Shadows of the Past : A Story in the New Orleans

 

Shadows of the Past

The air was thick with tension in the dimly lit interrogation room in New Orleans. Special Agent Fuller leaned forward, his interest piqued by Thompson’s last statement. The room felt like a trap, designed to ensnare secrets long buried beneath layers of deceit.

“Your name never came up, Thompson,” Fuller echoed, his voice steady but laced with disbelief. “That’s interesting, considering the nature of Leslie’s murder.”

Thompson shifted uncomfortably in his chair, the fluorescent lights casting harsh shadows on his face. He had always been a man of few words, but the weight of his silence was heavy with implications. “It was by design,” he finally said, his tone almost defensive. “I wasn’t part of it. Not directly.”

Leslie was a known figure, entangled with the Dixie Mafia, a network of crime that thrived in the shadows of the Southern states. His murder was brutal, a message to anyone who dared to step out of line. The FBI’s investigation had faltered, leading to dead ends and whispers of corruption. But Thompson’s name had never surfaced—until now.

“Why now?” Fuller pressed. “Why come forward after all this time?”

Thompson’s eyes darted to the one-way mirror, as if expecting someone to emerge from the darkness. “I’ve been living in fear,” he admitted. “Fear of what I knew and who I knew. Leslie was a pawn, and I was a ghost. I needed to stay hidden from those who orchestrated it.”

The words hung in the air like a noose. Fuller leaned back, considering his next move. Thompson’s connection to the mafia was tenuous, but it was enough to make him a valuable informant. The FBI had long suspected that Thompson used a pseudonym, a way to shield himself from the fallout of the criminal underworld.

“Tell me about the planning,” Fuller urged. “You mentioned a secret identity. Was that meant to keep you safe from those who wanted Leslie dead?”

Thompson nodded slowly. “Yes. Keeping my name out of their mouths was as crucial as the location of the gun afterward. They never knew I was involved, and that was my lifeline.”

As the conversation unfolded, Fuller pieced together the fragments of a larger puzzle. Leslie’s murder had not just been a crime of passion; it was a calculated act of betrayal, and Thompson was a reluctant player in a game far beyond his control. The informants, some of whom had been coerced into silence, were now the key to unraveling the mafia’s grip on the investigation.

“Who else was involved?” Fuller pressed. “Who are the players we need to watch?”

Thompson’s brow furrowed, and for a moment, he hesitated. “You have to understand, I can’t just name names. It’s not that simple. The moment I do, I become a target.”

The stakes were high, and the shadows of the past loomed large. But Fuller knew that the only way to bring justice to Leslie’s memory was to shine a light on the darkness surrounding Thompson and the Dixie Mafia.

“Start with what you know,” Fuller urged, his voice steady. “We can protect you. But you have to trust us.”

Thompson took a deep breath, the weight of his secrets pressing down on him. He had lived in fear for too long, watching as the shadows danced around him, threatening to pull him back into their depths. “Alright,” he finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. “But if this goes south, I’m not just losing my life—I’m losing everything.”

As the interrogation continued, the tension shifted. Thompson was no longer just a ghost; he was a man ready to confront his demons. And for the FBI, it was a chance to dismantle the web of lies that had allowed Leslie’s murder to remain unsolved for far too long.

In the shadows, the truth awaited, and with it, a reckoning

The Devanga Odyssey: A Tapestry of Folklore and History in South India

 

