Ira 1r4p4j

© SARASWATHI PRIYADARSHINI 2021

All rights reserved All rights reserved by author. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the author. Although every precaution has been taken to the accuracy of the information contained herein, the author and publisher assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions. No liability is assumed for damages that may result from the use of information contained within.

First Published in June 2021

ISBN: 978-93-5472-079-6

Price: INR 210/-

BLUEROSE PUBLISHERS www.bluerosepublishers.com [email protected] +91 8882 898 898

Cover Design: Mohammad Fayez Zameer

Typographic Design:

Typographic Design: Ilma Mirza

Distributed by: BlueRose, Amazon, Flipkart

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to every girl who suffers from low self-esteem. Never lose faith in yourself no matter what kind of trauma or negative impact caused you to doubt your own abilities.

When I was in high school, my father printed out the lyrics of Whitney Houston’s song ‘The greatest love of all’ and pinned it on the notice board in my room.

The song began with ‘I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way, show them all the beauty they possess inside, give them a sense of pride to make it easier’....and it continues to say that learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all!!

Every girl must learn to discern right from wrong. Build on your God given talent.

You must love yourself so fiercely and so fully that you have the strength to stand up for yourself.

Hold on to your dignity and build yourself first, your prince will find you!

I also dedicate this book to the loving memory of my late father Perumal Kesevelu.

FOREWORD

IRA is not just a simple love story of a triangular relationship. Each vertex of the triangle is well defined with a BIG life inside it!

It fills the heart of the reader with ‘a what happens next’ note as one follows the pages.

It is said in the book “What makes an actor truly great is bringing the scripted character to life, you have to make the audience believe you are real, not someone who has evolved from rehearsals, the magic must come from within, connect from real life”

And this is true to the extent to which each character in ‘Ira’ is depicted.

Life is a dance, whether it is for pain or pleasure and it is followed in the pages of this book.

Saraswathi Priyadarshini a dedicated educator and a ionate theatre enthusiast reveals that God has a great purpose in each life, don’t settle for anything less. If the theatre students and the general readers do not read ‘Ira’ please be sure that you are settling for LESS. I wish her enormous success in this journey of creating new themes in theatre.

Dr. H.S. Ganesha Bhatta

Director Academics

M.E.S and M.E.C

Group of Institutions.

Former Principal M.E.S

TEACHERS COLLEGE

Bangalore.

ABOUT DR. GANESHA BHATTA

Dr. H.S Ganesha Bhatta, a Doctorate in Education has served this noble field for over 40 years, from assistant teacher to lecturer to Principal of the premier teacher’s college in Karnataka State, M.E.S Teachers’ College Rajajinagar, Bangalore.

After Retirement from the Principal Post he is currently the Director of Academics at MES Institutions ( Malleshwaram) and MEC group of Institutions Yelahanka, Bangalore.

At the secondary level he has taught Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. At the B.Ed and M.Ed classes he specialises in Economics of Education, Research Methodology, Methods of Teaching, Education and leadership, Modernisation methods of Education. He has guided MPhil students and over 200 dissertations for the students of Mysore University.

He has conducted several research activities and participated in numerous seminars, conferences and workshops to enhance the quality of education.

He has been Custodian of B.Ed/B.PEd Examinations, Squad Chief for B.Ed Practical Examinaion, Member Board of Examiners and reviewer of Ph.D Proposals for IGNOU, New Delhi.

Master resource person on the National Policy of Education of 1986.

He takes on several potent roles as Resource person and chief editor of NCERT curriculum, Adviser for NAAC, Consultant, Chairperson, Principal Investigator, Course designer of several educational platforms.

He is now actively involved in writing text books and question banks, assisting the state and central government in academic and istrative issues. He conducts workshops and counselling selections at the top colleges in Karnataka.

His other areas of interest include dramatics, music, poetry and public speaking.

He believes that teaching is a service and that teachers are nation builders.

CHAPTER 1

Doors open to a large auditorium. It's empty, dark and quiet, the seats are turned up.

Grand maroon velvet curtains part, a group of young theatre enthusiasts are seated, a buzz of excitement and expectation fills the stage.

Roshan, a young, attractive and charming man in his mid-twenties sits quietly, a calm in his face and eagerness in his eyes. He was every girl’s dream. He was reliable, gentle, sensitive and determined. Always sure of what he wanted.

Enter Aditi, a woman in her mid-fifties clad in a comfortable cotton saree.

For Aditi drama was life and life was drama, one easily slipped into the other. Never married but had adopted a baby girl Nikita who was now studying drama at the London School of Dramatics in London, England.

Both ionate and scrupulous, she was stern at times yet good natured, creative and fun. An exemplary teacher, her greatest gift was to inspire youngsters who weren’t naturally gifted in the art of acting, persuading and pushing to give their best. She demonstrated great belief that anything can be learnt. Having made a dramatic entrance on stage followed by her two assistants who were holding big files looking rather nervous, she stands with her hands intertwined and her grey hair tied up in a messy bun, her spectacles dropped to the tip of her nose, her deep eyes accentuated with thick kajal scan the room.

The chatter drops to a sudden silence.

“I see you have all made it through the auditions” she says smiling.

“Congratulations !!"

“I think you must applaud yourselves for you are all stars in the making”, she continues with a certain affirmation in her voice.

Excitement and applause fill the air.

“I don’t see her!! Where is she??....surely she can't be late today?!”

She questions anxiously.

“What is her name?!....Ah?!”. An assistant whispers in her ears.

“Yes! Ira!”.

CHAPTER 2

Pink, yellow and orange rays of twilight ease through the window and fall like a veil over a young lady kneeling down in prayer. Her cascading lustrous hair covers her face. “Thank you!!” whispers Ira, she opens her bright expressive eyes, she is startled to see her brother Dhiraj with his palms raised as if to bless her.

“It shall be done”, he teases her.

“Go study!” she says as she pecks him on his forehead.

“First year engineering, not easy” she warns with her finger raised.

She then sprints down the corridor of pictures, pictures of her in various costumes. In one she is Cinderella, in another Snow White and in one she is the personification of love!!

She jolts to the kitchen to find her mother.

She hurriedly wraps her arms around her saying “I’m late, I’m late, I’m late” mimicking her favourite character the white rabbit from Alice in Wonderland.

Grabbing her bag from the table, she glances upon the picture of her father whom she lost when she was only eight and her little brother barely three.

Ira had learnt to be strong, as life demanded it of her!

Inside she was gullible, vulnerable and deeply sensitive.

As she sat in the bus that would take her to the auditorium, she knew in her heart that her dreams would soon be a reality.

CHAPTER 3

“Love is patient, Love is kind, no eyes of envy, true love is blind…”

She forces open the heavy doors of the auditorium with a bang interrupting Aditi’s narration. After rushing down the aisle, she jumps over to the stage, "I am sorry, I’m late" she says panting.

She could sense all eyes shift their gaze on her.

“Oh! There you are! I was beginning to wonder! Please take your seat, you missed the introduction” she says in a rather strict tone.

Ira rushes like a nervous student to the only empty seat she could find next to Roshan, who is captivated by her angelic presence and couldn’t help but stare at her, not realising that she was requesting him to move a bit. He quickly breaks from the spell and moves slightly to his right. “May I continue?” questions Aditi as if to seek Ira’s permission. “Sorry!” Ira whispers, shrugging her shoulders.

“Love is gentle, makes no demands, despite all wrong, True love still stands the test of time.

Love forgives and forgives.

It lasts forever.

It endures”, recites Aditi with a natural ease as if speaking from experience.

There is a reflective silence in the group, they listen in a daze as if touched and drawn by what they hear, it was not just what she was saying but also how, it seemed to strum the strings of their heart.

“While we try to capture the true essence of love in this drama let us also show this world full of hate that real love goes against that flow!!” She stops, yet no one moves. She claps to shake them up as it were!!

“There! Ok! Thank you! You all looked lost!” She laughs.

“Now let me give you all your scripts with your parts”, she says signalling her assistants, who start to hand out the files. Pushing her spectacles up Aditi reads out names of who would play the role of dancers, friends and finally the main lead. Roshan and Ira exchange a brief glance. “Please read the scripts, understand and explore the characters you are playing” instructs Aditi. “Oh! I almost forgot! Let me introduce Sushma and Roopa who will be helping with the props, costumes, make up and everything else. They do a lot”, she says looking at them rather pleased.

Then looking back at the actors, she says “The choreographer Yash will be coming in next week”. “A few more instructions and then I will let you off”, she continues looking at her watch.

“Please eat healthy and stay healthy. The show is in nine months!

Almost like birthing your dreams”, she says as an afterthought.

"If this means anything to you, you will give it your best!

Now mingle and get to know each other. Establish trust and work as a team”,

“Ask Harish to serve them some tea please", she instructs Sushma in a lower voice.

Then raising her voice again, "I will see you all tomorrow at 5p.m” she looks wide eyed at Ira as a warning for her grand late entrance. She turns around, with her assistants following her she makes a dramatic exit.

Harish, a young boy enters with a tray of tea and biscuits, earnestly and cheerfully serving with a smile he says, "Hello!!” with a bow for every glass that is taken.

A buzz fills the stage again. Roshan stretches his hand out “Hi!! I am Roshan, Roshan Solagar and you are?” he asks awkwardly.

"Iravathi", "Ira", she corrects herself immediately and greets him with a warm smile. The actors go around and acquaint themselves, tea and biscuits in hand. Ira connects instantly with Sania a gregarious girl about the same age as her.

Soon all disperse. Roshan watches Ira as she leaves, his friend Anup pats him on his back

“Lets go buddy rehearsals haven’t started yet”, he jokes realising that Roshan's eyes were following Ira as she walked away.

The group exits the auditorium. Roshan and Anup are the last ones to trail along.

The lights go off.

CHAPTER 4

Sitting on her bed, script in hand Ira recollects Aditi’s words, “Read the script, explore the characters….”

She puts it away, opens the draw of a desk next to her bed, picks up a pink teddy bear that says ‘Princess’ on it! Clutching it close to her heart, walks to the window and gazes dreamily at the dark sky, the pale glow of the moon lights up her wistfully sad face.

CHAPTER 5

The next day at the auditorium the participants have gathered, they exchange ideas on their assigned roles eager to make a good impression. Ira sits with Sania at the edge of the stage swinging her legs playfully.

“Hey Harish! Don’t you go to school”, she shouts out to Harish who es by humming a tune, a jug of tea in one hand and stacked up paper cups in the other.

“I do madam”, he replies proudly “Aditi madam sends me, I help around here in the evenings at rehearsals and go to school during the day!” he adds. She is one incredible woman thinks Ira in awe, her respect for the director growing. Roshan approaches her tea in hand. “Tea?”, he asks, thinking of no better conversation starter.

“No, thank you”, she replies. "Have you met Sania?", she continues almost immediately.

Roshan and Sania say “Yes! Yes!” in chorus. Anup s them, looking at Sania he says “Hi” softly.

Sania ignores him, leaving the others around wondering why, there is an uneasy silence but only briefly as the unmistaken voice of Aditi gets everyone’s attention. “I hope you are done with tea, may we gather and get to business, time is precious!!”, says Aditi, her words flowing quickly and assertively as she moves to the centre of the stage. The group gather around her immediately as if on a military command. “I assume you all have read your parts, every role is

significant and will weave the story together”, she says as she clasps her palms together.

“ there are no small roles! Only small actors”, she emphasizes.

“What makes an actor truly great is bringing the scripted character to life, you have to make the audience believe you are real, not someone who has evolved from rehearsals, the magic must come from within, connect from real life”, she says with incredible confidence.

“Connect that ion, that drive you have into acting!” she exclaims.

Sania standing right behind Roshan whispers into his ear “Roshan! Are you attracted to Aditi?” Interpreting his deep reflection on Aditi’s words. “There is more to what she is saying, she speaks to the heart, not to the head”, replies Roshan not shifting focus or batting an eyelid.

“Let’s get started on scene one, be open to your creativity, don’t be afraid of mistakes, they just mean you are exploring and learning”, she continues in an assuring tone.

The rehearsals finally begin.

CHAPTER 6

Roshan returns home after rehearsals, parks his Harley in the pebbled driveway of the posh bungalow in an affluent neighbourhood. His father Dr.Solagar had done well for himself as a reputed consultant neurosurgeon in the top hospitals of the city. His mother kept a well-furnished happy home. She was a home maker who kept herself busy with social work that complimented her warm, comionate and altruistic nature.

“Ma! I’m home!” He shouts as is customary when he enters his nest every day. “In the kitchen son!” She responds happily.

“Come! Come! Wash up, your favourite paneer for dinner", she says pouring some cream into the bubbling aromatic dish and stirring it confidently. For Roshan she was the world’s best cook!

“My good son!” She beams, patting his cheeks as he embraces her. “Where is my adorable sister?” He asks biting into a carrot stick. “Where else, in the balcony on a conference call”, she replies starting to set the table with plates.

“Go on son!! Wash up, change, dad will be down soon too! Let’s have dinner", she edges him along taking off her flowery apron.

Dinner as a family was a mandatory custom in the Solagar household.

A few moments later Roshan’s father comes down the stairs, he was a tall, well built, good looking man, sporting a ‘salt and pepper’ look, one could tell that he resembled Roshan in his younger days. “Hello son”, he greets Roshan patting him on his back. “How was the first day of practice?” He asks with delight.

