw the varrandah where he and vasantbha use to play kancha (marbles) cricket , sitoliya

He saw the swing where both brothers use to swing and rewa and devika keep insisting them to make place for them but they never listened...he saw his bike..vasant has ordered this bike from the city so that kesr can roam in the village and kesar was so thrilled and exicted to see his bike that he pasted his initial on it so that noone touch his bike...he touched his bike and remebered those days wen he and vasant use to go for a long drive...everything was same same cowshed same peepal tree same verrandah same swing same bike...but vasant was not there...it was first time vasant was not with him in their favourite place talsagra...he was remembering his old memories...he heard diaba calling him and he went inside

Diaba greeted panba rewa gulaal kesar..kesar and gulaal touched her feet and seek ashirwaad

Meanwhile devika came our and kesar rewa and gulaal surrounded her

Diaba then talked to panba

Daiba asked "Kaisi ho panba"

Panba said "achi hun aap"

Daiba said "mujhe pata hai tum khush nahi ho vasant ko gaye char mahine bhi pure nahi hue aur hum is tarah devika k shaadi karwa rahe hai par panba ladkewaale"

Panba said "diaba mujhe pata hai...devika k liye bahut khush hun"

Everyone was happy except jamuna kaki

She called devika and asked "gulaal ko yanha kisne bulaya"

Devika said "baa meine bulaya hai"

Jamuna kaki "arey akal nahi hai kya dekh yeh vidhwa hai kahin koi apshagun naa ho jaaye"

Devika said "baa aap yeh kya kah rahi ho meri shaadi mein gulaal bhabhi ka hone bahot jaruri hai aur mein yeh apshagun nahi manti "and she left

Unknowingly two ppl have heard the comversation kesar and gulaal

All their happiness evaporated...they didn't said a word as they didn't want to hurt anyone they quietly went to their room

Gulaal remain silent as she was accoustomed to such tuants and humiliation but kesar was deeply hurt with such sort of talk...

Jamuna kaki went to panba's room

Panba greeted her

Panba said "jamuna kaisi hai tu"

Jamuna said "mein thek hun panba par aap yeh kya kar rahi hain"

Panba asked "kya kar rahi hun"

Jamuna said "aapne gulaal ko apne ghar kyu rakha hua hai"

Panba "kyu jamuna kya galat hai isme"

Jamuna "galat hai gulaal ka apna ghar hai wo wanha jaa kar kyu nahi rehti panba vasant aur gulaal sirf 15 din saath saath rahe hai kya aap saari zindagi ise apne saath rakhegi"

Panba said "wo gulaal ka ghar hai wo jabtak rehna chahe reh sakti hai"

Jamuna "thek hai panba par itna yaad rakhiye jawan khubsoorat vidhwa ka is tarah ghar mein rehna sahi nahi hai koi oounh neech ho jaye to kahiyega nahi"

After their arrival...various ceremony took place in the house gulaal and kesar attended those function half heartedly...gulaal knew jamuna kaki was unhappy with her she leave no stone to humiliate her...she reamined silent...but she was aware a pair of eyes continously followed her

It was sangeet night morning everyone was in dining area devika said gulaal bhabhi aaj mera sangeet ka function hai aaj aap mere saath khub dance kariyega

Gulaal said haan jarur

Jamuna kaki said "yeh kya kah rahi ho gulaal janti nahi tum vidhwa ho tum is tarah ki baat kaise kar sakti ho"

Kesar was passing by hear the conversation and lost his temper

Kesar "jamuna kaki yeh aap kya kah rahi hain?..jab se hum yanha aaye hain aap sirf yahi shabd duhra rahi hai agar itna hi bura lag raha tha to hume bulana hi nahi chahiye tha apko is tarah baat karne ka koi haq nahi hai"

Gulaal interrupted "kesar bado se aisi baat nahi karte" mat bhulo jamuna kaki badi hai tumse

Kesar looked back in anger and said "mein to sirf yeh bhul gaya yeh badi hai par jamuna kaki to yeh bhul chuki hai k aap ek insaan hai"

Jamuna yelled "kesar"

Kesar left the place in anger

Gulaal came near and apologised she promised jamuna she will not attend the ceremony

In evening Kesar was in his room he was restless and boiling in anger

Gulaal came in his room

Kesar looked at her and said "mujhe sangeet function mein jaane k liye mat keheyega"

Gulaal came near and said "hum yanha devika k khushi k liye aaye hain "

Kesar replied "par apni respect ko stake par mujhe koi khushi nahi celebrate karni"

Gulaal said in low voice "jamuna kaki ki galti nahi hai yeh humare samaj k soch hai jamuna kaki samaj se alag nahi hai"

Kesar replied angrily "to hell with the society and to hell with the people I don't care"

Kesar was angry

Gulaal said "kesar agar tum nahi jaoge to devika ko bura lagega"

Kesar didn't said anything

Gulaal said "acha devika k liye nahi mere liye chale jao?.tum jaoge to mujhe khushi hogi"

Kesar looked at her and noded his head

Unwillingly kesar went downstairs and stood in the corner...he was not interested in the function...jamuna kaki and matchmaker's words were troubling him

He was in deep thought

Gulaal was in her room she was weeping

suddenly her room's door opened with force

Kesar then turned to gulaal...she stood in the darkness quivering she was shaking in fear..kesar came closer he saw her clothes were torned he quickly looked for some some clothes in the terrace...and then he took off his shirt and wrap around gulaal

she was frightened bruised and hurt.gulaal was sobbing bitterly

kesar looked at her he was in tear too he didn't have the strength to console her kesar was standing in close proximity but didn't touch her he didn't hug he quiety stood infront of her...they shared their pain sorrow tears but remained silent

Balli who were still lying in the terrace saw kesar and gulaal standing too close to each other he thought for a sec and then took out his cellphone and took their pictures

Sukhi whispered in his ears "yeh kya kar raha hai"

Balli "saaari baad mein batunga chal yanha se"

Sukhi and balli run away

Kesar took gulaal to her room and assured her she was safe..and then left the room..gulaal was still fightened she continued crying until she fell asleep.

Kesar stood outside her room whole night as a guard as a shield

In morning gulaal woke and saw kesar standing with the cup of tea

She took tea after some time kesar said "chaliye hum sabko yeh saari baate bata de

Gulaal who was still panic sticken said "nahi iski koi jarurat nahi"

Kesar objected "kyu nahi?.un logo ko saaza milne hi chahiye agar aap nahi batyengi to mein batunga"

Gulaal stopped him and said "nahi kesar meri wajah se waise se hi bahut saari problems ho raahi hai mein nahi chahiti devika ko meri wajha se koi takleef ho yeh mauka nahi hai in sab baaton ka?.devika k khushi k liye hum chup rehna hoga"

Kesar stood silent for while and then said "thek par ab hum yanha nahi rukenge aap apne bags pack kar lijeye hum log aaj hi yanha se jaa rahe hain"...he said firmly

Gulaal and kesar were packing their bags

At the same time sukhi and balli were plotting something big sukhi asked "tune kal pictures kyu li un dono ki"

Balli said "bas dekhta jaa kal ka badla mein un duno se kaise leta hun..samaj mein muh dikhane layak nahi chodunga dono ka"

Kesar and gulaal packed their bags and came downstairs?.diaba and devika had gone for some shopping

Kesar and gulaal asked panba for the permission to go back to mumbai

Panba asked "par achanak tum log kyu jaa rahe ho"

Gulaal said "panba hospital mein kuch emergency aa gayi hai aur kesar k college mein bhi kuch test ho rahe hain isliye jaana jaruri hai"

Gigaka said "par diaba aur devika ko aane dete"

Kesar said "nahi gigaka der ho jayegi mein devika se phone par baat kar lunga"

Jamuna kaki was happy she said "han han jaana hai to jao kaam jaruri hai"

Kesar and gulaal touched the feet and seek their blessing they were about to leave

And they heard

"Itni jaldi kya hai jaane ki pehle humare kuch bhet to sweekar kijeye" balli and sukhi entered the house with the bundle of pictures

Kesar filled with anger he came near and said in anger " tu yanha kya kar raha hai,bola tha na yanha nahi aana"

