Chaupadi

"Muskan Agarwal?"

My doorbell chimed along a loud rough voice. With sleep slumbered in my drowsy eyes, I somehow trudged towards the door.

"Muskan Agarwal? A courier for you" a man from DTDC courier was standing in front of me holding a big white envelope in his hand.

"Thanks, buddy"! I replied and collected that envelope from him.

Wow! A wave of excitement spread all over my face the moment I opened that envelope. It was a wedding invitation from one of my childhood friend Ashmita, residing in Nepal and getting married there only.

I had always dreamt of visiting Nepal for a vacation, but never got the opportunity to do so, this invitation was basically a ticket to my dream destination.

Wedding, Nepal, Babaji! Lot's of preparations. I have to rush for shopping ASAP. Wait, wait let me call Ashmita to congratulate her first. With all the thoughts triggering my mind, I rushed towards my phone.

"Ashuuuuuu Congratulations dear! I just received your wedding card. Oh Man, I am so happy and excited. But, Madam I am annoyed with you as well. You didn't inform me about your marriage. What is this formal way of sending a card?"

"Hold on, hold on Madam, allow me to speak at least. Musu, sorry I didn't get the time to call anyone as everything occurred suddenly. This card was even sent by Sushmita (her younger sister). You just pack your bags and rush to Nepal. You have to reach here anyhow by tomorrow as the wedding is just four days away" she replied in sheer excitement.

"Yes for sure. I am just leaving for shopping. Will catch you tomorrow Sweety but at least text me the pic of Jijaji"

"Yes dear, I will tell Sushmita to text you. You know na these relatives and rituals, they are so damn sucking man. Ok bye bye. Mumma is calling me. I will see you tomorrow" she banged the phone.

Muskan! Shopping, ticket booking, gift packing, parlour visit- basically Lag gyi hai boss rush.

I immediately called my parlour and booked an appointment for the evening, meanwhile, got ready and geared up for the most tedious task- "Shopping."

On my way to the mall, I booked my flight tickets- thanks to mobile Apps nowadays, everything is at the ease of our fingertips. Because of short of time, I took the metro route instead of a cab to avoid jams and signals.

Earphones plugged in, I played my favourite Punjabi track by Diljit Dosanjh. While I was busy with Mr. Dosanjh, my eyes chased the fellow travelers who were giggling, with their eyes stuck in one direction. Human nature, I even followed their sight and came across a woman decked up in a heavy Saree with her face covered completely with the Pallu of the saree.

Gosh! This pallu tradition. People still follow it. Strange, I murmured softly and once again focussed back to Mr. Dosanjh.

My phone vibrated with a text from Sushmita. OMG, it must be the pic of Ashmita's hubby.

 I opened the text immediately. Wow, so handsome. His husband was very good looking. Fair, tall, well-built physique and a charming smile.

 She is so lucky man. Ashmita was an average girl. Simple, sober dusky complexion and long hairs. I have never expected such a lovely match for her.

I came out of my critical analysis with the sound of chortles. Unfortunately, the lady with the pallu fell badly while getting down at the station.

Shitt yaar. People are so bad. Instead of helping her they are making fun of that pour soul.

"Haye main tere te marr gyi. Mundya ambarsariya" I again concentrated back to Mr. Dosanjh.

10 hours flew away so quickly in shopping and parlour visit, I was completely drained. Reaching home, I simply rushed to my bed and went for a tight sleep as I had a morning flight to catch the next day.

"Muskan. Good Morning Beta! Mom called me up in the morning.

Sat Sri Akal Mummy. Thanks! You woke me up or else I would have been late for my flight.

You have packed your woolens properly? There must be cold. Take that shawl also which Maasi gifted you.

Yes Mummy, I already did. Don't worry.

When are you returning back?

By 10^th Mumma.

Only 2 days why so? If you are going to your favourite destination that too spending so much then at least stay there for some more days.

Aww Mumma I love you. But where will I stay? She will get married and will leave and I am not comfortable staying at her place with Sushmita. She is a little maniac Mummy.

Hmm, try out some hotel. Or else chadd pare (leave it) come back bachcha (baby).

Okk Mumma. Will inform you. Chalo I am getting late love you bye. And please take care of yourself."

Mom was on a small trip to Amritsar, her hometown, even I was supposed to join her but my work didn't allow me to do so.

Two brown bread toast & a cup of hot chocolate, Heaven! I was ready for my dream destination. Nepal here I come.