Roshan’s reply is interrupted by Smitha his older sister, a bold, ambitious and assertive techie.

“I still can’t understand how the both of you are encouraging an engineer into acting”, she says annoyed. Dragging the chair she flops herself on it. “He could be making so much money right now, I could put in a word for him in my own company", she continues checking her mobile as it beeps.

“Alright! Alright!” Interrupts their father in a calming voice, an attempt to stop Smitha’s lecture. Her ranting was part of most dinners, but under that rough exterior she really did care about her baby brother.

“Its fine honey! Let him follow his heart! Do what makes him happy”, agrees his mother as she places hot roti on his plate. “Okay! I know you both him, but I don’t see the sense”, huffs Smitha as she lifts the lids off the dishes on the table. “And it is his favourite again for dinner today!!” She yells at her mom.

Roshan beams, basking in all the attention.

CHAPTER 7

Practices continue every day, there is order and discipline and everyone is clear with their roles and what is expected of them.

One sunny, sultry Saturday afternoon the costume designer Sneha arrives, a tall, slim and beautiful young lady she was a friend of Aditi’s daughter Nikita. More than her formal education in fashion she was successful due to her innate design skills and perseverance. She had an understanding for the way fabric moved, draped and reacted when worn. Bold and contemporary were her signature styles and it showed in the way she dressed.

Practices were interrupted as she sat in serious discussion with Aditi, catalogues on her lap, while the tailors took measurements of the artists. Suggestions and ideas were exchanged, but mostly there was excitement and a happy vibe in the air as the reality of the show sets in.

It’s pack up time, as a long tiresome day of practices comes to an end. Ira sensing that Sania is not her gleeful bubbly self pulls her aside while waving byes to the others. “Something seems to be bothering you, I watched you all day, do you want to talk about it”, she asks with concern.

“Yes! There is.” Sania frowns. “I am disturbed.”

“Is it Anup?" Ira questions in suspicion.

“Yes! How did you guess?” asks Sania wide eyed and a little astonished.

“Well its quite obvious, something is the matter with you two”, replies Ira with a warm hug. “You can tell me!” She says gently sinking Sania into her arms.

They sit on bikes in the parking lot outside the auditorium, the sun had set and darkness was just peeking through. Sania starts to speak hesitantly at first but Ira’s warm and comforting presence eases her through.

“Anup and I are together since we started college which is five years ago. He is kind, sweet and funny and everything nice, but he does not want anyone to know ! That we are a couple”, she narrates sadly. “He is uneasy to be seen with me in public and what upsets me more is that he has never ever told me that he loves me”, she continues with a tone of indignation.

“Though he implies it in so many ways!” Her voice softening.

“I have waited so long for things to change. I want the romance, silly though it may sound, I want the flowers, the dates, the candle lit dinners, the gifts… the works!” She shouts in frustration.

“And he needs to have courage to face the world with me!” She says banging her fists on the handles of her bike. “I am not talking to him till he can man up!! And that my friend is the problem!” She concludes looking enraged.

Ira nods.

“You are all Juliet and he is no Romeo!” exclaims Ira, instantly turning the anger on Sania’s face to a loud burst of laughter.

CHAPTER 8

"This is Yash our choreographer", Aditi introduces a tall, muscular man in his mid-thirties. Yash owned a dance studio where he taught ballroom, jazz, hip-hop, break, contemporary and every style of dance there is. He was deeply ionate about dancing and had been unceasingly diligent in his pursuit towards perfection.

"He will be teaching you all the first choreography this week", she beamed. "Let me warn you all, he is a hard task master and quite hot tempered too. So you better put on your dancing shoes and follow his instructions carefully", she cautions them in a serious tone. Turning to Yash, she pats him on his shoulders “Yash! They are all yours!” She grins.

“Hello!” says Yash sporting his gym body in a tight T-shirt and jeans as he looks around with a smile. His personality and persona and of course Aditi’s warning gets the complete attention from the group. “Most people think dancing is the easiest in the world, it is the opposite”, he declares in a serious tone. "You should know that it is more than just moves, technique and learning steps, it takes ion, connecting soul with body", he says with an evident spark in his eyes.

“In the context of drama, a musical specially we express what we feel through dance. When you’re in pain, dance. When your heart is breaking, dance. When you’re celebrating, dance", he says in an almost poetic manner.

" energy, spirit and feelings are the dimension you have to bring beyond the physical effort. You are the music the audience hears, so put your feelings into your performance, that’s when a dancer becomes an artist!" He exclaims with a knowing confidence. His positive charm now captivating the

group. "Alright!" he says raising his voice a bit while sliding his hands into his pockets. "We will be taking on the first song of the musical this week, the style being ballroom and the setting is in the rain", he says nodding at Aditi in conformation. "We will master the basic steps which is box, triple and rock before we advance.

My assistants are here to help as well", he says pointing to two men who had been standing hands folded and listening inconspicuously. "There is a lot of footwork involved and several styles of handholds", he continues looking around making eye with the group. " I will take on the lead actors", he states turning around to look at Aditi who immediately points to Ira and Roshan, "My assistants will instruct the rest of you".

After the initial formalities were done with Aditi leaves waving her hand at Yash and giving him a thumbs up with a smile.

Yash turns to Ira and Roshan and signals them to come towards him “Please face me and hold hands” he instructs.

Roshan stretches his hand out to Ira, a gentle smile on his face. Ira reluctantly places her hand in his hand as she looks at Yash. The tension and awkwardness mounts as they follow Yash’s instructions. Ira is undoubtedly uncomfortable in this moment, sensing that Roshan tries to ease the hold in an effort to calm her.

After a while of more “front together, side together” from Yash, the day of rehearsals ends, much to the relief of Ira.

“From tomorrow I would like you to come to my studio” he says. Reaching for

his wallet, he hands them both his visiting card, “Will ping you the directions”, he smiles as he leaves.

As Ira packs her bag, Roshan walks up to her “Would you like to come along with me to the studio tomorrow ?" he asks earnestly.

“No, I will get there on my own! But thanks for asking me", she replies politely as she pulls the zip on her bag.

CHAPTERr 9

It was a pleasant summer evening as Ira walks down the road lined with trees on either side. She looks for Yash’s residence which also housed the dance studio. The quiet and calm neighbourhood exhibited opulence in the tastefully built houses. Owning a home here connotes a high level of prestige and success, she thought to herself as the carpet of fallen pink flowers, still delicate and beautiful, caught her eyes. She walks dreamingly gazing up at the maze of leaves and branches that formed a canopy over her. The surroundings were serene and soothing. The place had a very distinct memorable character.

The silence is broken by a familiar voice. “You are here! This is it.” She turns to find Roshan leaning against his bike, his hand crossed against his chest, he was watching Ira all along and wondered if she might have walked past the studio in her dreamy state.

“Hmmm! Harley!!” She says in a dramatic tone looking at his bike

"Rich kid!" she remarks as she ties her hair in a pony.

“No, not me!! But my parents are”, he replies playfully. "Come! Let’s get in, the entrance to the studio is on the side", he directs her to a narrow stairway to the first floor, where they are greeted by a pleasant young lady, who sat behind a small desk with a phone and laptop.

She was the one who took care of the studio, the dance classes, Yash’s shows, travel plans and so on.

"Good evening", she says with a warm smile, "Yash Sir is expecting you, this way please". She leads them to a large room with smooth vinyl floors, a bar on one side and mirror covered walls on the other. Huge speaker on the walls playing some funky music completed the look.

As Roshan and Ira walk around looking, Yash enters. "Hello, good evening! Put your bags down on that table!" he says pointing to a table in the corner of the room, that had some instruction books, the music player and a remote placed next to it.

“Let’s get started!” He chirps enthusiastically. “Please take your positions.”

Roshan and Ira take a step forward, Roshan wraps his hand around her back, while Ira places her left hand on his firm shoulders, their free hands meet. Roshan having figured that Ira was not comfortable dancing in such proximity the first time, whispers to her reassuringly “Breathe, calm and easy!” Ira takes a deep breath and smiles at him.

"Alright! This is how we go.

Forward, side together

Backward, side together."

Instructs Yash his hands in the air pretending to be holding a partner.

Yash could tell that Roshan was a natural dancer and very gentle with Ira, treating her with respect, never forcing but following her through every movement, he was adapting to her. An hour and a half later Roshan and Ira say bye to Yash. "See you tomorrow!" He says waving his hands. "You both did good today", he smiles with his thumbs up.

“May I drop you!” Asks Roshan as they walk down the stairs, sounding charismatic.

"No! That’s fine! I will take the bus", she replies, pushing open the gate. "Let me walk you to the bus stand in the least", he requests.

"Ok!" She says reluctantly as they begin to walk towards a bus stop two blocks away. They sit quietly at the bus stand, the silence between them was a knowing comforting kind. Cold breeze brushed past them carrying the fragrance of the flowers nearby. It was dark, lights flashed on the road as a bus took a turn on the serpentine curve. Ira bends to see the number and stands up adjusting her dress.

“That’s my ride”, she says with a smile as the huge red bus stops with a squeal of the breaks. The doors open with a squeak, an old lady comes rushing tugging a little boy behind her, Ira stops and allows them to enter whilst turning around and waving to Roshan.

Roshan walks back towards his bike, a flutter in his heart, a spring in his step and a smile he just can't seem to wipe off. He mounts his bike. As he kick starts the beast he says to himself “Is this it?”

Ira is entertained by the little boy sitting next to her, he was conversing with his spiderman toy. She looks out, she was half way home “Why does he occupy so much of my thoughts”, she lets out a deep sigh as she rests her head by the window.

Chapter 10

Walking towards the studio a couple of days later in a flowery cotton skirt and white lace blouse, Ira looks up at the sky. It was dark and heavy clouds were closing in. She looks down to find Roshan standing in the same spot as the previous time, Anup was with him. Could this be the right time to speak to Anup she ponders as she approaches them.

“Anup! May I have a word with you in private? It’s a personal matter” she rattles off, peeking Roshan’s curiosity. “What, not even a hi! first?” Says Anup a little confused and humoured. Then immediately realising that Ira was serious he continues, "You can tell me, Roshan is my best friend, no secrets between us.”

Ira looks at Roshan as he stood there quietly looking a little baffled.

The skies blacken, a strong wind blows her hair across her face.

“Sania is a wonderful person and you should consider yourself blessed to have her. If you are ashamed to be seen with her in public then you don’t deserve her", she states.

"Are you afraid of commitment or are you hoping for someone better to come along", she fires away as a loud rumble of thunder is heard in the distant sky. Beads of sweat begin to appear on Anup’s forehead at the sudden onslaught while Roshan listens on quite amused.

This was a new side of Ira he was witnessing.

"So, which one is it?!" She demanded an answer as the skies roared louder and louder. "Because if you are just fooling around, stop wasting her time. She can have anyone she wants you know that", she says assertively.

Roshan was thoroughly amused. Is she orchestrating nature to play music for her, he wondered while Anup was still shocked.

Anup struggles to get words out of his mouth. “I….I…..we….” he stammers.

“Save it for Sania” she stops him abruptly. A lightning bolt splits the sky.

“Let’s go!” She says turning to Roshan.

“You go up, I will follow you in a bit”, responds Roshan.

Roshan asks Anup “What just happened here?!”

"I really don’t know what to do! But I do know that I must do something about it", he replies a little disorientated.

“I think I know how that something must be done, we will talk later,” he says

assuringly as he hurries up the stairs.

CHAPTER 11

The practice session progresses quite nicely until suddenly interrupted by a power cut. Yash looks out the window. “It is raining!” he exclaims "and quite heavy too", he adds.

They were so involved in the moment that the sound of the music had drowned out everything else. "I am quite pleased with the outcome, I think we are done with this song", he affirms as he walks to the door to call for his assistant, who almost bumps into him with two candles in hand. “Sir, the generator is under repair”, she says in a soft voice, afraid of being yelled at.

Yash dismisses her with a stern look. She carefully places the candles on the table and hurries out.

“I am leaving, you are welcome to stay till the rain stops, my assistant will be here till 9”, he says.

I think we will stay a while till the rain subsides", says Ira looking out of the window. "Thank you sir, I think we will wait", agrees Roshan.

A quarter of an hour es as they sit quietly in the candle lit room, the flickering light bouncing off the mirrors on the wall illuminated the room.

Ira sits swatting on the floor, staring at the candles, watching the wick burn, the

wax slowly turns to liquid and glides down into the glass plate below, Roshan looks at her and wishes he knew the reason behind the sadness in her eyes.

“I have an interesting idea!! I hope you will agree?!” He asks interrupting her thoughts.

She looks up at him and forces a smile.

"You know this choreography we just learnt is meant to be in the rain?" He says excitedly. "So?" She asks wide eyed, wondering what his idea was?

"It is raining!! What a beautiful coincidence, why not have the last practice in the real setting", he continues, his face glowing in the light of the candles. She gets up and walks to the window, looking out she could see the dimmed lights on the empty streets through the curtain of pouring rain, the air was fresh and cool. “Why not?” She says still looking out. Roshan who least expected a positive response was overjoyed.

They hurry down the stairs after saying a quick bye to the assistant.

The rain had washed the sidewalks and the roads clean. There was not a soul in sight, it was now just a drizzle. They run to the middle of the road splashing the water like little children. "Shall we ?!" smiles Roshan still amazed at her spontaneity. "Yes!" She says as she takes a step forward towards him and looks at him, his eyes are deep and irresistible, they circle each other as the gaze remains locked onto each other’s eyes. They hear the gentle pitter patter of the rain but the music plays in their heads.

