THE MASQUERADE - PART 7 - Continued from Part 6.........

THE MASQUERADE - PART 7 - Continued from Part 6.........

It was a Sunday . Nimmy earnestly want to spend more time with Ravi and delve deep into the nuances of various philosophical thoughts which often rages her mind . She hoped that she will be able to talk with him endlessly without any interference from anyone . She have found in Ravi a similar minded person.

She took a bath , dressed quickly and reached the dining area where she could see Sanku uncle and Sarada aunty dressed up and having food.

Nimmy: Hi , good morning Uncle and aunty . Where are you going .

Sarada aunty : Oh , what to say Nimmy . Today we have two marriages to attend , one house warming session also , to attend . The driver has not reached yet. All functions are at the same time .

Sanku uncle : we will just show our face and then hop to the other . Like wise we can complete attending all the functions .

Nimmy : But , you could have prioritised and avoided one or two.

“ No Nimmy , It's not possible , we have to look at their face in future also and we have to maintain the friendships and relationships . All are locals . They will not look at our face if we did not attend the function and the whole relationship will get strained.” , Sarada aunty interrupted .

Nimmy: But , how could you attend all the functions at the same time and also whether the friendships and relationships have only that much depth whereby inability or lack of interest in attending the functions are the sole criterion which determines the future of the relationship. What kind of friendship or relationship is that . Nimmy wondered .

Nimmy continued , “ To my knowledge true friendship or relationship is understanding each other and accomodating each other”.

Sanku uncle : Nimmy , the value systems you have learned has no value in this society . Here all outward expressions like attending functions , giving presents , building big houses , owning many vehicles , dressing pompously, attending and hosting parties etc are given value and given recognition. You take the case of us today , We go there in car , We just go straight to the parents of the bride and give the present and by that time , our laughing and greeting faces will be captured by the cameramen , that is sufficient , then we just escape to the other function . Nimmy , you will learn all these tricks , in due course .

Nimmy: Sorry , Sanku uncle , I don't want to learn these ' tricks ' . You are not going to these functions for participating , out of genuine desire , you are going there to please the relevant people because you are afraid , lest they will not look at your face . You go there , show off well and after attending the function , gossip among others about the defects you found in the host who invited you and you say this is the sign of friendship and you maintain relationships and friendships like this . Great ! I wonder how much we have downgraded ourselves through our thoughts and deeds , even though we are fortunate enough to be born in this land which gave birth to many well known personalities who considered the thoughts like , Simple Living and High Thinking as their religion . Shame on us !! Well , I can't understand these approaches to friendship , relations etc , any way bye , I am going to the house of Ravi . Bye , see you .

After a moment of silence , Sarada aunty called Nimmy from behind , “ Hey , Nimmy , who is Ravi . Why are you going to his house .”

Nimmy came back and replied , “ Maya knows who is Ravi . She will tell you , bye .”

Nimmy left the place and took the scooty and went straight to the house of Ravi.

On reaching the house of Ravi , Nimmy pressed the bell . The door was opened by Roopa . “ Hi , nice to see you again. I know you came to talk with Ravi . Just go upstairs to his library . He will be there .” Roopa said with a smile .

“ Thanks Roopa ” , Nimmy muttered softly and went to the room shown to her by Roopa .

Nimmy entered a medium sized room , with open windows and green scenery and roof garden full of blooming flowers and fresh air . The walls of the room were adorned with the portraits of philosophers , writers , thinkers , poets , artists etc from all over the world, drawings , meta physical symbols , and several abstract thoughts , inscriptions etc and every inch of the room crowded with books , a computer,music system and a small TV. On entering the room , her attention was drawn to an inscription which read ,

“ This space belongs to all who seeks TRUTH , KNOWLEDGE and LOVE.”

On one corner of the room , Nimmy could see Shyam , the son of Ravi , fully immersed in his note pad and in another corner , she could see Ravi , sitting simply , staring to the greenery outside ,with a cup of tea in his hand, fully engrossed in thoughts . Nimmy stood still , wondering about the whole ambience . The total silence of the room brought peace to her mind.

“ Hi , Ravi , am I disturbing you”. Nimmy exclaimed .

Ravi slowly turned back from his chair and replied , “ Hi , I was just thinking about you and your interest in philosophical thoughts at this young age itself”.

Nimmy : That is why I am here . I think I have found the right place . Do I have the freedom to use this library .

Ravi : On that point , there need not be any confusion . You can see the inscription on the wall , at the entrance of the room which read ,

“ This space belongs to all who seeks TRUTH , KNOWLEDGE and LOVE.”

Now , keep this key with you . From your eyes I could see how much sincere and devoted you are to your favourite interest , KNOWLEDGE . This space is yours . Whatever knowledge you could gather from here , take …..... You have full freedom .

Nimmy : Thanks , Ravi .

Nimmy felt very happy .

Ravi : Nimmy , you can go through the materials available here . I am in the midst of some thought processes and we will talk later, may be after half an hour.

Nimmy: Ok , Ravi , thanks for expressing your mind . Let me go through your collections.

Nimmy was surprised at the depth and variety of the collection of materials like books , DVD 's , portraits etc in the library of Ravi covering every branch of knowledge . She went to Shyam .

Nimmy: Hi , Shyam , How are you

Shyam : Hi , fine . Do you like our place .

Nimmy : Sure , your place is like heaven , far..... far..... from the masquerades.

Shyam : That's because you think like that . The people whom you say wear masquerades think that it is the proper and practical way of living and they boast among themselves that intelligent people live like them. They consider people like you and my father as people who don't know how to live.

Nimmy was surprised at the analytical depth of the thoughts of Shyam

Nimmy: Ok, Shyam , what do you feel regarding the whole subject , I mean , which is the correct way of living , according to you

Shyam : Well , Nimmy , I am also with you considering the fact that I was fortunate enough to learn these values from my father , but I feel sad because majority of the people , especially among my generation are not having access to people like my father or his thoughts since the current society is moving in another direction and every one are swayed by their feet in the hurricane of crass commercialisation . You breathe and live the air full of commercialisation and the society and its thoughts , beliefs , culture , value systems etc are eroded and projected as per their marketing agendas by the forces of commercialisation , to such an extent , without our awareness , that even older generation who are deeply rooted to the values of truth, are finding the going difficult , let alone , we , the younger generation.