I spend the entire one and half hour journey from Kolkata to Kathmandu in my dream world, sleeping as much as I could, as another one and half hour road journey was waiting for me.

Ashmita used to stay in a village in western Nepal. A magnificent place I must say. All her pictures on Facebook always incited me to be there. A small lone village nestled near a hilly area with huts, greenery & cattle- a perfect Bollywood Movie type location.

Reaching Kathmandu I called up my cabbie as I had done the pre- booking of my cab already. Twice, thrice but he didn't receive my call. What the hell is this? Why the moron is not taking my call?

"Madam Sorry I am late". Suddenly he knocked me from behind.

"What is this? Why weren't you answering my call? I am waiting here for 20 damn minutes".

"Sorry Mam, actually a serious problem occurred in our village. So I got late."

"Oh stop making lame excuses. Let's leave now."

We finally geared up for our destination, Nepal.

Wedged between the high Himalaya and the steamy Indian plains, Nepal is a land of snow peaks and Sherpas, yaks and yetis, monasteries and mantras.

I was very excited as I was finally there in my dream destination. Pollution free, greenery, nip, and eyes soothing scenery - true heaven I must say for metropolitan city dwellers like me. While I was witnessing all the twists and turns of the roads,

"Hello, Beta where are you? Mumma called me.

Yes, Mom reached Kathmandu now on my way to Nepal in my cab.

Ok take care and call me once you reach your destination.

Sure Mumma. Love you. Byee."

Oops! Ashmita called up.

"Hey, Ashu!

Where are you Musku? 

Darling on my way to your home. Will take another 1 hr. Listen I am damn hungry cook something good for me.

Hey Madam let me remind you I am bride ok.

Haan Haan Enjoy freedom."

After a half, an hour of stupid girls talk from dresses, hairdo, groom, mother in law and what not, we finally decided to continue this marriage saga later on.

I was exhausted I choose to take a quick nap as I knew that I won't get the opportunity to sleep for the next two days.

 

 

"Hahaha! Look at her. Oh man! She is so funny. Look at her pallu" With the piercing sound of honking, I opened my eyes. I was sweating.

Babaji Why that dream? Why am I still thinking about that woman?

"Madam we will reach in next 10 minutes. Please help me with the proper address". My cabbie told me.

"Take this paper" I handed over him the wedding card where Ashmita's residential details were properly mentioned.

While my car was on its way to the village, my eyes caught hold off something unusual, or rather I should say it wasn't unusual actually, but it appeared one for me. Tiny mud capped huts, with twigs and bamboo sticks clung to its roof, were situated in the distance of few meters from each house.

Alright! So these people have built washrooms inside these huts. So hygiene follower's yaar. I am impressed. I uttered to my subconscious mind.

Your destination Mam. My cabbie stopped the car lil far from a tall, red brick building, decorated with tiny glittering bulbs and small yellow flowers. They were some local flowers. Beautiful!

My car was parked near one of those tiny huts which I was taking as a toilet. The moment I came out of my cab and assembled my luggage over the ground, I heard some sobbing sounds coming from one of the huts.

As I was about to move in that direction, a hand from behind pulled me towards her.

Musku!!! It was Ashmita She hugged me tightly.

Ashu. Congrats darling. OMG! Someone is glowing. My my! After all, it's natural. Jiju is so handsome na. Girls will be girls!

Let's leave from here Musku. Let's go home. She said in a voice as if trying to conceal something.

Yes sure, dear. I am damn hungry. By the way Ashu I must say people in your village are so tidy and hygiene lover man. All of them have built washrooms in the form of tiny huts outside their homes. Nice practice yaar.

Ashmita silently nodded her head with a half lipped smile.

Reaching her place, I encountered a plethora of relatives, her parents, friends, and wedding vendors. Everyone was there except Sushmita.

Ashu, Where is Sush?

Sush! Sush. Yes, she is not well, sleeping in her room. You freshen up. I will send something to eat. She replied again in that same stealthy manner and went away.

Anyways. I closed the door of my room and opened the window.

The nippy fresh air of that mesmerising village kissed my face- A pure heaven I must say.

While I was trying to capture the cold breeze with my palms, again my eyes caught something strange. And yes it was damn strange in true sense this time. A woman in her 50's came out from one of the huts with some food in a wooden dish and threw it in a bucket of garbage.

Hell man! These huts are not washrooms. Then what are they? Ashu didn't even tell me the truth.