Ira is more relaxed now than when they first started the routine two weeks ago. The dance was perfect, their breathing and their feet moved in sync as water falls like drops of pearl down her face. He felt one with the song, the dance and her as he spinned her elegantly, she felt like she was floating in the air. She waves her arms, tosses her head and then stops. They freeze in that one brief perfect magical moment.

“Thank you for this!” blushes Roshan breaking from the spell.

“Why thank you”, she replies composing herself, "It was for practice was it not?" she asks, surprised that she was caught up in the moment too. "It has stopped drizzling. I should be going, hopefully will catch the last bus", she hurries a little worried.

Roshan nods. He knows an offer to drop her would be turned down. They walk to the bus stop, their hair and clothes dripping wet.

CHAPTER 12

The next day, the actors are gathered at the canteen behind the auditorium.

The large room under huge trees was the kitchen, metal tables and chairs made for the seating, the cool breeze and the chirping of birds made everyone feel welcome. It was one of the liveliest places where the artists gathered over tea and hot savouries like bajji, bondas and samosas. The South Indian meals at lunch time was a gastronomic delight.

A group of dancers sat at the table working out some math problems for Harish while he was happily serving tea!

Ira sat with Sania narrating the incident of her verbal spat with Anup the previous evening over a glass of piping hot tea that Harish had just placed. Sania listened on quite amused. Roshan and Anup interrupt their gabble.

"Sania"…says Anup softly, I have something to say.

Sania does not look at him.

In an attempt to get her attention Anup walks a couple of steps and jumps over a tin barrel, standing tall he makes a dramatic scene.

"Sania I am scared and beyond my wits to do this, please turn around", he begs.

"You know what a mess I am to handle, yet you stayed with me. I guess I was scared to it anything because you mean too much to me, please Sania you know how hard it is for me to say anything", he says in a vulnerable voice.

Sania finally turns around and looks at him, is he really doing this she wondered to herself. Anup holds out a bunch of roses, the petals barely clinging on.

"If I did anything right in my life, it is now… this moment…. I love you, you are my best friend and I want to be the reason you smile everyday… Please don’t give up on me", he begs.

"Aww! How sweet!" Was the reaction in chorus from the artists who were now completely exchanged in the ongoing theatrics. Sania walks up to Anup tearing up, Anup jumps off the barrel and hugs her. All clap. "Treat! Treat!" They yell, some banging on the table. Roshan and Ira exchange glances and smile, quite pleased with their efforts.

“Sorry to spoil your party, I think you all should get back to rehearsals” shouts Aditi waving her hands to direct them into the auditorium. “Ira and Roshan please come here” she calls out with a noticeable urgency in her voice.

“You must go and meet Mrs. Rita Thomas, she is an excellent pianist and will guide you with the duet and solos you two will be singing. Here is the address, it is just around the corner,” she adds handing them a piece of paper.

Roshan reaches out and takes the paper.

“I know this place, shall we?!” he asks turning to Ira, as he slides the paper into the back pockets of his jeans. Ira nods, she was beginning to feel safe and comfortable in his company.

As they walk through the Anglo Indian area that had acquired a distinct British cultural salience they speak about how happy they were for Sania and Anup.

“Okay! This is it I guess no. 934”, he claims. Roshan stops in front of a beautiful house with a saddle buck roof. The arched windows and gravel pathway reflected facets of Colonial architecture. As they open the gates, they see a small garden in the front with small herbs, flowering plants and a covered porch.

“Hello!” Chirped the lovely women with a gorgeous smile as she opened the door. "Come on in, I’ve been expecting you", she says gracefully as she shook their hands. She was wearing a sleeveless floral dress, her silvery grey hair brushed her shoulders, though she was in her sixties she emitted a noticeable youthfulness.

They enter a narrow veranda that had a vintage armchair, a porcelain vase with fresh flowers sat on a side table covered with white hand knit doily.

“Come come” they hear Rita’s enthusiastic voice as they follow her into the living room. It was crammed with antique furniture. There were porcelain dolls and intricately carved candle stands everywhere showing no restraint in decorating. The hand embroidered throw pillows on the large sofa were welcoming. The original wooden cabinets with hammered metal pulls stood

proudly as the wind blew through the huge arched windows that were covered with white linen curtains.

A beautiful antique grand piano was perched in one corner of the room. One wall was covered with pictures, the one that caught the eye was a black and white portrait of Rita in her wedding gown with her groom in an army uniform, she looked like an angel.

“That’s my husband, isn’t he stunning” she blushes. "Please be seated, I will be with you in a minute", she says sweetly.

Ira and Roshan sit down. Rita’s home was so warm and cosy.

"Let us have some tea first", she suggests as she places the tray down. She pours out the tea and places on the saucer a few cookies that she baked herself.

Rita observes Roshan and Ira as they sip their tea. “This is a lovely home and your cookies are divine” compliments Roshan biting into the crisp cookies. “Do you live alone ma’am”, he continues brushing off the crumbs from his lap.

"Yes! I do, my children have moved to Australia", she responds handing Roshan a cotton serviette.

A few silent moments later, Rita informs them that Aditi had spoken to her about the two of them and had already sent her the melody and the lyrics of the duet.

"Let us get started", she says standing up, she leads them to the piano.

"This is a love song, and its classical. It describes the two people in love and how they make each other feel", informs Rita.

"I heard that both of you are exceptional singers, so I have a feeling this will be good", she declares, while Roshan and Ira look at each other, this fact that either of them were good singers was new to them.

"So put your heart into it", she advices as she places the notes in front of her. She presses down the keys with her fingers, as she sits upright. "I will play the melody of the song a couple of times, please listen and then we will proceed to the singing", she instructs calmly.

Ira and Roshan watch this beautiful woman play the piano with finesse, the music smooth and mellow fills the room. Ira loved to sing, music was as close to her heart as was drama and this particular tune was mesmerising, stirring the emotions in her heart that she was trying so hard to conceal.

An hour later, “I think we will wind up for today and meet same time tomorrow”, Rita concludes folding the lid down and covering the piano.

"A little more practice and you two will sound divine", she amuses them with a smile.

Chapter 13

The next evening they meet at the auditorium. Ira sits with her face buried in a book.

Sania and Anup are seen whispering and giggling away exhibiting their newly declared love. They seem visibly happy. “Good to see two people in love”, remarks Roshan throwing his arm over Anup. Sania smiles at Roshan, leaning over Anup and hugging his arm. “Its Ira’s birthday next Friday!” She exclaims suddenly “let us do something special for her!” she adds in excitement.

"Really?!... we shall", responds Roshan his mind gushing with ideas to make Ira feel special. Sania’s garrulous jabber seemed to him like a distant noise now. Ira closes her book realizing that Roshan had arrived and walks up to the trio. "Some serious discussion?!" She asks pushing her book into her bag.

"No!! Why? What?"... fumbles Sania. "Go on!! You are getting late for your love song", she changes the subject laughing. "Yes, we must, a beautiful woman awaits us!" Says Roshan with a wink.

As they walk to Mrs. Rita’s home, Roshan is lost in thought. Ira’s birthday is the perfect time to tell her how he feels, he thinks smiling. He comes up with a perfect plan. He had been saving money, creating webpages for a few friends who had embarked on business ventures.

Time to put that money to good use he reflects as he continues to smile.

“You smile a lot these days”, says Ira as they enter Mrs. Rita’s home. Rita was already at the piano. Playing and humming the tune she makes some notes on her sheets.

Roshan and Ira say a pleasant good evening. Rita nods, smiles and hands them their lyrics.

Roshan clears his throat as the music plays, he starts to sing.

His voice filled with awe, reflects his heart earnestly. Mrs. Rita signals Ira to start off the chorus. They sing the chorus together, her voice starts to quiver a bit, “You and I, we are meant to be…”

Roshan looks at Ira as he sings, his tone so sincere she could feel his eyes pierce her soul.

Ira lately sensed that Roshan had a special place for her, the way he would look at her or smile was different but today as he sang to her, she knew it for sure.

It’s a moment when a girl realizes that the boy standing in front of her is in love with her. She was not comfortable with that.

Rita calls for a tea break. After tea, they start again.

This time Ira avoids looking at Roshan, instead she turns to Rita holding the paper firmly she tries to hold focus. Rita nods and smiles “better” she whispers in approval.

Ira couldn’t sleep that night. Lying on her back, she stares at the ceiling, a stream of tears trickled down the side of her face.

While Roshan sits with his family in their balcony relaxing after dinner, under the star lit sky. He could not stop smiling. Every moment spent with Ira flashes across his mind. How can one person make you so happy, he wonders as he rests his head on his mother’s shoulders.

Serious discussions among Roshan, Sania and Anup at the tin table the next evening. Inquisitive Harish tries to listen in, as Roshan, Sania and Anup have their heads together, the constant shooing away does not stop him from trying to find out what was conspiring.

A little later the three were seen talking to Aditi, who looked a little serious at first but eventually smiles and nods, followed by what looked like some kind of warning or caution by her. Harish stood nearby with tray in hand, his curious head about to burst. Sania was jumping and clapping, Anup was trying to calm her down and Roshan looked the most pleased.

CHAPTER 14

The next couple of days Roshan and Anup seemed remarkably busy.

"Ira, it is your birthday the day after isn’t it?"asks Sania casually. "Yes, it is", responds Ira, lost in thought.

"Have you shopped?" Sania shakes her. "Yes!" She replies pulling apart some leaves fallen on the rusted table. "What plans?" Sania gleams, "nothing", responds Ira.

"Come, stay at my place, I want to wish you in person at twelve", requests Sania gleefully. "Ira please! Please!" She begs holding Ira’s hands. Ira says "Okay!" Finally looking up.

"Wow! Super!" Exclaims Sania as she hugs her.

The next day, Ira comes with a little bag for the sleepover at Sania’s. Sania couldn’t contain her jubilation as Anup tried every bit to calm her.

After rehearsals Ira and Sania leave together. Sania hugs Anup and says “See you later…. I mean tomorrow” sticking out her tongue. Roshan was too preoccupied to notice that Ira was dull and sombre.

Back home in Sania’s house, the two sat on the bed with their pyjamas on. Sania lays a spread of nail enamel as she files her nail, she finally notices that Ira is a little downcast.

"What is the matter stupid! It is your birthday, Smile!" She yells hitting her playfully.

Ira forces a smile.

At 11 p.m. Sania’s mobile rings, she answers, her tone gets a bit serious, "Oh! Really! Of course we are coming!"She says urgently and ends the call. "Quick! Change! We have to go!" She hastens Ira as she grabs some clothes from her wardrobe. "Where to?" Asks Ira a little shocked. "Just come! Change! Don’t have time to explain", she bolts out of the room throwing clothes at her.

"Anup is picking us up now!" She says as she shut the bathroom door, only to rush out in a minute to shove Ira through the main door.

Sure enough Anup was there leaning against his car.

"Hi! Get in!" he says opening the door for Ira. "Will you at least tell me what’s happening!" She requests getting into the car. "Oh! Some emergency at the auditorium", he says in a serious tone. He quickly gets in the driver’s seat trying not to make eye with Ira.

The rest of the drive is quiet.

The security opens the gate with a salute as they reach the auditorium. Anup drives right to the back. Leading them with his mobile light he takes them backstage. Its dark and quiet.

They reach the stage, the silence is broken with the loud striking of the clock. It was definitely a recorded sound.

Sania drags Ira to the middle of the stage. The spotlight turns on and shines on her. "Surprise! Surprise!" She hears loud shouts, but it was too dark to see anybody. She tries to block the glaring light with her hands to look around. A giant balloon filled with confetti goes up over her head. As the rainbow colours shower over her, she bursts into a radiant smile, she looks up and circles around. Magically a small table with a decadent chocolate cake draped in shiny chocolate ganache appears in front of her.

Then from the shadows Roshan steps into the circle of light with a huge bouquet of red roses wound up in a giant red bow. Handing it to Ira he says “Happy Birthday” with the sweetest smile.

The stage lights come on, everybody from the drama group was there including Harish who was not going to be left out.

"Happy birthday!" Screams Sania giving Ira a big hug.

"Here cut the cake", she says handing her the knife "Music",she screams out to the control booth at the far end of the auditorium, A recorded version of happy

birthday starts playing as Ira cuts the cake. The group gathers around her. Claps, cheers, hugs and wishes make a lively atmosphere.

"Spotlight for the star!" Chirps Sania as she bites into the sticky piece of cake Ira hands out. "Just the way you like it", she explodes. Sania was super excited that their plan worked.

"Let me serve the cake", she suggests taking the knife from Ira, "You go thank Roshan, this was all his plan", she commands pushing her away. As Ira walks up to Roshan a whirlwind of different emotions fills her.

"Thank you! For this…" she says gratefully. "You deserve this and more", he says as he hands her a tiny blue box wrapped in a pink bow.

"I want this day to be the most memorable day for you", he says in a tender voice. The quick succession of surprising events and the box in hand leaves Ira speechless. All she could think of was repeating “Thank you!”

She looks down at the box for a few seconds, clears her throat, “You shouldn’t have taken so much trouble,” a certain discomfort evident in her voice.

"It is not trouble if it’s for someone you love, is it ?!" He asks looking down at her affectionately. "I cannot accept this", she says immediately. Her suspicions now confirmed.

