Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Street Cricket....
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Street_cricket
Reminds me of the 15 years I spent playing this game, this way.....a part of almost all the Indian kids....down the memory lane....there is so much associated with this....
Reminds me of the 15 years I spent playing this game, this way.....a part of almost all the Indian kids....down the memory lane....there is so much associated with this....
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Orkut seems to b correct sometimes....
Today's Fortune:
Stop searching forever, Happiness is just next to you
I turned around and my camera was just next to me! :D
Stop searching forever, Happiness is just next to you
I turned around and my camera was just next to me! :D
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Saturday, September 30, 2006
'Quotes' - Jean Renoir (Film maker)
'Many of my friends have urged me to write my autobiography...it is no longer enough for them to know that an artist has freely expressed himself with the help of a camera and a microphone. They want to know who the artist is...'
'The truth is that this individual of whom we are so proud is composed of such diverse elements as a boy he made friends with at nursery school, the hero of the first tale he ever read, even the dog belonging to his cousin Eugene. We do not exist through ourselves alone but through the environment that shaped us...I have sought to recall those persons and events which I believe have played a part in making me what I am'
-Jean Renoir (Film Maker) in his Autobiography.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
just like that...
"Everyone has got Secrets, Life would be BORING without them"
Read this in someones profile in Orkut....thought it was interesting!
Read this in someones profile in Orkut....thought it was interesting!
Summer of '69
I got my first real six-string
Bought it at the five-and-dime
Played it til my fingers bled
It was the summer of '69
Me and some guys from school
Had a band and we tried real hard
Jimmy quit and Jody got married
I shoulda known we'd never get far
Oh when I look back now
That summer seemed to last forever
And if I had the choice
Ya - I'd always wanna be there
Those were the best days of my life
Ain't no use in complainin'
When you got a job to do
Spent my evenin's down at the drive-in
And that's when I met you
Standin' on your Mama's porch
You told me that you'd wait forever
Oh and when you held my hand
I knew that it was now or never
Those were the best days of my life
Back in the summer of '69
Man we were killin' time
We were young and restless
We needed to unwind
I guess nothin' can last forever - forever, no
And now the times are changin'
Look at everything that's come and gone
Sometimes when I play that old six-string
I think about ya wonder what went wrong
Bought it at the five-and-dime
Played it til my fingers bled
It was the summer of '69
Me and some guys from school
Had a band and we tried real hard
Jimmy quit and Jody got married
I shoulda known we'd never get far
Oh when I look back now
That summer seemed to last forever
And if I had the choice
Ya - I'd always wanna be there
Those were the best days of my life
Ain't no use in complainin'
When you got a job to do
Spent my evenin's down at the drive-in
And that's when I met you
Standin' on your Mama's porch
You told me that you'd wait forever
Oh and when you held my hand
I knew that it was now or never
Those were the best days of my life
Back in the summer of '69
Man we were killin' time
We were young and restless
We needed to unwind
I guess nothin' can last forever - forever, no
And now the times are changin'
Look at everything that's come and gone
Sometimes when I play that old six-string
I think about ya wonder what went wrong
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
My first attempt at Fiction......
Life Goes on….
It was 6.30 in the morning and the sun was already powerful, throwing streaks of light through the window and on to Karthik's bed. But that did not disturb Karthik much, who was still comfortably sleeping. But, not for long. The sudden ring from the mobile phone saw him wake up - rather slowly. 'Who the hell is calling at this hour', he spoke to himself - slowly, picked up the mobile and saw the display - 'Unknown Number' it read. He was puzzled...who'll it be - the client...any problem at their end...but they usually don’t call at this hour....or is it Ramesh...Praveen….Abishek....a lot of names crossed his mind in that fraction of a second before he actually pressed the 'Talk' button.
"Hello" his voice wasn't very clear as he was still half asleep.
There was no answer from the other side.
He cleared his throat and this time was load and clear - "Hello...”
"Karthik??"
He never expected a female voice from the other end.....
"Yeah...”
"Hey Dude, How are you doing"
“I...I.... am fine, May I know who's this?? " his mind was trying to guess....but wasn't able to bring out even a single name.....there was no way, Priya is going to call from an unknown number and that too at this hour.
A call from a girl is quite a rare incident for Karthik. He was a very reserved character right from his school days. And more so in college. He actually was a very energetic person from inside, but more an introvert. He did a lot of things, but alone. He was a very innovative person and was mostly harmless. The only places he was found in college, when not in class were the Labs, Library and at the maximum, Sports room, playing Table Tennis....not even college canteen!! He continued to be the same way even in office - a 'no-nonsense' guy! He was never a part of any of those spicy debates in office of who's going out with whom or who's going to get married next or who's broken up with whom. He was happy being silent rather than participating in these discussions. He sometimes even wondered why these guys were SO STUPID...but then, he never cared much, he thought it was not his job to correct people around...and always had his trade-mark smile in his face when ever he crossed anyone in the office....anyone...be it the manager or even the peon...
"Great to catch you up over the phone man. I am sure, you wouldn't have expected my call, but just thought of calling you up - wanna throw a guess"
She hadn't told her name as yet. 'What the heck, someone calling up from an unknown country and asking to guess the name...and that too at this hour'
......Priya...Kalpana....Mary...who'll it be and why would any of these call me??? anything important...the way she talks doesn't suggest anything important.....his mind was restless actually.....
"Nope. Would be very nice if you can DECLARE your name now" - he thought he was flat, actually he wasn't
"Hey what da…- I would have loved to have heard some weird name. Okay, this is Shruthi - able to get my image?? Do u remember me??"
That was a Shock for him. Shruthi.....his mind traveled back...it's been nearly a decade....
"Hey Shruthi.....Shruthi from St.Michael's eh??"
"Yeah...man, that’s good, you atleast remember me"
"Oohh my god, what a surprise!!, how can I ever forget you Shruthi"
He meant it...How can he ever forget her....he was literally shocked. His heart started working fast - is this called the adrenaline rush??
"Hmmm how are you da - long time....was wondering if I would ever meet you people again....??"
"Hey Shruthi, I am doing great, How are you?? Never expected a call from you...how did you get my number" He did not wait for answers, but just kept talking.
Shruthi and Karthik were class mates, partners in crime right from their KG's . They had fantastic times together. Actually both of them lived in a same colony like set-up, till Shruti's family moved to Singapore as her father had got a transfer from his company, when Shruthi had just finished class 10. They never met after that. Not even phone calls or mails - the last they spoke to each other was the final day of their class 10 board exams.
"I am doing great too da. Completed my masters in Information Science and working for a company here in New Jersey - how are uncle and aunty??"
Karthik still wasn't able to believe that he was talking to his school mate whom he had lost touch with, almost a decade back......
"They are doing fine too..." He spoke rather automatically, as his mind was fixed to the old days...he did not know what he was talking......but was answering her....
He suddenly realised that and came back to the real world - "Hey how did you get my number??" he repeated the question which she hadn't answered before.