Nimmy: Great , man , how you came to such bold conclusions , even at this young age itself .

Shyam: I don't know.

“ Well , I also don't know”, exclaimed Ravi , who joined them .

Ravi: Roopa , the mother of Shyam says both myself and Shyam are negative characters because she thinks the masquerades are positive people since the general character of the current society encourages wearing masquerades . So she wears masks happily and positively , proud of her positivity in dealing with the society after wearing masks . She chides me and allege that I am instilling all the ' negative ' TRUTHS in the mind of Shyam . But , actually , I have never done that . I have never imposed my thoughts or enquiries on anyone . I have given Shyam full freedom to have his own enquiries on LIFE and SOCIETY. But , fortunately , he has found eternal truths at this young age itself . It is not my effort . It is his own effort and the blessings of God.

“ Come , Nimmy , We will sit there in the garden and talk” , Ravi guided Nimmy to the corner of the room .

Nimmy : Ok , Shyam , will talk to you later

Nimmy : Ravi , you told me , you were thinking about me . What was you thinking about me .

Ravi : Why or How one feels affinity to another

Nimmy : May be , it is the like mindedness aspect or admiration to something or someone like whom we are unable to become or which we are striving to become.

Ravi: Ok , why you came and talked to me . Why you feel like coming here and talk to me . Why I like talking to you . Why Shyam likes to talk to me . Why Roopa is not interested in having lengthy talks with me . Why Maya likes to talk with me . Why I like to talk with Maya. Why Deepu is not interested in talking to me . Nimmy , we are having varying degrees of affinity towards different people . Our grades of affinity varies towards , Mother , Father , Children , it have varying degrees among friends , relatives etc etc

Ravi continued , “Nimmy , I have gone indepth into the subject of , Why people think and behave differently . Different people think and behave differently .It is not due to circumstance alone , as Shyam has said . People in the same family , born and brought up in the same circumstances think and behave differently . WHY”.

Nimmy : Ok , Ravi understood , what is the result of your enquiry . What is the answer you found on the subject of varying degrees of affinity .

Ravi : Well , Nimmy , You think about it and give me an answer or the result of your enquiry , next time we meet..

Nimmy : Ok , Ravi , I take it as a challenge . Let me conduct an enquiry into the subject.

Ravi : Nimmy , I will give you some words as clues ,

Whether we feel affinity to some one due to or out of (1) Innate instincts we have for self expansion ( 2 ) Kindness (3) Attraction to intelligence (4) Identification with the Self (5) Admiration for the unachievable or what we strive to achieve (6) Requirement of someone to listen to our vaunts ( 7) Attraction of the senses (8) Gratification of the senses (9) Feeling of loneliness (10) Boredom

Ravi: Nimmy , you give me your observations on this topic , next time when we meet . I have to go out with Roopa . Bye … You leave when you feel like leaving … I have given the key of this library to you , You may come and go , as you wish . Bye .

Nimmy : Sure Ravi , let me go deep into the topic , bye …

TO BE CONTD..............

THE MASQUERADE - PART - 6 (Continued from Part 5)

THE MASQUERADE -PART-6 (Continued from Part 5).....

....As decided by her , the next day Nimmy reached the park early . She told Maya not to accompany her since she require absolute privacy , while introducing herself to Ravi.

As usual , she could see Ravi coming and walking round the park , in his usual predictable manner like a configured automatic machine . She felt the composure of Ravi , as more sombre , when compared with the previous day and he was not even glancing at any body around . Nimmy wondered whether she has chosen the wrong day for introducing herself .

Nimmy went straight to him and told Ravi , “ Excuse me Sir, I am Nimmy , the friend of Maya .”

Ravi abruptly stopped walking , raised his face and looked at Maya with a plain face and suddenly she could see the sombre face transforming to a gleaming and disarming smile . Nimmy felt releived .

Nimmy further continued , “ Sir , can I walk with you”. Nimmy could see the smiling face of Ravi transforming to an expression full of surprise.

Ravi replied , “ Of course , why not …....., but can you or will you be able to walk with me ?”

Nimmy : “ what do you mean , Sir”

Ravi : “Well , I mean , Number one , the vested and prejudiced interests surrounding you and number two , whether your mind and thoughts will be able to keep pace with my mind and thoughts” .

Ravi continued , “ If you feel OK , I am only happy to have a companion .”

Ravi: “ By the way Nimmy , What prompted you to come and introduce yourself to me in such a straight manner without taking care of the vested and prejudiced interests surrounding you”

Nimmy: “ Sir, after I heard about you from Maya , I felt like that . When I felt like that , I have no other option , but to express it . I don't care about the vested and prejudiced interests surrounding me to interfere in my personal freedom and privacy”.

Ravi: “ Great . Nimmy , what Maya told you about me”

Nimmy: “She admires you so much and was sad that she was unable to talk with you due to the opinions of the vested and prejudiced interests surrounding her and she was afraid of those interests hurting her.”.

Ravi: “ Natural . Nimmy , you can inform her that like what you have told me , I am also not a slave to the opinion of the vested and prejudiced interests surrounding me and I don't consider the opinion of others which interferes with my personal freedom and privacy , but , inform her , I value and understand her situation . And also inform her , I don't like to see the pain of people like her who loves me and whom I loves. I don't want want to create problems for them .I don't want people to sacrifice their peace of mind for the sake of having friendship with me . Kindly convey my regards to her , deepu and other family members”.

Ravi continued , “ For me , personally , as Nikos Kazantzakis has said , “ I hope for nothing . I fear nothing . I am free”.”

Ravi: “ Nice talking to you , Nimmy. By the by , why don't we go to my house and have a cup of coffee , I will introduce you to my wife and son . You wait here . I will complete three more rounds of walking . I cannot avoid these walks since they provide me both physical and mental strength. We will go in my car.”

Nimmy: “Ok , Sir , agreed”.

Nimmy felt very happy and she remembered the words of Maya about Ravi : -

“…............ Can you see that person who has been walking round the jogging track of the park, alone. He is Mr.Ravi. I had worked with him . He is a different kind of person. He come , walk and go . He don't talk or look at any body , so far he had not seen me , even if he see me , he just smile only . But if you talk with him , he will become a close friend suddenly and his friendship will be so intense and innocent, you will find it difficult to handle it under certain circumstances .”