Balli" bas akhiri baar aaya hun do minute de do phir khud hi chala jaunga"

Jamuna kaki asked "balli kanha chala gaya tha aur yeh kya le kar aaya hai"

Balli " kuch tasveer dekhani thi aap sabko"

Sukhi distrubuted the pictures to every member present in the house he distributed the pictures that were taken last night, pictures of kesar and gulaal standing close together, pictures of two innocent ppl who were vitim of the situation, pictures that convey different meaning today

All eyes rolled up panba rewa gigaka jamuna kaki sudha bhabhi and other ppl present in the house were shocked

Kesar and gulaal were numbed puzzled and shocked

crowd started whispering "ram ram yeh kya anarth dekh rahe hein hum"

"Devar aur bhabhi k aisa sambandh...aisa rishta"

'kaisa zamana aa gaya hai pati k jaane k baad hi bhabhi aur devar aisa gul khila rahe hai"

gulaal was shocked pale bloodless dead seeind those pictures

kesar lost his temper he threw the snaps and went straight to balli he hold his collar and said "galati ki jo tujhe chod diya tujhe to kal hi maar dena chahiye"

he was about to punch him jamuna kaki came intervened " ise kyu maar raha hai kesar, sirf isliye kyunki isne tum dono k besharami sabke saamne laa di"

balli said "hain mausi hum to sirf yehi batana chah rahe the devar aur bhabhi k aad mein kaun se rishta nibhaya jaa raha hai"

gulaal said "yeh jhoot hai mera vishwaas kijeye she ran to panba and said panba mera vishwaas kijeye aisa kuch bhi nahi hai yeh log yeh tansveeri sab jhoti hain"

jamuna kaki said in between "bas kar, panba meine aap se pehle hi kaha tha na is ladki ko apne ghar par mat rakhiye dekha kya rang dikhaye hain..aur aapko isko sheh dijyeye aapka hi galati hai jo aaj hume yeh din dekhna pad raha hai isne wo kiya hai jise hume kehte hue bhi sharm aa rahi hai"

kesar shouted in between "kuch nahi kiya hai unhone, balki kal yeh balli aur sukhi hi inke saath galat harkat kar rahe the "

kesar hold balli's collar and said "bata, bata abhi sabko sachai kya hai"

balli said "yeh kya kah rahe hai kesarji humne kya kiya hai"

jamuna kaki "khabardaar kesar jo tumne mere bhanje par apna paap dalne ki koshish ki ek to khud aisi ghatia harqat karte ho aur dusare par ilzaam dalto ho"

kesar was in tears he cried "jamuna kaki aap aisa kaise soch sakti hai yakeen kijeye mera meine kuch nahi kiya hai kal in dono inke saath badtameezi ki thi meine sirf bachaya tha aur wo darri hui thi mein bas unka honsla badha raha tha"

jamuna kaki "wah kya kahani banayi hai kya khub raasta dhundha hai apne paap ko chupane ka"

gulaal shattered completely everyone was looking at her with disdain

sudha bhabhi said in between "isko kyun kah rahi hai jamuna kaki yeh to bacha hai par gulaal hey bhagwaan ise ek pal bhi sharam nahi aayi aisa karte hue. Wah panba kya ladki dhoondhi hai aapne ek bhai ko gaye hue 3 mahine bhi poore nahi hue k dusare bhai k saath yeh sab shuru kar diya"

gulaal was shocked to hear such accusations she couldn't take it anymore she said "bas jitna sunana tha sun liya meine ab mein aur kiski baat nahi sunugi agar aap logo ko mujh par vishwaas nahi hai to mein yanha aur nahi ruk sakti mein yanha se jaa rahi hun mujhe mei"

sudha bhabhi said "kya hoga tum yanha se chali jaugi tumhe kya lagta hai tumhari yeh harqat tumhara peecha asaani se chod dogi tum chahe kanhi bhi chali jao gulaal tumhara kala sach nahi chupega logo ko ko tumhari asliyat pata chal chuki hai, socho tumahre maa papa par kya guzeregi jab unhe pata chalega unki beti ne kya kiya hai. Kaise nazre milyange samaz se. unka uthna beithna sab mushkil ho jayega kya karenge kaise jeenge"

gulaal looked at sudha whose eyes were reflecting the revenge gulaal had once snatched a golden oppurntunity to take ove modi house she was determined to take revenge.gulaal broke down completely

kesar cried aap "sab log plz meri baat par yakeen kijyeye panba gigaka rewa koi to yakeen karo mera humne kuch bhi nahi kiya hai"

panba and rewa were helpless and miserable they didn't know how to react

panba said "jamuna ho sakta hai kesar sach kah raha hai"

jamuna said" kitna sach hai wo to tasveer mein saaf dikhayi de raha hai dekha aapne dono kareeb khede hai"

kesar furiosly said "thek hai maan liya balli aur sukhi ne kuch bhi nahi kiya maan liya kal kuch bhi nahi hua tha...to ab aap batayi kya galat hai k agar ek devar ek bhabhi ko dilasa de kya galat hai agar ek ladka ek ladki ko hausla de aap log tansveer mei dekh lijye mein sirf ek ladki ka dukh baat raha tha kya galat hai isme batayie"

jamuna said "galat hai bahut galat hai ek ladki k itna kareeb sirf uska pati rah sakta hai ek ladki sirf pati k saath hi itne nazdeek rah sakti hai "

kesar said "kyu jamuna kaki ek devar ek dost ek ladki k kareeb nahi rah sakte

jamuna "nahi hargeez nahi humara samaz mein ek ladki ka nazdeek ka rishta sirf uske pati k saath hota aur koi nazdeekiyan aur kisi k saath paap hota hai...galat hai kesar kyunki tu gulaal ka pati nahi hai tere naam ka sindoor nahi kesar tera aur gulaal ka rishta paap ka rishta hai ise samaj hum kabhi nahi sweekar kar sakte"

and sudha and jamuna keep on accusing gulaal who stood in the corner shattered and with tears

kesar was angry but now he was determined he looked at the sindoor thalli that was present in the temple and then remembered his vasantbha words "kesar aaj se gulaal teri zimmedaari mein naa hun to uska khayal rakhna rakhega na" he rembered jamuna kaki words "tere naam ka sindoor nahi hai gulaal k nahi hai tera rishta paap ka hai" remembering all those words he steadily went to the temple and pick sindoor in his hand and while everyone was accusing gulaal he came near to gulaal he looked at jamuna kaki and said "to aapko lagta hai mera rishta paap ka hai kyunki mere naam ka sindoor nahi hai thek hai and he put sindoor in gulaal's forehead with force and said "thek hai ab sindoor hai ab mere naam ka sindoor hai...ab ho gaya humara rishta pavitra...ab kisko koi problem hai is rishte se...ab sweekar hai apko yeh rishta"

gulaal was shocked she was mute she couldn't understand wht has happened in the fraction of second

so was the other member in the house

panba was furious and agitated she came near kesar and slapped him "yeh kya kiya tune sharm aati hai mujhe tujhe apna beta kahne mein yeh kya kar diya tune"

kesar who was not in himself looked at her in disbelief and then looked back at gulaal and sindoor and he drew back in fear he still couldn't belief wht he has done he was confused and frightened

meanwhile devika and diaba returned from shopping they got the news from a servant..servant explained them whole situation they run inside

panba was still mourning she still slapped kesar and said "yeh kya kar diya tune"

devika said from back "kuch nahi kiya kesar aur gulaal ne"

everyone looked back

devika came near to gulaal and said to jamuna " baa mein sahi kah rahi hun kuch bhi nahi kiya in dunno ne, kal balli aur sukhi gulaal bhabhi k saath galat harqat kar rahe the aur kesar ne gulaal bhabhi ko bachaya tha sach mein baa mein wanha chaat k dusare taraf thi meri ek saheli bhi saath mein thi aap chahe to usese puch le hum dono yeh sab apni aankhon se dekha"

jamuna said "to phir tune hume bataya kyu nahi"

devika said "kaise batati sharm bhi aa rahi thi aur raat bahut ho gayi thi aur phir jab mein dusare din gulaal bhabhi k kamre mein gayi to bhabhi ne kesar ko manaa kiya tha batane se meine bhi socha gulaal bhabhi k badnaami ho sakti hai isliye mein bhi chup rahi, doshi sukhi aur balli hai"