The Devanga Odyssey: A Tapestry of Folklore and History in South IndiaThe Devanga, a prominent weaving caste of South India, have a rich history interwoven with folklore that traces their migrations, cultural contributions, and integration into the socio-economic fabric of medieval and modern India. Known for their textile craftsmanship, the Devanga claim descent from the sage Devala Maharishi and assert Brahmin status through texts like the Devanga Purana, despite their Shudra classification in the Hindu caste system. Their narrative, enriched by community traditions, connects them to iconic rulers, sacred temples, and significant migrations driven by political upheavals. This article chronicles the Devanga’s journey, blending oral traditions with historical evidence, focusing on their migrations from central India, their role in the Vijayanagara Empire, and their legacy in regions like Vijayawada and Travancore.Early Origins and Presence in Central India (Pre-15th Century)The Devanga’s origins are shrouded in myth, with community lore tracing their lineage to Devala Maharishi, a divine weaver who served Lord Shiva and Parvati. By the medieval period, the Devanga were established in central India, particularly in Ujjain, a key city of the Malwa Sultanate (1392–1562 CE). As skilled weavers, they contributed to Malwa’s economy under rulers like Hoshang Shah (r. 1406–1435) and Mahmud Khalji (r. 1436–1469), who patronized artisans to bolster textile trade [Web:14]. Community folklore suggests that a leader named Batta Raja (possibly Boja Raja in some traditions) emerged in Ujjain, heading a significant Devanga population organized into 16 sub-castes [Web:11].Folklore Claim: Around the late 15th century, Sultanate rule in Malwa, marked by conflicts with Rajputs (e.g., Rana Kumbha of Mewar) and internal instability, pressured the Devanga. This led to a massive migration of 47,000 Devanga, with 15,000 moving west (possibly to Gujarat or Maharashtra) and 32,000 moving south to the Vijayanagara Empire, led by Batta Raja. Additionally, 15,000 Devanga received support from the Malwa king’s family, likely the Khalji dynasty, before their departure.Historical Context: While no primary sources confirm the exact figure of 47,000 or Batta Raja’s leadership, artisan migrations were common during periods of conflict in medieval India. Malwa’s wars with Mewar and later Mughal incursions under Akbar (1562 CE) disrupted local economies, prompting weavers to seek stability elsewhere [Web:5]. The Devanga’s presence in Ujjain aligns with their historical role as textile producers in central India, and patronage from Malwa rulers is plausible given their economic policies.Migration to Vijayanagara and Integration (Early 16th Century)By the early 16th century, the Vijayanagara Empire, under Krishna Devaraya (r. 1509–1529 CE), was a cultural and economic powerhouse with Hampi as its capital. The empire’s thriving textile trade attracted artisans, including the Devanga, who settled in regions like Vijayawada and Hampi [Web:11]. The southern migration of 32,000 Devanga, as per folklore, likely occurred during this period, drawn by Vijayanagara’s patronage and stability.Folklore Claim: Batta Raja, leading the 32,000 Devanga south, married Sukritha, a daughter of Krishna Devaraya, cementing the community’s status. He became the “Devanga Maharaja,” a title denoting leadership within the community, and was granted a “Zamindar” title (likely a nayaka-like role) funded by Krishna Devaraya, the “Senior King.” Batta Raja is also credited with building the Krishna temple in Hampi, a significant cultural landmark.Historical Context: No inscriptions or chronicles, such as those by foreign travelers Domingo Paes or Fernao Nuniz, mention Sukritha or Batta Raja. Krishna Devaraya’s daughters are poorly documented, though he used marital alliances to strengthen political ties [Web:11]. The Krishna temple, built in 1513 CE, is historically attributed to Krishna Devaraya to commemorate his victories over the Gajapati Kingdom, as per a Kannada inscription [Web:11]. However, the Devanga, as skilled weavers, likely contributed textiles for temple rituals, which folklore may have mythologized as Batta Raja building the temple. The “Zamindar” title is anachronistic for Vijayanagara, where local leaders were called nayakas, but Krishna Devaraya’s patronage of artisans supports the idea of a Devanga leader receiving land or status [Web:14].Padmashali Connection: Community tradition holds that the Devanga and Padmashali were originally a single caste, splitting due to religious differences—Devanga adopting Shaivism or Lingayatism, and Padmashali embracing Vaishnavism [Web:14]. The 32,000 Devanga who migrated south, particularly to Vijayawada, are said to have included 12 Telugu-speaking sub-castes that later integrated into the Padmashali community. This aligns with the Padmashali’s prominence in Andhra Pradesh and their shared mythological descent from sages like Devala or Markandeya [Web:12].Vijayawada and the Padmashali Legacy (16th Century