A sudden thud on my door shook me and I opened the gate. "Khannu Linu Didia" sweet Nepali young girl said something in Nepali and offered me a platter.

Ok, she must be offering food to me.

Taking away the dish from her small hands I touched her red cheeks and said Thank you.

She smiled and went away. Let's gobble the food first Muskan, then will go for a bath.

Malai maya gara 

Mero siudo bhara

Timrai nimti jiuchhu 

Timrai nimti marchhu

Timilai maya garchhu 

Timro siudo bharchhu 

Malai maya gara 

Mero siudo bhara 

Munching that yummilicious meal, I drift off without bath and came out of my dream world with the loud sound of some Nepali song.

OMG, I guess some rituals have started. Half opened eyes I noticed uncle sun has gone back to his home and the shiny moon was on his way.

Shitt yr Muskan, wake up and get ready else Ashu will kill you. You are here for attending her marriage functions, not for a leisure outing.

I quickly got up from my bed, opened my bag and took out a beautiful pink churidaar which mom has got for me from Amritsar last year.

Decked up in that pink attire I went downstairs towards the hall where lots of people were gathered in a circle witnessing some ritual.

OMG, where to locate Ashu? It's so crowded how I will reach there?

While I was on my recce of the whole area to find a way, suddenly I saw Sushmita

She was peeping from outside the window of the hall room trying to witness the ceremony. But why is she standing there?

Yes, smart girl. A perfect place to observe the ceremony peacefully instead of joining this crowd. Let me join her.

I instantly rushed towards the back door and moved towards that window where I saw Sushmita.

Hiee Sush? I called her.

Musku Didi. How are you? She greeted me with a big smile.

How are you Sush? Ashu told me you are not well.

After a pause, she said yes I am not well. But will be fine by tomorrow evening.

Ok, that is nice. By the way, you have chosen a perfect place to observe the ceremony.

I will also stand here.

No Didi you please move inside.

Why so? It's pretty crowded inside yaar. I can't even breathe properly there. Let me stand here na Sush.

Didi, Ohk fine. You stand here but not near me at this window. Please move to that window you will get a better view.

Ok then you also come along with me I said and patted her shoulder.

Shit! Didi don't touch me. Come here wash your hands. You will fall sick.

C'mon Sush I know you are not well but my immune system is not too weak dear that your germs will drag me to their den and suck my blood. I said giggling

 Didi, you have not changed a bit. Ok don't wash but please don't tell this to anyone.

Ok, now let's witness the ceremony or else Ashu will suck our blood for sure.

Tell me about this ceremony na Sush?

Didi, it's a mehendi function. The older ladies in the house are applying mehendi on Ashu Didi palms and other ladies are blessing her.

Ok cool!

But Sush you should also be there with your sister na?

I can't.

Can't???? Sorry???

I mean see so much crowd how will I go there?

Hmmm ok not an issue.

Sush, can I ask you one thing?

Yes, Didi say.

What are these tiny huts made for?

She turned numb and threw such a glance at me as if the huts are cursed by some spirits or ghosts.

Sush? Sush???

 Didi, they are useless. You come with me. I will show you something interesting.

While I was following her I noticed her clothes. Simple, light coloured, a regular home wear dress I must say. Ashu belongs to an upper middle- class family. It's her sister's wedding and she is not decked up perfectly. Strange. Moreover, she used to be so perky during school days and now she is even hesitating to bring a trace of smile in her lips. I sensed something weird but unable to conclude what exactly was going on.

She took me to a wooden bridge hanging above a dark blue crystal clear shining river. It was sheer beauty. A mesmerising view at night. I could hear stream gurgling and wind whistling.

Muskan I love you. I shouted loud.

Sush was laughing hard. Didi, you are out of your mind. The whole village will listen to this. Shout slowly.

Sush Sush Sush you won't understand dear. This is a heaven for metro city dwellers like me. You stay here in this heaven you are so lucky. No tension, no pollution, so close to God and nature.

Saying this I turned around Sush. Her face turned gloomy.

What happens Sush? Not feeling well? Let's go back, dear.

No, I am fine Didi. Happiness and luck have nothing to do with nature and greenery Didi.

Are you trying to tell me something Sush?

Before she could have said anything to me, two hands from behind covered my eyes.

Who is this?

Guess madam?

Your voice is quite familiar. Ok, I caught you Vibhore.

Tall Dark Handsome, well-built physique, Vibhore was smiling at me. We three Ashu, me and Vibhore were best buddies since our college days.