diaba loooked at balli and sukhi slapped them and said "nikal jau is ghar se"

panba shattered completely she shouted" sun liya aap sabne.sun liya jamuna tumne mere bacho par itna bada ilzaam laga diya" and then she saw sindoor in gulaal's forehead

she came near and was about to wipe the sindoor but daiba stopped her hand and said "yeh kya kar rahi ho panba, tum aisa nahi kar sakti kesar ne sabke saamne gulaal k maang mein sindoor bhara hai ab kesar gulaal ka pati hai"

gulaal heard it and she fainted

gulaal was lying in her bed she was half conscious all the events that took in the mroning were haunting her she remebered kesar putting sindorr and she woke she ran out of her room she wanted to run from herself he ran downstairs and she saw all the elders member were sitting in the drawing area she stood there and listened the conversation

diaba said" dekho panba honi ko koi nahi taal sakta kesar ne gulaal k maang par sindoor bhara hai ab se wahi uska pati hoga"

panba replied "par wo uska devar hai"

diaba said "haan tabhi uska haq hai yeh panba tumhe shayyad pata nahi humari yeh purani parampara aur rivaaz hai talsagra mein jab ek aurat vidhwa ho jaati hai tab uska devar uska haath thaam sakta hai is rivaaz ko deeyarvatto kehte hai...meine sarpanch ban kar kitne saare vidhwaa ka ghar phir se basaya hai mujhe to khushi hai kesar ne humari parampara ko nibhaya hai"

panba paniced "par mera bacha abhi 20 saal ka hai yeh shaadi gairkanooni hai wo abhi shaadi k layak nahi hai"

diaba said "tu hume kanoon mat sikkha jab teri shaadi hue thi tab motabha sirf 19 saal k the aur meri shaddi to sirf 14 saal mein ho gayi thi kesar to bees saal ka hai"

panba said "baa tab zamana aur tha"

diaba said "nahi zamana aaj bhi wahi hai aur phir bhi agar tum logo ko yeh rishta manjoor nahi hai to thek hai gulaal ko is ghar se jaane k liye kah do jo kuch bhi hua uske baad gulaal is tarah us ghar mein nahi rah sakti"

panba said "diaba"

diaba said "nahi panba ab faisla gulaal k haath mein hai ab yaa to wo is shaadi ko sweekar kare yaa to is rishte se inkaar karke hamesha hamesha k liye apna ghar aur tum logo se apna risha tod kar jaa saki hai yeh mera is ghar k sabse bade sadysa ka aadesh hai"

gulaal hear all this she went inside her room and cried bitterly she saw the sindoor and started wiping it by her hands but the sindoor got rubbed in her forehead, it was her destiny her fate.

She cried loudly she moruned diaba had impose her two condition either marry kesar or leave the house. She started packing her bags suddenly vasant photo fell down from her clothes she took it and then remembered her promise take care of my kesar my rewa my family. I want u to help in fullfilling all my dream my dream to see rewa married my dream to see kesar a respectful educated and sucessful man she remembered bad times her family had seen wen gulaal was not around. She remembered and wiped her tears she headed towards the drawing area.

Panaba was saying "daiba mein gulaal ka faisla janti hu gulaal is rishte k liye kabhi haan nahi kahegi"

Gulaal said "mein deeyarvatto k liye tayyar hun" she was stern firm and dertermined

Everyone was surprised at her decision panba looked at gulaal in disbelief

Diaba called sudha and asked her to bring vasant mojiri from mumbai. Sudha left for mumbai at night to get vasant mojiri.

It was a cold dark long night there was no winds the sombre shadows of tree looked death like ; the moon was frightened it hide in grey cloud; so was kesar he was sitting in the cowshed hiding from the dark events that took place he sat in the place he use to sit wen use he commit mistake, wen he use to broke the glasses,he use to sit in that place so that noone finds him and his vasantbha use to follow him and ask him to come out he will make things right. But now he was frightened he sat on the cowshed whole night

next morning his servant called him "kesarji chailiye aapko daiba bula rahi hain"

hestiatly he walked in the verrandah he saw crowd was gathered in the place gulaal was standing still panba and rewa were standing like they were standing on the graveyard mouring

diaba saw kesar and addressed to crowd "dekhiya aaj hum sab kesar aur gulaal k deeyarvatto mein shamil hue hain mein chahiti hun aap sab kesar aur gulaal ko ek khushaal zindagi ka aashirwaad de"

kesar was standing with his head down

diaba called gulaal "gulaal ab vasant k mojiri kesar ko pehna kar usko apna pati sweekar karo"

gulaal didn't said anything she moved slowly and with heavy heart she put vasant mojiri infront of kesar

kesar was firghtened

diaba said "kesar ab mojiri pehen kar gulaa ko apni patni sweekar karo"

kesar remembered he always wear vasant clothes shoes he has even wore this mojiri in vasant wedding but today he simply cant take a small step and wear the mojiri

daiba said "pehno kesar"

kesar in deep pain and sorrow he came forward and step in vasant mojiri

amid the sorrow amid the heart felt anguish kesar and gulaal had ever known in that one decisive moment in their life in that one life changing occurrence they heard the the hardest word from the ppl of talsagra "shaadi mubaarak"

chapter 14

After the deeyarvattu ceremony everyone returned mumbai..now the house was decayed and dead once teemed with life and happiness was now lifeless devastated ,there was silence ;a muffled silence like a silence of a cold night all noises swallowed by the dead walls noone moved here noone talked;noone scarcely even breath

rewa panba gulaal kesar lived under the same roof like a stranger. Gulaal was the victim of the circumstances and a anguish both past and present left the traces in her face

she had never felt the way she felt now, not even when vasant died. Her grief then had been sharp, overwhelming. She didn't know what she felt now. If it was grief, then it was a different variety. She felt numbed, distant and cold Panba remained in her room most of the times she didn't ate properly she was pale and weak

gulaal was noticing it but didn't have the courage to face panba. One day gulaal collected her strength and went in panba's room

panaba was reading ramyaan she saw gulaal and overlooked her

gulaal hestitaltely walked towards her she was sitting on the knees

gulaal said "panba aapne bahut dino se dhaang se nahi khaya hai plz kuch kha lijyye"

panba said "kha lungi tum jao"

gulaal asked in low voice "aap naaraz hain mujhse"

panba said "nahi"

gulaal said "panba sach batayi naaraz haina"

panba yelled "kya expect karti ho mujhse gulaal mera beta jo abhi rishto k samjhata bhi nahi hai jiski umar shaadi k layak nahi hai usne tumse shaadi kar li aur tum yeh jaante hue bhi k kesar tumhara devar hai tum usese 5 saal badi ho aur yeh jante hue k kesr underage hai tumne yeh shaadi sweekar kar li kaise gulaal kyu kiya tumne aisa"

gulaal said "panba mujhe galat mat samajhiye panba meine yeh shaadi is parivaar k bhalai k liye ki hai"

panba asked "kaise bhalai gulaal"

gulaal replied "panba diaba ne shart rakhi thi ya to mein is ghar mein kesar k saath shaadi she paused and said ya phir mein is ghar ko hamesha k liye chod kar chali jaau panba mein chali jaati to is ghar ka kya hota rewa k shaadi kesar k padhai maa vasant k sapne bhikaar jaate mein aisa kaise hone de sakti thi baa"

panba said "bikhar jaane deti vasant k sapno ko gulaal kam se kam teri aur kesar k zindagi bikharne se bach jaati arey kya hote agar yeh sapne pure nahi hote bahut saare logo k sapne nahi pure hote koi sapno k pura karne k chah mein itna bada kadam nahi utha sakta mujhe tumse apni parivaar k liye madad is shart par nahi chahiye"

gulaal "baa is sapne se rewa aur kesar k zindagi judi hui hai mere liye yeh har cheez se se badhkar hai"

panba replied" kesar k bhalai k liye yeh kadam liya tune..uski zindagi sawaarne k liye uski k zindagi ujaad di tune"