"No! please Ira I had it made for you, look at it!" He requests her.

Ira unknots the bow and opens the box, Roshan could sense she was disturbed. Not the reaction he expected.

Ira takes out a glistening gold chain with a tiny delicate diamond pendant shaped ‘A’, it was an exquisite piece of jewellery. ‘A’? How did he know? Ira was puzzled.

May I help you wear it, asks Roshan reaching out to the chain.

"NO!" yells Ira, pushing his hand. She puts the chain back in the box and hands it back to Roshan.

"I don’t like any of this. It is wrong! How can you assume that I will reciprocate your feelings! Why did you do all of this?" she screams in indignation as tears gush out. "You don’t know anything about me! Nothing! Nothing!" She yells, her face turning red.

The merry group realizing that something was wrong go silent and turn towards Roshan and Ira. They see Roshan baffled, shaken up and visibly hurt. He stood there with the gift in his hand.

From celebration to pain and rejection all in a few minutes.

Ira rushes to Sania "Let us go please!! PLEASE!!” She pulls her.

Without a question Sania and Anup walk out with Ira. Everyone else walk towards Roshan who stood there on the stage, like stone.

CHAPTER 15

Back in the car Ira sobs bitterly. Sania and Anup just exchange glances trying to figure out the most appropriate words to speak. Barking stray dogs chase their car, as they drive slowly past the shuttered down shops. The streetlights glowed dimly.

Not able to contain herself any further Sania bursts out “You were absolutely rude to Roshan, I know it is your birthday but that’s no way to treat someone who went out of his way to make your day special….” Anup tries to control Sania by making big eyes at here and shaking his head but all he got from Sania was “You shut up!”

“Really! What were you thinking?!” she yells turning back to Ira her voice cuts through the silence of the quite roads.

"He can not love me, I am not worthy of it!! He does not know anything about me", she brims with emotions. "And moreover……"she pauses ….."I am deeply"….more sobbing…… "madly in love with someone else", she continues weeping as she covers her face with her hands.

The car goes into a skid and swerves off the corner as Anup tries to take control of the wheels distracted at what he just heard.

Sania is moved, she awkwardly tries to reach for the bottle of water in the cup holder as the car sways, “Here drink this” she comforts her.

“Anup stop the car!” Sania orders.

She gets off and moves to the back seat next to Ira and hugs and consoles her, stroking her head and wiping her tears.

"Calm, calm", she says softly "let’s go home first."

Anup starts the car and moves slowly.

Their plan was unsuccessful. The unfortunate and regrettable turn of events was as dark and gloomy as the night.

Back home in his balcony Roshan holds the chain in his hands, tears well up in his eyes, his heart bruised and broken for the very first time and it hurt so bad.

Ira walks straight in the rest room at Sania’s place, she splashes cold water on her face a couple of times, the water runs down her hands and wrists, she blows her nose and pats herself dry with a paper towel. She looks at herself in the mirror, draws a deep breathe and feels a little light having cleared her bundled up feelings. Her eyes and nose were red and swollen.

"I look like a mess!" She tells Sania as she walks out.

"Yes, you do", laughs Sania as she hands her a mug. " Careful! It’s hot! Your favourite hot chocolate", she smiles.

"Sit!" She says patting on the bed. Ira sits down and takes a sip, the drink was comforting and soothing.

“What will everyone think of me?” says Ira.

“Yes, what will they?!...talk to me Ira”

Ira begins to tell Sania her story, when she is done it is four in the morning. Sania looks at Ira with deep empathy, "You have been through a lot my friend", she says hugging her. "But look at the future! Your dreams are about to come true! Everything you have been waiting for", she says in an effort to bring Ira out of her emotional distress.

"And it is your birthday today! Let us make it happy, forget what happened", she says in her usual happy tone.

"Can I just say one thing before we sleep!" She requests Ira.

Ira nods resting her chin on her knees.

"Please speak to Roshan, he deserves to know and I am sure he will understand", she assures. "I think he really loves you and needs to know why you turned him

down". Ira nods again.

They go to sleep while the rest of the city wakes up.

CHAPTER 16

That afternoon Ira was home for lunch. Lost deep in thought she barely had an appetite, though her mother had made her a sweet dish.

This effort alone should have made Ira happy, growing up a few birthdays were completely forgotten by her mother.

"Are’nt you hungry?" Asks her mother.

"No!" answers Ira, looking very disinterested. "As always you won't tell me what is bothering you", says her mother disappointed.

Ira gets up quietly and goes to her room, she finds a hand made card on her table, it was from her brother. He made it for her before leaving to college.

Ira smiles. They shared a deep bond. A little later, she calls Roshan on his phone.

Roshan answers in a frail voice.

"Hi Roshan, I need to speak to you, can we meet?" She gets straight to the point. A brief pause…. "Where?" he asks feebly.

"Can we meet at the coffee shop near my place, I will send you the location. See you at five", she cuts the call.

Roshan reaches on time at the café called ‘The Amber’ opposite a huge lush park. The weather was beautiful, evening walkers and joggers were making the most of it.

A slice of nature in the heart of the city. Bangalore known as the ‘green city’ had several such well-kept wooded delights. He parks his bike on the side of the broad road and enters what seemed to be an old bungalow now converted into a café.

He opens the small gate that leads to a narrow walk with delicate wooden benches on one side and a small pebbled quadrangle on the other. Small shrubs with pretty flowers lined the pathway. An antique carved door and a huge cartwheel are perched on the pebbles making an interesting décor.

A large open space made for the seating area. The beautiful brown wooden tables with green chairs seemed to be a perfect match with the huge trees that stood majestically, some tables had large umbrellas. Roshan sits at a corner table and looks through the exotic menu of salads, pastas and rich desserts.

Ira walks out of the bungalow which had been converted into a boutique that exhibited the finest furniture, jewellery, ceramic ware and natural beauty products. She finds Roshan reading the menu like it were an interesting book.

"Hi!" She says approaching him, she was dressed in a simple white kurthi and jeans. Roshan looks up and immediately stands up "Oh! you’re already here!"

He says trying to sound casual.

"Yes! I like browsing around the boutique", she replies sitting down. " Shall we order coffee?!" She asks forcing a smile.

"A pot maybe", he says looking at the menu.

The white ceramic pot of hot coffee arrives with two cups. The waiter places it and says a pleasant “Good evening” in a North Indian accent. Ira pours out the aromatic coffee and looks at Roshan, she could easily tell that he hadn’t slept much, his coral pink T-shirt did little to brighten him up.

Roshan stirs in the sugar and sips the coffee looking far into the huge trees. The bright pink flowers exploding with colour and the chirping of the birds remind him of the canteen at the auditorium. The beauty and ambience a stark contrast to their moods, but it felt good to be there.

Roshan waits for Ira to break the silence.

Which she does a few moments later with “I’m sorry about last night I shouldn’t have come down so hard on you, but I was overwhelmed…” she says slowly and softly, clearly watching her words.

"You are a wonderful person, warm, loving and sensitive. I think of you as a good friend and wish to confide in you about my past.

Hopefully you will be able to understand my reaction of last night better"…she continues… Roshan was all ears…

CHAPTER 17

Ira was in grade three, it was a busy day at school, practices were on full throttle for a grand musical that was to be staged for the school’s Annual Day celebration.

Ira was excited, she was the princess in the play. Her father had bought her a beautiful pink gown and stoned tiara, the very day she was selected. Ira would wear it every evening, forcefully seat her parents and her little brother on the couch and narrate her lines. As she spoke and sang and danced, her long hair swayed and her tiara glistened. Her family clapped and cheered.

The final day of practice the drama teacher Sanvi was giving the last bit of instructions and information when an office help interrupts handing a slip of paper to the teacher.

“Ira, you need to go honey!” she says "Someone has come to take you home, see you tomorrow at the show", she says hugging Ira.

As she walks up to her classroom, she wonders who it might be and why they came before school closed. She reaches the principal’s office, her Disney princess bag on her back and lunch bag in hand, to find her uncle seated opposite the principal. He looked serious.

"Come here my dear!" Says the principal reaching her hand out to Ira and drawing her near.

“Your uncle Sanjay is here to take you home, there has been an accident, nothing to worry about.” She assures her.

"Go with him, all will be well, see you at the show my dear!" She says, as she hands her a bar of chocolate.

Ira sits quietly in the car as Sanjay drives her. She wasn’t very fond of him as she thought him to be a rude man, unlike her gentle and caring father.

"Who met with an accident?" She asks not able to contain her anxiety

"My brother!" He says with a stern face as he changes the gear.

"Dad?!" Shouts Ira in shock.

"Is he okay?!" She questions with concern.

“Yes! Yes! Be calm.” He answers still not looking at Ira.

They reach the gates of a huge hospital, a large compound enveloped it. Ambulances like white horses lined up in one corner. Paramedics were wheeling in patients groaning in pain to the emergency room as they enter the broad double doors into a huge lobby. The reception and enquiry zone placed like an

island in the middle of the enormous hall. Pretty ladies in uniforms attended to anxious questions. In the lobby physicians, surgeons and nurses walked about in a hurry, they looked like they are all doing something very important.

Ira follows Sanjay quietly, recollecting how that morning her father walked her to the school van, holding her bags, as she held his hand and skipped along singing “fairy tales do come true” a song from her musical. Ira and her father Ajay shared the most special father daughter bond. She was his little angel. The moment he held Ira in his arms for the first time was the most incredible moment of his life. He showered her with unending love and affection. Her wish was his command. He had named her Iravati after his mother. He recognized very early on that Ira was made for the stage. He encouraged her singing and dancing. As early as the age of three she got her first recording microphone set from Disney, it was pink and purple and she loved it. Every morning before she entered her school bus, Ajay and Ira would put their thumbs together and Ajay would say “All the best, love you my little angel!”.

Sanjay leads Ira towards the intensive care unit, seated in the waiting area she sees her mother. Anita had her hand placed over her head, she was staring at the floor, her baby brother sat quietly next to her. Running towards her mother Ira knew that the situation was grave. "Ma! What happened to daddy?!" She shakes her mother.

Anita just draws Ira near and cries, not able to speak. Ira looks around helplessly, she sees Sanjay speaking to the attending physician Dr.Sharief.

She tried to listen, to comprehend what was happening.

“Ajay has suffered a fracture to the chest bone, there also seems to be some bruising in the lungs and heart. He is under observation, we are running tests.”

Not fully understanding what she heard but disturbed, Ira sits down quietly next to her mother placing her bag on her lap and clinging on to it, she looks at her little brother who was totally oblivious to what was happening.

"It doesn’t look good, they have to keep Ajay in the ICU for longer, do you want me to take the children home", asks Sanjay. "No! No! I am not leaving here!" Cries Ira clinging to her mother.

"Ok! Get them something to eat", he says pulling out some money from his wallet and handing it to Anita.

Ajay and Sanjay ran the family business of rubber exports. Due to differences in personalities and business ethics they often had disagreements.

That morning while driving to work Ajay was on the phone with Sanjay, they had decided to break business ties, disappointed and enraged he made a careless turn that landed him in the ICU.

Anita takes the children to the hospital cafeteria, getting them juice and sandwiches, she sits down with coffee in hand and recollects the last one she had was with Ajay that morning.

Anita was a simple natured woman, meek and timid. She was orphaned at a very young age and was raised by her uncle and aunt. Her uncle worked for Ajay’s father. Ajay met Anita on a few formal occasions. He fell in love with her simplicity.

It wasn’t difficult for Ajay to convince his father to ask for her hand in marriage. Unfortunately a few years later Anita lost both her uncle and aunt. Ajay was the only family she had. He loved her ardently and they were soulmates.

When they retuned from the cafeteria Sanjay was waiting for them. “You can rest in here, I have made arrangements for you to stay here” he says showing them a room near the ICU. “Can we see him now" asks Anita in a feeble voice.

"Yes! Maybe for a few minutes". Anita enters the ICU with her children on either side. The room was dimly lit, their footsteps break the silence. Ira looks around. There were rows of buttons with lights and cords hanging from big machines. Wires were glued to his chest and he was heavily sedated. The electronic machines seemed to be doing some vital work.

Ajay’s face was barely visible with the oxygen mask on, Anita stands by his side and holds his hand, bending towards his ears she whispers “Please, don’t leave me”.

Moments later she returns to sit outside the ICU after tucking her children in bed. There was nowhere else she wished to be.

The next morning, the nurse wakes her up, "He is conscious", she says with a pleasing smile, "Would you like to see"…she adds.

Anita enters the room as the nurse draws the curtains slightly, the light of the new morning enters the gloomy room.

Ajay’s eyes were slightly open. She holds his hand and sits next to him tearing up. He looks at her, she tries to read his lips.

"Nurse! Can you please bring my children", she requests.

Ira soon enters the room, she had been awake for a while now, worried. "Daddy!" She runs to her father’s side, "Let us go home", she says.

Ajay smiles at his angel. He signals the nurse for the mask to be moved. "Your show is today ma!" He says in a very low and feeble voice.

"Go….do good!"

"Are you sure?" Interrupts Anita.

"Yes! Yes! She must"…he continues, "Send her!" He insists looking at Anita.

He raises his thumb, his hand trembling. Ira brings her little thumb to his. “All the best… don’t give up on your dreams Princess!” His voice chokes.

The nurse intervenes and insists them to leave politely.