Don't smile langoor and don't talk to me. I have called you so many times you never receive my call, don't even care to call back or leave a text.

Madam, I am working in Chennai for a year. Trust me both my boss and my job sucks.

Haan haan! Don't make excuses now. Did you meet Ashu?

No have tried to but the crowd didn't allow me to do so.

Ok, so we are the sailors of the same boat. Hahaha.

Musku Didi, Vibhore bhai, let's go back.

While we were about to move forward Vibhore hold my hand. Muskan you look damn pretty.

Really? But you look like langoor only.

Hey Musku what are these tiny huts?

Don't ask me that Vibhore. It's a mystery yaar even I am trying to unravel what they really are.

Didi, you enter the hall. I will just come within a minute. Got some work.

 Sushmita dropped us till the entrance of her home and went away.

The mehendi ceremony was finally over and the crowd dispersed. We entered the hall and Ashu was sitting there.

Oh my god Vibhore how are you? Ashu was surprised to see Vibhore

Three of us initiated our chatting session which went on till 12 in the night. Thanks to Smirnoff.

Ashu took us to the terrace of her home. We lit a bonfire and started our peppy gossip session.

From Ashus hubby to college days, my ex-boyfriend to Vibhore's recent breakup, honeymoon tips to saasu maa session, we discussed everything. Our moments of camaraderie lit up again with our gags and giggles, after a long time.

Ashu where is Sush? She told me she will join us soon. Its more than 3 hrs. Is she fine?

Ashu turned completely silent.

What happens Ashu? Vibhore asked her this time.

She started crying. With tears in her eyes and in a sobbing voice she said Musku, Sush is having her period cycle.

I started laughing at the top of my voice hearing this.

Ashu babu you are drunk. Stupid it's just menstruation cycle, not cancer moron. She will be fine.

To this Ashu started sobbing more. Now I sensed something wrong. Vibhore almost fell asleep. Only I and Ashu were awake.

What happens, dear? Why are you crying so badly? Is anything wrong with Sush? Look I personally know lots of gynecologist if Sush is going through some internal issues she will be fine.

No Musku no internal issue. My charming sister is perfectly fine but our traditions are sucking.

Traditions? What traditions?

Musku in Nepal we women are treated as slaves, impure in simple terms a piece of crap.

What are you saying Ashu? Say it properly. I am not getting you.

Please help Sush. Musku, I beg you please help her. That poor soul is terrified. It's her first time. Musku please help her. I can't believe my eyes Ashu was literally begging in front of me.

I was dumb stuck. What to say what not.

Ashu control yourself. Yes, I will help her but please explain to me everything properly. I promise I won't let anything bad happen to her. Trust me.

She was crying badly.

Look at me Ashu. Say what happened?

Musku, Sush. Sush!

Yes say Ashu

Ashmita?? Come down papa is calling you. Before she could say anything her mother called her down.

Let's leave Musku I will tell you everything later on. But till then don't leave Sush alone.

But where is Sush?

The ground beneath my feet swept away the moment Ashu pointed her finger towards one of the hut outside her home.

What???????

Ashmita come down dear. Her mother called her again and she went away in a hurry.

I was choked. Completely perplexed. What Ashu was trying to say? Babaji Sush is in some serious trouble. But how can I help her until I know the entire issue?

I quickly went up from my place and rushed towards the edge of the terrace to catch a glimpse of Sush. But she was not there.

Calm down Muskan. Don't panic you should speak to Ashu properly before getting into any sort of action.

Hrrrrrrrrr.

Crap we are so tensed and this moron is snoring high. I kicked his ass tightly with my left foot.

OMG, what a lazy ass no response.

I choose to sat there and wait for Ashu.

Muskan Vibhore wake up guys. Its 11 in the morning. Ashu woke us the next morning.

OMG when I fell asleep. I was waiting for you only Ashu.

Guys my haldi ceremony will begin in some time. Go and get ready.

Hrrrrrrrrr

Ufff Ashu give me that bucket of water. This moron is snorting for hours.

We splashed the entire bucket over him.

What the fuck. Are you gals out of your mind?

He was shouting and we were giggling badly.

Vibhore you should thank us. Now you don't have to take the trouble of bathing again.

Haahaha

Very funny. Silly girls.

He said and went towards his room.

I immediately grabbed Ashus hand and asked.

Ashu tell me, dear. What is wrong with Sush? What kind of trouble is she into?