"If you can't guess even this, I can't do anything!" she giggled - “Guess!!”
She was sarcastic to an extent - this was the way she had always been - bubbly and crispy. She answered questions by counter questions but almost always logical ones. 'She hadn't changed a bit' he thought to himself....
"Orkut??"
"Aahh there you go - you know it!" She was talking as if she was in touch with him all these days or rather she was acting that way.
"Hmmmm" he did not know what to talk.
"Are you also in Orkut, I never knew that" .... Again this was not what he was intending to talk...but he spoke from his mouth and not from his mind (which was busy thinking of the past, unconsciously)...
"Just joined today....and searched for you name and got the whole history" she continued fluently. She was happy and it showed.
"How can you be so open man in an open to public forum. You have given every tiny information of you and with your phone number and address....how can you do that da....I can't even imagine me doing that"
Karthik was so much occupied in thought that he actually wasn't listening to her...
"I am sorry, what did you say, the phone line is not clear...."
"Nothing important. I feel so happy da.....technology is doing wonders."
"Yeah" he replied...
Shruthi and Karthik had a very special relationship. As kids, they fought a lot, obviously Shruthi won most of them. Karthik had an edge when it came to studies and being a 'good kid'. Both of them were popular in their own ways in school. Shruti grew up to be a beautiful little girl that most of the guys in school were behind her and were jealous of Karthik, as he always had a chance of being very close to her.
"Why are you very silent Karthik, you don’t seem to have changed much, but you have grown up da, had me guessing if I was seeing the right person when I was going through your album at Orkut"
"Yeah, it’s been a decade yaar. I am sure you'll look a lot different too"
"Yeah, you are right”
"How are your mom and dad??"
"They are fine. Spoke to mom just after seeing your profile. She was very happy, I told her that I've got your contact number and am going to call you - the first person who had the guts to give me a love letter”, she laughed…
Karthik did not know what to say.
"Hmmmm"
He did not expect her to start with this topic now. It happened when they were in class ten. From class seven or eight, the distance between them actually increased, they weren't as close as they were before...they thought they had grown up and thought grown up guy and a girl are not supposed to be this close. It was this distance that made Karthik feel closer to her. When looked from outside, Shruthi looked like an angel to him and behaved that way too. Karthik started admiring her.....
Just a few months before tenth exams, karthik decided to express his LOVE to her. The feeling that he had nurtured for nearly two years now. His decision was purely because he was completely disturbed....he wasn't able to identify why, but of late he started to lose concentration on other things and she mattered more to him.
He started dreaming about his married life - filmi style. For the first time he slipped a bit and did not perform up to his standards in the revision tests. Shruthi did not realise that it was because of her and she herself went to him and enquired about what happened to him - Karthik not doing well in the exam became the hot topic in the class. He was completely clueless himself. He was worried.....
It was a rainy evening and the whole school was enjoying the rain. The last hour was History and the history teacher was talking about the Second World War and stuff. Karthik was dreaming. He had decided to open the topic with Shruthi today. He even had a letter written. He was silently watching the school play ground getting drenched by the rain from his place...in spite of teacher teaching about Hitler and the Second World War - this wasn't normal. The bell rang and suddenly with a loud noise of cheer the corridors were filled with students eagerly leaving to their home......The rain had just stopped...and the climate was perfect and the slight drizzling topped it of.
"Karthik, what happened, dreaming eh??"
Shruthi interrupted the thought flow of Karthik. He just realised that they were the only ones left in the class.
"Shruthi, I need to talk to you" he saw straight into her eyes. He was determined.
"Oh...sure. What's the matter, anything important?“ She sat over the desk next to him
He looked up at her - "Shruti, I love you, would like to marry you when we grow up, will you be there for me?"
She was shocked. She knew this was going to come some day, but she did not expect this so soon and definitely not this plain and flat. He opened his bag, took out the letter that he had drafted for her and handed it over to her.
"I've written all that I wanted to talk, in this. I want you to read this, think and reply"
She silently took that letter in hand and read that. It was a very plain letter - there was nothing poetic in that.
She was confused. She took her bag and walked out, he followed her. They did not talk a word.
The climate was soothing. They were walking next to each other, rolling their cycle instead of riding it. They did not talk a word till they reached their respective houses.
Shruthi liked karthik very much, but she was not for this proposal, she did not know what will happen next. She was afraid of her father and her relatives and she was more analytical in this issue than emotional. She did not know what to do....what to tell this guy next door, who was always there for her.....and only now she understood the reason for Karthik not performing well in the exams. She did not realize that she was crying now.....tears ran down her cheek....
"You know karthik, my mom was also very happy for you. She said, she knew you would do excellently well in your life and to see you in such a good position so early in life...she was as excited as me"
Karthik's mind was oscillating between the past and present. "Oohh...Thank you.” He just realised that and came back to the present.
“So Orkut has given every detail of me - never thought of this before, maybe I'll need to take out a few information from that...." He tried his maximum to present himself as if he was normal.....
"I am coming down to chennai in the first week of next month. Make sure you are present..."
“…………………….”
Karthik was eagerly waiting for a response from Shruthi. He was pretty early to school and was waiting for Shruthi's arrival...but she did not turn up. He was pretty sure till this time that she will accept him for what he was and he knew she loved him too. But now, his mind started wavering.....he did not know the reason behind her not coming to school....he became nervous and left the school during the lunch break saying he wasn't feeling well. He told his mother that he was not feeling well and went to bed. He wasn't able to sleep....his mind started to think of all the possibilities....but he wasn't sure of anything...will she reject me....his heart started pounding....he became restless...buried himself into the pillow and started crying.....he cried till the layers of his pillow became wet. There was no reason for him to cry but he felt like crying and crying did relieve his pain....he suddenly got up as if he had found out the solution and watched at the clock...it
was 4.15....he got up and washed his face, changed his clothes....he became brisk all of a sudden.
Karthik was waiting for the door to be opened - seconds felt like days...he was about to press the calling bell again when the door opened...
“Aunty is Shruthi here?” he enquired rather anxiously.
“Hello Karthik, How are you....come in...come in“ Shruthi’s mother welcomed him.
"Sit down, are you early from school today, its only 4.30"
"Yes Aunty, wasn't feeling well, also there was nothing much in school today."
"By the way, why didn’t Shruthi come to school today, is everything okay?"
"Yes. She wasn't feeling well in the morning, now she is okay. She is in her room....you may go and see her" she looked towards the room and waited for him to leave to the room.
"I know Shruthi, people around me are really good and I am one lucky chap except for a few things in life.....convey my regards to her" Karthik remembered her mother…she was a nice and a caring woman….
"Sure da. Its long time man....it all looks like it just happened a few days back...but already its nearly 10 years...10 long years....."
Karthik knocked at the door lightly and entered the room. There she was, sitting in her study desk and looking at the trees outside, through her window.
"Hi" she said in a low voice. "When did you come - didn’t you also go to school today??" she enquired.
"I did, but came back during the lunch break" He answered her but was looking for something else....