Anita calls her neighbour Madhavi who lived on the same street as theirs. Madhavi lived alone and no one knew much about her past but she seemed to be a very kind and helpful person. Madhavi reaches the hospital soon enough. Anita sends Ira home with her, handing her the keys and giving her all the needed information about the programme.

Back home Madhavi helps Ira shower and change and takes her to the auditorium.

Madhavi was no stranger to Ira, she often came over to chat with Anita. The two would share coffee and their life stories.

Ira’s friends and teachers were delighted to see her arrive at the auditorium. Ira looked beautiful in the pink gown of satin and lace, the large bow on the back sat perfectly.

"Come honey! Let us do your make up", says Sanvi as she leads Ira to large mirror in the green room. Ira was going through an array of emotions, excited about the play, worried about her father, sad that her parents and brother weren’t around her. She had never experienced disappointment before.

On stage she does her best! Acting came naturally to her, she had no difficulty playing a role, it was innate.

As the audience of proud parents applauded in the overcrowded auditorium, Ira looks for her father’s face in the audience knowing he is not there. But as she takes the final bow with her prince, she senses an inexplicable presence hover around her!

Madhavi waits outside the green room for Ira. As Ira walks out, she hugs her with tears rolling down her eyes. On the way in the auto rickshaw Madhavi appreciates Ira “You were brilliant, your parents missed it!”

"But I felt like they were there aunty", she replies smiling, with a certain adultness.

"Where are we going now?" She asks trying to keep her gown down as it blew up in the wind.

"Home!" She says abruptly and looks away. "Home?! I want to go to daddy at the hospital, please aunty".

"They are home my dear!" She chokes.

As Ira reached home a strange feeling engulfed her. The neighbours were gathered outside the gates of her house looking glum.

She ran in to find her mother, a group of ladies surrounded her.

"Ma!" Calls out Ira approaching her, holding her gown up.

Anita looks up, pale as a ghost she lets out an inconsolable wail at the sight of

Ira.

The women pacify her, one pours out a glass of water, but Anita is uncontrollable.

Madhavi pulls Ira away to her room. "Ira", she says, sitting down on her bed and holding Ira by her shoulders.

“Your father is no more, he left us, he has gone to be with God.” She looks into Ira’s eyes as she speaks hoping she would understand. As she imparted the life shattering news, Ira just stared at Madhavi for a few seconds, then slowly walked to her wardrobe, and pulls out a dress to change into.

Madhavi could not understand Ira’s reaction.

A few days later Anita is still barely able to move around, her loss was debilitating. Many times she would sit staring at Ajay’s framed picture, feeling incredibly lonely.

Life is brutal she thought, she had lost everyone who meant anything to her, all taken away too early.

She tried to come to grips with the situation, specially when she saw her little helpless children, who were grieving the loss in their own way.

Often Ira would open her cupboard and look at her pink gown and tiara. She lost interest in everything. The first few days that she walked to the school bus by herself Ira suffered from crippling separation anxiety. At school she was dull, staring out of the window during lessons. Her teachers were loving and ive, as they understood the magnitude of her loss. Her father was an enthusiastic and involved parent who never missed a single meeting.

Anita wasn’t much help to her children in their confusion and bewilderment. They heard her cry out to Madhavi once, saying she felt she was “drowning.” Three months later Ajay’s brother Sanjay visits Anita.

He hands her some papers and requests for her signatures, he informs her that Ajay wished for the business to be dissolved and hence needed to start the process. Anita had little knowledge of such things, she signs the documents and he leaves immediately.

Anita was handling expenses and paying bills with the little savings that was left, most of their savings had gone into the new home they had built months before Ajay ed away. Handling finances were new to her.

She wondered for how much longer the money would last. She felt lonely and unsafe on all fronts and often had a meltdown.

A month later Sanjay visits again.

“This is Ajay’s share” he says firmly handing Anita a cheque. He walks out without saying another word. Anita sits down with the cheque in hand.

Losing Ajay was a major life changer, she was not equipped in any way to manage life alone.

Back in her room, Ira sits by the large window holding her brother, looking up at the sky.

“You know Dhiraj, daddy is now a star in the sky!!"... she points up.

Last night I heard him say “Don’t worry, angel!”

Her baby brother replies sticking out his lower lip “I hate cars!”

Not able to comprehend how deep their loss was!

He was not visibly grief stricken but there was unbearable pain.

Ira knew that she had to care for her little brother, always!!

CHAPTER 18

Ira goes through schooling and college constantly feeling a void. The emptiness never left her.

At times, she felt she lost both her parents, her mother never recovered from the trauma was merely physically present.

It was a clear case of clinical depression.

Most of all the savings were gone, though she finished her education, her brother was still in school. Anita’s health too seemed to be deteriorating, she constantly had severe asthma attacks and would stay in bed for several days. Her medical bills were very high. Ira shouldered the responsibilities that fate had forced upon her. She never enjoyed her adolescence or her teen years. While her friends were busy fretting over fashion, boys and outings, her worries were unpaid bills and caring for family while dealing with her own grief and anxiety.

Madhavi was their only visitor over the years. She sat with Anita over a cup of coffee but Anita barely spoke. Madhavi would quietly go away.

Ira started work immediately after her degree in Arts. Her salary was barely enough. The persistent worry that her brother would soon finish school and would proceed to university education was growing on her. Ira secretly desired that he become an engineer.

But their financial woes only got bigger. One evening when Madhavi came visiting, she found Ira in her room, weeping.

Madhavi had never seen Ira cry before, not even when she broke the news of her father’s death, she recollected. Ira quickly wipes her tears and composes herself as Madhavi enters the room. Ira never revealed her pain to anyone and always cried alone. Over the years she had learnt to live with her afflictions and deal with them privately.

"Come in aunty", says Ira softly, wiping her nose.

"What is the matter my dear?!" Asks Madhavi with concern.

"You have been crying a lot!" She notices.

"It is nothing, the usual", remarks Ira casually.

"Sit down, talk to me", says Madhavi tenderly. "Please!".......... she coaxes her.

A little hesitant at first, Ira reveals the stark reality of their grim financial situation. Madhavi listens empathically and lets out a big sigh.

"Life is cruel", she states, vicariously experiencing Ira’s distress. "Stay strong my dear! I know exactly how you feel", she reminisces.

Having gone through a big share of trials and tribulations herself, Madhavi did a good job of concealing both her pain and her past.

“I need to take an extra job to make more money faster” cries Ira in desperation.

“How will I send my brother to college?!... there is no money left. We may have to sell this house that daddy built, Oh! We are going to sink in this mess! What do I do aunty” She cries in despair.

There is a helpless silence for a while, which is interrupted by a sudden crashing sound, it came from the kitchen. Ira runs to find Anita standing by a few broken plates. "Told you to call me if you need something didn’t I?" Ira shouts as she picks up the pieces, a little annoyed with her mother.

Madhavi waves a silent bye and leaves.

CHAPTER 19

The next afternoon Ira gets a call from Madhavi.

"Ira, I have a way for you to make money quickly"… she says softly. "It is wrong, but if you want to get out of this financial mess, you may want to consider it", she adds in a serious tone.

"What is it aunty?" Asks Ira.

"Please don’t mistake me my dear, I was left in a similar helpless state at one point in my life, I made large amounts of money quickly"."What is it aunty?"repeats Ira, eagerly.

"You see you can help some men by giving them something they aren’t getting at home, while some want company when they are away on a business trip, others just work too hard and have no time for dates and romance, they seek the company of women for a while".

"Are you saying what I think you are aunty?" Asks Ira shaken.

"Yes! Dear I have known you since you are a little girl, I have seen you grow, you are like my own, but this is the only way I know how to help you".

"If you agree, I will tell you where to go and when. These clients are totally loaded, politicians, sports figures, business men and movie stars. You don’t have to do it forever. You can stop it whenever you wish. But believe me the money is good and you are a pretty girl", she entices her.

Ira puts down the phone and sits dumbfounded staring at the wall in front of her.

She thinks long and hard, then picks up the phone.

"Aunty!… I will do it". Not knowing fully what she was agreeing to, "Okay my dear, you will need a new wardrobe", responds Madhavi.

A couple of hours later, Madhavi calls again. Ira grabs a piece of paper and writes down something quickly. It was the address of a hotel and the name of the client.

Soon a package arrived from Madhavi, it had what she had to wear.

Ira got dressed in a blue and black silk dress, that showed off the beautiful curves of her body. Her mother in bed, she tells her brother that there was a party at work, calls a cab and leaves.

As she approached the place, she dabbed on some more make up, pays the cabbie and steps out in her high blue swede stilettos.

A large man in a turban and a heavy mush opens the door as she entered trying to look confident. She stepped into a large marble floored lobby with artistic gold patterns. The décor was upscale, stylish and classic. Plush dark wooden furniture for seating spelled luxury. The fresh flowers in large vases added a sophisticated touch.

Ira walked up to the reception desk. A young girl in a navy blue suit flashes a broad smile, her glossy pink lipstick shining.

"May I help you ma’am", she says in a pleasant tone.

Ira politely asks for Mr. Antonio.

The receptionist picks up the phone and almost immediately says "Room 405 ma’am, Mr. Antonio is expecting you".

Ira walks to the elevator and requests for the 4th floor, not even looking at the operator. She walks down the corridor looking for 405, feeling like a criminal. She stops and rings the bell, adjusting her dress nervously.

In about a minute, the door opened and there stood Antonio. A tall, broad shouldered, well built man with a towel wrapped around his waist. He was clean shaven and his dense brown wet hair was sleekly combed back. "I am Antonio", he says in a heavy Italian accent and a smile that showed his perfect teeth. "Would you like a drink, please make yourself comfortable".

Ira enters cautiously. The room was tastefully decorated. Gym clothes strewn on the chair and floor, the steam coming out of the oversized marble bathroom seemed to say that he might have just returned from the hotel gym.

Antonio was a wealthy Italian business man who travelled to India frequently. “I like Indian women, sei bellissimo, you take my breathe away” he says looking at Ira as he fixes a drink. His deep green eyes were alarmingly vacant and shallow.

Terrified about what might happen further, Ira felt awkward and nervous to be in a stranger’s room. She did not think this through when she said yes to Madhavi.

Antonio downs the drink in one gulp and approaches Ira who sat uncomfortably on the edge of the bed.

The next couple of hours that followed was a nightmare for Ira, she walked right into an emotional storm. One she would like to forget and completely erase form her memory.

She woke up the next morning in her room. She sat up and looked around feeling dead and empty inside. She showered and got ready for work, she did not speak much, kept to herself and seemed lost.

CHAPTER 20

A couple of days later, Madhavi called again. It was around 9 P.M. Ira was about to have her dinner. She leaves abruptly again making an excuse about some urgent office work.

She enters the hotel room, to find a man in his fifties, bald and big bellied, he was sitting on the couch changing tv channels.

Ira wanted to turn around and run out, but he gets up to invite her in, his blood shot eyes scaring her even more, he was already very drunk. "Hello!" He says in a gruff voice. He was a politician who simply fancied staying at posh hotels with female company.

"Come, Come!" He grunts showing his paan stained teeth.

He waddles towards his suitcase and pulls out a bottle. It was massage oil. "Can you please give me a good massage first!" He slurs. Rolling over the bed he lay on his back, his belly up like a huge whale.

Ira was disgusted and embarrassed. But she quickly took the bottle opened it, pouring the oil over him she forces a smile. With her eyes closed, she spreads the oil over his hairy chest. He turns around almost slipping off the bed. she repeats the process, it was easier not having to look at his face.

A few moments later, to her absolute relief she hears loud snores, an annoying sound like a cat that had nasal problems.

She thanks her lucky stars, grabs some tissues to clean her greasy fingers and runs out of the room as fast as she could.

A few days later Madhavi visits and gives Ira a bundle of money discretely in her room. Ira spoke of her disgust in doing this.

Madhavi had a good laugh as she narrated the amusing story of the fat politician. "I got off easy!!" She smiles with relief. Madhavi hadn’t seen Ira smile for the longest time, she hoped it would last.

Chapter 21

Almost a month later Ira received a call from Madhavi. A new client had approached her.

Ira reaches the hotel in a knee length A line white lace dress. She looked radiant. As she walked towards the room, she hoped she would get lucky as she did with the politician. She knew in her heart and mind that this was against every fibre of her being.

The door was open, she stood outside wondering what to do and then she hears a deep voice say “Come in”. She walks in to find a young man dressed in a crisp white shirt and a black waistcoat. He was working on the laptop and seemed deeply engrossed. “Please give me a moment” he says not even looking at Ira. “Sure” replies Ira politely. A couple of minutes later he closes his laptop and stands up, he stood tall, his sleeves rolled up, he slides his hands into his pockets and looks at Ira “Sorry to keep you waiting” he flashes the most amazing smile.

He walks up to Ira who stood a couple of feet away, extends his hand and says “Aditya, Aditya Arora” the scent of his cologne was strong. “Ira” she says smiling. He looked like he had walked out of the cover page of a men’s magazine. A slender muscular body, distinct chiselled cheekbones, the light stubble and crewcut complemented his perfectly symmetrical face. His Armani work attire added elegance.

“How much time do you have?” he asks in a business like manner. “I don’t know” she stammers looking confused. Madhavi handled the time and finance details. He reaches for his phone and makes a call, Ira understood that it was

Madhavi on the other end, she starts to worry a bit, what was he up to exactly she thought. “Okay that is out of the way now” he says putting his phone away “I am super hungry, where would you like to have dinner?” he grins. Ira couldn’t believe her ears. “What!” she exclaims. “Aren’t you hungry?” he asks calmly “You pick the place, what’s your favourite cuisine?” he continues as he arranged the papers that were scattered all over the table in a neat pile. Ira was speechless. "Let us find out at the reception then, shall we” he says sliding his wallet into his pocket and leading Ira out of the room.