Nimmy mused and said to herself , “ Truly , he is a different kind of person , But how he became like that , the ODD ONE OUT in this society , considering the fact that he is also part of this society . He think , talk and behave without a masquerade”.

“ Hi , let's go” , the enthusiastic voice of Ravi brought Nimmy down to earth from her thoughts .

Contrary to his appearance and behaviour , once inside house with his wife and son , Nimmy was able to see another person in Ravi , full of laughter , jokes and freedom .

Roopa , the wife of Ravi told Nimmy , “ At times , Ravi is like this , he loves us so much , but some times while discussing issues related with society , life etc he slips into deep , serious thoughts and we can see his thoughts in his face . His face is like a mirror. He don't like to see the pains and sufferings of others and hypocrisy is the only thing he hates . Ravi is a fortunate person in the sense that he has achieved hundred percent synchronisation with regard to his thoughts , expressions and deeds. Whatever he thinks , it will be reflected in his face , and will be translated to his deeds . There will not be any contradictions and pretensions . Hence it is easy to understand him and live with him”.

Nimmy: “Why Sir...”

“Nimmy , My name is Ravi , please call me by name” , Ravi interrupted.

Nimmy: “ Ok, Ravi , why you pretend to be serious outside your house”.

Ravi: “ Nimmy , it's not pretension. Whatever , I see outside , it get reflected in my , thoughts , face and deeds. Inside house or outside house , that is what is happening . I don't wear a mask . Everything I speak and do , come from my heart . When I saw suffering , it will be reflected in my thoughts and expressions , when I see happiness , it will get reflected , that's all. My only problem is , I don't know how to wear a mask as per the requirement and circumstance”.

“ That , definitely is not a problem , Ravi”, Nimmy interrupted .

Ravi: “ Well , I don't know”.

Ravi continued , “ You know , Nimmy , with Maya also , it was that which happened . We had only got introduced to each other , within that short period itself , I became very much involved with the friendship , because that was what I felt . I don't know what she felt . I told , Roopa also , my mind was fully occupied with our friendship during those days to the extent that I felt difficulty in even sleeping . I don't know why . Such was the intensity of emotions , it will get revealed in my face and words , which our society and the vested interests and prejudiced minds , which I told you earlier , may , some times find embarassing . Because , in this society , normally , people put a mask over such emotions and they pretend otherwise , thus cheating themselves.

Roopa burst into laughter and declared , “ I think , his love and friendship becomes a suffocation for the other person”.

“ But , nobody had told me like that”, Ravi retorted in an aggrieved manner , on hearing the comments of Roopa

“ But that is what is happening , practically” Roopa continued , “ I have told Ravi several times , Ravi is not fit enough to live in this society . I know him , he is like a child . But in this society , such innocence has no value . I don't know what all things he will have to face in future . Much more than my son , I am more worried about Ravi”.

Nimmy felt Ravi , like an obedient child in the midst of all the rebuke of Roopa .

Ravi: “Roopa , have you not heard the words of Voltaire , “ The great consolation in life is to say what one thinks”.”

Roopa: “ I know , Ravi , but some people interpret your frankness as insolence . That is my only concern”.

Nimmy : “But , Roopa , people are different . To me , Ravi is doing one hundred and one percent loyalty to his conscience and he is not disturbing others also . Moreover he is not wearing any masquerade . To me , he is a hero and I admire and love him so much . Let me tell you , frankly” .

Ravi: “See , Roopa , I told you , there are still people , in this society , who are showing loyalty to their souls and not masquerading . Did you notice the boldness with which Nimmy expressed her sentiments . Nimmy , you are so young , still very much matured . Great Nimmy , love you”.

Roopa: “ Seems , at last Ravi has got a friend who can walk with his thoughts and who can understand him .Ravi , seems your search is over” .

Over all the conversation , Nimmy was watching curiously , a shy and tall young boy sitting quietly , in the corner of the room listening to all the conversations without any comment . It was Shyam , the son of Ravi. Sensing that Nimmy was watching him , he suddenly took his earphone and plugged on his ipad.

On her way back home and for the next two days , Nimmy's mind and thoughts were completely enveloped with the thoughts of Ravi and his family .

She told herself , “ I will marry only a person like Ravi who is true to himself”.

TO BE CONTD ….........

THE MASQUERADE - Continued from Part 4

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THE MASQUERADE - Continued from Part 4

As usual , the park was bustling with the enthusiastic chatter of children , running here and there with sudden bursts of energy , oblivious of the world around them , their pranks and teasing of each other under the watchful eyes of parents ,eventhough the parents , mothers , grandparents who accompany the children are, themselves , lost in their own world , either discussing current affairs , house hold matters , professional issues etc .

Ever since Nimmy settled in the ancestral house , it has been her favourite pastime to be in the park , every evening , along with Maya and children .Nimmy always felt it as a place where people of all ages converge and yet having divergent behavioural patterns . She observed with curiosity , the way kids, boys and girls, involve and interact among themselves , without any trace of self consciousness , openly ,and with full freedom in their plays , the way teenagers becoming self conscious ,talk and behave , in gender based groups only , in the corners of park , in search of privacy , the composition of groups narrowing down to boys with boys and girls with girls only, and groups of adults and aged persons , the composition of their groups , further narrowing down to spouses and relatives only .

Nimmy wondered why the group pattern is being forced in such a predictable manner , mostly based on gender and familial basis. Despite such a patent , imposed pattern of gender and familial based groups , the peering looks , occasionally among the members of such groups to the members outside such groups , prompted Nimmy to think that all people are under suffocation , not being able to express their emotions fully and freely and constantly yearning for emotional freedom. Nimmy imagined of a transformed society wherein people of all ages are like the kids , involving themselves freely and frankly , laughing , playing , shouting , all sorts of pranks without becoming self conscious as to their gender , age , status etc . She wondered why the society loses its true character when people grow up . She also wondered , why relationships are restricted on several grounds and fear imposed in the young minds while they grew up . Whether physiological differences among male and female are a matter to be feared upon and the sole determining factor in developing relations and friendship.