"Why didn’t you come to school today? I was expecting you...."
"................................."
"Have you thought of what I was talking about yesterday??"
"Yes, I did"
"Have you decided....." Karthik looked calm and composed but was more nervous than for his exams....
"......................."
"Shruthi...don’t you also...."
Shruthi was quick to interrupt...."I like you very much Karthik, I like you very much"
"........................does that mean..."
"It doesn't mean anything Karthik….”
“Aren't we too young to fall in love..."
Karthik was literally upset. He was expecting her to say just 3 words, but to see her saying something else....he was worried....
"Do you think we are too young? Its just 2 years in school and soon we'll be in college and then work....."
"....why cant we be together...I mean…..."
"There are so many things to be thought of, Karthik. See, I am worried about you. I want you do well in your studies….you not doing well in the test really disturbed me – I mean it....and I feel I am I am responsible for that....I don’t want to see my friend going down at this last and crucial moment"
"If that is the case....you just say you love me and I'll be back with what all I had - I am sure I can do excellently well....but now you seem to be more important to me...my mind is in an oscillation whether you'll be for me or not and that stops me from concentrating....."
"But Karthik....why am I so important to you......more important than your studies…."
She was skeptical about his reaction….but went ahead and completed what she wanted to ask..."is it....is it….because I am beautiful ??"
"Nonsense. Even our biology teacher is beautiful - did I go and tell her the same thing. Our class Kalpana is beautiful, did I go behind her and tell her that I loved her....you know me Shruthi, you know what I am going through….please don’t act as if you don’t"
"Believe me Shruthi...I just feel very happy when you are around, but, when I think that you'll become someone else's sometime....I don’t know, some sort of a disturbance creeps in....I become restless. It'll all be over if I know from you that you love me and you'll be mine - sometime"
"But did you think of your parents Karthik. How bad they'll feel. They believe in us, we should live up to their expectations..."
"................they'll understand Shruthi......" Karthik was now slowly staring to lose hope.
"So....what do you say...you don’t love me??"
"Come-on Karthik, I never said that. Give me one day’s time, tomorrow I'll let you know. I’ll think over again….but we need to wait Karthik...I still feel we are too young...."
Karthik got his confidence back. She hasn't decided as yet. Tomorrow she'll come up with a positive response.....he was convinced somehow….
"Thank you so much Shruthi, See you tomorrow, Take Care"
He got up and left the room...
It was 6.30 in the morning and the sun was already powerful, throwing streaks of light through the window and on to Karthik's bed. But that did not disturb Karthik much, who was still comfortably sleeping. But, not for long. The sudden ring from the mobile phone saw him wake up - rather slowly. 'Who the hell is calling at this hour', he spoke to himself - slowly, picked up the mobile and saw the display - 'Unknown Number' it read. He was puzzled...who'll it be - the client...any problem at their end...but they usually don’t call at this hour....or is it Ramesh...Praveen….Abishek....a lot of names crossed his mind in that fraction of a second before he actually pressed the 'Talk' button.
"Hello" his voice wasn't very clear as he was still half asleep.
There was no answer from the other side.
He cleared his throat and this time was load and clear - "Hello...”
"Karthik??"
He never expected a female voice from the other end.....
"Yeah...”
"Hey Dude, How are you doing"
“I...I.... am fine, May I know who's this?? " his mind was trying to guess....but wasn't able to bring out even a single name.....there was no way, Priya is going to call from an unknown number and that too at this hour.
A call from a girl is quite a rare incident for Karthik. He was a very reserved character right from his school days. And more so in college. He actually was a very energetic person from inside, but more an introvert. He did a lot of things, but alone. He was a very innovative person and was mostly harmless. The only places he was found in college, when not in class were the Labs, Library and at the maximum, Sports room, playing Table Tennis....not even college canteen!! He continued to be the same way even in office - a 'no-nonsense' guy! He was never a part of any of those spicy debates in office of who's going out with whom or who's going to get married next or who's broken up with whom. He was happy being silent rather than participating in these discussions. He sometimes even wondered why these guys were SO STUPID...but then, he never cared much, he thought it was not his job to correct people around...and always had his trade-mark smile in his face when ever he crossed anyone in the office....anyone...be it the manager or even the peon...
"Great to catch you up over the phone man. I am sure, you wouldn't have expected my call, but just thought of calling you up - wanna throw a guess"
She hadn't told her name as yet. 'What the heck, someone calling up from an unknown country and asking to guess the name...and that too at this hour'
......Priya...Kalpana....Mary...who'll it be and why would any of these call me??? anything important...the way she talks doesn't suggest anything important.....his mind was restless actually.....
"Nope. Would be very nice if you can DECLARE your name now" - he thought he was flat, actually he wasn't
"Hey what da…- I would have loved to have heard some weird name. Okay, this is Shruthi - able to get my image?? Do u remember me??"
That was a Shock for him. Shruthi.....his mind traveled back...it's been nearly a decade....
"Hey Shruthi.....Shruthi from St.Michael's eh??"
"Yeah...man, that’s good, you atleast remember me"
"Oohh my god, what a surprise!!, how can I ever forget you Shruthi"
He meant it...How can he ever forget her....he was literally shocked. His heart started working fast - is this called the adrenaline rush??
"Hmmm how are you da - long time....was wondering if I would ever meet you people again....??"
"Hey Shruthi, I am doing great, How are you?? Never expected a call from you...how did you get my number" He did not wait for answers, but just kept talking.
Shruthi and Karthik were class mates, partners in crime right from their KG's . They had fantastic times together. Actually both of them lived in a same colony like set-up, till Shruti's family moved to Singapore as her father had got a transfer from his company, when Shruthi had just finished class 10. They never met after that. Not even phone calls or mails - the last they spoke to each other was the final day of their class 10 board exams.
"I am doing great too da. Completed my masters in Information Science and working for a company here in New Jersey - how are uncle and aunty??"
Karthik still wasn't able to believe that he was talking to his school mate whom he had lost touch with, almost a decade back......
"They are doing fine too..." He spoke rather automatically, as his mind was fixed to the old days...he did not know what he was talking......but was answering her....
He suddenly realised that and came back to the real world - "Hey how did you get my number??" he repeated the question which she hadn't answered before.
"If you can't guess even this, I can't do anything!" she giggled - “Guess!!”
She was sarcastic to an extent - this was the way she had always been - bubbly and crispy. She answered questions by counter questions but almost always logical ones. 'She hadn't changed a bit' he thought to himself....
"Orkut??"
"Aahh there you go - you know it!" She was talking as if she was in touch with him all these days or rather she was acting that way.
"Hmmmm" he did not know what to talk.
"Are you also in Orkut, I never knew that" .... Again this was not what he was intending to talk...but he spoke from his mouth and not from his mind (which was busy thinking of the past, unconsciously)...
"Just joined today....and searched for you name and got the whole history" she continued fluently. She was happy and it showed.
"How can you be so open man in an open to public forum. You have given every tiny information of you and with your phone number and address....how can you do that da....I can't even imagine me doing that"
Karthik was so much occupied in thought that he actually wasn't listening to her...