Ira was utterly confused. What is he up to she kept thinking, am I getting myself into more trouble?

At the reception Aditya made some enquiries and ordered a limo. A few minutes later a Mercedes arrives, Aditya opens the door for her and then enters the car from the other side. Ira was most nervous she had ever been. “I hope you are comfortable” he enquires, “And I sure hope you like Thai food because that is where we’re headed”. Ira does not reply. Breaking the awkward silence Aditya makes a flattering remark "Ira you are a beautiful woman”. Ira couldn’t help but blush.

They arrive at the fine Thai restaurant. The colours of the fire red, yellow and orange that dominated the colour scheme made the place glisten and shine. It was warm and most welcoming. Paintings of palaces and temples adorn the walls. A golden statue of the Buddha was placed elegantly in the centre drawing emphasis. Ira was feeling a little at ease now. She followed Aditya as he led her into a very cosy corner. A small candle lit lantern glowed in the centre of the table, petals of purple orchids were strewn all over.

The waiter arrives with the menu in a traditional Thai attire ‘Chut Thai’ as it is known, a Nehru style jacket with ‘Chong Kraben’ and knee length white socks.

“I haven’t a clue what Thai cuisine is” blurts out Ira even before the waiter could say anything. Aditya bursts out in laughter at her childlike ignorance. “Alright I shall order then and hopefully you will like it” says Aditya as he turns to the waiter. He seemed to be a pro with the cuisine as he effortlessly names the dishes.

He then turns his attention to Ira and starts to speak about his trip to Thailand and his unforgettable culinary experiences. As she listens to him, she realises that this was the first time she sat at a table for a meal with a man. Is this what a date feels like she wondered beginning to feel rather special.

“Tell me about yourself” he says his pale skin reflecting the light of the lantern making him look devilishly handsome. Ira is hesitant at first then briefly narrates her past, he listens intently.

The waiter places the ‘satay’ and ‘chim chum’ a small clay pot placed over a bed of charcoal filled with an aromatic broth, a plate of vegetables, meat and fresh herbs accompanied that. “This is chim chum” explains Aditya “meaning to dip in and drop,” he drops a few pieces of cabbage, chicken and sweet basil into the boiling broth, the aroma is strong and distinct. “Please try the Satay” he suggests pointing to the skewered and grilled chicken.

“What got you into this line of work?” he asks as he bites into the juicy piece of meat, throwing Ira off guard with the sudden switch in topic. She was both uncomfortable and ashamed as she says “It was either this or selling the house my father built.” Aditya could see the evident sadness creeping into her eyes. “I think your father would have preferred you selling the house” he states. A chill ran down her spine, she sat speechless. It struck her like lightning that he was absolutely right. There was an uncomfortable silence for a few minutes.

Ira could not eat, she had no appetite. Aditya pours out the hot broth from the pot into a bowl and hands it to Ira, she takes it as she felt her throat go dry. She slowly sips it, her mind wrapped around what she just heard, the broth was nourishing and hearty and it calmed her a little.

The awkward silence continues, a few moments later the Pad thai, a noodle dish and Thai green curry with sticky rice arrive at table. “Please eat” says Aditya with that amazing smile again, as Ira looks at the lovely coconut and cilantro flavoured gravy, all she could think of was how bittersweet this moment was, she felt both special and judged and she knew without a doubt that he was right.

“What would you like to do now?” he asks as he writes a big tip to the waiter. “I don’t know” she replies barely audible to herself. “Shall we take a walk to the 24 hour coffee shop nearby, we can have dessert there” he states as he looks at his Rolex. Ira nods.

They walk out into the quiet street, a few cars ed by, most of them returning from parties at the clubs around the vicinity. “Do you like long walks?” he asks. “Yes” came her reply not really thinking about it, but it felt good walking down a calm moonlit street with someone as pleasant as Aditya.

“Is your favourite colour white?” he asks giving her a quick glance head to toe. She smiles. “Mine too” he says smiling back. “Do you have a dream, something you wish to achieve?” he continues. “I do” says Ira realising that no one had ever asked her that question. A few seconds later she answers “I want to act, to be on the stage to sing and dance” she looks up at the sky and sighs. “What is your dream?” she asks him realising that it was her very first question to him. “I wanted to own and run a business empire, I have achieved that” beams Aditya with a certain pride in his voice. “Do you live here?” asks Ira. “No London” came his quick response, "Studied there too, in the London School of Economics” he continues. Ira’s iration for him brimmed over, he was accomplished, intelligent and most importantly he was treating her so right, so

far. More questions followed, it felt like he was interested to know everything about her and she was enjoying all the attention. After her father no man had ever made her feel so special.

They enter the gates of a plush and decadent hotel. Ira pauses to look at the huge fountain, a figure of an ethereal angel stood in the middle. The statue was white with its wings spread out looking upward to the sky, water sprouted out of its mouth and cascaded into the circular pool below.

Aditya stops with Ira. “Take your time” he says noticing that she was indeed fascinated by the figure. He sits on the edge and waits. The lights glowing from below added to the celestial glow.

They enter the poolside Café. Ira hugs herself and brushes the sides of her arms. “If it’s cold out here for you we could sit inside” suggests Aditya. “No, it’s lovely here” she responds.

Circular white tables with intricate lace like patterns were placed all over the pool, the reflection of the moon light over the blue waters added a silvery glow. “What will you have, the apple pie here is exquisite” says Aditya as he pulls out the white lawn chair for Ira. “Sounds good” agrees Ira. “Bring a pot of coffee as well” suggests Aditya as a waiter takes the order.

“It’s quite a spectacular night isn’t it?” comments Aditya glancing at the pool, the moonbeams had such a soothing effect. “Yes, it is” agrees Ira. At this point she hoped that the night would never end.

“So, you want to perform on stage, I think you would make a brilliant actress. I

personally love the theatre more than the movies, never miss a good show in London” states Aditya. “You are a beautiful young lady and from your story I gather that life has been unfair and put you through much at a very young age, but I urge you to choose your dreams. I am sure you are most uncomfortable with what you are doing now” he continues looking directly at her. “I don’t like it, in fact I hate it, it’s killing me. I am ashamed of myself” responds Ira looking away as tears well up in her eyes and stream down her cheeks. Aditya hands her a napkin. “Shame and guilt can rot inside you and eat you up, it can destroy and consume you, so don’t beat yourself up, you did not know better, you are young and helpless, you had no proper guidance, but through it all you have been so strong” he consoles, his voice was so pacifying and comforting, in rhythm with the ambience around them.

“Let’s forget all that has gone by, it’s nothing you can’t recover from, fan that fire inside you to achieve your dreams. You are made for greatness, you are unique and special never forget that” he motivates her as he places his hand over hers. “Look at me Ira” he says. Ira slowly lifts her face up and turns to him. “You have to make difficult choices. You will be judged and criticised but never give up, keep that burning desire alive always to reach your goals” he spoke with so much grace and elegance. Ira was trying to soak in every word.

The pie arrives at the table. It is every bit delicious as Aditya had endorsed, he pours out the steaming hot coffee. He sips and continues “Be determined, refuse to be denied your destiny. Love and value yourself. You rather starve than give up on your dignity, you understand?” He pauses and puts his cup down. “Yes, I do” responds Ira, looking away again at the pool. The cool breeze makes tiny gentle ripples.

“God has a great purpose in your life, don’t settle for anything less”, he asserts. The word God made her turn and look at Aditya. His deep dark eyes were sincere. This man believes in God? she thought.

“Do you pray?”, he asks. “No” came the quick reply. “You must, you will find peace beyond comprehension, start new emotionally and spiritually”, he says with deep conviction.

“A day will come when you will have everything you wished for and more”.

She breaks down in tears again. He hands her the napkin. “Thank you”, she says patting her face dry.

“For the napkin?” he asks, with a twinkle in his eye.

“No, for this! for today!” she smiles folding the napkin and placing it on the table.

”Will you everything?” he asks flashing his amazing smile again.

“Forever and always” she declares feeling so much lighter.

“I will take you back home” he states as he gets up. They walk out to the reception where he requests for a cab.

As they walked towards the main entrance Ira feels a sadness creep upon her as she realises that the time with Aditya was almost over. As the cab moves past the fountain, she looks at the angel again and smiles.

“I heard a well-known drama company is auditioning for a new musical, you may want to give it a try” says Aditya. He pulls out his phone and makes a few calls, he writes some information down on a piece of paper that he takes out from the pouch of the seat, then turning to Ira he says “Okay the auditions are next week Tuesday, meet Miss Aditi, here is the address. I am sure you will make it, no more compromises alright?” he says leaning towards her. “Yes” she assures him.

“Stop here please”, she requests the driver.

“This is home?” asks Aditya.

Ira nods.

The lights were off, it was 3 A.M she gets out of the car. “How do I you?” she asks him. “I know how to reach you. I know where you live” he smiles and winks at her.

"Thank you again for everything” says Ira looking into his eyes, she then turns around and walks slowly towards the gate, turning around several times. As she opens the latch on the gate, she looks back once more, Aditya puts out his thumb through the window and says “All the best”. In that split second, the last goodbye between her father and her flashes across her heavy mind.

As the car begins to move, Ira stands there holding the piece of paper in her hands, the evening was surreal, almost magical and it changed her life for ever.

Ira opens the door to her house and enters, she goes straight into her room, sits by the window and looks up as the new rays of the morning sun entrust upon her a new beginning.

“I am sorry daddy, please forgive me” she sobs and falls asleep.

Chapter 22

Ira wakes up late the next afternoon. She had the best sleep in the longest time.

That evening Madhavi visits Ira. She finds Ira reading. She hands her a white envelope saying “From Aditya”.

“That’s a lot!” exclaims Ira as she counts the money. Then turning away from Madhavi she says “Aunty I won’t be doing this anymore. I made a mistake, I should have never agreed in the first place and I don’t blame you”.

“Why? What happened?” asks Madhavi a little confused. The large sum of money should have tempted her further she thought.

“Aditya, that’s who happened”, she says putting the money away in the cupboard. “He is so much like daddy, his company was wonderful to say the least”. “Yes, I have come to know a little bit about him, I believe he made it big on his own, a true rags to riches story, he does not come from money but made it all on his own” says Madhavi.

And that’s why he spoke with so much conviction Ira recollects.

“I’m going to audition for a musical next week, my dreams are about to come true, I will make daddy proud” says Ira. There was a certain unmissable calm in her face.

“May I please have his number Aunty” requests Ira, “Surely my dear” Madhavi responds as she leaves the room, a little sad. Part of the sadness was due to the guilt she felt. She also knew that she tried to help Ira the only way she knew how.

Chapter 23

Ira went to work the next day, her brother notices that she was happier than usual.

Audition day. Ira was eager and excited. She reaches the auditorium early. She finishes the initial formalities of registration. She does not look at anything or anyone else, she stays focused on the task.

The auditorium was large, the sloping floors gave a clear view of the stage. It had wide galleries and could seat over a thousand in its exceedingly comfortable pews. To Ira this place was a temple.

The actors who had come to audition sat in the far end, they seemed to be rehearsing lines, the nervous energy was palpable. Three people were seated about the third row from the front, two men and a lady. The lady was Aditi, the director of the musical. When Ira’s name was called, she walks up to the stage and stands right in the middle as instructed earlier. “My name is Ira and I’m here to audition for the lead role” she declares with confidence. Ira could clearly see Aditi lean over and whisper something to the two men. They nod in response and turn their attention back to the stage, “Alright you have been given the lines earlier today, please enact them” says one man, his voice loud, deep and clear.

Ira had to sing a song for the voice audition and enact the famous balcony scene from William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet- Scene two, Capulet’s orchard.

“Romeo! Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy

Name “.... recites Ira resting her chin on her palm.

She sings “Amazing Grace” a hymn by John Newton, an English poet. She would hear it often sung in her school chapel. Though she did not understand much, the hymn had comforted her as she grieved her father. As she sang it in front of this small audience, she felt more connected to the lyrics than ever before. Ira’s pristine voice reached the far end of the auditorium, the other actors stopped and listened. “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me, I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind but now I see….” Her vocals were angelic.

Once her part is done, she walks out and sits in the canteen area.

She prays.

After a while she is called in by Aditi’s assistance. Most of the actors who had come for the audition had left.

Ira walks up to the jury. “Congratulations, you will play the lead role” declares Aditi pulling down her glasses and looking at Ira. "You were very convincing both as an actor and singer. Let me assure you are not in only because of Aditya’s reference. You do have the talent.

You are natural and gifted. I will see you Friday evening at 5 P.M, the rest of the cast will be here too.”

The name ‘Aditya’ made her smile, perhaps narrating those beautiful lines from Shakespeare was easier and more real because of that name.

That night she sat at her favorite spot by her window, “Daddy, I am on my way” she speaks to the distant stars. She couldn’t help thinking about Aditya too, recollecting every moment she spent with him.

PRESENT DAY

Chapter 24

It was dark, the lights had come on. The cafe was now full and buzzing.

The pot of coffee was empty. Roshan had heard everything patiently. His heart went out to her and all that she had to endure alone at such a young age. His life comparatively had been a bed of roses.