Nimmy's eyes got struck in the push and pull a toddler is exerting on the shoulders of her mother who was holding the restless and restive child in her hands. The toddler , through the push and pulls was expressing to her mother to set her free , on to the ground , so that she can also join her senior brothers and sisters who were playing in the swing though she has not even reached the age of walking independently. Nimmy felt that the desire expressed by the toddler is expressive and indicative of the innate urge omnipresent in the minds of every creature , but stifled by society imposed restrictions and perceptions .

“ Hey , Nimmy , what are you thinking”, the voice of Maya disturbed her thoughts.

“Oh ! Nothing , I was just thinking about the perceptions and pre conceived notions , the society imposes on individuals and expects from individuals, right from children to old people and from birth to death.”

Maya continued , “ Can you see that person who has been walking round the jogging track of the park, alone. He is Mr.Ravi. I had worked with him . He is a different kind of person. He comes , walk and go . He don't talk or look at any body , so far he had not seen me today , even if he see me , he just smile only . But if you talk with him , he will become a close friend suddenly and his friendship will be so intense and innocent, you will find it difficult to handle it under certain circumstances .”

“I don't understand Maya , what you are saying”, Nimmy replied .

“ Well , I will explain to you . I told you , I had previously worked for some days with him ,in the same office . It was during the initial days after my marriage with Deepu. Ravi was working in another department . In office also , he was like that , talk, look and interact with only minimum ,required number of employees , very professional and strict with his subordinates and , very humane also . To be frank , I admire him very much . Even though I have no doubts or clarifications required from him , to get myself introduced to him , out of my admiration to him , I created some doubts and on the pretext of clarifying them , I introduced myself to him. Even though I was a bit tense in approaching him as he was a senior person and full of work related tensions , his response to me was in a very relaxed and comforting manner , much to my surprise . Further , he became very friendly and even shared with me his thoughts regarding society , people etc . I understood , beyond such a quiet and private person who is very strict in work place and always bear a serious composure , he is a person who is very warm with his friends and replete with wonderful thoughts and perceptions. I considered myself fortunate to be in contact with him .”

“ But , the problem was that , my husband ,Deepu never liked my friendship with any one , except him . His mind is particularly prejudiced if the friendship is with a male.”

Nimmy was stunned on hearing the observation Maya made about Deepu. Nimmy asked , “ Why Maya , Deepu is educated and employed as a software engineer , why is he not an understanding husband . I can't believe such people are there in the current generation . What are they studying . What they have attained through education . What is the purpose of education. As Sydney. J. Harris has mentioned , “ The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows” . Without being able to understand his own wife , I feel , your husband Deepu has not learned anything , even though he is a software engineer . He may understand software , but definitely not , human mind. Poor guy!”

Nimmy was enraged when Maya told her that Deepu had ordered her never to talk or call Ravi and had told her not to meet , talk or consider any of his messages or calls and never to consider any of his thoughts lest she will have to divorce her relationship with Deepu. Deepu further told Maya that people like Ravi will become a nuisance if she proceeded with the friendship and therefore it will be better to avoid such people and never respond to them .

Nimmy was aghast at the totally petty minded and conservative notions , Deepu had regarding friendship.

Maya continued , “And also , in office , the interactions between myself and Ravi became an eye sore for certain shortsighted employees who started spreading rumours and perverted interpretations about our friendship. Ravi was silent on all these and he never responded or took these rumours seriously . But I felt he was pained on all these and he became more silent. I further very well knew that he always wanted to know more about me , but at the same time, he don't want to create problems for me. Both of us loved and admired each other and were good friends within a short time, but the cataract ridden perverted society portrayed a wrong picture by mixing marriage , love , friendship etc and put clogs on such a wonderful friendship that developed among us . Further , not to create any confusions among myself and Deepu regarding our new married life , I thought it better to leave the job and I resigned much to the relief of Deepu , but frankly , I love and admire Ravi very much and I feel marriage with a person should not hinder other friendships and that we are all matured enough to regulate our friendships and behaviour with others in the society , whether it is mmale or female.”

Nimmy told Maya , “Exactly , marriage and friendship is different . Only fools confuse both . A partner who don't understand this is a fool. Maya , don't feel anything , I feel pity for you , your husband and to this society , which portrays every thing in a perverted , short sighted and narrow manner and at the same time boasts of a great culture , whereas every great character of the epics of this great culture is misinterpreted for meeting the ends of the vested interests on the basis of gender , caste , religion , creed etc . Why , Maya , the younger generation is also felling prey to this . I don't understand , Maya.”

“ No Nimmy, may be it's because Deepu is very much possessive. He always tell me he is very possessive and loves me so much .” Maya said to Nimmy.

“Wait , wait “ , Nimmy interrupted Maya , “ What deepu says to you , he is possessive , OK , I agree , he is possessive . Possessive of what or whom ? POSSESSIVE OF HIMSELF . He loves only himself and not you. If he loved you , he would have tried to understand you and your emotions . And the more he understands you , the more you would have loved him. Sorry , Maya , I am forced to say , not only deepu , the current generation loves only themselves , especially the so called educated younger generation of men . They will say, they are denying your freedom and feelings , because they want all your love for them only , they love you that much , etc etc . Maya , let me tell you they love themselves only and they are possessive of themselves only and for ensuring that they say to you all nonsense and deny your freedom and stunt all your abilities and creativity for the sake of ensuring their own selfish requirements . Let me tell you , I feel it , truly unfortunate that even younger generation are buried and suppressed in dogmas and creativity and expressions of their partners and family members are nipped in the bud itself , especially so , in the case of a girl and woman.