Onward)Vijayawada, in the Krishna-Godavari delta, was a key economic hub under Vijayanagara’s influence, ideal for weavers due to its trade networks. The Devanga who settled here likely contributed to the region’s textile industry, with some adopting Vaishnava practices and merging with the Padmashali.Folklore Claim: Today’s Padmashali population of 12 lakhs (1.2 million) in the Vijayawada region traces its ancestry to 12 sub-castes of Telugu-speaking Devanga who migrated south. These sub-castes, part of the original 16, reflect the community’s diversity and integration into Andhra Pradesh’s cultural landscape.Historical Context: The 2011 Census does not provide caste-specific data for OBC groups like the Padmashali, but Andhra Pradesh’s population was 4.93 crore, with Vijayawada’s Krishna district hosting a significant weaver community [Web:15]. The 12-lakh figure is likely an overestimate or includes surrounding districts (e.g., Guntur, West Godavari), reflecting community pride. The Devanga-Padmashali connection is supported by web sources noting their shared origins and occupational overlap [Web:14, Web:12]. The Devanga Purana (1532 CE) and Markandeya Purana reinforce their common ancestry, and the migration of Telugu-speaking Devanga to Vijayawada could explain their assimilation into the Padmashali identity [Web:11].Mysore Kingdom and Displacement to Travancore (Late 18th Century)By the 18th century, the Mysore Kingdom, under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan (1761–1799 CE), became a major power in South India. Their invasions of Malabar (1766–1792 CE) disrupted local communities, including artisans like the Devanga, who had settled in Karnataka and adjacent regions post-Vijayanagara.Folklore Claim: Around this period, 20,000 prisoners from the Mysore Kingdom were pushed south to Travancore, potentially including Devanga members. This displacement is said to have marginalized these families, leading to their classification as Scheduled Castes (SC) today.Historical Context: The Mysorean invasions of Malabar displaced tens of thousands, with 30,000 Brahmins, Christians, and Nairs fleeing to Travancore, a British-allied princely state under Dharma Raja (1758–1798 CE) [Web:5, Web:6]. Tipu Sultan’s attack on Travancore in 1789, during the Third Anglo-Mysore War, aimed to reclaim Malabar refugees and Dutch territories but ended in defeat at the Battle of Nedumkotta [Web:15, Web:13]. While no sources confirm 20,000 prisoners being sent to Travancore, the mass displacement of Malabar’s Hindu population supports the possibility of artisans, including Devanga, being among refugees or captives [Web:5].The Devanga’s presence in Karnataka and Malabar makes their inclusion plausible, as weavers faced economic disruption from Mysore’s policies and foreign competition [Web:9]. Travancore, with its textile industry, absorbed many displaced communities, but rigid caste hierarchies under its Hindu rulers marginalized lower-caste groups, including weavers [Web:7]. Critical Analysis and LegacyThe Devanga’s history, as narrated through folklore, reflects a blend of resilience, adaptation, and cultural pride. The migration of 47,000 Devanga from Malwa, led by Batta Raja, and their integration into Vijayanagara’s economy highlight their economic significance. The marriage of Batta Raja to Sukritha, while unverified, symbolizes the community’s aspiration to connect with Vijayanagara’s royalty. The Krishna temple’s construction, attributed to Krishna Devaraya historically, likely involved Devanga contributions, mythologized in folklore [Web:11]. The Padmashali’s ancestry from 12 Telugu-speaking Devanga sub-castes underscores their shared heritage, with Vijayawada as a key hub [Web:14]. The later displacement of 20,000 prisoners to Travancore, possibly including Devanga, reflects the community’s vulnerability during Mysore’s invasions and their marginalization in Travancore’s caste system.Uncertainties: The precise figures (47,000, 32,000, 15,000, 20,000, 12 lakhs) and names like Batta Raja and Sukritha lack primary source corroboration, suggesting symbolic or exaggerated elements in folklore. The timeline of migrations (Malwa to Vijayanagara in the 16th century, Mysore to Travancore in the 18th century) aligns with historical upheavals, but specific Devanga involvement requires further evidence. ConclusionThe Devanga’s journey from central India to Vijayanagara, Vijayawada, and Travancore is a testament to their adaptability as artisans amidst political turmoil. Their folklore, linking them to Krishna Devaraya, the Krishna temple, and the Padmashali, celebrates their contributions to South India’s cultural and economic landscape. While historical records anchor their presence in Vijayanagara’s textile trade and later displacements, community traditions enrich the narrative with figures like Batta Raja and Sukritha. Today, the Padmashali’s 12-lakh population in Vijayawada and the Devanga’s legacy in Travancore reflect their enduring presence, shaped by migrations, patronage, and resilience.