"I am sorry, what did you say, the phone line is not clear...."
"Nothing important. I feel so happy da.....technology is doing wonders."
"Yeah" he replied...
Shruthi and Karthik had a very special relationship. As kids, they fought a lot, obviously Shruthi won most of them. Karthik had an edge when it came to studies and being a 'good kid'. Both of them were popular in their own ways in school. Shruti grew up to be a beautiful little girl that most of the guys in school were behind her and were jealous of Karthik, as he always had a chance of being very close to her.
"Why are you very silent Karthik, you don’t seem to have changed much, but you have grown up da, had me guessing if I was seeing the right person when I was going through your album at Orkut"
"Yeah, it’s been a decade yaar. I am sure you'll look a lot different too"
"Yeah, you are right”
"How are your mom and dad??"
"They are fine. Spoke to mom just after seeing your profile. She was very happy, I told her that I've got your contact number and am going to call you - the first person who had the guts to give me a love letter”, she laughed…
Karthik did not know what to say.
"Hmmmm"
He did not expect her to start with this topic now. It happened when they were in class ten. From class seven or eight, the distance between them actually increased, they weren't as close as they were before...they thought they had grown up and thought grown up guy and a girl are not supposed to be this close. It was this distance that made Karthik feel closer to her. When looked from outside, Shruthi looked like an angel to him and behaved that way too. Karthik started admiring her.....
Just a few months before tenth exams, karthik decided to express his LOVE to her. The feeling that he had nurtured for nearly two years now. His decision was purely because he was completely disturbed....he wasn't able to identify why, but of late he started to lose concentration on other things and she mattered more to him.
He started dreaming about his married life - filmi style. For the first time he slipped a bit and did not perform up to his standards in the revision tests. Shruthi did not realise that it was because of her and she herself went to him and enquired about what happened to him - Karthik not doing well in the exam became the hot topic in the class. He was completely clueless himself. He was worried.....
It was a rainy evening and the whole school was enjoying the rain. The last hour was History and the history teacher was talking about the Second World War and stuff. Karthik was dreaming. He had decided to open the topic with Shruthi today. He even had a letter written. He was silently watching the school play ground getting drenched by the rain from his place...in spite of teacher teaching about Hitler and the Second World War - this wasn't normal. The bell rang and suddenly with a loud noise of cheer the corridors were filled with students eagerly leaving to their home......The rain had just stopped...and the climate was perfect and the slight drizzling topped it of.
"Karthik, what happened, dreaming eh??"
Shruthi interrupted the thought flow of Karthik. He just realised that they were the only ones left in the class.
"Shruthi, I need to talk to you" he saw straight into her eyes. He was determined.
"Oh...sure. What's the matter, anything important?“ She sat over the desk next to him
He looked up at her - "Shruti, I love you, would like to marry you when we grow up, will you be there for me?"
She was shocked. She knew this was going to come some day, but she did not expect this so soon and definitely not this plain and flat. He opened his bag, took out the letter that he had drafted for her and handed it over to her.
"I've written all that I wanted to talk, in this. I want you to read this, think and reply"
She silently took that letter in hand and read that. It was a very plain letter - there was nothing poetic in that.
She was confused. She took her bag and walked out, he followed her. They did not talk a word.
The climate was soothing. They were walking next to each other, rolling their cycle instead of riding it. They did not talk a word till they reached their respective houses.
Shruthi liked karthik very much, but she was not for this proposal, she did not know what will happen next. She was afraid of her father and her relatives and she was more analytical in this issue than emotional. She did not know what to do....what to tell this guy next door, who was always there for her.....and only now she understood the reason for Karthik not performing well in the exams. She did not realize that she was crying now.....tears ran down her cheek....
"You know karthik, my mom was also very happy for you. She said, she knew you would do excellently well in your life and to see you in such a good position so early in life...she was as excited as me"
Karthik's mind was oscillating between the past and present. "Oohh...Thank you.” He just realised that and came back to the present.
“So Orkut has given every detail of me - never thought of this before, maybe I'll need to take out a few information from that...." He tried his maximum to present himself as if he was normal.....
"I am coming down to chennai in the first week of next month. Make sure you are present..."
“…………………….”
Karthik was eagerly waiting for a response from Shruthi. He was pretty early to school and was waiting for Shruthi's arrival...but she did not turn up. He was pretty sure till this time that she will accept him for what he was and he knew she loved him too. But now, his mind started wavering.....he did not know the reason behind her not coming to school....he became nervous and left the school during the lunch break saying he wasn't feeling well. He told his mother that he was not feeling well and went to bed. He wasn't able to sleep....his mind started to think of all the possibilities....but he wasn't sure of anything...will she reject me....his heart started pounding....he became restless...buried himself into the pillow and started crying.....he cried till the layers of his pillow became wet. There was no reason for him to cry but he felt like crying and crying did relieve his pain....he suddenly got up as if he had found out the solution and watched at the clock...it
was 4.15....he got up and washed his face, changed his clothes....he became brisk all of a sudden.
Karthik was waiting for the door to be opened - seconds felt like days...he was about to press the calling bell again when the door opened...
“Aunty is Shruthi here?” he enquired rather anxiously.
“Hello Karthik, How are you....come in...come in“ Shruthi’s mother welcomed him.
"Sit down, are you early from school today, its only 4.30"
"Yes Aunty, wasn't feeling well, also there was nothing much in school today."
"By the way, why didn’t Shruthi come to school today, is everything okay?"
"Yes. She wasn't feeling well in the morning, now she is okay. She is in her room....you may go and see her" she looked towards the room and waited for him to leave to the room.
"I know Shruthi, people around me are really good and I am one lucky chap except for a few things in life.....convey my regards to her" Karthik remembered her mother…she was a nice and a caring woman….
"Sure da. Its long time man....it all looks like it just happened a few days back...but already its nearly 10 years...10 long years....."
Karthik knocked at the door lightly and entered the room. There she was, sitting in her study desk and looking at the trees outside, through her window.
"Hi" she said in a low voice. "When did you come - didn’t you also go to school today??" she enquired.
"I did, but came back during the lunch break" He answered her but was looking for something else....
"Why didn’t you come to school today? I was expecting you...."
"................................."
"Have you thought of what I was talking about yesterday??"
"Yes, I did"
"Have you decided....." Karthik looked calm and composed but was more nervous than for his exams....
"......................."
"Shruthi...don’t you also...."
Shruthi was quick to interrupt...."I like you very much Karthik, I like you very much"
"........................does that mean..."
"It doesn't mean anything Karthik….”
“Aren't we too young to fall in love..."
Karthik was literally upset. He was expecting her to say just 3 words, but to see her saying something else....he was worried....
"Do you think we are too young? Its just 2 years in school and soon we'll be in college and then work....."
"....why cant we be together...I mean…..."