No doubt , Maya , here , Women don't live , they only exist”

When she heard about the interpretation about possessive love Deepu had told Maya to fool her and the double standards of Deepu , Nimmy recollected a dialogue of Katleen Turner from the movie V.I. Warshawski , “Never underestimate a man's ability to underestimate a woman”

Nimmy wondered whether men of this society , who are possessive of themselves only and don't understand, accommodate and admire the feelings of their partners will ever be able to receive the true love of their partners even if they try to fool their wives by declaring that they are denying the partner's freedom on the ground of them being “possessive “ of their partners due to their yearning for unshared love that they require from them. She wondered why men don't understand , a woman loves only a person who understands and accommodates her and that beauty is not the priority factor for a woman. What every woman yearns for is , much more than beauty , they look for , safety , security , recognition , love and understanding. But men look for beauty , above all , and they think women are also like that. In this society , women are forced to express love and suffer all the exploitations even if their views and emotions are not understood and accommodated upon and their rights and freedom are trampled upon and yet the men say they are possessive of their partners and in return expects their partners to be their slaves with a benumbed and frozen mind.

“ What a paradox!!” Nimmy mumbled to herself.

Maya concluded , “ Nimmy , now only , when I shared these thoughts with you , I feel lighter and relieved . I cannot discuss all these thoughts with my parents or husband , but these are all facts. I am happy that you are able to understand ,whatever I had told you , in the proper perspective.”

Maya further said , “I had never discussed with Ravi , the myopic attitude of Deepu , because I don't want to belittle Deepu in the mind of Ravi and others . In spite of all his short comings and negative attitudes, I love Deepu and pray to God , that he will be able to improve his perceptions of society and people. I feel Ravi is wise enough to understand all these and maybe , that is the reason why Ravi is distancing himself from me and restricts himself with only a smile and no more sharing of thoughts . But , currently , regarding Ravi, really , I miss a great friend , very much ….. ” , Maya sighed with a serene expression in her face.

Nimmy felt very sad at the situation of Maya and the society where Maya lives , where she was unable to express her thoughts on the ground of unreasonable, concocted, perverted and superfluous notions that exists regarding marriage , love , religion, caste , relationships etc .

Nimmy said to herself , “ I have to introduce myself to Ravi .”

TO BE CONTD …...........

THE MASQUERADE - Continued from Part 3

THE MASQUERADE - Continued from Part 3.....

The much familiar and disgusted tone of alarm woke Maya ( daughter of sanku uncle ) from her dreams . Maya was always fond of dreams right from her childhood and it has been her favourite pastime to try recollecting her dreams which visit her during her sleep. Many a time , she feel dejected when she was unable to recollect several beautiful moments of her dreams after waking up . She always wondered why she forget certain finer moments of her dreams.

Maya got up from bed quickly , today she is very happy since her cousins are there , sleeping in the next room and she was happy because she is going to stay with them for the first time though they have communicated with her through phone and emails earlier .

Before leaving the room , she glanced enviously at Deepu ( her husband ) and at her two children who were in deep sleep. Everyday , morning , while waking up early at the ring of alarm ,she always felt envy at them and she felt she would have been one among them so that she could also sleep without any worries of household chores endlessly , with out time limit . She always wondered , other than man and woman , what is the difference between herself and deepu . Both are educated , but both are having different set of preconceived functions in life. She set aside all the thoughts and went straight to her destined place of her life , the kitchen.

On entering the kitchen , Maya was surprised to see lights every where , which she felt very unusual.

“ Hi, sister, good morning ” , a voice made her turn around . Vishal was sitting in the corner of the kitchen with a cup of tea in his hand.

“ Hi , Vishal” , exclaimed Maya in surprise , “what are you doing here , so early in the morning , I would have made tea for you , that is why I woke up so early in the morning , you should not do kitchen work” Maya continued.

“ Is there any such rule here , sister” , Vishal asked Maya.

“No Vishal , it is not a rule , but it's like that here. Kitchen work , rearing and caring of children , husband,parents are all included in the job description of women only.” Maya continued , “ If husband permits , women can go for employment , otherwise no , even if very much educated and excellent job openings are there. And , if you go for employment , even then ,kitchen work , rearing and caring all ,will not get reduced. The professional job will be added to the above mentioned items in your job description. That's all . Maya said with a sigh , in one breath” . She continued after taking a cup of tea in her hand and offering it to Vishal , “ My dear Vishal , Kindly understand , howsoever people are educated , employed , progressive , modern or by whatever name you call, still , Women , in this Society DON'T LIVE , they ONLY EXIST.”

Maya said with a faint smile , “ Women are the victims of prejudiced perceptions of womanhood. Here , women are seen and portrayed only as Objects of desire and not as objects of virtue , not as people , not as human beings.

Vishal was rather surprised , astonished and taken back at the surge of emotions surfacing and fading through the face of Maya , while she was talking and also at the open minded and analytical manner of exposition of the society in which she lives in.

“ Sorry , sis , I didn't want to hurt you . In fact I feel sorry for you . You continue with your work . I am not disturbing you , I will come later. Also sister , I won't disturb you , whatever you say , I will cook things for myself whenever I require anything , whatever the system you are following . For me , you need not sacrifice your time and energy.”

“ Sister , I really admire and love you. Within few minutes , through your views and intelligence you have completely over powered me ”

Vishal left the kitchen thinking about the conversation he had with Maya .

He felt a similiarity in Maya with a character in the novel , ' Lady Chatterley's Lover ' written by D.H.Lawrence, wherein the character observes , “ “A woman has to live her life, or live to repent not having lived it.” But , Vishal mused , Whether such thoughts have any relevance in this society .

Vishal was confused and went straight to their room and woke Nimmy up and explained to her the whole matter . After listening to the narrative of Vishal , she replied , “ Ok , Vishal , now what you say , we can look for a girl for you to marry from here , what do you feel , this system will make you feel like a king , you can take the role of deepu , right, you can sleep very long hours endlessly, eat without any effort of cooking , go to office , have friends , can date with your girl friends secretly without the knowledge of your wife and after restricting your wife not even to look at others , especially men ,without understanding her emotions,feelings, by underlining all spiritual characters and philosophies and you can party till midnight , can undertake tours ,professionally and with girl friend's , can talk endlessly in mobile to any one one you want, colleagues , friends , male and female , can have anything , all for you alone , while a person , called your wife , living with you , similiarly , maybe , much more educationally qualified , intelligent and better employable or employed , but restricted by you and the male chauvinist society to slog out in kitchen and for satisfying your desires and ends ON THE PRETEXT OF DUTY OF A WOMAN. Vishal , what do you feel , do you find the whole deal attractive .”