Why Many Indians Seek to Settle Abroad Instead of Improving India

 Why Many Indians Seek to Settle Abroad Instead of Improving India

The aspiration to settle abroad is a complex issue that reflects a myriad of socio-economic factors. While many Indians have deep-seated love for their homeland, there are compelling reasons that drive them to seek opportunities in foreign countries. The notion of being a "second-class citizen" in a foreign land, as described in the prompt, encapsulates a significant part of this narrative. This article explores various dimensions of why Indians often prefer to leave their homeland rather than invest in improving it, despite the challenges they may face abroad.

The Allure of a Better Life

Many Indians are drawn to foreign countries by the promise of a better quality of life. Economic opportunities, job security, and better living standards often appear more accessible abroad. In contrast, the struggles of daily life in India, marked by high population density, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure, can feel overwhelming. The perception that life abroad, even as a second-class citizen, offers more stability can be a powerful motivator.

The Reality of Being Second-Class

The phrase "You will be the second class here no matter you are a citizen or not" highlights an uncomfortable truth. Immigrants often face discrimination and challenges in assimilation. The idea of mastering the "art of being second class" suggests that many Indians learn to navigate this reality, accepting their position while striving for success. This acceptance can be seen as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to progress in their careers and lives despite systemic barriers.

Coping with Discrimination

Living as a second-class citizen requires resilience. Many Indians abroad encounter situations where they are ignored, mistreated, or marginalized. The advice to "not feel bad" and to be humble reflects a survival strategy. This mentality allows individuals to focus on their goals rather than the injustices they may face. Such coping strategies can make life in foreign lands more bearable, even if they come at a personal cost.

Crime and Safety Concerns

The mention of crime presents another stark contrast between living in India and abroad. While crime exists in every country, the types and prevalence can vary significantly. The perception that crime against women is treated differently abroad—where it may not garner the same societal outrage as in India—can be disheartening. However, some argue that the absence of certain threats, such as eve teasing, offers a different kind of safety for Indian women in foreign countries.

Education: A Double-Edged Sword

The educational system in some foreign countries often prioritizes emotional well-being over rigorous academic standards. Many Indians feel that this approach does not adequately prepare children for the future. Consequently, some choose to send their children back to India for a more traditional education. This decision illustrates the complexities of educational expectations and the lengths to which families will go to ensure their children receive the best possible start.

Employment Realities

The struggle for employment is another hurdle faced by many immigrants. The reality that Indian students often find themselves working menial jobs—such as waiters or cleaners—highlights the gap between aspiration and reality. While it is commendable to embrace all forms of work, the question remains: Why do many feel compelled to take jobs they would not consider in India? This contrast underscores the challenges of integrating into a new society while trying to honor one's skills and background.

Conclusion: A Tough Choice

In conclusion, the decision for many Indians to settle abroad rather than improve conditions at home is influenced by various factors, including economic opportunities, safety, education, and a desire for a better quality of life. The experience of being a second-class citizen abroad may come with its own set of challenges, but for many, the potential benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The journey is complicated and deeply personal, reflecting the hopes, dreams, and realities of countless individuals seeking a brighter future for themselves and their families.

Living in the United States: A Complex Landscape

 

Living in the United States: A Complex Landscape

Living in the United States presents a multifaceted experience shaped by various socio-economic and cultural factors. The education system, politics, healthcare, housing, transportation, substance use, criminal justice, and family dynamics all contribute to the overall quality of life and the opportunities available to individuals.

Education: A Tale of Two Systems

The primary and secondary education systems in the U.S. are characterized by stark disparities. The quality of education often correlates closely with a student’s postal code, leading to significant inequities. In affluent areas, schools are typically well-funded, offering advanced resources and opportunities for students. Conversely, those from lower-income neighborhoods frequently face under-resourced schools, which can hinder their academic and social development. This educational divide plays a critical role in perpetuating the cycle of poverty, as access to quality education is a vital determinant of future success.

Partisan Politics and Social Divides

In recent years, American politics has become increasingly polarized, creating rifts in friendships and even within families. The divisive nature of contemporary political discourse often leads to hostility and alienation, making it challenging for individuals to engage in constructive conversations about differing viewpoints. This polarization not only affects personal relationships but also complicates the governance of the nation, as compromise becomes more elusive.

The Burden of Higher Education

Pursuing a college education has become a significant financial burden for many Americans. While obtaining a degree can provide a pathway out of poverty, the associated costs often lead to substantial student debt. For those from disadvantaged backgrounds, this debt can linger for years, if not decades, complicating financial stability and economic mobility. The pressure to secure a degree can be overwhelming, especially when the promise of a better life is often overshadowed by the reality of financial strain.