gulaal replied" nahi baa kuch nahi hoga kesar k zindagi k saath mein aisa kuch nahi hone dungi panba mein ek doctor hun mein is desh ka kanon janti hun mein janti hun is shaadi ka koi vajood nahi hai yeh shaadi betmatlab hai illegal marriage hai yeh"

gulaal continued "panba mein manti hun kesar ne josh mein aakar itna bada kadam utha liya mein manti hun usne bahut galat kiya hai par mein is baat k liye usko itni badi sazaa nahi de sakti...panba ek baar kesar apni padhai puri kar le aur ache se settle ho jaaye mein khud yeh ghar chod kar chali jaungi"

panba said "tu sach mein aisa karegi gulaal mujhse vaada kar tu is rishte ko kabhi nahi nibahaayegi"

gulaal looked at panba

panba said "gulaal mujhe galat mat samajh mein ek maa hun aur har maa ki tarah apne bete k khushiyaan chahiti hai mein chahti hun kesar sahi samay par shaadi kare wo apni pasand k apni umar k ladki se shaadi kaare gulaal mein yeh rishta kabhi nahi apna sakti mein tere aur kesar k is deeyarvatto ko nahi sweekar kar sakti "

gulaal said "mein samajh sakti hun panba"

panba "to phir vaada kar mujhse chahe kuch bhi ho jaaaye to kabhi is rishte ko nahi apnaayegi"

gulaal said firmly panba "mein aapse vada karti hun mein kabhi is rishte ko nahi sweekar karungi"

and she made the promise she promised;she promised panba

promise a fatal word ; burden of oath under which gulaal was forced to live; burden of expectation which gulaal was bound to fullfill

someone else was living under the burden of promise; promise he made to vasant bha to look after gulaal ;promise he made infront of everyone to accept gulaal as his wife promise is now like a demeantor with which kesar was wrestling in obscurity and silence he often felt like a bird who was abondoned and dejected by his fellowmate he spend resltess nights searching himself he spend endless day understanding his destiny

it was evening he was sitting on the edge of mountain cliff the place he comes wen he is miserable he was sitting alone

he heard the footsteps and saw vicky and sonu were standing with question in their eyes

vicky came forward he said "kesar yeh mein kya sun raha hun sudhabhahi maa ko bata rahi thi tune shaadi kar li"

sonu said "aur to aur wo yeh kah rahi thi tune gulaal bhabhi se shaadi kar li"

vicky said "wo aisa kaise kah sakti hai"

kesar said in low voice "yeh sab sach hai"

vicky and sonu rolled their eyes

vicky said "tu pagal hai kya?.to hosh mein to ho tu kya kah raha hai"

sonu said "tu sahi nahi kah raha"

kesar replied sadly "sab sach hain sonu"

vicky said "dimaag kharab ho gaya hai tera wo teri bhabhi hai aur tu unse kitna chota hai infact u r underage tu aisa kaise kar sakta hai"

kesar lost his temper he yelled "haan ki hai meine ki hai shaadi aur apne pure hosh haawas mein ki hai mujhe kisi ko koi safai nahi dene aur agar tujhe is baat par sharm aati hai to tu chod kar jaa sakta hai mujhe kiski jarurat nahi hai samjha nahi chahhiye mujhe aise dost"

he left the place in anger

he returned home, as he returned he heard the door bell

rewa opened the door and saw revji and panba standing outside furious and enraged

and angry

she called them in

but revji and poonam were in mood to listen

they shouted "yeh kya sun rahe hai hum"

panba who heard revji came out quickly and said "revji poonamji beithiye samjhati hun mein aapko"

revji said "hum yanha beithne nahi aaye hai hum yeh janane aaye hain jo log kah rahe hain kya wo sach hai.kya aapke bete ne meri beti se shaadi ki hai"

kesar was sacred and poonamba replied "ji"

revji shouted "aap log paagal to nahi ho gaaye aisa kaise kar sakte hain aap, humari jankaari k bina aap aisa kaise kar sakte hain kya soch kar aapne is shaadi ko manjuri de"

hen he turned back to kesar he pulled him with collar and said "tumhari himmat kaise hui aisi ghatiya harqat karne ki kaise soch liya meri bei k aage peeche koi nahi nahi hai aur jo chahoge wo asaani se kar loge"

kesar said "aap mujhe samjhane ka ek mauka to dijeye"

revji said "nahi tumne jo harqat ki hai mujhe uski koi safao nahi chahiye tumhe iski sazaa jaurur milegi"

suddenly he heard a voice "chod dijyeye papa kesar ko" gulaal was standing outside her bedroom door she walked towards revji and said "chod dijeye papa kesar ko, yeh faisala sirf kesar k nahi hai, yeh decision meine bhi liya hai"

revji " kya kaha tu hosh mein to hai yeh tu kya kah rahi hai turning to gulaal"

gulaal said "ji papa sach kah rahi hun mein"

revji was shoucked and hurt he said "to tu mujhe yeh batayegi kya wajah hai k tune ek 20 saal k ladke se shaadi karne ka faisla le liya tujhe isliye itna padhya likhaya tha humne k tu humara naam is tarah badnaam karegi hum rishtedaaro se kya kahenge kuch jawab hai"

gulaal said "papa meine jo kuch bhi kiya hai soch samaj k kiya hai sorry papa aapko wajah nahi bata sakti"

revji "gulaal hum galat faisle mein tumhara saath nahi de sakte tumhe humme aur is rishte mein ek ko chunana hoga"

gulaal said "papa meri shaadi ho chuki hai"

revji was deeply hurt" hum log bahut paraye ho gaye hain naa gulaal...gulaal aaj tune bahut takleef de hai hume?tu aisa kaise kar sakti hai gulaal he paused he was in pain and sorrow

.he continued "agar tera yahi faisla hai to samaj lena aaj se tere mummy papa nahi hai".he said with coked voice

gulaal was shocked tears rolled from her cheeks she said "papa aap"

revji interrputed in between "nahi gulaal ab aur nahi hum maa baap hai tumhare hum tere achi bhavisya k liye hamesha prathna karenge kabhi tujhe yeh rishta takleef de to tu waapas aa sakti hai par hum tujhe is rishte k saath nahi sweekar kar sakte.hargiz nahi"

kesar tried to say in between but panba stopped him as it was not the time to say anything

revji and poonam left the place in pain

gulaal was tears she turned back and her eyes met with kesar eyes all these days they were anxious, avoiding the sight of each other...but today their eyes met that disclosed the giref deeper than tear hurt painful than wound; the look that she throw towards him was full of agony and hatred and she run in her room..kesar shuddered he went to his room and broke down infront of vasant's photo

he cried "vasantbha sab mujhe galat samjh rahe hain sab ko lagta hai meine bahut bada paap kiya hai vasantbha kaho naa aap sabse meine kuch galat nahi kiya meine yeh sab sirf aapke liye kiya hai" he paused and said vasantbha wo aapka pyaar hai wo aapki amanat hai vasantbha aapke pyaar ko koi kuch kehe kaise sahan kar sakta hun mein koi kichad uchaale kaise bardasht kar sakta tha mein"

he continued "vasantbha humare rishte ko log galat nazaro se dekh rah the agar mein kuch nahi karta to logo ka shaq aur ilzaam aur badh jaate...mein to phir bhi ek ladka hun yeh ek male dominated society hai yanha ladke chahe kitne bhi badi bhul kar le koi kuch nahi kehta magar ek ladki k upar chote sa bhi daag samaj nahi bhulta baar baar usko baizzat karne k bahane dhundhta hai..agar mein aisa nahi karta to wo kaise logo k baatein unke taane sahan karti sudha bhabhi aas podos k log unka saas lena bhi mushkil kar dete...vasantbha meine kuch galat nahi kiya hai samajhaiye naa aap sabko"

and he shattered completely...he cried unknowingly gulaal had heard him she was listening quietly ouside his room but she didn't react may be her tears dried may be she had stopped her battle with her fate and she walked away

next morning sudha bhabhi informed panba that diaba has planned her visit to mumbai...panba heard it and was in deep thought she knew diaba was coming to knew about gulaal and kesar married life. She thought and then went to gulaal's room.