“Moreover Vishal” , Nimmy continued , “ I have read that the woman's parents will offer you money and other facilities free of cost , while you marry their daughter and not vice versa”.

Vishal smiled and interrupted , “ Sis , cool , cool , See , please don't get emotional , I am only mentioning to you the system , I found here .”

“ Ok , Sis , let me go for a walk outside , Are you coming”. Vishal asked Nimmy .

“ No , Vishal , I want to join and help Maya , I will join you later , bye . I want to know more about the views of that wonderful lady , Maya . Also , Vishal , it's good you are going for a walk , but don't ever dream that I will allow you to marry a girl from here and enjoy the current system like deepu . Remember , you are my brother.” Nimmy said jokingly at vishal .

Vishal took the remark seriously and retorted curtly, “ Sis, from here or anywhere , my concept of marriage is one of sharing , love , understanding , trust , equal freedom of both the partners and dignity and not SERVITUDE OF MY PARTNER, Bye” , Vishal slammed the door and left .

Nimmy nodded her head , smiled and muttered , “ Yes , Vishal , truly , you are MY brother ” .

TO BE CONTD …...........

'

The Masquerade - Continued from part 2

THE MASQUERADE - Continued from Part 2

It has been a sleepless night for SethuLakshmi, mother of Nimmy and Vishal. Anxiety and depression over staying away from her children for the first time in life , has completely overpowered her.

"Sethu", called her husband Sam (Father of Nimmy and Vishal)

He continued,in his usual down -to-earth manner "Try to develop detachment and be more realistic. Nimmy and Vishal are not small kids. They are grown ups. They have to learn to live independently, facing the myriad complexities of life and society.  Moreover they have gone to our own place and people. So don't worry. Get up from bed and be more positive. I can understand your emotions. I am also having the same emotions.But, you have to face the truth. Try to learn from Nature .   Have you not seen cuckoo birds. They leave their children immediately after birth , to make their children independent Today or tomorrow all of us are alone. We come to this world alone and leave this world also alone. We have to make our children independent. Moreover, more importantly, they have to learn to navigate through life in our own land and people , because we all ultimately belong to that place. Here, we are all immigrants. We have to go back today or tomorrow."

"Sam I understand what you say but....", Sethu said hesitatingly.

Sam continued."Sethu, your emotions prompt me to travel back  30 years and think of the emotions our parents have tried to overcome when a young man named Sam and an young woman named Sethulakshmi , both from diverse orthodox sections of society took a bold decision to break free from all the orthodox society imposed shackles  and to express their love and admiration for each other and to live together, devoid of any material support from any sections, except hard earned educational qualifications and decided to go to some other place in search of greener pastures, leaving back their own mother and father who has to face severe ostracism from the traditional sections of the society in which they lived, for the decision taken by their children."

Sam Continued , "What would have been the feelings of our mother and father at that time in such circumstances when they parted with us for the first time."

"True, Sam, I now understood their feelings and emotions, at this stage of life, though circumstances are milder now when compared to then."

Sudden ringing of mobile phone interrupted their thoughts.

"It's Nimmy," exclaimed Sethu excitedly. Sam was relieved at the sight of happiness in the face of Sethu.

On  completion of her conversation with her mother, Nimmy and Vishal rushed to the exit area, where , in the visitor's lounge, they, to their surprise was greeted by a bunch of people of all ages, from two years to ninenty, all hugging and patting them with exclamatory remarks and introductory messages in different tone and languages.

Sanku uncle,a tall, bald and sixty plus stout man with a thick moustache and with a photo of Nimmy and Vishal in his hand, walked to them and introduced himself.

 Sarada aunty, short in stature but fully draped in glaucous glazing costumes and heavy ornaments rushed to her and hugged her as if she was very familiar with her. Sanku uncle exclaimed , " Nimmy , you look just like your mother."

Suddenly, Nimmy felt a push in her shoulders and a thundering sound from nowhere. She turned back and saw a smiling middle aged woman asking her "Don't you know me ?Have not your father told you people anything about me ?"

Nimmy was confused. More confused , when she heard Vishal responding with a stout "NO" , in a harsh voice.

The woman who greeted her replied, without considering Vishal , "I know, he will not be allowed to mention about me. I am his only sister, Betty . I had a  grievance against you people"

She took them aside and asked in a hushed tone, "Why are you going with Sarada ? Why don't you stay with me ?" Suddenly Sarada aunty, sensing something quirky , rushed to their side.

Nimmy replied politely, "See Betty Aunty , we are planning to stay with Sarada Aunty because it is our ancestral house and we all plan to settle there one day." Nimmy felt her reply had resulted in different emotions in the faces of Betty aunty and Sarada Aunty.

A hoary man with a hoarse voice came to them and exclaimed loudly, "We have taken all the luggages to the vehicles. Now we can all go to the house of Sanku and celebrate tonight."

Before Nimmy could react, situation went out of her control , with  a furious and tired Vishal retorting rather loudly, "Sorry all, and thanks for your support. Now we require a good sleep. Please don't disturb us."

"Exactly", supported Sarada aunty who broke the silence that befell the whole group.

Nimmy, rather surprised at the way Vishal reacted, looked at him in a threatening way and showed him the diary which contained the  commandments of their mother.

While travelling, on the way to Sanku uncle's home in his car, Nimmy watched at the paradoxes  outside and on the streets unfolding amidst the  panoramic views in the ' land of her dreams,' like ........,imported SUV's running on  pot holed roads and out of control traffic jams and disorder , skyscrapers standing tall with entrances mobbed with beggars and prostitutes in the back drop of  epidemic of crumbling roads and pavements with ditches , heavily lit and air conditioned malls and streets with flashing and glittering out-of-the world huge advertisement displays with scantily clad men and women models  , amid government imposed power cuts and frequent power breaks ....... she felt the same pattern of pompousness and display everywhere in contrast to stark realities existing on the ground level. She felt the people she saw are at a loss of identity.

Her thoughts were frequently interrupted by the sermons pounded on them by Sanku uncle and Sarada aunty, taking turns, all through the journey meticulously, on the complexities and differences in the societal setup of the society in which they were born and the society in which they currently are in.....like when to go out,where to go, how to behave , what to talk , whom to avoid , never to talk with gents  etc. etc....., the only relief she felt was that Vishal was by now in deep sleep, tired of their long journey. 