Healthcare and Employment

In the U.S., healthcare is predominantly linked to employment, creating vulnerabilities for many individuals. If someone faces a serious illness that prevents them from working, they risk losing their health insurance, leaving them without necessary medical support. This precarious system can exacerbate health crises, as individuals may delay seeking treatment due to financial concerns.

Housing Challenges

For many young people, homeownership appears increasingly unattainable. Rising housing costs, coupled with stagnant wages, have made it difficult for new generations to enter the housing market. The dream of owning a home, often seen as a cornerstone of the American Dream, feels out of reach for many, contributing to a sense of instability and insecurity.

Transportation: The Car-Centric Culture

American cities are predominantly designed around automobile use, making transportation a significant aspect of daily life. While it is possible to navigate urban environments without a car, the experience can be challenging. Public transportation options may be limited, and the necessity of owning a vehicle can add to financial burdens, particularly for those in lower-income brackets.

Substance Use and Public Health

The U.S. faces a troubling epidemic of substance abuse, with rates of drug overdoses and suicides alarmingly high. These "deaths of despair" reflect broader societal issues, including economic hardship and mental health challenges. As a developed nation, the prevalence of such despair raises questions about the underlying factors contributing to this crisis.

Criminal Justice System: A Cycle of Recidivism

The American criminal justice system is often criticized for its high rates of recidivism. Individuals who make significant mistakes and encounter the law may find it exceedingly difficult to reintegrate into society. The stigma of a criminal record can create barriers to employment and housing, effectively marginalizing those who have served their time and preventing them from rebuilding their lives.

Family Dynamics and Social Cohesion

The issue of broken homes has become increasingly prevalent in American society. Over the years, the value placed on familial bonds has diminished, leading to a rise in single-parent households and family instability. This trend can have far-reaching consequences for children, affecting their emotional well-being and future relationships.

Conclusion

Living in the United States is a complex experience shaped by various factors. From education and politics to healthcare and family dynamics, each element plays a crucial role in determining the quality of life for individuals. Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort to foster equity, strengthen communities, and support the well-being of all citizens. Only by acknowledging and addressing these issues can the nation move toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for everyone.

 

Arranged Marriages in India: Expectations and Realities

Arranged marriages have been a longstanding tradition in India, deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and social structures. In contemporary society, the dynamics of arranged marriages have evolved, influenced by various factors such as education, career aspirations, and changing societal norms. This article explores the common expectations regarding prospective grooms in India, shedding light on salary, company, looks, age, family influence, and the often enigmatic role of luck.

Salary Expectations

In the realm of arranged marriages, financial stability is a significant criterion. It is commonly expected that a groom's salary reflects his age and maturity. For instance, a 25-year-old is generally anticipated to earn a minimum of ₹30,000 per month, while a 30-year-old should be making at least ₹60,000. By the age of 35, a monthly salary of ₹1 lakh is often seen as a benchmark. This financial expectation does not merely signify affluence; it reflects a desire for security and a comfortable lifestyle. Many prospective brides and their families prioritize this aspect, viewing it as an indicator of the groom's capability to provide for a future family.

Employment Status

The type of employment also holds considerable weight in the selection process. Many families prefer grooms who work for reputable government firms or large multinational corporations (MNCs) such as TCS, Wipro, or Tata. Employment in smaller firms, despite potentially high salaries, may lead to rejection simply due to perceived instability or lack of prestige. This preference underscores a societal inclination towards status and security associated with reputable organizations.

The Importance of Looks

Physical appearance, particularly grooming and health, plays a critical role in the selection process. While it may seem superficial, many families place significant emphasis on looks, especially hair. The societal pressures surrounding beauty can lead girls to reject potential partners based solely on physical attributes. Although some may argue that health is paramount, the focus on appearance often overshadows deeper qualities that contribute to a successful marriage.

Age Dynamics

Age preferences in arranged marriages can be quite rigid. Most women prefer partners who are close to their age or younger. For instance, a 27-year-old woman might seek a partner between 25 and 30. Conversely, a 30-year-old man seeking a 22-year-old woman may face rejection. Interestingly, this trend extends to divorced individuals; women often seek younger partners, while men may find it challenging to attract women older than themselves. This age dichotomy reflects traditional beliefs about gender roles and societal expectations.