Gulaal saw her and asked "panba aap"

Panba said "gulaal diaba kuch din k liye mumbai aa rahi hai"

Gulaal said "yeh to bahut achi baat hai"

Panba said "gulaal mein chahiti hun jab tak diaba yanha hai tum kesar k kamre mein raho"

Gulaal was shocked she said "panba yeh aap kya kah rahi hai"

Panba said "mujhse kuch bhi mat pucho gulaal jaise mein kah rah hun waisa karo"

Gulaal didn't wanted to hurt panba so she remain silent

Kesar was sitting in the college canteen sonu and vicky came near kesar saw them and didn't react

Vicky said "kesar tu naaraz hai humse yaar tune kaise soch liya hum tera saath chod denge hum log dost hai yaar chahe tu kuch bhi kar hum tere saath hai"

Sonu said "haan hamesha saath rehenge chahe tu north pole mein hi kyu naa chala jaaye"

Kesar smiled with teary eyes. they hugged each other kesar needed the confrontation at this moment

Vicky said "kesar yeh college ka letter hai tere liye peon post karne jaa raha tha ghar hum le aaye"

Kesar opened and read the letter he looked worried and tensed

kesar returned in the evening; he was tired so he went in his room he opened his almirah he was looking for his clothes he took his clothes and shut the almirah carelessly he looked back he was shocked he stood still for the moment

He saw gulaal sitting in his room

Chapter 15

Kesar was shocked to see gulaal he almost freaked out

He said "aap tum yanha kaise"

"Panba ne kaha k diaba kuch din.k liye mumbai aa rahi hai isliye...hesitated gulaal panba ne kaha m...mein yaha rahu yanha apna saman rakh rahi thi"

Kesar who was still in confusion didn't unterstood he thought for a sec and said "koi baat nahi aap yahi rahiye mein bahar manage kar lunga" he thought panba wants diaba to stay in gulaal room and she has no other room

He was leaving the room all of sudden panba came in

She said "koi kanhi nahi jaayega"

She said kesar kuch din k liye gulaal ise room mein rehegi tumhare saath

Kesar was shocked he said "par panba"

Panba said "dekho tum duno k wajah se pehle hi mere ghar mein bahut tamasha ho gaya hai mujhe aur kuch jhelne k shakti nahi hai agar diaba yanha aayengi aur tum dono ko is tarh dekhenge to aur baatein banegi mujh ab aur kuch nahi sunana takaat nahi bachi hai..haath joditi hun tum dono k aage jab tak daiba hai tab tak normal behave karna"

Gulaal and kesar didn't said anything as they knew they have caused much trouble to the family they remain silent gulaal put her luggage in kesar room and went in her room

Next morning daiba came to mumbai raman went to receive her she entered modi house everyone greeted her...panba rewa gulaal kesar sudha touched her feet and seeked blessing

Diaba inquired about the well being and then she came near to gulaal and asked" kaise ho gulaal"

Gulaal said "mein thek hun"

Diaba noticed gulaal didn wear bangles mangalsutra and sindoor she angrily said "yeh kya gulaal yeh kaise rah rahi hai naa sindoor na mangalsutra na chudiyaan"

Panba interrupted" baa gulaal doctor hai itna sabkuch nahi pehen sakti aur yeh shaher hai yanha sindoor mangalsutra chudi yeh sab nahi chalta koi nahi lagta"

Daiba said "shahar hai par hain to hindustaan mein hi naa hum videsh mei to nahi rah rahe aur phir chudi mangalsutra naa paheno sindoor to laga sakti hai thodha sa sindoor laga logi to anpadh nahi ho jaugi"

Diaba then called kesar, she said "kesar chal gulaal k maag mein sindoor laga"

Kesar felt awkward he said "mein par diaba"

Diaba said "kuch nahi sunana hai mujhe chal sindoor laga"

Kesar was reluctant he was felling uneasy so was gulaal he hesistately put sindoor on gulaal forehead avoiding eye contact

He put sindoor and left the place

Gulaal was reluctant too diaba came close to her she put her hand on her head and said "yeh dekh sindoor laga kar chehra kitna khil raha hai...ise lagaya kar khud ko bahut khushi milti hai"

Gulaal didt speak the word she just smile a little and then she left for hospital

And panba showed diaba her room so that she can rest

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

in the afternoon diaba panba and sudha sat for lunch

diaba asked panba," panba var vadhu k saari rasme thek se karwaayi haina"

sudha said in between "kanha diaba , pooja to kya koi function bhi nahi hua hai is ghar mein jabese aaye hain sab koi shaant hain "

panba looked angrily at sudha

diaba asked panba kya yeh sach hai

panba said "diaba kaise karwaaye koi function yanha jisko bhi pata chal raha wo hum logo ko galat samajh raha hai diaba yeh mumbai hai talsagra nahi hai sab tarah tarah k baatein banaa rahe hain"

sudha said in between "meri saari saheliyaan mujhse kya kya kehti hai ab kya batao mein aapko"

diaba thought something and said "hmm mujhe pata hai log aisa hi kuch karenge koi baat nahi ek kaam kar kal apne aas podos k logo ko humare yanha bhoj(dinner) ka nimantrat(invitaion) bhejo"

after lunch sudha invited her friends from neighbourhood for the small gathering she called gulaal and kesar to come home early for the occasion

In evening kesar and gulaal came home and got ready for the occasion as they were told...after sometimes guest arrived and function started after a while diaba introduced kesar and gulaal as newly wed couple she then expalined the tradition and culture of talsagra and the importance of deeyarvatto..she was an influential lady and she proudly announced this culture as one of their most respected and valued tradition..and the place like india where ppl accept lots of good and bad practices in the name of culture readliy accepted this strange marriage. Ofcourse few of them raised their eyebrows but remain silent as it was not their business..the guest blessed the couple and took leave when party ended.

It was night other family member retire to their room gulaal was completing her household chores after it she entered in kesar room she was shy unsure hesitant reluctant and unconfortable she was highly frightened with the thought of sharing room with kesar...she stood in his room and glance the room it was the like the worst nightmare of her life...she stood mute till the clock struck 12 she looked at the door kesar was not there... Kesar was standing in the terrace as he too wanted to avoid gulaal he was waiting for the midnight so that gulaal fall asleep after half an hour kesar slowly walked in his room he opened the door and found gulaal standing in the window area gulaal turned back both of them looked at each other his heart beat acclerated; his heartbeat probably raced in tandem with hers..she quickly turned back kesar stood there for a sec and then he sat on his study table and without turning around said "tum bed par so jao

gulaal asked in hesitation "tum"

kesar replied in low voice "mujhe late night studies karni k aadat hai aur kal mujhe project bhi submit karna hai mein raat bhar padhai karunga tum so jao"

kesar then started woking in his project and gulaal went to bed...gulaal woke up at late night as she was thirsty she looked at the clock it was 3.00 clock...she got up to find the water bottle and saw kesar..he was fallen asleep she slowly walked towards him he was lying in the chair and his head rested on the study table..she looked at him for a sec and then saw the prints out of his project?..some of them were still printing...she read the whole project she thought for a sec and then gently turn off the study lamp while kesar was still sleeping...

next morning kesar woke with tiny drops of water in his face.he woke and saw..gulaal.she had taken a fresh bath and the water droplets from her wet hair had passed on kesar cheeks he gently wipe the drops and look behind gulaal wore a pink salwar suit, she was looking marvellosly beautiful, her hairs were still wet and she was gently rubbing it with a towel the room was filled with fresh flowery smell blended with her own smell every girl smell and look great after fresh bath it's the best time wen girl can bewtich mortals immortals. And kesar was no exception, he looked her in utter bewilderment and then quickly withdrew his eyes and he remembered his porject he started searching his projet printout.

Gulaal turned behind and said in the most beautigul voice "kya dhoondh rahe ho"

Kesar replied w..woh mere project k paper?..

Gulaal came and handed him a project file and said reluctantly "tum kal so gaye aur der tak so rahe the.. prints out pade hue the study table mein...socha umhe der ho jayegi college k liye isliye.. meine bind karwa di... yeh lo tumahara project report"

Kesar looked at her he stood silent for a sec and said "thanks"

Gulaal walked away Afterwards gulaal and kesar left for their work...