Musku I can't tell you anything now. If anyone comes up I will be in trouble. You do one thing open Google and search for Chaupadi you will get all the details.

But a request don't do anything without consulting me.

Ashu rushed back downstairs for her ceremony.

Where the hell is my phone now? I searched the whole area but couldn't find it. Ohkk It must be in my room.

I jumped towards my room. There it was over my bed.

12 missed calls from Mumma. Shitt she must be tensed let me call her first.

Hello Mumma.

Muskan where were you bachcha? I called you so many times. Then, at last, I called up Ashu.

Oh great! So you had a word with Ashu. Hmmm

Mummy I will call you back. I am in the middle of something.

Okkkk beta take care.

I started surfing the net the very next moment.

"Chaupadi"

I was frozen. Here is what was written in that article which truly beat the shit out of me

"Chaupadi is a social tradition associated with the menstrual taboo in the western part of Nepal. The tradition prohibits Hindu women and girls from participating in normal family activities while menstruating, as they are considered "impure".

The women are kept out of the house and have to live in a cattle shed or a makeshift hut. This period of time lasts between ten and eleven days when an adolescent girl has her first period; thereafter, the duration is between four and seven days each month. Childbirth also results in a ten to eleven-day confinement. During this time, women are forbidden to touch men or even to enter the courtyard of their own homes. They are barred from consuming milk, yogurt, butter, meat, and other nutritious foods, for fear they will forever mar those goods. The women must survive on a diet of dry foods, salt, and rice. They cannot use warm blankets and are allowed only a small rug; most commonly, this is made of jute (also known as burlap). They are also restricted from going to school or performing daily functions like taking a bath.

Chhaupadi was outlawed by the Supreme Court of Nepal in 2005. (Source – Wikipedia)

Shitt man it's 2015 now, 10 years no change. What's wrong with people yaar?

Sushmita Sush Babaji shitt.

I ran hurriedly down the stairs and moved towards that hut. Sush was standing outside.

Without uttering a single word even, I hugged her tightly. Why you didn't tell me anything yesterday Sush.

Dear don't worry I am here. You are not alone. Don't panic. You don't have to stay here. Come along with me Sush

Musku di relax. I can't go anywhere. Don't touch me didi or else you will be cursed.

Sush, are you out of your mind? Cursed? Fool this is a scientific issue stupid. What curse has to do with it? C'mmon Sush, you are educated for God sake talk sense.

Didi, you don't know anything. Musku di, listen.

Shut up you listen to me Sush. Menstruation is a scientific issue. It is a process which is necessary for ovulation. That is it.

Curse, impurity, fuck man. This practice is simply inhumane. Women are not animal's Dumbo.

Musku what are you doing here. I heard an animal. Where is animal? Vibhore trudged towards us still yawning.

Sush went inside that hut.

Sush, come out dear listen to me.

What happens Muskan? Why Sush entered this hut?

I will explain you everything Vibhore but promise me you will help me out.

Help??? What happened Muskan?

Vibhore read this write up. I showed her the same article about Chaupadi.

What the fuck man? I can't believe people are still backward and that too so much. I pity their regressive mentality.

Vibhore Sushmita is in trouble. We have to help her. She is facing all these crap for the first time.

But what can we do Muskan? Look I understand this is sheer nonsense and inhumane practice but we can't stop this so- called tradition just in a flip of sec. I mean be realistic Muskan this is not a Bollywood masala movie. This is a reality. We have to deal with it tactfully. We will help out Sush but carefully so that the sentiments or beliefs of the people related to this particular tradition won't get hurt.

Sentiments? I mean are you kidding me Vibhore. Treating women like cattle. What kind of sentiment are you talking about man?

Muskan cool relax. Don't be so overdramatic. I can understand this is an ill practice but we have to accept it. We can't spoil Ashu's marriage. I am not denying to help Sush. I am just saying you to deal with this matter carefully.

Let's go from here now. We will sit down and think about it.

Hmmmmm.

Vibhore was sounding practical and logical. But my heart was still sinking. As being a girl I can relate to Susmita's condition more than him.

Vibhore Muskan beta hurry up. Ashu's haldi ritual has started come join us.

Her mother called us.

Vibhore, you carry on. I am in no mood to attend any function. Moreover, Ashu has requested me to be with Sush all the time. So I have to be with her.

Ok, Muskan you carry on. Stay here but I plead you do not do anything out of the box. Be calm and think 100 times before making any foolish move.