"There are so many things to be thought of, Karthik. See, I am worried about you. I want you do well in your studies….you not doing well in the test really disturbed me – I mean it....and I feel I am I am responsible for that....I don’t want to see my friend going down at this last and crucial moment"
"If that is the case....you just say you love me and I'll be back with what all I had - I am sure I can do excellently well....but now you seem to be more important to me...my mind is in an oscillation whether you'll be for me or not and that stops me from concentrating....."
"But Karthik....why am I so important to you......more important than your studies…."
She was skeptical about his reaction….but went ahead and completed what she wanted to ask..."is it....is it….because I am beautiful ??"
"Nonsense. Even our biology teacher is beautiful - did I go and tell her the same thing. Our class Kalpana is beautiful, did I go behind her and tell her that I loved her....you know me Shruthi, you know what I am going through….please don’t act as if you don’t"
"Believe me Shruthi...I just feel very happy when you are around, but, when I think that you'll become someone else's sometime....I don’t know, some sort of a disturbance creeps in....I become restless. It'll all be over if I know from you that you love me and you'll be mine - sometime"
"But did you think of your parents Karthik. How bad they'll feel. They believe in us, we should live up to their expectations..."
"................they'll understand Shruthi......" Karthik was now slowly staring to lose hope.
"So....what do you say...you don’t love me??"
"Come-on Karthik, I never said that. Give me one day’s time, tomorrow I'll let you know. I’ll think over again….but we need to wait Karthik...I still feel we are too young...."
Karthik got his confidence back. She hasn't decided as yet. Tomorrow she'll come up with a positive response.....he was convinced somehow….
"Thank you so much Shruthi, See you tomorrow, Take Care"
He got up and left the room...
Life goes on....contd....
"Karthik, leaving so early, wait wait, have a cup of coffee...2 minutes.." her mother was very caring as she always was. He felt a bit guilty.
"That’s okay aunty, got to go and study, came in to see why Shruthi did not come to school..." He literally ran out of the house.
That night seemed to be the longest night for Karthik. Every incident that involved Shruti, big and small, played across his eyes….the school bus they shared, the games they played, the little arguments they were involved in, the competitions they fought…..and now the incidents of the past two days…..’what if she says No’….’No, she wont….she can’t say No to me’…he was pretty sure that she will accept him, that too after all that happened today.
It was a bright morning after a rainy night. It was warm. Everything around seemed fresh and so was Karthik. He was ready to school earlier than he usually is.
Shruthi also had turned up pretty early to school, and she seemed clear. They weren't able to communicate in school except for a few glances, as there were people around.
It was assembly and Karthik had only one prayer - " God, Shruthi has to accept my proposal...please...please....I've always been a good person...haven't done anything bad...so I should live a happy life...for that.......god please...you know me...and what I want.....Shruthi has to accept....she'll be happy too....please god..."
It was second hour - Biology. The moment the teacher entered the class...automatically Karthik and Shruthi looked at each other. 'She is indeed a beautiful woman, good observation...' this was what Shruthi's little smile indicate Karthik.
Karthik was now pretty relaxed....he knew what was going to come. He is going to be that lucky person and was already thanking god for accepting his prayers.
It was lunch....and students were having lunch in groups at every possible place - the cycle shed, under the tree, the class rooms, the play ground...everywhere.
And already a few students had finished lunch and were running along the corridors and a few playing in the ground.....
“I was waiting for this time, from the morning....."
"So do I, Karthik."
"Have you decided...?"
"What do you think?"
"Shruthi...please....not in a position to sustain the suspense anymore...."
"Karthik, I want you to do excellently well in the board exams....I want you to not only top the school but the whole board as you always said you will"
"I will, Shruthi. I definitely will....and....."
"I always liked you Karthik. Always."
"............................"
"Let us continue this way till we finish school. As you said, just a couple of years....and once we get through our college......."
"And after college, we'll marry - yeah??"
"Yeah.....but for that we need to do well in school and college and get a good job....that will make our parents proud...and maybe that will overshadow our decision to marry.....they'll be happy for us...."
Karthik had the moment of his life. He was a happy man.
"Thank you so much Shruthi.....you'll see the real Karthik in the upcoming exams.....and also in eleventh and twelfth...."
Shruthi stood there silently. She wasn't exactly relaxed.....
Bell rang and students ran back to classes, so did Karthik and Shruthi.
Shruthi sat there in class looking at Karthik. He was literally very happy....he turned towards her time and again and chipped in a smile. She was confident that he'll do excellently well, as promised.....
She felt a bit guilty.....but convinced herself that what she did was for good. She wanted Kathik to do well.....it was because of that, she did not tell him the fact that all she spoke to karthik today were what her mom wanted her to talk.
Her mother had noticed that Karthik had some problem and also her daughter, so she had walked into her room yesterday and slowly enquired her daughter about the problem...... and Shruthi broke down...telling her all that had happened......
"My mom also wanted to meet you folks there karthik. When did you people change the house...would love to go back to our colony and see the places where we spent all our childhood days. Man I am dying to see our school.....hey do u remember our biology mam..what's her name..yeah Shanthi mam..." she giggled....
"Yes, I do. And when you come down to chennai...we'll go to our school sometime...."
"And man, your status says you are committed...who's that lucky girl dude???"
Even Shruthi did not know that her mom had discussed all that happened with Karthik's mom who was shocked to know all that had happened. And she was upset that she did not know of all these before. She was worried that she was not able to help her son when he was in trouble. But she made it a point not to let him know that she knows about this and at the same time made all efforts to help him come out of this confused state and actually concentrate in his studies…
Karthik, as promised, did an excellent job. All he did was study and dream about their married life. It was just a week before the exams....and he was confident enough to perform well.....
The last day of the exam became the most crucial day of their lives. Every student around was happily shouting and running around to enjoy the vacation....and finally this most hyped board exam is over....students were in groups - some talking about their holiday plan...some discussing the day's question paper...some guys went behind their loved ones as they wont be meeting again for atleast a few months....it was a happening day overall, for the students....
"I am so happy Shruthi. Finally done. Paper was pretty easy....how did you do??"
"Okay da. Fine...."
"Now expecting the results...you may expect a rank-holder...." He laughed...but really meant it....he wanted to become a rank holder and also was confident about that.
"Wow Karthik, I like it man....but don’t forget us once your photo comes in paper and all...." she was actually casual...
"Don’t ever say that Shruthi...you know I wont......got to go to our native today with the family to attend a temple function......the function starts tomorrow....and will last for a week......I'll somehow try to return as soon as the function is over...generally my mom would want me stay for a month......a month is too long isn't it...."
"Oh...you are leaving today??" she seemed a little worried...
"Yeah, I have to....no other choice.....I'll miss you very much Shruthi" he was worried too....
"What are your plans for the vacation - going out somewhere??"
"Don’t know da. No plans as yet....my father is busy with his office and I don’t understand what my parents talk....some problem in my father’s office, I suppose....so I don’t know what our plans are....."
"Oh...Okay. I'll come back in a week....and see you then.....have a lot to talk...."