Family Influence

Family opinions significantly impact marriage decisions. While personal preferences play a role, parents often have the final say in the selection process. A girl may find a groom appealing based on looks and salary, but her parents might weigh additional factors. The familial dynamics vary greatly; in some families, the girl’s choice is paramount, while in others, parents exert more control. Ultimately, the outcome can feel akin to an interview process, where one only learns of acceptance or rejection after the fact.

The Role of Luck and Fortune

Perhaps the most perplexing aspect of arranged marriages is the role of luck or fortune. Many men, despite lacking in looks, financial success, or familial responsibilities, manage to marry attractive partners and lead fulfilling lives. This phenomenon often raises questions about karma and fate, suggesting that external factors beyond one’s control can play a significant role in marital outcomes.

Case Studies

Consider the case of a woman who, at 33, was still single due to her unrealistic expectations. She sought a partner who resembled a film star but eventually realized that her criteria were limiting her opportunities. Similarly, a man with an impressive job and assets found himself overlooked due to his drinking habits and lack of family involvement. These examples highlight the complexities of human relationships, revealing that financial status and appearance do not always correlate with compatibility or happiness.

Changing Perspectives

The expectations for grooms stem from historical contexts where women faced oppression and were often treated as property. Today, many women seek independence and desire partners who can provide not just financially, but also emotionally. As societal norms evolve, some couples choose to share responsibilities and build their futures together.

Astrology and Horoscope

Astrology remains a vital factor for many families in India. Even those skeptical of astrological beliefs may find themselves constrained by familial expectations regarding horoscope compatibility. This can complicate the search for a suitable partner, as many will not consider matches that do not align with astrological beliefs.

Expanding Horizons

For those struggling to find a match, broadening the criteria for potential partners can be beneficial. This may include considering partners from different backgrounds, educational levels, or even varying employment statuses. Rejection based on superficial criteria can limit opportunities for meaningful connections.

Conclusion

Navigating the landscape of arranged marriages in India involves understanding complex social dynamics and personal expectations. While financial stability, appearance, and family influence dominate the selection process, it is essential to recognize the evolving nature of relationships in contemporary society. As individuals continue to pursue their aspirations and challenge traditional norms, the essence of partnership may shift towards shared values and mutual respect. Ultimately, those seeking companionship should focus on personal growth and fulfillment, ensuring that they are content with their journey, regardless of marital outcomes.

The Neighbor's Roof Adjacent to Ours

 

The Neighbor's Roof Adjacent to Ours

After a long time of marriage, I had returned to my parental home. My family home was in an old neighborhood of Patna, where it still exists. The houses are close together, just 6-7 feet apart in narrow lanes, with only 3-4 feet of distance between the roofs. My husband, Sankalp, had gone abroad for a trip, which happened 2-3 times a year. I was sitting on the roof with my mom in the evening. The neighbor's roof was right next to ours. A boy named Avinash lived in that house; he was 4-5 years older than me and studied in the same school. Suddenly, I remembered him and asked my mom, “Where is Avinash these days?”

“I don’t know anything about him. He left this house a few days before your wedding. He was a tenant here, came to Patna for studies.”

I went to the kitchen to make tea, but memories of the past began flooding back. I felt restless, unable to focus on anything. While straining the tea into the cup, half of it spilled outside. My mind kept wandering through the corridors of the past. Anyway, I made the tea and returned to the roof. My mom was talking to an aunt from the neighboring roof, with just 3 feet between them. I handed my tea to the aunt and said, “You both drink it. I’ll make some for myself later.”

I stood at the other corner of the roof, away from them. It was getting dark. When the electricity went out, the children came out making noise. Some came to their own roofs. During such times, Avinash would smile at me or wave his hand when I was on the roof. I was in the 8th grade then and often went up to dry clothes, and Avinash was usually there too, especially on holidays.

One day, while I was standing on the roof, the power went out, and it got a bit dark. Avinash came close, handed me a note, and then quickly ran away, smiling. I was very scared. I hid the note inside my kurta. The years between childhood and adolescence can be quite tumultuous for girls. Sometimes you feel like jumping with joy, and sometimes you fear growing up. Sometimes you want to embrace someone, and other times you wish to be embraced.

Later, I read the note. It said, “Deepa, you look very beautiful when you smile, and it makes me happy to see that.”