Uff please stop your sermon. Go and attend haldi function.

As Vibhore left the place making annoying and irritating gestures, I turned back to Sush.

Sush Sush dear come out. I need to talk to you. Ok, I promise I won't touch you nor will take you anywhere. Please come out.

After a few minutes, she came out.

Sush, let's go somewhere. I am new to this place. Won't you show me your town?

Hmmmm she just nodded her head in yes.

I accompanied her for some local sight seen without a bath, without even brushing my teeth.

Musku didi lets go to a nearby tea stall first. I know you. You must be hungry. Have some breakfast there and then we will go for some sight scene

Sush but I have not carried my money bag along with me.

Don't worry didi you don't have to pay anything. Tea stall aunty knows us very well. I will pay her later on.

Hearing this the rats jumping inside my stomach since long felt some relief.

Within moments she took me to a stall nearby.

Sush dear come sit beside me. Don't worry I won't touch you.

Hold this mobile. And read this article for me, please.

It was the article about all the myths and FAQs related to menstruation.

The article states:

Menstruation, also known as a period or monthly, is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina. The first period usually begins between twelve and fifteen years of age, a point in time known as menarche. However, periods may occasionally start as young as eight years old and still be considered normal. The average age of the first period is generally later in the developing world, and earlier in the developed world. The typical length of time between the first day of one period and the first day of the next is 21 to 45 days in young women, and 21 to 31 days in adults (an average of 28 days). Bleeding usually lasts around 2 to 7 days. Menstruation stops occurring after menopause, which usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. Periods also stop during pregnancy and typically do not resume during the initial months of breastfeeding.

Up to 80% of women report having some symptoms prior to menstruation. Common signs and symptoms include acne, tender breasts, bloating, feeling tired, irritability, and mood changes. These may interfere with normal life, therefore qualifying as premenstrual syndrome, in 20 to 30% of women. In 3 to 8%, symptoms are severe.

A lack of periods, known as amenorrhea, is when periods do not occur by age 15 or have not occurred in 90 days. Other problems with the menstrual cycle include painful periods and abnormal bleeding such as bleeding between periods or heavy bleeding. Menstruation in other animals occurs in primates, such as apes and monkeys, as well as bats and the elephant shrew.

The menstrual cycle occurs due to the rise and fall of hormones. This cycle results in the thickening of the lining of the uterus, and the growth of an egg, (which is required for pregnancy). The egg is released from an ovary around day fourteen in the cycle; the thickened lining of the uterus provides nutrients to an embryo after implantation. If pregnancy does not occur, the lining is released in what is known as menstruation - Reference Wikipedia.

She read the entire article with utmost dedication.

Thank you Musku di. But I am aware of most of the facts mentioned in this article. But there isn't any point of making me aware of these. People in our village are not ready to accept any new change. Change in thoughts, change in perception.

Dear, I understand it's not easy to change the thought process so easily but…

Suddenly our ears turned towards a commotion. Some villagers were running towards a direction in a frightening manner.

I think something has happened there Sush.

Yes, Musku Di. Let's check out. Come along with me.

But as we were about to move "Muskan Sush wait" Vibhore called us from behind.

Muskan Ashu is calling you. Let's go back.

Ohh okkk. Let's go back Sush.

Musku di you go along with Vibhore bhai I will just check out the matter here. Anyhow, I am not supposed to attend the ceremony so you carry on.

Take care Sush. And come back soon.

Don't worry Musku Di. I will be fine.

We proceeded towards the venue but my heart was thumping high. Babaji please be with Sush. She needs you.

Muskan chill dear. Sush will be fine. Hmmmm. We reached the venue. Ashu was waiting for us.

"Come madam please take some effort to apply haldi over my face and oblige me.

Arey sorry dear don't taunt me like this. I was with Sush dear"

The moment I uttered her name. A strange silence prevailed in that ambiance as if I said Osama Bin laden instead of Sush.

Muskan beta you can't apply haldi. Her mother said promptly.

But why aunty?

Because you have to take.....

Muskan mom wants to say that the auspicious time is over now. Ashu interrupted her mother and said.

Ohhh okkk. I nodded my head but I understood the matter was something else.

Suddenly Vibhore pulled me to a corner.

Dumbo why did you mention that you were with Sush. Aren't you aware that they consider the touch of Sush even as sheer impurity?

Ohhh shittt I forgot.