Ira looked sad and drained, narrating the painful past wasn’t easy.

“Shall we order some more coffee” asks Roshan. “No water will be fine” she says. “Have you tried ing Aditya” he asks as he signals the waiter. “Yes, I have the number that Aditya had given Madhavi, but it does not exist anymore” she says looking down at the table. "He must have used a temporary number while in India” says Roshan.

“Tell me Roshan could you still say you love me after what you just heard” asks Ira reaching out to the glass of water that the waiter placed on the table. Roshan looks at her, after a momentary pause he responds “I can, you were a victim of circumstances, bad things happen to good people, you did not have the right guidance”.

Ira stretches her hand out and holding his hand says “I really need a friend now, will you be my friend forever Roshan?” He nods with a smile. "I will always be your friend, happy birthday” he smiles gracefully. “Oh! I forgot it was my birthday today and I got the best gift ever, a friend” she says, her smile beaming and affectionate. “Now will you accept my gift as a friend” he asks pulling out

the tiny box which faced rejection a few hours ago. “You are something else!” says Ira as she takes it from him.

She opens the box, pulls out the chain and holds the pendant. “I am curious, how did you know? Why did you get me the letter ‘A’?” she asks him. “I did not know about Aditya, but I did know about your father Ajay”, he responds. “I asked Sania about who or what was the closest thing to your heart, she told me you loved your father and missed him”.

Ira felt guilty to have assumed it meant Aditya. Maybe I am overthinking about him, maybe I miss him too much and he definitely occupies most of my mind space, she thought.

Ira wears the chain. “It’s beautiful, thank you” she says. “You are too” he replies, looking at her like a lost prize.

They leave the café together.

Chapter 25

The show was scheduled in two weeks. The songs and choreography routines were almost complete. There was lot of hustle and bustle in the auditorium. The designer, costume coordinator and costume crew had arrived with the finished costumes and trials were on. The dancers were gleaming as they tried on the finished vibrant and colourful attire.

Costumes for Aditi like any other stage director were an integral part of the story narrative. She worked closely with the designer and coordinator in the initial planning stages to ensure that the costumes are not just a mere complimentary element but did justice to the script, music composition and choreography.

Once everyone had tried on their livery, the coordinator asks the crew to put them away carefully. The costumes were then put on hangers, marked and labelled, the racks were wheeled away to the designated room at the premises.

Aditi summons everyone to gather. “We are only two weeks away from the big day, I need all of you to stay focused, we will be scheduling practices every day for longer hours. All the elements must come together, please be present on time and strictly no more scripts. By now you should have memorised your part, the next few weeks will be hectic so brace yourself” she speaks with authority and was clearly firm “I hope you have everyone’s phone number, home numbers, work numbers, neighbours numbers, any help to reach them", she enquires turning to her assistants. “I will see you all tomorrow” she finally smiles.

Everyone leaves excited, the animated conversations among them a clear indication of how exhilarated they were.

Sania pulls Ira aside “Did you speak to Roshan?” she asks noticing that she was wearing the chain, “and Aditya, were you able to reach him?” she continues. “Yes and no” Ira replies. Giving Sania a big hug, she leaves.

Sania and Anup stay a while longer with Roshan at the parking lot. “I am sorry things didn’t work out well with Ira” empathises Sania as she puts her arm around Roshan. “I am sorry too, she wants to be my friend, I’ll take that” he consoles himself. “She doesn’t know what she is giving up, stupid girl! If Anup hadn’t proposed to me I would have gladly been your girlfriend” she says playfully as she winks at Roshan. ”It is not too late now, go ahead” Anup retorts. “Naaaa you two are made for each other, I wouldn’t want to break that” responds Roshan immediately. They laugh, but Sania could see the pain behind Roshan's superficial amused look. He was pretending to take the rejection well. They say byes and leave.

That night Ira calls Madhavi again to check if there was any luck in locating Aditya. The response was negative.

Chapter 26

Another week long of rigorous practices and it was time for the first technical rehearsal, there was tremendous excitement as the cast and crew come together. The lights, sound effects and backdrop scenes were being thoroughly scrutinised by the stage manager and his team of technicians. Aditi was in an intense discussion with the property crew, the sets were elaborate and detailed. She specially wanted the song in the rain to wow the audience. Everything in place, the rehearsals begin. Aditi stands right in front of the stage with a pad and a pencil in hand. The scenes progress without much interruptions.

Ira and Roshan come on stage next, Roshan narrates a long dialogue as Ira stands across him, head bowed. He ends his lines pleading, holding her by shoulders and shaking her “What do I do, how do I make you understand I love you just the way you are.”

“What?” whispers Ira raising her head. Roshan’s expressions were so sincere and real. There was a nervous pause. Roshan quickly realising that she was lost, leans over and whispers in her ears “That’s it, that was my line, now you have to speak, quick, Aditi is staring at us.” “Oh! Okay I’m sorry” and she continues with her lines, though not so confidently. Roshan continues “I knew it the moment I saw you, but I was lost and confused” he pauses, looks away, then holds her hand and continues “What miracle will it take for you to love me back?” his eyes turn moist.

Ira stands there dazed again but quickly composes herself to deliver her response.

Harish entering with hot tea and a special treat was a welcome sign. The entire cast gather on stage. “This was just okay” says Aditi as she takes a cup of tea from Harish. “I need each of you to give the performance of your lifetime, what to deliver and how, should be the top priority now. I need 200% from you” she looks at her notes and calls out a few names. “Have your snacks and come see me” she says.

“It’s pisssaa today” shouts Harish in excitement. “Hey, it is pisssaaa, the Italians will cry” says Sania sarcastically as she holds up a piece topped with paneer. The cottage cheese had been tossed in chillies and garam masala. “This pisssaa is Indian” adds Anup adding to the mockery. “See, made for each other” says Roshan pointing to Sania and Anup as he puts his arm around Harish. “I like it Harish, very nice” adds Roshan biting into a piece.

In every theatre production lasting bonds are forged as individuals come together with ion and determination towards realising a dream. They become family.

Those called out by Aditi to meet later knew that she would speak to them individually on improving their delivery or perhaps to emote better. Aditi as a director was visually sensitive, she knew clearly how a certain actor must present a certain emotion in a particular scene. She had the gift to look into the actor’s mind and instruct them to follow her cues while she also stimulated the actor’s creativity to bring in his or her own imagination and add that uniqueness. Both director and actor are artists who collaborate on a project, that is bigger than either of them.

That night Aditi meets with the advertising and ticketing staff. The posters were already up at major Cafes, malls, schools and colleges. Popular television channels were also announcing the event. Tickets were being sold online and at various other venues. The news of the show created quite a buzz in the city.

Aditi was brilliant and had worked hard to make a unique name for herself. Her audience knew that it would be both an entertaining and rewarding experience to witness her creative portrayal of a narrative. Her daughter Nikita was to fly down in a few days. Aditi was both excited and exhausted.

Chapter 27

It was polishing rehearsal day!!

The last stage of rehearsal process prior to performance. Everything had to work in perfect sync and be on track for a solid opening performance. A run of the show with all the elements except for the audience, it was vital that there was consistent quality in how everything came together.

Yash and Mrs. Rita were there too, seated in the front row. The atmosphere was upbeat and positive. Make-up was in progress and the green room was bustling with energy. It is every actor‘s dream to be in the midst of this electric energy, the backstage crew were all ready and alert to make sure the show runs smoothly and safely.

Aditi enters in a pleasant pink cotton saree accompanied by her daughter Nikita who had arrived from London that weekend. Nikita was petite, she was wearing a comfortable jumpsuit and sported a blunt cut. Aditi introduces her daughter to the crew and adds “My daughter has an important announcement to make… over to you my dear”. “Thanks amma, hello everybody I see you all have been working very hard, I speak to my mother every day and I feel I know you all really well. Coming to the point, I have spoken to certain important people back in London about this musical and they have shown immense interest in our project and wish to watch it!” Nikita flashes a big smile.

“They will be here on the big day and if you’ll impress them, you might be taking a trip to London for a couple of more shows” she announces as she holds her mother’s hand in excitement. There was surprise, disbelief, laughter and

applause all at once among the crew. Aditi interrupts the celebration “If they like you, now let’s get started.”

The crew compose themselves and start off. The rehearsal was a success. It takes an army of various units that come together and work frantically to put on a spectacular show of this magnitude.

Mrs. Rita was delighted with the duet and Yash thought that Ira and Roshan danced with grace and finesse. Aditi looked quite pleased with the outcome, at this point she refrains from giving any negative .

The past few days of technical and polishing rehearsals were exhausting and physically draining on everybody involved. Aditi calls for a huddle “I am letting you off to rest for two days, only the technical staff will be here day after, relax and be calm, give your vocal cords and nerves a chance to recuperate” she advises “See you all day after for the big day, I hope you have invited family and friends, do take the es on the way out” she flashes a broad smile.

Everyone leaves after the long and tiring evening. Sania offers to drop Ira home.

On the ride Sania questions Ira abruptly catching her off guard, “You say you love Aditya but have you ever wondered what he feels about you? Why hasn’t he tried to reach you again?”. “I don’t know” replies Ira seated behind and holding Sania by the shoulders. “You are living in a dream, please come back to reality and give Roshan a chance” she says turning back and speaking through her helmet as the traffic came to a halt.

“I noticed how you looked at Roshan as he narrated his lines on the stage, I

know you feel something more than friendship for him” she says in a serious tone.

“It’s called acting stupid, it’s a love story” explains Ira. “Oh! Is it?” mocks Sania. The traffic lights turn green, Sania looks through the rear-view mirror to see Ira’s expression. She was blank.

“Aditya coming into your life was a blessing in so many ways but I really think you are confusing iration and gratitude with love” she continues as she manoeuvres through the congested road. “No Sania you were not there that night. You did not see how he spoke to me, treated me, cared for me and respected me. It was special, I owe him everything” says Ira speaking as close to Sania’s ears as possible.

“Then where is he now?” shouts Sania trying to be heard over all the honking and beeping. “He will come, I know it” responds Ira.

The rest of the ride home was quiet.

Chapter 28

Back home Ira sits by the window, the thought that show was just two days away was surreal to her. She wanted to share all the excitement and anxiety with Aditya. She wished her father was around singing endless praises of his princess. I have two people to thank for this, for my dream becoming a reality, daddy and Aditya she thinks to herself.

The next day goes by quick. Ira's brother is thrilled as he picks out his best dress shirt and formal tros to wear. “You think I need to wear a jacket too?” he asks Ira, holding up the clothes. “ Yes, you look smart in a jacket” she hugs him and secretly hoped that Aditya would show up to watch her.

Ira walks into her mother’s room opens her wardrobe of fine silks that had been locked away for a long time. One particular bright pink and green silk catches her eye. It was a birthday gift from her father, he thought it looked vibrant on Anita and he couldn’t take his eyes off his wife that day. As Ira pulls out the saree she recollects telling her father that she would wear it one day when she was old enough.

“Ma, I want you to wear this to the show” she says placing it on the bed, next to her mother. Anita places her hand on the saree and strokes it gently. Tears rolled down her face as she recollects the day she first wore it, the last birthday she ever celebrated.

“I will” she says in a whisper as she walks away from her room.

Chapter 29

The big day arrives. The show was scheduled to begin at 6 PM, the cast gather at 2 PM. The posters and banners are up, the auditorium cleaned and seats numbered. The charged energies of the cast and crew was palpable.

Sound checks underway, the cast get ready for make-up. Around 3 P.M Roshan walks up to Ira and says “Ira, I was able to locate Aditya. He is here in Bangalore now.”

“Really?” Ira stands up “Where is he?” she asks excited. Roshan hands her a piece of paper.

“This is where we had coffee, I have to go” she shouts and to everyone’s utter shock she storms out. Roshan follows her yelling “Ira go after the show, we don’t have time”. Ira runs out, gets into an autorickshaw and leaves.

The crew panic, but they decide not to tell Aditi anything, hoping Ira would return in time.

Ira reaches the hotel, gets off the vehicle and runs through the gates.

There she sees him, the one she couldn’t stop thinking about. Aditya was standing at the entrance wearing a casual green T-shirt and khaki shorts, dark shades covered his eyes.

Ira wanted to scream out his name, instead she runs towards him. A limo stops right in front of him, a pretty young lady and a little boy him. Aditya looks at her affectionately and kisses her on her forehead. The three get into the limo.

In that brief moment Ira felt crushed and devastated.

She is barely able to walk, but she makes it slowly towards the fountain, sits down exactly where Aditya had and looks up at the angel. The limo es by, but Aditya who was seated in the front next to the driver, does not notice Ira.

She covers her face with her hands and sobs uncontrollably. She recollects Sania’s words on the ride home.

Meanwhile at the auditorium Roshan, Anup and Sania panic. With only two hours left for the show to begin Ira missing was the last thing they needed.

Roshan decides to go look for her, he knew that the show was important for her too and he partially blamed himself. He should have waited to tell her about Aditya till after the show.

He asks Sania and Anup to cover for him.

“Keep calm and manage all questions” he says grabbing his helmet. He was already in his costume, looking debonair in his fitted pants and white ruffled shirt. He starts his bike and rides like the wind as questions cross his mind, did

Ira find Aditya? what if she left with him, will she come back for the show?

He rides through the huge gates of the hotel despite the security trying to stop him, he makes a sweeping turn, as the engines make a roaring sound.