In the evening kesar came in his room he saw gulaal cleaning his room

Gulaal was cleaning his room she looked at him and stopped.then after a sec said "wo room bahut untidy tha...mujhe untidy room...acha...nahi..socha saaf.".

Kesar said in between" koi baat nahi karlo "and he quickly left the place.

Gulaal was cleaning suddenly she found a college letter, it was addressed to panba so it open and read it, it was reminder letter for annual fee submission. Kesar was studying in the best of mumbai college so the fees structure was high the annual fees was 6 lacs rs...gulaal read the letter; she check her account the money left in her account was not sufficient for the fees.she thought for a while and then went to her room she opened her almirah's drawer and took out the diamond necklace.the necklace that was gifted by vasant the necklace that she wore in her pagphera..her other jewellery were in vasant's locker that was selaed by the bank this was the only jewellery left..she didnt put this necklace in locker as it was very special for her..gulaal looked the necklace with love affection pain sorrow and then she got up she knew what has to to be done

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

next morning kesar went to panba's room he was tensed about his college fees he went to her room

panba saw kesar and asked " kesar kaise aana hua"

kesar said "panba wo kuch paise"

panba said "haan kesar mujhe bhi tujhse kush kehna tha tere pass kuch paise hai kya daiba aayi hain isliye thodha kahrach jyaada ho raha hai gulaal se maangna thek nahi lagta"

kesar said "haan panaba" and he gave her some money and left the room he knew was now worried he knew panba doesn't have money

kesar went to the college he went to cashier and said "sar wo college fees k baare mein baat karna hai...sar agar mein todhe dino baat fees submit kar dun

cashier said "kesar par tumhari fees to bhar gayi hai"

kesar was surprised he asked kisne bhari reciept mein kiske sign hain

cashier checked the register and said koi doctor gulaal modi aayi thi unhone bhaari

kesar was surprised and speechless

chapter 16

at night kesar came in his room and saw gulaal sleeping

he came near gazed her for a moment and then quietly switch off the lamp and walked away

in the morning gulaal got ready for the hospital she came out of the house and saw kesar sitting on the door stairs waiting for her

she looked and tried to walk away from him

kesr said from behind" thanks"

gulaal turned back and looked at him

kesar said "thanks wo college fees k liye"

gulaal turned around and coldy replied "isme thanks ki kya baat hai wo paise vasant k hain unhone tumhari fees k liye rakhe the meine bas fees submit ki hai"

and then walked towards the gate she was looking for a taxi??.kesar was standing behind suddenly he noticed a car was coming with a high speed there was muddy water on th road the car came and spalshed the muddy water??kesar quickly came and grab gulaal and pulled her towards him??..gulaal was shocked and with reflex she pushed him away and turned back

kesar stood silent and then hesitately said "wo kichad aa raha tha isliye"

gulaal replied "mein thek hun" and then she looked for the taxi

kesar said in the low voice "can I drop u "

gulaal looked back she was getting late for the work so she quietly sat on the car?kesar also sat on the car and he drove her to hospital

meanwhile in the hospital dr dusyhant got the news from the staff about gulaal's marriage??..dr dushyant was unaware of this entire event as he was out of town since last one month so the news came as shock to him?..he was walking outside the hospital premise in state of confusion and he saw gulaal coming out of the car??he came near the car and greeted gulaal

gulaal said "dr dushyant apki trip kaise thi"

dushyant said "achi thi gulaal meine suna tumhari shaadi ho gayi?.itni jaldi yah sab ho gaya??tumne bataya bhi nahi"

meanwhile they were talking kesar came out of the car and said "mein chalta hun"?.gulaal noded her head and kesar left

dushyant was surprised he asked "yeh kesar?kaise?tumhari to shaadi ho gayi hai"

gulaal said in low voice 'meri shaadi kesar se hui hai, he is my husband"

dushyant was shocked and speechless

duhyant and gulaal were sitting in the canteen area gulaal explained him the whole situation??

dushyant said "yeh kesar itna immature behaviour kaise kar sakta hai usne bahut implusive hokar yeh decision liya hai"

gulaal said "haan par kesar k galati nahi situation inti tensed thi kisko kuch bhi samajh nahi aa raha tha jo kuch bhi hua uske liye halat jimeedaar hain"

dr dushyant "to phir kya socha hai apne is naye rishte ko kaise aage continue karogi"

gulaal replied in frustration" dr dushyant mein yeh rishta nahi apna sakti mein sirf apne family ko support karne k liye wanha hun jab sab theek ho jayge mein khud wo ghar chod kar chaali jaungi"

dushyant remained silent he looked at gulaal with a hope

in the evening gulaal came out of the hospital she saw kesar was waiting for her outside??gulaal was frustrated??. the past event had a great impact she was irked

in frustration she went nesar kesar and asked "kesar tum yaha kya kar rahe ho"

kesar said "tumhe pick up karne"

gulaal was angry she replied angrily "kyu iski kya jaurarat hai kesar tumhe aisa kyu lagta hai k mujhe hamesha tumhare support k jarurat padegi mein ?mein apna khayal rakh sakti hun mein apni care karna ache se janti hun so plz leave me alone"

and then she started walking and looked for a taxi

kesar replied from back in low voice "aaj bus aur taxi k strike hain isliye socha tumhe pick up karlu?."

Gulaal looked at kesar and then turned back and started looking at the road for taxi?..she searched for 10 minutes kesar was standing quietly

after 10 minute gulaal turned back and sat in the car and they returned home

At night everyone sat for dinner gulaal was serving the dinner diaba asked for achar

Gulaal went in her kitchen she fount the achar jar she was trying to open the lid but the lid was tight??while gulaal was struggling to open the lid kesar came in the kitchen he saw her and offered help

Gulaal refused and said mein kar lungi

kesar took a deep breadth and stood there clamly watching gulaal?. struggling with the jar lid like the same way he watched her wen gulaal's duppatta was stuck in his bike

After few attempts gulaal gave up and without looking him said "yeh khul nahi raha"

Kesar smiled a little bit and he took the jar opened the lid and went away

After dinner kesar seeked permission from panba for a nightsaty at vicky's house

diaba asked him he said he has to complete his assignment with vicky so need to stay at his house??..panba gave him the permission as she knew y kesar wanted to stay out?. But diaba sensed the tension and awkwardness in their relation

For few couple of days diaba observed kesar and gulaal?..she was a wise woman she noticed the coldness and awkardness in their relation?secifically gulaal she reamined conscious wen kesar was around??diaba understood her dielemma and thought to talk to her

Next morning diaba came in kesar's room??kesr saw and offered her chair

Diaba said "kesar mein kal waapas talsagar jaa rahi hun"

Kesar asked "par kyu daiba itni jaldi kya hai jaane k abhi to ayi itni jaldi kyu"

Diaba said "mein sarpanch hun k mujhe wanha par bhi jaake kaam dekhne hai jaana to padega"

Gulaal came in the room she got the news that diaba was leaving for talsagra she came near and said "diaba kuch din aur aap ruk jaati"

Diaba said "nahi jaana to padega"

Kesar and gulaal were upset diaba looked at them and said "yeh kya mujhe kal jaana??.par jaane se pehle mujhe mumbai nahi ghumaayoge?.kyu kesar mujhe sair nahi karaayga"

Kesar said "haan diaba kyu nahi mein aaj college se off le leta hun"

Diaba saked gulaal to accompany her gulaal agreed and she took also took a day off

Diaba kesar and gulaal left home and visited some important temples of mumbai other tourist spots?..then diaba asked kesar to show her beautiful beaches of mumbai

Kesar took them to aksa beach as it is generally less crowded and more peaceful?soon they reached aksa beach it was beautiful and expansive beach of mumbai?it was a working day so it was almost desserted?..the sand was very fine and light almost white in apperance?.diaba gulaal and kesar were walking slowly along this beach gulaal was in the deep state of relaxation as she continued walking down the beach she can feel the sea breeze blowing gently against her cheek?..the fresh salty smell of the air was blissful the warmth of the sunrays was penterating her body??.the raoring sound of the surf was so soothong that she felt perfectly content on this beautiful beach?.gulaal took her shoes and stepped onto the sand in her bare foot?..kesar was walking behind gulaal and diaba??.he was looking at beautiful footprints of gulaal ?he was stepping over those footprints superfuously?.he then saw two kids trying to build a sand castle on the beach he stood there and walked towards the kids and offered his help??he then started building the sand castle with them

Diaba and gulaal walked a little distance and then diaba asked gulaal to sit and they sat on the beach?.gulaal watched the waves ebb and flow..they were slowly coming in?.breaking over each other?.and then slowly flowing back out again?she was looking over the horizon how it bended slightly downward as it follwed the curvature of the earth and may miles offshore a tiny sailboat skimming along the surface of water?gulaal was looking at the scenic with great pleasure diaba looked at her and asked her "tumhe samandaar pasand hai?"