After listening to all this, Nimmy wondered about the lack of self confidence that a generation will develop on growing up amidst the "four walls of the so called moral guidance", enshrined in the entire sermon pounded on them.

She wondered, whether freedom of thoughts and expressions will ever bloom in the shadows of the people like Sanku uncle who seem to cover everything in a negative and sceptical  manner and who thinks  that their format of perceiving the world is the final word on the subject and will not such jargons  erase the free and independent development of the character of younger generation of this society by the imposition of preconceived shackles of one sided and short sighted thoughts.

She thought of the words of Hellen Keller..... " Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through the experience of trial and suffering, can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

If the younger generation of this place is cocooned in an imposing manner by the thoughts of the people like Sanku maman, can they ever develop character? Nimmy mused. 

Their journey ended in the porch of a traditional house with touches of modern embellishments, here and there , but which still retains the touch of traditional architecture. She felt the house symbolised the current state of the society .

From inside the house, a young women, slightly younger than the age of Nimmy,and with a tired and resigned to her fate expressions in her face and eyes with one child in her hand and another small one accompanying her like a tail  came out and greeted them.

It was Maya, the daughter of Sanku maman and Sarada aunty.

Tired after a long journey and face to face with new experiences and thoughts Nimmy and Vishal fell into deep sleep in the comforts and cosiness of their room which was having wooden floorings and ceilings with wooden roofs and traditional wood carved windows.

                                                  To Be Continued............ 

  

 

 

The Masquerade - Continued from part 1

The Masquerade - Continued From Part 1

 

                                             

                                                    After much jostling in the counters at the airport of the "Land of her dreams", Nimmy somehow managed to obtain a local simcard.
                                            
                                               Exhausted and tired after the long flight, Nimmy settled herself in the cosy comforts of the lounge while Vishal went to clear the baggage.

 

                                              Nimmy took out the diary and searched for the numbers of the "LIST OF RELIABLE RELATIVES AND FRIENDS", her mother had given to her.

Among the members in the list, Sanku uncle (Brother of her mother)  and Sarada aunty had promised to pick them up from the airport and had offered accommodation for them. Nimmy also preferred to stay with them since they lived in the outskirts of the city, away from the crowd. She called the number and got the reply that they are already in the visitors lounge of the airport.

While waiting for Vishal and baggage, she suddenly felt very much self conscious due to staring and prying eyes, here and there. She remembered her mother's commandments to be observed while in her Mother's native place and immediately sat upright after re-examining her sagging and worn-out costumes.

She thought, maybe, she felt self conscious and uncomfortable since she is coming face to face with this part of the world for the first time. 

Interrupting her thoughts, Vishal suddenly appeared before her with the baggages and with a tired look.

Nimmy shared with Vishal her life long dream of meeting Sanku Uncle and Sarada aunty for the first time in her life, wearing the traditional dress, because she wants to create a feeling of oneness with them.

"But no one here wears the traditional dress which you had shown to me in photos . If you want to be one with the people here , you can continue with your present costumes." Vishal retorted in his characteristic soft voice.

"Here, so far, everything is the same as in our place, the same type of people, with backpacks, jeans, smart phones , market updated technological gadgets and all such , paraphernalias  and with a business like demeanour. The only difference here is in the skin colour of the people and the number of people."

"Hey, hold, hold, it's too early to arrive at such conclusions", Nimmy restrained her brother grimly.

She told him, "You wait here, I am going to become one among the people of the "Land of my parents", whatever you feel"

Nimmy came back clad in the traditional dress, wide eyed and with an assuming smile. Vishal roared into laughter on seeing this scene created by his sister for the first time in her life. He searched in futility for another similar traditional dressed young lady , for comparison . He got hold of her and screamed at her , " Sis , are you mad  "

However, sensing distressing looks from people around him ,  he controlled his emotions and regained his composure remembering his Mother's Commandments to be observed in the land of her birth place, that is,

 Always suppress your emotions, thoughts and feelings for making others comfortable , at the cost of your conscience, freedom and liberty. Whether it is love, hate,pain,gratitude or societal systems like marriage, friendship, relationships, family  or every where , the same norm applies .   

                
 Vishal recollected his Mother's words during one of her narrations relating to her nostalgic reminiscences of her native place on a chilly night , 

 " In my birth place .......... , she continued,

Hypocrisy and Pretensions are the rule, rather than the exception. 
Survival in that society is directly proportional to the degree of proficiency in those two areas "

Though he didn't understood the meaning of what she said then  ,but now , right here , standing in the gateway , in the airport of the land of her Mother's native place , Vishal felt he is slowly delving deep into the meaning of the words of his mother  , by coming into face to face with the current evolutionary stage of a Civilisation which is as old as mankind.

Vishal suddenly regained his composure and became self conscious to be in  tune with the new environment to which he is inducted for the first time ever since he was born 17 years back in a totally different world and environment free from pretensions.

                                                                     To Be Continued................
                                                
                                            

The Masquerade - A Novel

                      THE MASQUERADE

A NOVEL BY B.C.HARI SANKAR

In advance , the author seeks pardon for being forced to publish the Novel in different parts( only during week ends)  , since  during week days the author will be busy masquerading for satisfying demands from various quarters on the premise of leading an ordinary life as per the expectations of the mundane world ( at the cost and risk of loss of self ) to which the author is helpless .

DISCLAIMER

ALSO , IN ADVANCE , THE AUTHOR SEEKS PARDON FROM ANY READER WHO FEELS SEMBLANCE  OF SIMILARITY WITH ANY CHARACTER , EVENTS OR  CIRCUMSTANCES NARRATED IN THIS NOVEL, ON THE GROUND THAT SUCH SIMILARITY IS ONLY COINCIDENTAL AND NOT AT ALL INTENTIONAL IN ANY WAY AND THE NOVEL , ' THE MASQUERADE ' IS PURELY A CREATION OR FIGMENT BORNE PURELY OUT OF THE IMAGINATION OF THE AUTHOR ONLY AND THAT THE NOVEL IS NOT INTENDED TO COMPROMISE AUTHOR'S  HIGH RESPECT TO THE CURRENT SOCIETY , CULTURE , VIEWS , THOUGHTS ,  TRADITIONS ETC OF THE CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY  WHICH IS VERY IMPORTANT IN MAINTAINING THE SOCIAL FABRIC. IN FACT , THE AUTHOR WILL BE SATISFIED AND HIS IMAGINATION AND INTELLECTUAL INSTINCTS WILL BE SATISFIED , IF ANY OF THE CHARACTERS , CIRCUMSTANCES OR EVENTS NARRATED IN THIS NOVEL PROVOKES THOUGHTS AMONG THE READERS WHICH FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE SOCIAL FABRIC THROUGH EMANCIPATION OF PERSONAL DIGNITY, FREEDOM , LIBERTY AND CULTURE

 

  .