"Karthik, why aren't you talking anything da. Thinking of the past eh?? Good old days man...I treasure every minute of it...."
"....................."
"And you never answered my question - committed eh???"
"And oh...I forgot to tell you the important matter......so bad of my memory...was actually carried away by the fact I am actually talking to u...emotional you see" she was literally blabbering....and she knew that…
"Sure da....enjoy your festival in native.....okay??"
"Sure"
By this time, they reached Shruthi’s house.
"Bye Shruthi, Take care. Will miss you."
"Sure da. Just a week...."
When Karthik was in his native, Shruthi's father got a transfer to Singapore and had to leave early....and as Shruthi had already finished with her exams and as they had their relatives in Singapore anyway....they decided to shift to Singapore immediately...as this will be like a vacation in Singapore for Shruthi too.
Shruthi was first shocked. She was very much worried and wished she stayed here.....but she knew by this time, that this was not possible. She wanted to stay here atleast for a week till Karthik returns here....and that was more probable. Her mother understood her problem....and tried to convince her.....she knew what they had for each other was due to their age...and she also knew things would be okay soon. But Shruthi believed that she'll marry Karthik once they finish college and go to work.....still.
The week flew in no time as they had to make a lot of arrangements....the visa process was over and their tickets had arrived....they were supposed to leave the country in 2 days from now.......Karthik hadn't arrived in town as yet - Shruthi was worried. She wanted him to be back before she leaves the country.....
Karthik's grand-mom, cousins, uncles, aunties...everyone were present in his native but still his mind was searching for that one person....Shruthi...this crowded environment did give him a comfortable feeling anyway.....the whole crowd actually forced him to stay longer as it is once in a year that all of them meet...he had no other choice but to stay here for the whole month.....he was worried about his promise....also that he wont be able to see her for an other month.....
The last day in town....Shruthi had no other choice but to leave a message at his place that they have to leave to Singapore all of a sudden....she took down their address.....and was determined to write a letter once she reach Singapore.
It was nearly a month - The 10th standard CBSE results will be out in a day or two read the news paper. Karthik was nervous.....he wanted to do it....and he wanted to be in town when the results are out. He wanted Shruthi to be with him when he is declared a hero....a rank holder....Karthik and his parents started from the village......
Back in town after a month....Karthik's eyes were searching for Shruthi as soon as the auto entered the colony.....and then he looked into her house....just to see it locked. He thought to himself that she would have been disappointed that he did not return as promised, which she really did, and also she would have gone for a vacation somewhere with her family....
There were quite a few letters lying in their postbox as they returned after a month and his mom picket them up and scanned from where they were…and with them was this envelop marked ‘Air Mail’...."seems like a post from a foreign country" said his mom "Karthik, this is for you", she continued....
"For me??" he picked it from her and saw the Singapore stamp in that and immediately turned it back to see from whom it was....and once he saw her name in that, opened it in a flash to read the letter.....
Dear Karthik,
Reached Singapore 3 days back. Hope you are back in Madras. Was really worried that you hadn't made it in a week and I was expecting you. As already told in the note that I left for you, we had to leave to Singapore immediately. We are in my aunt’s place right now. I misss you very much. It seems I'll have to continue my studies here atleast for the next two years. Don’t worry, just two years, and I'll be back in Madras once the schooling is over. Miss you very much. Take care.
And the results will be coming in a few days it seems, pray for me, I'll pray for you getting a rank, I am sure you will. Miss you very much. Don’t know what else to write, will write to you once we go to our new house and give you the address. We'll talk over letters for the next two years...don’t worry.....don’t know what else to write......take care
luv,
Shruthi.S
Karthik was shaken by this letter. Before he realised, his mom handed over a piece of paper....this was here and is addressed to you....that was the note she was talking about.....
He did not believe his eyes. He did not expect anything of this sort…..he read that letter a hundred times and still it was hard for him to believe his eyes….he broke down.....and again his pillow helped him to get himself submerged......he looked out and walked towards her home just to cry again...and again....
"Karthik, I am getting married at the end of next month....will invite u, uncle and aunty in person when I am there.....make sure you are present......" She picked up guts and told this to him…she wasn’t comfortable…slowly she realised that she was crying….she was determined not to cry…but she wasn’t able to help herself…..but she managed not to show that across to the other end…
"Oh...thats a news for me. You are calling up after all these years to tell me that you are getting married....."
He had no other choice but to accept the fact.....Karthik had mixed emotions....he himself was engaged to a girl just 3 days back and was worrying through out this conversation about 'what if Shruthi comes back and says she still loves him and want to marry him' he knew it was a very rare possibility...but he thought there was a possibility....but on the other hand he was worried....for some reason...he was worried....His childhood love is getting married to someone else...the first and the only girl who had made an impact in him is getting married......at the same time he felt happy for her...
"What is your guy doing" he wanted to sound normal and he actually managed to....
"......................."
"Hey Shruthi...come-on...that’s okay....please....don’t cry now please......"
"I am sorry.....sorry..."
"He is a doctor and is practicing in Chicago...after marriage, I need to shift to Chicago..."
"Oh...that’s great"
"You know....I still have that first letter you gave me.....the first love letter...I felt like I am angel that day...."
"........hmmm....."
"But you never replied for any of my letters.....I wrote to u an elaborate letter 3 months after I reached Singapore and was expecting to hear from you....and then a couple of letters.....you never replied...."
"Actually, I wasn't feeling comfortable at all after you left...and we shifted house the very next month.....so did not get any of the letters except the first one…..I did go to the old house to check if there were any letters for me after that…but never got any…."
“Oh...really…..”
"You know...my mom did a great job in convincing me....without her, it wouldn’t have been possible....she was the one who proposed a change in house....." he continued…
"And I did as I promised.....I topped class 10. Got second rank overall.....and first in class twelve...."
"I knew you would....I knew....."
"......................................"
"............................................"
"Karthik, Make sure you make it to the marriage. I'll come to your house sometime when I am in Madras.....got to meet aunty also...even my mother is eager......And you never answered about the committed status....any secrets??"
"Oh…Nothing secret actually…I got engaged too....just 2 days back....."
"Wow....idiot...you never said that me that all this while....when is the marriage....who's the girl...what is she doing...."
Karthik told her the details......
"Nice Karthik. It feels very good, both of us getting married in the same time period…hey got to go, my roomie is yelling, she is waiting for me…...keep in touch...see you in person....."
"Sure Shruthi. Nice of you to call me. Hail Internet" He smiled..
She smiled too....
Karthik glanced at the clock putting down his phone....it read 7.40....
'Oops its time....' he got up quickly and ran towards his bathroom for picking up his tooth-brush.....he saw his face in the mirror and he looked fresh....
”mom, have u switched on the water heater…its getting late for me….”
Life goes on.........
"That’s okay aunty, got to go and study, came in to see why Shruthi did not come to school..." He literally ran out of the house.