She happily replied "mujhe paani, samandaar, aasmaan, nadi sab bahut acha lagta hai ??janti hai diaba bachpan mein bengal mein rehti thi humahara shaher ganga nadi k kinaare tha?..aksar mummy papa k saath waha jaaya karti thi?..nadi ko dekhna aur naav k sair karna acha lagta tha"

Diaba said" kesar ko bhi nadi bahut pasand hai bachpan wo bhi nadi k sair karne k zid karta tha?..wanha jakar kagazz k naav chalta tha?..pechli bar keh raha tha mein apna janamdin naav par maanuga"?.and diaba laughed

Gulaal heard kesar name and suddenly got conscious

Diaba looked at her she knew gulaal was hesistant?.

Diaba looked at the ocean and said "janti ho gulaal ek ladki ka jeevan bikul ganga nadi (river) k tarah hota hai shuruat mein jitne chanchal aur shok baad mein utni hi gehri aur shaant??..ganga kitne hi mod se guzarati hai??kitne hi toofan aate hai par bas wo behte rehti hai ??raaste mein ganga ka sangam bhi hota hai?..wo jagah bahut paawan aur pavitra maani jaati hai?.logo k saare paap us pavitra sangam mein nasht ho jate hai"

Diaba then looked at her and said "par ganga wanha rukti nahi hai gulaal?.uske kismat mein sahil se milna likha hota hai??she paused and said "gulaal tera sahil bhi tera intzaar kar raha hai" pointing at kesar

Gulaal was listening here quitely she said in low voice "diaba mein vasant k yaad k saath khush hun"

Diaba said nahi gulaal yaadein k sahare zindagi nahi guzaar sakte?she then pointed at some girls who were playing with soap bubbles "un bachiyon ko dekho gulaal ek hawa mein bulbule (soap bubble ) uda rahi hai aur dusare us bulbule (bubble) ko pakkad ne koshish kar rahi hai?jitna chahe koshish karle yeh bulbule kabhi haath nahi aate?..gulaal vasant k yaad aur usese judi khushiyaan bhi un bulbule k tarah hain tu jitna bhi unhe pakadne k koshish karegi tere haath kuch nahi aayega?.to sirf uhe dekh kar khush ho sakti hai par tere haath hamesha khaali rehenge"

Gulaal was in tears as diaba was telling her the tragedy and practicality of life?..she said "diaba par kesar"

Diaba said "gulaal tujhe yeh saare baatein teri dadisaas nahi balki wo aurat kah rahi hai jisne apne pati ko kabhi bahut pyaar kiya aur uske pati ne uska saath beech mein mein chod diya..tab uske dewar ne uska haath thama aur unka haath tham k is aurat ne zindaagi k bahut khubsoorat pal jiye hain?..

Gulaal looked at diaba

Diaba said "gulaal apna naazariya (prespective) badal teri nazare(insight) apne aap badal jaayegi "

Gulaal didn't said anything and looked at kesar who was trying to erect mould of sand that never took a familiar shape?.he was trying to build the castle but couldnt.she looked him and slowly walked towards him and sat beside him and satrted building the sand castle?..and together they build the most beautiful and impressive sand caslte?.the kids were delighted to see the lovely castle they came near and kissed kesar and gulaal and said "thanks"

Kesar and gulaal looked at each other with a smile?the smile that was natural and genuine ..then kesar stood and started walking away?..gulaal saw him leaving and called him from behind

Gulaal "kesar"

Kesar turned back

Gulaal said "humne kabhi ek dusare se baat nahi ki hai?..ek dusare se kate kate rehte hain?.kya hum dost ban sakte hain"

And gulaal put her hand forward kesar looked at her?he smiled and put his hand on her hand?.in the back sun was sinking in the ocean and hiding its light but for diaba who witnessed th whole event ???it was a new beginiing

Chapter 18

Kesar and gulaal went inside the house...in the morning gulaal was preparing breakfast and kesar was getting ready for his college...

he went in the ktichen he glanced at her and asked breakfast ready hai then he paused and said "gulaal"

Gulaal was chopping vegetable..she heard her name and she stopped..the sound of her name on his lips was so sweet intense and passionate..that her heart skip the beat for a sec...kesar had never call gulaal by her name he has always addressed her as aap tum inhe wo but never her name...never infront of anyone...and now that he called her by name it sounded as if a soft breeze has tinkled a wind chime?as if a stone has propogated a wave in the still water

She turned around..looked at him

He asked again "gulaal breakfast ready hai"

She said haan?..

she asked "so cappuccino or mocha"

He replied "tea"

And her eyes twinkled she didn't said anything and went inside the kitchen to make tea and he sat there watching her making his breakfast

then they had their breakfast and they headed out the door for their works

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

in the evening kesar came home gulaal had already came home she was sloshing the sponge in the dirty plates..kesar came in the kitchen and said "yeh kya kar rahi ho"

gulaal said "plates saaf kar rahi hun"

kesar replied "to ab tumhe safai k bhi bimari lag gayi"

gulaal said "nahi aaj bai nahi aayi hai.isliye ghar ka kaam kar rahi hun"

kesar stood there and then came near and started washing the dishes

gulaal refused him to do so she said "tum yeh sab kyu kar rahe ho??.rehne do mein kar lungi"

kesr replied "kyu mein kyu nahi kar sakta"

gulaal replied "acha nahi lagta"

kesar asked "r..u biased?. ki ghar ka kaam sirf ladkyion ko karna chahiye and other sort of stuff "

gulaal smiled and didn't said anything.she let him help her..and together they cleaned the dishes..swept the floor...dusted the furniture..

and then they cleaned kesar's room...they put the books in place..dusted the furntinure and made the bed...finally the room was clean...kesar and gulaal were so tired they took a deep breath and sat on the bed edge..kesar laid himself down on the bed and gulal sat beside him...gulaal and kesr were happy as the house was clean

gulaal was looking at the room and kesar was staring her he was taken by her timeless beauty...she was so lovely inconcievably beautiful inspite being tired...

gulaal looked at the room and cheerfully said "ho gaya"

kesar who was so lost in her that he unintentionally said "ho raha hai"

gulaal turned around she was amused she asked "what? Kya kaha?"

All of sudden kesar stoop up he was puzzled as he even didn't know what he said.he became consciuos...he quickly stood and said "kuch nahi "and then walked away

Gulaal also didn't understood and she got engaged herself in other household activities

Then she went inside the kitchen to prepare the dinner kesar saw her and asked "tum ab kya kar rahi ho"

Gulaal said "dinner prepare kar rahi hun"

Kesar replied "subah se kaam kar rahi ho aur ab dinner bhi banaugi?bilkul nahi hum dinner bahar karenge"

Gulaal said" iski jarurat nahi hai mein kar lungi"

Kesar said haan pata hai par koi bahana nahi chalega hum sab bahar dinner karne chalenge"

And then kesar called rewa.rewa came out

Kesar said "rewa panba ko bula lo hum sab bahar dinner par chal rahe hain"

Rewa said "par panba ka aaj vrat hai wo kaise jaa sakti hai"

Kesar said "to phir tum chalo"

Rewa didn't wanted to disturb them so she made an excuse "nahi tum duno jaao aaj tv pe ache movie aa rahi hai mein ghar par hi rahungi"

Rewa then said to gulaal "bhabhi aap aur kesar chale jaayeye"

And then she asked kesar to take gulaal with her

Kesr said playfully "thek hai double decker tu boring movie dekh?hum delicious khana kha k aayenge aur aakar mein tujhe detail mein bataunga meine waha kya kya order kiya"