                                                It was a sleepless night for Nimmy. Tomorrow she and her brother Vishal will fly to  ' the land of her dreams ' - the place where her parents were born and bought up before they immigrated to this place in search of better prospects some 25 years back. She once again went through the luggage and ensured that the tickets, passport everything is safe.

                                  Ever since childhood, she had always listened with awe the narration by her parents about a land where mind boggling philosophies, civilizations and  culture merged across centuries incubating the genesis of a rare genre of humanity which welcomed with open hands all major civilizations of the world and upheld the concepts of personal freedom , liberty , tolerance, sacrifice and co - existence.

                                  Her dreams and sleep was disturbed by a knock on the door. It was her mother.

"Nimmy, It's time you get ready", her mother said.

"Yes mother", Nimmy replied.

                                    She leaped out of the bed and hugged her mother. Her mother once again reminded her about the diary she had given to Nimmy detailing the Do's and Dont's  to be followed after landing in her native place. Nimmy once again promised her mother that she  and her brother Vishal will observe all the commandments enshrined in the diary and compiled by her Mother.

"Nimmy, John called you yesterday. he told me to convey his best wishes for your journey", Mother said.

                                    John has been Nimmy's classmate during her MBA course.

Ever since she decided to do Research  for her Doctorate in Philosophy( which has always been her pet subject and topic of interest life long )   in the land of her parents native place, John was very envious and had always told her that he don't have such a place to go. He became more confused when she told him that she will only marry a person from the "Land of her dreams".

John always wondered what is special about the ' Land of her Dreams'

                                   John always felt envious of the imaginary person of Nimmy from the land of her dreams but he always admired her and her thoughts though which left him always confused.

 

                                   

                                   The announcement from the pilot of landing, within half an hour in the ' Land of her Dreams '  made Nimmy and Vishal jump in joy in the comforts of their flight. Nimmy and Vishal leaned to the window and stretched themselves to have a view of the land below.

                             

                                          Down below like dots which came more and more big, with the descent of the flight, she stared into a green patch of land entrenched with lakes, rivers and sea.

She felt sudden burst of emotions and a strange feeling of landing into a fairy tale world.
                  
                                                   To Be Continued, next week end ..........

 

Mother - Am I Fortunate ?

Mother - Am I fortunate ?

Forty Years Back................

From the eternal slumber in the 

womb of nature and from the cosy 

comfort of evolution of nine months, where

vibrations from an unknown source 

sustained and caressed me with life and blood..........

A sudden jerk woke me up from the

sluggishness to face to face with two 

weak, wearied and tearful eyes looking

down at me with tenderness and two 

pale hands scooped me yet again 

into the comfort and warmth of

which I am, by now, very familiar with and fed me into the liveliness

and energy to face the mundane existence.

Over the years , the two

tender, weary and tearful eyes suffered 

and sacrificed in silence and in earthy patience witnessing

the evolution of her creation 

with the same warmth and affection , as if

it still is a part of her own body.........

Through the savanna of  

picturesque experiences during the

evolution, the creation (myself) always

felt those two eyes behind me,

supporting and sustaining me in every way 

possible, as if the creation is still part of

her own body..........

Over the years of search
of the creation (myself) for  more
comfort from different sought out sources, channelised by the so - called society,the
same two anxious eyes followed me, the
creation, always seeking my welfare.

Over the years, exhausted
after the search by me ...............for all the
comforts sought after..... still
myself, the creation, could see
two anxious eyes behind my back......
which , now, I felt more weary and yearning for my soothe and support.

On realization ,  after an exhausting and exacting search that, the ULTIMATE TRUTH  is nowhere external ,but internal , my source ,the owner of those two weary eyes , my earthly existence ......
 MY MOTHER ....... MY CREATOR, MY GOD, MY RELIGION , MY CASTE ,  MY CREED , BREED , BLOOD, FLESH, EMOTIONS, MIND, THOUGHTS
MY EARTH, MY NATURE and  MY UNIVERSE.



With remorse ....... when
I turned back, the same two eyes
comforted me with tears and reminded
me of my duty towards mundane and earthly life and
pushed me again to mundane
existence and towards my self discovered and society and earthly mundane world guided, imposed  and compelled  traditions, ethos and culture which can be epitomized with the epithet,
"comforts and hapiness"

As seasons rolled by, I felt
those two eyes more weary and
teary and the pale hands which swooped
me into her breast and fed me, more weak,
but still unwilling to accept back
the comforts offered by her creation(myself)
on the premise of
lessening of discomfort to her creation.

As TIME passed by ............ I watched with envy ........the affection showered on my son by his MOTHER ( my wife ) and also  I watched with home sickness the affection showered by all MOTHERS of all creatures to their children and I longed to return to my birth place , the same cosy , comfort zone  from where I came and to fall into deep slumber in the breast and comfort of my MOTHER , breaking free from all  superficial  restrictions of current existence ,  rewinding forty years back .............like in a dream , only to wake up to the reality  ........ exposed to me by the ethereal , eternal and ephemeral TIME which whispered to me the golden rule - PAST IS PAST which I realised with a broken heart .................

The two anxious eyes......
still follows...




.......And I feel, fortunate are
those who are able to leave this
world , at the end of existence looking at those two weary,
weak and anxious eyes, which bought us
into this mundane existence ......again into the deep slumber in the WOMB OF NATURE

In that context, MOTHER,
AM I FORTUNATE ?

Dedicated to all MOTHERS of this world and
the other world.

By 
B.C Hari Sankar