That night seemed to be the longest night for Karthik. Every incident that involved Shruti, big and small, played across his eyes….the school bus they shared, the games they played, the little arguments they were involved in, the competitions they fought…..and now the incidents of the past two days…..’what if she says No’….’No, she wont….she can’t say No to me’…he was pretty sure that she will accept him, that too after all that happened today.
It was a bright morning after a rainy night. It was warm. Everything around seemed fresh and so was Karthik. He was ready to school earlier than he usually is.
Shruthi also had turned up pretty early to school, and she seemed clear. They weren't able to communicate in school except for a few glances, as there were people around.
It was assembly and Karthik had only one prayer - " God, Shruthi has to accept my proposal...please...please....I've always been a good person...haven't done anything bad...so I should live a happy life...for that.......god please...you know me...and what I want.....Shruthi has to accept....she'll be happy too....please god..."
It was second hour - Biology. The moment the teacher entered the class...automatically Karthik and Shruthi looked at each other. 'She is indeed a beautiful woman, good observation...' this was what Shruthi's little smile indicate Karthik.
Karthik was now pretty relaxed....he knew what was going to come. He is going to be that lucky person and was already thanking god for accepting his prayers.
It was lunch....and students were having lunch in groups at every possible place - the cycle shed, under the tree, the class rooms, the play ground...everywhere.
And already a few students had finished lunch and were running along the corridors and a few playing in the ground.....
“I was waiting for this time, from the morning....."
"So do I, Karthik."
"Have you decided...?"
"What do you think?"
"Shruthi...please....not in a position to sustain the suspense anymore...."
"Karthik, I want you to do excellently well in the board exams....I want you to not only top the school but the whole board as you always said you will"
"I will, Shruthi. I definitely will....and....."
"I always liked you Karthik. Always."
"............................"
"Let us continue this way till we finish school. As you said, just a couple of years....and once we get through our college......."
"And after college, we'll marry - yeah??"
"Yeah.....but for that we need to do well in school and college and get a good job....that will make our parents proud...and maybe that will overshadow our decision to marry.....they'll be happy for us...."
Karthik had the moment of his life. He was a happy man.
"Thank you so much Shruthi.....you'll see the real Karthik in the upcoming exams.....and also in eleventh and twelfth...."
Shruthi stood there silently. She wasn't exactly relaxed.....
Bell rang and students ran back to classes, so did Karthik and Shruthi.
Shruthi sat there in class looking at Karthik. He was literally very happy....he turned towards her time and again and chipped in a smile. She was confident that he'll do excellently well, as promised.....
She felt a bit guilty.....but convinced herself that what she did was for good. She wanted Kathik to do well.....it was because of that, she did not tell him the fact that all she spoke to karthik today were what her mom wanted her to talk.
Her mother had noticed that Karthik had some problem and also her daughter, so she had walked into her room yesterday and slowly enquired her daughter about the problem...... and Shruthi broke down...telling her all that had happened......
"My mom also wanted to meet you folks there karthik. When did you people change the house...would love to go back to our colony and see the places where we spent all our childhood days. Man I am dying to see our school.....hey do u remember our biology mam..what's her name..yeah Shanthi mam..." she giggled....
"Yes, I do. And when you come down to chennai...we'll go to our school sometime...."
"And man, your status says you are committed...who's that lucky girl dude???"
Even Shruthi did not know that her mom had discussed all that happened with Karthik's mom who was shocked to know all that had happened. And she was upset that she did not know of all these before. She was worried that she was not able to help her son when he was in trouble. But she made it a point not to let him know that she knows about this and at the same time made all efforts to help him come out of this confused state and actually concentrate in his studies…
Karthik, as promised, did an excellent job. All he did was study and dream about their married life. It was just a week before the exams....and he was confident enough to perform well.....
The last day of the exam became the most crucial day of their lives. Every student around was happily shouting and running around to enjoy the vacation....and finally this most hyped board exam is over....students were in groups - some talking about their holiday plan...some discussing the day's question paper...some guys went behind their loved ones as they wont be meeting again for atleast a few months....it was a happening day overall, for the students....
"I am so happy Shruthi. Finally done. Paper was pretty easy....how did you do??"
"Okay da. Fine...."
"Now expecting the results...you may expect a rank-holder...." He laughed...but really meant it....he wanted to become a rank holder and also was confident about that.
"Wow Karthik, I like it man....but don’t forget us once your photo comes in paper and all...." she was actually casual...
"Don’t ever say that Shruthi...you know I wont......got to go to our native today with the family to attend a temple function......the function starts tomorrow....and will last for a week......I'll somehow try to return as soon as the function is over...generally my mom would want me stay for a month......a month is too long isn't it...."
"Oh...you are leaving today??" she seemed a little worried...
"Yeah, I have to....no other choice.....I'll miss you very much Shruthi" he was worried too....
"What are your plans for the vacation - going out somewhere??"
"Don’t know da. No plans as yet....my father is busy with his office and I don’t understand what my parents talk....some problem in my father’s office, I suppose....so I don’t know what our plans are....."
"Oh...Okay. I'll come back in a week....and see you then.....have a lot to talk...."
"Karthik, why aren't you talking anything da. Thinking of the past eh?? Good old days man...I treasure every minute of it...."
"....................."
"And you never answered my question - committed eh???"
"And oh...I forgot to tell you the important matter......so bad of my memory...was actually carried away by the fact I am actually talking to u...emotional you see" she was literally blabbering....and she knew that…
"Sure da....enjoy your festival in native.....okay??"
"Sure"
By this time, they reached Shruthi’s house.
"Bye Shruthi, Take care. Will miss you."
"Sure da. Just a week...."
When Karthik was in his native, Shruthi's father got a transfer to Singapore and had to leave early....and as Shruthi had already finished with her exams and as they had their relatives in Singapore anyway....they decided to shift to Singapore immediately...as this will be like a vacation in Singapore for Shruthi too.
Shruthi was first shocked. She was very much worried and wished she stayed here.....but she knew by this time, that this was not possible. She wanted to stay here atleast for a week till Karthik returns here....and that was more probable. Her mother understood her problem....and tried to convince her.....she knew what they had for each other was due to their age...and she also knew things would be okay soon. But Shruthi believed that she'll marry Karthik once they finish college and go to work.....still.
The week flew in no time as they had to make a lot of arrangements....the visa process was over and their tickets had arrived....they were supposed to leave the country in 2 days from now.......Karthik hadn't arrived in town as yet - Shruthi was worried. She wanted him to be back before she leaves the country.....
Karthik's grand-mom, cousins, uncles, aunties...everyone were present in his native but still his mind was searching for that one person....Shruthi...this crowded environment did give him a comfortable feeling anyway.....the whole crowd actually forced him to stay longer as it is once in a year that all of them meet...he had no other choice but to stay here for the whole month.....he was worried about his promise....also that he wont be able to see her for an other month.....
The last day in town....Shruthi had no other choice but to leave a message at his place that they have to leave to Singapore all of a sudden....she took down their address.....and was determined to write a letter once she reach Singapore.