He sees Ira by the fountain with her face covered. He brings the bike to a screeching stop.

He walks to Ira and sits next to her. He had to calm down as well. He pulls her hands away from her tear-soaked face. “Roshan?” Ira whispers.

“What happened?” He asks “Did you meet him?”

“No, but I saw him, I think he was with his family, I am such a fool, he never said he loved me, he never made any promises, I imagined everything, it was all me” she chokes as she tries to get the words out, “but I don’t understand why he did not meet me, why?” she continues as sobs and words alternate.

Roshan gives her a minute.

“Sometimes we meet people for unexplainable reasons. One sent for a higher purpose. We feel connected to them, they are like angels, perhaps Aditya was your angel, his purpose was to teach you one important lesson and save you, please calm down and let us go, your dreams are about to come true, the world will stop and take notice of you, let’s go” he holds her hand and as he stands up he looks at the celestial figure.

Ira knew Roshan made sense and maybe on some level she knew it all along. Everything was clear. She stands up and looks at him. He wipes her tears as more come gushing down.

“Roshan, I knew the moment I saw you but I was lost and confused, it took me so long to realise it…” she says.

“Ira we are late and this is not the time to rehearse lines and that too my lines “ he smiles.

“No, they are my lines now and I saying them to you, I was lost, confused, pushed you away and hurt you”, she takes a few steps closer to him, still holding his hands “What miracle will it take for you to still love me?”

Time stood still for Roshan. It was a dreamlike moment.

“I do love you, always have and always will” he responds, a small tear falls on Ira’s hands from his cheek. But his smile was radiant.

They hug.

“The show!” exclaims Roshan “let’s go, will you ride with me today?” he asks recollecting the many times she had refused his offer to drop her home. Ira notices that he was in his costume, looking so charming “Yes, today I will go with you” she smiles.

Back at the green room Aditi was now aware that her lead for the musical have gone missing and she was close to a cardiac arrest. The crew were trying to calm her, while they themselves were extremely worried as anxious phone calls went unanswered.

Minutes later they hear the roar of Roshan’s bike and there was cheering. They rush towards the back exit and receive them, everyone was extremely relieved and happy to see them that no questions were asked. Ira gets dressed and make up was done with many hands assisting her. Aditi’s nerves are calm and she breathes again.

Chapter 30

The audience were seated. The murmuring and chattering stops once they hear “Good evening ladies and gentlemen...”.

The much anticipated show begins, the applause, excitement and appreciation flows freely as the scene, songs and dances progress.

For the finale the entire cast returns on stage, the 2 hours of celebration of art and talent comes to a stupendous end. The music pumping, the lights flashing and the dancers in their vibrant attires giving it their all. A flamboyant show stopping pose concludes the stunning show.

The spot lights flash on Ira and Roshan as thunderous applause bursts in the auditorium, colourful graffiti rains on them.

Panting after that energetic number Ira takes a bow, looking every bit a Princess in her heavily embellished purple gown, the rich fabric was accented with jewels and a gold cord hugged her delicate waist. She reaches out and holds Roshan’s hand.

She looks at the audience as they stand and applaud, the bright lights of the auditorium come on, subconsciously she looks for her father in the sea of faces.

In the front row she sees her mother and brother looking proud, Madhavi was

next to Anita clapping enthusiastically, as tears rolled down her eyes, she recollects the image of little Ira on stage the day she lost her father.

Yash and Rita were delighted, if they clapped any harder their hands could fall off. Nikita stood with her foreign friends next to her and they were clearly over the moon. One of the them leans over and whispers something in Nikita’s ears, who immediately shoots a thumbs up to Ira and Roshan, she was grinning ear to ear. This only meant good news.

Roshan’s sister Smitha, was blowing kisses to him, she couldn’t have been prouder of him, the delighted parents were right next to her, they always knew that Roshan would be happiest chasing his ion.

Aditi lets out a sigh of relief, she had achieved what she had envisioned and she applauded each and everyone’s effort. The stage was everything she lived for. She was home.

The cast take a few more bows as the applause continues.

Looking briefly to the sides of the stage Roshan could see the staff cheering, it was everyone’s success but the one jumping the most with joy was Harish, it was his moment too.

Ira couldn’t see her father, but she definitely felt his presence. I’m going to be fine just as you promised daddy she tells herself and she recollects Aditya’s words too, a day will come when you have everything you have wished for and more ....

She turns and looks at Roshan.

Could life be kinder. Dreams do come true.

Her prince found her!

The Beginning......

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Saraswathi Priyadarshini is a Computer Science Engineer turned Educator. She is a dedicated and resourceful teacher of the English Language with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education.

She is an ardent and ionate Theatre enthusiast. A Director of Musicals and theatre facilitator, she teaches a unique subject called Theatre-in-Education. Her vision is to create a learning environment using contemporary pedagogical practices.

The knack for storytelling coupled with thespian pursuits fed her devotion to write original scripts and direct several award winning plays.

She also directed a 100 member cast in a Musical titled “The Witness” for Richmond Town Methodist Church, Bangalore. This was to commemorate the 140th Anniversary of the Institution held at Lincoln Hall, Baldwin Boys School.

She writes articles based on Theatre-in-Education for several national magazines. She was featured alongside Theatre and Film personality Kalki Koechlin in India’s premier Education magazine ‘Education World’ for her work in Theatre in Education (TIE)

She has been a Jury member for Karnataka Women Achievers Awards - KWAA (2018 to present) and under the same umbrella she is also Board Member for IWAA- Indian Women Achievers Award to be held in 2021.

Her future plan is to direct a short film based on a true story.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

1 Corinthians 2:9 To God ...for the strength You give me each day, for bestowing upon me more than I deserve and for blessing me with all the people around me who make life more meaningful.

With the deepest gratitude I wish to thank every person who has inspired, influenced and illuminated my life with their presence.

Perumal Kesevelu, My Dad .... Thank you for making me fall in love with books and for providing me with the best education. You were my biggest motivator and now you are that presence watching over me. I miss you every day.

My sons Shaun David Stanley and Steve Dhiren Stanley who are my greatest blessings, my only treasure and my everyday inspiration.

Shaun David for that undying and always saying “Way to go mamma, you are my favourite girl!”. You are precious my baby boy.

Steven Dhiren for the everyday dose of laughter, you are pure sunshine my baby. Thank you for typing out the manuscript for me!!

Stanley Deepak Natarajan from being my senior, and guide through Engineering college to being the father of my children. Thank you for being

the biggest part of my life story.

My teachers from Bishop Cottons Girls’ School, Bangalore who made me fall in love with the English language by the way they taught it. Specially Mrs. Joseph who taught English with ion. She stirred an unforgettable emotion in me when she recited the poem “Home they brought her warrior dead” by Alfred Tennyson.

Mrs.Thomas our music teacher who also taught us etiquette.

She always confused my best friend Saishree Rai for me, I made the mischief and Sai got the yelling. Sai, we sat together from standard three and you are still the same sweet Sai you were when we were eight.

To all my girls from cottons and the Cottonian family who made school days the best phase of my life and who are still a big part of my every day.

My Pre university girls Savitha Rajkumar and Susan Vora my comionate friends who wish the very best for me and still stand by me like rock.

To my crazy and loveable Gang from Dayanand Sagar College of Engineering, Specially Smitha Chopra, your thoughtfulness and care warm my heart. Girls I grew up with and love so deeply Praveena Narasimhan, Prathima Narasimhan, Rinu Shrestha, Sheelu karmacharya, Priya Bambi and Shama Aryal.

Not to forget the boys Cheeran Varghese, Prasad Malmandi, Vishal Jindal, Syed

Arshad, Sunil king and Siddharth Mishra who is now serving the nation as Commandant, Indian Navy. These are just a few names.

Ajay Ashok you have been my best buddy since the first day of college and through the years. You define friendship.

Thaseen Shariff...my biggest cheerleader. My first boss turned close friend.

The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the group of schools (Carmel, Clarence and Florence Public school) where I have been given the opportunity to write and direct several plays over the past 12 years. I consider myself truly blessed to work under their comionate leadership.

The heads of these institutions for the encouragement and namely

Sribala Srinivasan- The first to recognise what I could do and gave me every opportunity.

Geetha Mohan, Ganapathi Rao and Malathi Mohan deepest gratitude for your genuine care.

Nimi George - for your love and prayerful encouragement.

Bridget Mcguire- for your everyday message of Godly motivation and for valuing my work.

Abida Begum – Truly believed in me. Our many conversations over tea are my cherished memory.

Thank you, Anna Vimal.

Jayashree Deshpande – Your generous love and appreciation is what I would wait for after every show.

My team at Carmel school, my second family.

Shivagami Saravanan - your love and care make me feel like I am your child.

Asha Kashyap, Nandini Ravi, Rita Prem, Shantha.K. my first coordinators to applaud and appreciate every skit and drama. Rekha Sreekanth for the many complicated props she has made, having stayed ed school hours to make our school dramas super successful. Thank you every member of this family.

Spoorthi Vishwas ...Founder Karnataka Women Achievers Awards and Indian Women Achievers Awards for inviting me to be Jury and Advisor. She is like a little sister to me whose ion for achieving her dreams I find endearing.

The journey of encouraging and empowering women across the State of Karnataka and now India has added more purpose and clarity to my life goals.

The kwaa team of girls who made the venture more meaningful with their love and enthusiasm.

Co-Jury of KWAA - Dr. H.S. Ganesha Bhatta, Chaya Srivatsa, Dr Shruthi Chethan, Dr Vishal Rao, Dev Prabhu, Mithun Gerahalli, Shazia Khan, Samudyata Kadur Shivaram, Savitha Nanjappa, Wanitha Ashok, Shatrugan Shetty and Yogendra Singh Rathore.

These magnificent human beings are experts from diverse fields who are a true example of achieving great success and yet staying grounded. Over the years we have established a close bond of friendship, love and mutual respect.

Shruthi Chethan thank you for the love and laughter.

CM (Chaya Srivatsa) for generously sharing your wisdom.

Ganesh sir for being my Guru and helping me realise that teaching is the most noblest of all professions, I have the utmost respect for you.

Special Mention – Vinod Hayagriv, Director C. Krishniah Chetty and sons and his adorable wife Triveni Vinod. You two epitomise royalty and class for the new generation. Thank you for all the “rich and precious” experiences.

Special Mention: CEO of KWAA and IWAA, Darshan Somaiya, thank you .

Richmond Town Methodist Church - my praying family.

RTMC Super Seven - my solid in staging musicals and dramas for the immensely talent children and youth of RTMC. Beena Aruldos, Hannah Samuel Sheila Jacqulene John, Lisa Obedanand, Smitha Jeevan, Simon Hanock and Lois Kotian, each taking on roles in budget, costumes, Make-up, props, fund raising, marketing, advertising and event management. I owe you all my deepest gratitude and you know how much I love you.

Special love and thanks – Ellen Alexander, Janet Prem, Shobha Samuel, Shalini Neelakantan, Dr. Shantini David, Shirley Narohna, Naveen and Suma Narohna, Shirley Aaron, Preethi Devaputhra, Godwin Sunil and Hannah Samuel again for the years of prayers and encouragement. Grateful specially to these names for their leadership roles in Christian Education and for giving me the ‘stage’ to teach lessons my way.

Sarah Keziah Samuel – a student of theatre in Exeter University, England. Thank you for interviewing me for the article on Theatre-in-Education and for the delightful surprise when it was published in Education World Magazine. Your magnanimous heart and talent will take you far.

For the unconditional love always...Mercy David, Sneha David and Chaya Alfred. I see the love of God in you.

Savitha N Rao.... my confidante and critique. The first to read the manuscript of this book. Thank you for being my sounding board and for lending your shoulder when I need it.

Valued relationship and well-wisher ...Revathi Kamath, I respect you deeply and value your blessings immensely.

And thank you:

Yuvanraj - The first to hear the narration of this story as I planned it to be a movie. Thank you for encouraging me to pen it.

True and loyal friendships ...thank you for brightening up my world Maria Melanie Prabhu, Shibani Pemmaiah and Swathi Madhusudan.

Deepest Gratitude to Carmel team who have worked in the theatre department with me and have shared in the amazing experience.

Veena Narayan, Veena VS, Deepa Srivatsa, Jyothi Chandramouli, Smitha Sameer, Swathi Bhat, Shilpa Prasad, Rama Harish, Mamatha Dore, Smitha K.V. Sujatha Vishwanath, Neela Murali, Chandana Srinivasan, Vijayalaxmi Guruprasad, Veenashreesha, Indumati Dilipan, Sridevi Srinivasa and thank you Nandini Darshan and so many more!

Music masters Krishna Anand, Rajesh and Lester D’souza, for partnering with me on the many skits and plays and making them a joyous learning experience for our students. The grand Music team at RTMC, the most versatile and flawless, abundantly blessed by God whether at playing an instrument or singing with exquisite and glorious voices. Too many to name and too many to thank.

Deepest Gratitude to every helper and assistant in all the schools and RTMC, Bangalore.

And lastly, each and every student, past and present who I adore. Your enthusiasm, imagination and creativity on stage and off made my life purpose incredibly meaningful. You have amazed and inspired me to be better. My own children think that I love you more than them at times. The truth is that I most often don’t know the difference. I thank God for putting you in my care and choosing me to build your talent.

This is my world. This is my family.

They have understood where I have been, accepted and applauded me for who I was becoming and gently allowed me to grow.