Time passed like this. My sister’s wedding was coming up, and there was a mehndi ceremony. I also got mehndi on both hands and went up to the roof in the evening. Avinash was on his roof too. He smiled and waved at me. I don’t know what came over me, but I raised my mehndi-covered hands in response. He gestured for me to come closer to the railing, and I was drawn to him. He immediately kissed my hands, and I pulled away quickly.

Whenever Avinash got a chance, he would secretly hand me a note. It would often say, “Just keep smiling.” I liked it, but I never responded or expressed anything back.

After completing my Plus Two, I joined college. Suddenly, my sister suggested a good match for me from her in-laws. I wanted to study further, but everyone unanimously insisted, “A good match has come to our doorstep. Don’t let this opportunity slip. You can finish your studies in your in-laws’ house.”

Preparations for my wedding were underway. Avinash sent me a note through a small child, wishing me congratulations on my wedding and advising me to keep smiling in my new home. He mentioned that he would miss seeing my mehndi-laden hands.

After my wedding, I moved to Indore with my husband, Sankalp. He is a good, decent man but often busy with work. When he gets free time, he watches cricket on TV or goes to his cricket club. I never complained about this.

My mom's voice broke my reverie, “Deepa, tomorrow is the mehndi ceremony for our neighbor Pradeep uncle's daughter Mohini, and there’s also a ladies’ sangeet. You know her; she was in your school, two classes behind you. She specifically asked for you to come along.”

The next evening, I went to Mohini’s place. I got mehndi applied on both hands up to my elbows and participated in the ladies’ sangeet for a while. When the electricity went out, I returned home. Although the generator was running there, I couldn’t tolerate the loud music, so I left.

I went up to my roof and suddenly remembered Avinash. I waved my mehndi-covered hands in the air. The neighbor aunt saw me from her roof and thought I was showing my hands to her. She came closer to the railing and said, “Your mehndi looks very nice. The color has come out well. The groom must really love you.”

I shyly pulled my hands back. Later that night, I was online on my laptop when I unexpectedly saw Avinash's friend request and accepted it immediately. Shortly after, I received a message from him asking how I was and if my smile was still intact. “Sankalp must like your smile too,” he added.

I was astonished. How did he know about Sankalp? So, I asked, “How do you know him?”

“I’m a teacher at a central school in Dubai. Sankalp came to our school to set up the computer and Wi-Fi system. During our conversation, I found out he is your husband. He gave me your WhatsApp number.”

High Class vegetarian Restaurants in Tamilnadu

 

High-Class Vegetarian Restaurants in Tamil Nadu: Indispensable Traits

When it comes to high-class vegetarian restaurants in Tamil Nadu, a few unmistakable characteristics stand out:

• Behind the cash counter, large photographs of delectable dishes are prominently displayed, alongside a faded picture of the hotel’s former glory.

• You can be sure there will be a glass bowl filled with ripe lemons on the cash counter.

• The same table will likely have a couple of transparent containers without any discernible purpose.

• A fresh floral garland will adorn the entrance of the restaurant daily.

• The washroom will have a tap, but it often lacks running water; instead, an aluminium jug with water is provided for handwashing.

• There may be a hand dryer installed, but it rarely functions properly.

• Though a tissue paper dispenser is present, it is often empty.

• There will be a restroom, but it will invariably be locked; you might even reminisce about the legendary Thoppur Hotel while waiting.

• The cash counter might have motivational quotes about honesty, but requesting an extra papad will usually incur an additional charge.

• If you sit at a table, you might get a glance from a server, who will then promptly adjust the ceiling fan switch above you.

• After ten minutes of waiting, a server will finally come to collect the already softened leaf plates, followed by another wait for the main dishes.

• The only items you’ll receive will be idli, dosa, vada, and puri; any other requests will be met with the response that they are not available.

• No matter what you order, a vada will somehow accompany your meal.

• The chutney served with the meal will either lack salt or be overly diluted; one of these will inevitably be the case.

• After serving, the supplier will vanish, leaving you to wait for sambar and chutney; you might find yourself sitting there for quite some time.

• It’s only during your meal that the supplier will reappear with the bill, staying until you count your money.

• When tipping, you might notice that the change is often just small denominations, as if they are keeping an eye on how much you leave.

• Once you step outside after a meal, you may wonder if it was worth it, reminiscing about the homemade upma your spouse could have made instead.