But Vibhore, where is Sush? She has not returned yet. I am getting tensed.

Stop worrying unnecessarily Muskan. Sush is a big girl. She can take care of herself.

Let's go to our room and get freshen up. Today is Ashu's marriage we have to get ready for the ceremony.

Hmmm. Okkk let's go. We took bath had our lunch and slept for a few hours as well.

It was 6 in the evening I woke up with sounds of music and drums.

Vibhore wake up lazy bone. Its 6. Marriage rituals are started. Get ready.

Ohhh hmmmm

Its 6 Sush must have returned. I quickly ran towards the window to sneak her.

But there wasn't anyone near the hut.

Goshh she has not returned yet. Babaji hope she is alright.

Vibhore Vibhore wake up. I shook him tightly.

What happens Musku?

Vibhore Sush has not returned till now. Its more than 4 hours.

What??

He got up quickly.

Muskan let's do one thing let's get ready ASAP and lets go down may be she is downstairs.

Hmmmm.

Getting ready in another half an hour we rushed towards Sush's hut. She was there this time. Sitting outside her hut sobbing, digging her face into her palms.

What happened Sush? Are you alright? I immediately ran towards her and hugged her tightly.

Musku di! She started crying more loudly.

Sush bachcha what happen please say?

Vibhore please bring some water.

Yes yes, wait. He rushed towards the wedding hall to get some water.

Meanwhile, I was trying harder to console her. Within a minute or so Vibhore came down with water.

Sush drink this beta. Have a sip

Sobbing loudly she somehow took a sip of water I wiped her tears and asked again what happened Sush tell me now?

Musku di one of my friend died.

Ohh shittt. I am sorry dear.

But how come Sush? Vibhore enquired.

Musku di! She again started crying badly.

She was also the victim of Chaupadi.

My whole body froze hearing this.

I left Sush's hand. My hands & feet started shaking. Couldn't believe what I heard.

Muskan Muskan are you alright? Vibhore jerked me again and again.

I hugged him tightly this time.

She died Vibhore. She died. Oh hell, man. We should leave this place. I want to go home I can't stay here. Oh God!

Musku why are you frightening? They won't hurt us.

Vibhore they will they will if they got to know that I am also menstruating.

They will kill me. I can't stay here. Let's go back please let's go back.

Muskan he bellowed loudly at me this time.

Keep quiet. Nothing will happen to us. And Sush will be fine too. If you remember Sush has told you today is the last day of her period's cycle.

We just have to be with her tonight. And as far as you are concerned no one knows that you are having your chums

What if they come to know Vibhore from the dustbin of my room? I was blabbering all nonsense.

Ok, calm down don't worry. You stay here with Sush. I am going to the room I will burn all the garbage of that bin. No one will know anything.

As Vibhore moved towards the room I cornered myself in a dark area. Sush even sat down outside her hut.

After a few moments Vibhore came back running towards us.

Ok no need to worry now I have disposed of everything. Let's do one thing lets bounce to Sunset point and spend the rest of the night there. I have booked a flight the next morning and our cabbie will pick us up by 4 in the morning. Its 11 now just the matter of 5 hrs.

Both of us, I and Sush nodded our heads in yes and three of us embarked on sunset point. We wanted to attend Ashus wedding ceremony but leaving Sush alone at this point of time when she is so much disturbed and frightened didn't make sense to us. We chose humanity over celebrations.

Reaching there we assembled ourselves over a wooden bench. Vibhore was smart enough that he carried a blanket from the room along with him

It was chilling cold and in that thin cropped choli and lehenga I was almost frozen.

Musku take this he wrapped that blanket all around me.

Vibhore please share this. It's pretty cold you will fall sick and we have a flight to catch up tomorrow morning.

Sush was wearing a woollen cardigan, being born and brought up in that climate she was accustomed to the chill which was cracking our bones.

Nerves breaking chill, a thin blanket, and our closeness. All the three factors were enough to ignite the fire within us.

While adjusting my duppatta my cold hands met his warm palm.

Oh my God Muskan your hands are so cold. Hold my hand yar let me rub them for some time you will feel better.

Before I could say anything he held my hand tightly and started rubbing my palms.

I felt a cuddling warmth in me and I rested my head over his shoulder, closing my eyes tight.

Suddenly I felt his warm breath over my face and I opened my eyes. He was very close to me kissing my face with his warm breath.

It was a moment and my lips quickly pounced towards his soft cushioned lips. Our tongues mingled instantly and we started to kiss each other softly and wildly.