It was nearly a month - The 10th standard CBSE results will be out in a day or two read the news paper. Karthik was nervous.....he wanted to do it....and he wanted to be in town when the results are out. He wanted Shruthi to be with him when he is declared a hero....a rank holder....Karthik and his parents started from the village......
Back in town after a month....Karthik's eyes were searching for Shruthi as soon as the auto entered the colony.....and then he looked into her house....just to see it locked. He thought to himself that she would have been disappointed that he did not return as promised, which she really did, and also she would have gone for a vacation somewhere with her family....
There were quite a few letters lying in their postbox as they returned after a month and his mom picket them up and scanned from where they were…and with them was this envelop marked ‘Air Mail’...."seems like a post from a foreign country" said his mom "Karthik, this is for you", she continued....
"For me??" he picked it from her and saw the Singapore stamp in that and immediately turned it back to see from whom it was....and once he saw her name in that, opened it in a flash to read the letter.....
Dear Karthik,
Reached Singapore 3 days back. Hope you are back in Madras. Was really worried that you hadn't made it in a week and I was expecting you. As already told in the note that I left for you, we had to leave to Singapore immediately. We are in my aunt’s place right now. I misss you very much. It seems I'll have to continue my studies here atleast for the next two years. Don’t worry, just two years, and I'll be back in Madras once the schooling is over. Miss you very much. Take care.
And the results will be coming in a few days it seems, pray for me, I'll pray for you getting a rank, I am sure you will. Miss you very much. Don’t know what else to write, will write to you once we go to our new house and give you the address. We'll talk over letters for the next two years...don’t worry.....don’t know what else to write......take care
luv,
Shruthi.S
Karthik was shaken by this letter. Before he realised, his mom handed over a piece of paper....this was here and is addressed to you....that was the note she was talking about.....
He did not believe his eyes. He did not expect anything of this sort…..he read that letter a hundred times and still it was hard for him to believe his eyes….he broke down.....and again his pillow helped him to get himself submerged......he looked out and walked towards her home just to cry again...and again....
"Karthik, I am getting married at the end of next month....will invite u, uncle and aunty in person when I am there.....make sure you are present......" She picked up guts and told this to him…she wasn’t comfortable…slowly she realised that she was crying….she was determined not to cry…but she wasn’t able to help herself…..but she managed not to show that across to the other end…
"Oh...thats a news for me. You are calling up after all these years to tell me that you are getting married....."
He had no other choice but to accept the fact.....Karthik had mixed emotions....he himself was engaged to a girl just 3 days back and was worrying through out this conversation about 'what if Shruthi comes back and says she still loves him and want to marry him' he knew it was a very rare possibility...but he thought there was a possibility....but on the other hand he was worried....for some reason...he was worried....His childhood love is getting married to someone else...the first and the only girl who had made an impact in him is getting married......at the same time he felt happy for her...
"What is your guy doing" he wanted to sound normal and he actually managed to....
"......................."
"Hey Shruthi...come-on...that’s okay....please....don’t cry now please......"
"I am sorry.....sorry..."
"He is a doctor and is practicing in Chicago...after marriage, I need to shift to Chicago..."
"Oh...that’s great"
"You know....I still have that first letter you gave me.....the first love letter...I felt like I am angel that day...."
"........hmmm....."
"But you never replied for any of my letters.....I wrote to u an elaborate letter 3 months after I reached Singapore and was expecting to hear from you....and then a couple of letters.....you never replied...."
"Actually, I wasn't feeling comfortable at all after you left...and we shifted house the very next month.....so did not get any of the letters except the first one…..I did go to the old house to check if there were any letters for me after that…but never got any…."
“Oh...really…..”
"You know...my mom did a great job in convincing me....without her, it wouldn’t have been possible....she was the one who proposed a change in house....." he continued…
"And I did as I promised.....I topped class 10. Got second rank overall.....and first in class twelve...."
"I knew you would....I knew....."
"......................................"
"............................................"
"Karthik, Make sure you make it to the marriage. I'll come to your house sometime when I am in Madras.....got to meet aunty also...even my mother is eager......And you never answered about the committed status....any secrets??"
"Oh…Nothing secret actually…I got engaged too....just 2 days back....."
"Wow....idiot...you never said that me that all this while....when is the marriage....who's the girl...what is she doing...."
Karthik told her the details......
"Nice Karthik. It feels very good, both of us getting married in the same time period…hey got to go, my roomie is yelling, she is waiting for me…...keep in touch...see you in person....."
"Sure Shruthi. Nice of you to call me. Hail Internet" He smiled..
She smiled too....
Karthik glanced at the clock putting down his phone....it read 7.40....
'Oops its time....' he got up quickly and ran towards his bathroom for picking up his tooth-brush.....he saw his face in the mirror and he looked fresh....
”mom, have u switched on the water heater…its getting late for me….”
Life goes on.........
Monday, August 21, 2006
The Get-together.....
I am always a bit inclined towards school-life - maybe because I had a great school-life, both in Kalakshetra as well as Anna Gem. The two schools were completely different and i was lucky enough to be part of both the schools!
And why suddenly about the schools and school life - again??? Its because, I met a few people from Anna Gem in the form of get-together a couple of days back, and we had a GREAT time! We had a wonderful time there....actually getting to know each other :)
Emotions generally subside when in groups and exactly that had happened that day - no one was actually emotional - the ultimate aim was enjoyment, we enjoyed the moment and were happy that the plan had clicked! We joked along....recalled a few funny moments from school....and it was normal. Nothing was very special about it except for the people who were part of it...and I am sure that night when everything was over and when people went to bed,
thinking of what all had happened...and who all they met....the emotions would have taken over......the nostalgia would have creeped in....I dont know about the others, but it happened for me......I was taken back in time....It felt great...I wanted to run back to school......
A group of slightly grown up people re-living those good old school days was fantastic! An architect, business man, lecturer, director, sub-editor of a news paper and many other professionals.......getting along and laughing like hell for those silly lil school jokes....that was it.....that was this meeting all about, bringing back the kid in you, without much of masking......I found it very special because I did not have a compulsion to present myself....I mean, the people there knew me as a school-kid..that only means they knew the REAL me....yes, I have changed....but the basic still remains the same and that will remain the same - forever - for everyone!
The thoughts of the fare-well party, the school principal, the teachers, the labs...those rainy days when school was declared holiday...the cycle rides and more importantly - those funny discussions we had as if we knew everything...those arguements........the way the guys (who were part of the meeting) looked and behaved during school time especially with the uniform.....those lil fights....those funny jokes...the lunch breaks....the school corridor.....the competition between different teams (houses).....wow.........I re-lived the moments.....had wonderful time thinking of them.....it wasn't intentional...but I wasn't able to help it.....the aim of the g2g was fulfilled!
A few things have to be experienced and felt to be understood. My state of mind now is the same - experience and feel - and you'll feel the happiness.....the heart pounding and you longing for those days to come back again......and if you are reading this on a monday morning and if you are in a far away distance from home and friends..................................................do I need to say anything.......
And now take a look at the stills below........have a nice time!
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
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