And then kesar said "chalo gulaal hum chalte hain"

Gulaal said "haan mujhe change to karne do"

Kesar said "nahi aisa hi thek hai ab fatafat chalo mujhe bahut bhik lag rahi hai"

Gulaal said "par purse to lene do"

Kesr said "koi jaruat nahi hai lets go"

Kesar and gulaal sat in the car and kesar was driving the car suddenly he remembered panba had asked him to bring some stuff he stopped the car near a shop and said "ghar k liye kuch saman lena hai waapas aate waqt kahi shop band naa ho jaaye islye abhi le leta hun tum yanhi wait karo"and he cameout of the car and went inside the shop

He asked for some houslehold stuff and then he put his hand inside the pocket and search for the wallet much to his dismay he had forgotten his wallet at home..he was embarrassed he searched his pocket and realized that he had only 35 rs in his pocket.he dropped the things at shop and came out of the shop in disappontment

Kesar was so angry at himself he was so frustrated with his stupidity

"How dumb can I be?.ab gulaal ko35 rs mein dinner kaise karau" he said to himself

he knew he has asked gulaal to leave her purse and now he was highly embarrassed he was in deep thought.

then a loud music drew his attention he looked around and saw a wedding party was taking place at a nearby wedding hall

he quietly watched and his eyes twinkled

he went to the car and said to gulaal " gulaal mera friend mujhe abhi raaste mein mila tha uski sister k wedding reception chal raha hai bahut insist kar raha tha to mein mana nahi kar saka...would u mind agar hum reception attend kare"

gulaal said "isme problem kya hai koi baat nahi"

kesar smiled and took gulaal in the wedding reception they enjoed the reception and they had a grand dinner..afterwards they came out of the reception and started walking towards the car

gulaal was smiling she said "ache log hain aur tumhare frns k sister kitni sundar lag rahi thi"

kesar was noding his head

gulaal said "tum mujhe inka number dena hum kabhi inhe dinner par jarur invite karenge"

kesar stopped and said "actually hum unhe invite nahi kar sakte"

gulaal asked "kyu"

kesr said "kyunki hum unhe nahi jante"

gulaal was clueless

kesar said "wo mein apna wallet ghar par hi bhul aaya to socha free mein delicious khana khaane ka purana formula try kiya jaaye"

gulaal said "matlab hum unhe jaante bhi nahi hai aur tum wanha mujhe le gaye" she said in shock

kesar "haan"

she was blank she stood in utter bewilderment and then after a while said in fear" humne un logo k saath khade hokay photo bhi khich waayi hai...unhe pata chal gaya to humpar police case ho jayega"

kesar laughed and said naughtily " kis jurm mein free mein khana khaane k...waise itna bhi free nahi tha meine pure 21 rs ka evelope diyaa hai...no worry unke jaan pehchaan waale se jyada hi diya hoga..."

gulaal looked at him" aur hum pakde jaate to"

kesar" no chance ab tak 10 wedding party attend kar chuka hai...kuch nahi hua...aur agar pakde bhi jate to kah dete tum doctor ho apke yanha se jo bhi khana khakar bimaar paedega uska free mein ilaaz kar denge"

Gulaal and kesar looked at each other and then burst into laughter...making all the noises generally they don't want anyone to hear.

Gulaal was trying to catch her breath as she was laughing really hard...after so many days she was actually laughing she was a free spirit she tried to contol herself then burst into laughter that approaches tears...gulaal was laughing and then she remembered vasant...she remembered how happy and careless she use to be with vasant...how her days were filled with laughter wen he was around?she use to smile laugh with vasant...gulaal was thinking how it seemed like only yesterday when all that had happened and then she remebered her vasant was not with her.she became grief stricken her heart filled wth pain and sorrow...she could no longer stem the flood of emotions inside her...and she burst into tears

Kesar who was still laughing...saw her in this state..he was frightened and numbed.

Gulaal cried uncontrollably..kesar was clueless he came near her she looked at kesar and ran...kesar ran after her...she ran in the lonely street and cried bitterly kesar came and he was scared he asked frightfully "tum kyu ro hai ho gulaal"

Gulaal tried to ran said "jaane do mujhe"

but kesar grabbed her and asked "nahi gulaal kyu ro rahi ho kya hua abhi to khush thi naa phir"

gulaal was crying she replied in chocked voice "nahi khush rehna mujhe...mein khush nahi rehna chahiti"

kesr was now in tears he asked with watery eyes "kyu gulaal kyun khush nahi rehna chahiti"

gulaal cried "kyunki meri khushiyaan mere jazbaat mar chuke han vasant k saath meri khushiyaan jaa chuki hain"

she was feeling guilty y she was laughing wen her biggest happiness has left her forever.

Kesar hold her and said "insaan k jaane se emotions nahi chaale jaate...tum apni khushiyaan ko dabba sakti ho gulaal par maar nahi sakti wo hamesha humare pass rehte hain"

He continure "hum humans hai for god sake...gulaal hume hassi k baat par hassi aayegi..rone k baat par roona aayega... khushi milne par khushi mehsoos hogi hum apne emotions se apna naata nahi tod sakte"

"Kyu hua yeh mere saath" Gulaal was pouring her heart out for the first time?how lonely she felt without vasant

Kesar said sadly "yeh zindagi hai gulaal aksar aise haadse hote hain humari zindagi mein...par hum kuch nahi kar sakte...hum apni zindegi apni marzi se nahu chun sakte hume un hadsaa k saath apni life ko adjust karna padta hain gulaal..

Gulaal cried "par mujhe nahi chahiye koi life koi kushi jo vasant k bina ho...nahi chahiye mujhe"

Kesar looked at her and said "kyun gulaal?.kya tumhara pyaar itna kamzor hai k vasantbha k pass rehne se hi tune khushi milegi aur agar wo pass naa ho to tum unhe yaad karke takleef mein rahogi..agar aisa hai gulaal to yankeen maano aaj tum sabse jyaada takleef vasantbha ko hi de rahi ho.".

Gulaal looked at kesar

Kesar looked into her eyes he was holding her with his arms, he said "haan gulaal vasantbha aaj tumhe is tarah rote hue dekhenge to behad afhoos karenge..wo tumahari zindagi mein tumhe sirf khusiyaan dene aaye par tum unki wajah se itni dukhi ho to who sirf yahi soch rahe honge ki kash wo tumhari zindagi mein kabhi aaee hi nahi..gulaal aaj tumhare aansoo vasantbha ko sabse jyada rula rahe honge..gulaal is tarah khud ko chot pahuncha kar vasantbha ko kyu chot pahuncha rahi ho tum "

Gulaal couldn't hold herself she was overwhelmed with grief and she fall into his arm and began to weep...kesar stood still for a moment and then passed his arm around her.she cried "mujhe vasant ki bahut yaad aati hai"

Kesar cried too...he said in tears "mujhe bhi aati hai par tarah ro kar mein vasantbha ko takleef nahi dena chahta.wo bahut akele honge gulaal unko hum khush rah kar unhe shaanti de sakte hain"

Kesar and gulaal were sharing their pain grief loneliness sorrow with each other..she was sobbing in his arm and he was consoling her like a gaurdian he was saying don't worry everything will be all right.

..and after sometime she stopped crying and she she was in his arms with closed eyes he held her without speaking she felt that his caress kept lonilessness and fear away..the affection the tenderness she longed for lied within his arms she felt the warmth of his breadth in her face and she savoured the closeness of his body.. her thoughts her mind were blank her world seemed to stopped at that momment the wind was blowing with a sound the crackers were bursted backside at the wedding reception the clouds was thundering but all she can feel was the warmth of his body.. she opened her eyes looked into his eyes that were filled with an unknown emotions for her there was the helpless rush of emotions..but then she realized that she was holding kesar and kesar realized he was holding her suddenly she jerked away...kesar withdrew himself and took a deep breath

They stood still in bewilderment..then kesar phone rang...he picked the phone rewa was on the other side she asked"kesar ghar kab aayoge"

Kesar said "haan bas pahunch rahe hain"

Both of them then quielty sat on the car and reached home