His fingers somehow made their way towards my nude torso and I stopped.

Shittt. Getting up from that wooden bench I moved towards the railing of that point.

Musku I am sorry please come back here. Else you will fell ill.

Turning away my glance from him, I was trying to calm down my Kama senses. Ice cold breeze was kissing my face again & again which was igniting a fire within me.

A pat on my shoulder and all my efforts turned vague.

Musku I said I am sorry. If you don't want to sit there take this blanket and cover yourself properly.

He opened the blanket and was trying to wrap me inside it. Rough hair of his beard touched my soft cheeks and I closed my eyes again.

He started rubbing his cheeks against mine and softly placed a peck over my ears.

I instantly turned towards him, held his face tightly and started devouring his lips wildly this time. Our bodies were simmering in that minus temperature.

"Musku di", Sushmita's voice pushed us apart suddenly.

"Sush what happened, dear?

Nothing Di. Please sit by my side. I am scared.

Hey dear! Don't worry. We are here only. Won't let anything wrong happen to you.

Go to sleep dear. Close your eyes." I sat beside her as she wrapped her arms around me and rested her head over my lap.

Vibhore covered both of us with that thin blanket properly and helped himself with a fag to gain some heat.

I even fell asleep for some time and curled up myself in that wooden bench. "Musku wake up dear its 3.30." Vibhore patted my cheeks after some hours.

With drowsy eyes I noticed him shivering badly. "Vibhore please take this blanket now at least.

I am fine. I am going to the room to collect our baggages. You wait here with Sush. I have called up our cabbie. He is on his way, will be here by next 20 minutes.

Go safely Vibhu.

Don't worry Musku. There isn't any danger for me. I am not a menstruating woman".

Though he uttered this mockingly it pinched me. Strange but true.

"Musku di". Sush even woke up.

"Good morning dear.

Thank you, Di for your support.

It's alright sweetie but Sush you have to face this fucking tradition every damn month. How will you cope with it?

I don't know Di.

But I know Sush. Be strong and make your family understand all the nuances properly. Look I know it's not easy to change the mindset of people instantly it will take time and you have to fight a tough battle but for your self-respect and safety, this battle is the must.

Being an educated girl you have to be a true rebel sweetie. No one will be there to help you. But if you succeed you will give new life to all the females residing here who have been suffering since ages with this malpractice.

I will try Didi."

Sush was not sounding confident and I could understand why. It's not easy. Yes, it's not easy.

"Musku here is your baggage mam and some biscuits and banana which I stole from the dining area."

"Ohhh heaven! I am damn hungry. Thank you.

You can thank me later on. Let's gobble the food now."

All three of us jumped over the food and gobbled everything within sec.

"Hey, our cab arrived."

We hugged Sush and geared up for our return journey back to Kolkata.

As the car moved across the serpentine hills my mind flashed all the events that happened in the last few days.

With blank eyes full of questions I looked at the blue numb sky. Our cab crossed another chhaupadi, two women sitting outside them were staring me. The numb blank emotions of their eyes were reflecting their soul. 

Immediately turning away my glance from them I closed my lids tightly.

Thank you Babaji I uttered softly after a moment gazing the sky still staring me in that same numb helpless manner.

Prisoners of Soul

Withered, Shriveled, Scattered Lifeless Soul 

Wandering across a fallow shore

Oh, Lord! What can quench this prolonged thirst?

Those eyes constantly nudging her wounds,

Oh heck, it bleeds again!

Who will heal this pinching pain?

 Tore apart a bit a bit,

With lust and greed, sham & creed,

The demonic eyes pierced her rags,

God, that fire burnt her pride, Hell! What a shameful deed!!

Writhing & moaning the infinite grief,

Neath the blanket of silence, lies a thumping soulless heart

Darkness can't be her destiny,

After all, she was a beautiful soul,

Who just bloom out of that divine cocoon?

Wandering here and there, trying to spread her wings,

Why thou chopped her tiny wings?

Brutally so much, why?

Creeping on the earth like worms,

Bare body bare soul,

No shame no fear,

No loss to gear,

Her soul is withering, scattering, shriveling

Drops and drops splattered far and wide,

Her fortune decreed in red,

She is mortified.........

 

To Be Continued-------------------

Reference

BBC News 10^th Jan 2019: A Nepali mother and her two children have been found dead after the woman was banished to a "menstruation hut".