Haunted

Over the years weeds and wild shrubs had completely taken over the abandoned house, creating a niche for the snakes and other creatures and that was what was so fascinating about the house. It stood like a reminder of better times that had prevailed in the neighborhood.

It was after Mohan' s death that the house started collapsing.People said it was his curse that no humans should live in there. He was a snake charmer and often handled snakes.They said he loved them dearer than life.I knew of the story from my friends and was always curious how a large plot like this could be left vacant.

"Some one has just bought the plot for a very low price from one of the caretakers. Mohan died a childless widower. No idea if the person will rebuild this place", uncle said as we passed the house.We often took walks in the evening and talked about things.Vacation time was also fun time with my uncle, when he was not in one of his more ominous moods.

"But you think all the creatures including some birds will lose their home?" I asked.

"They are wild anyway, they will find some place,"he replied.

We saw a tall person walking towards the house and he waved at us.

"Hello, I am Shyam and just bought this plot. I came to have a look at the area", he said.

After a brief introduction I blurted out,"Are you not afraid of the Jinx?"

"I am, that is why I bought it," he said.

"I did not understand", I said.

"Whether or not the place is cursed, it is a habitat for these creatures. With land prices going up, sooner or later it will get sold. So I bought it", Shyam replied.

"I did not understand," I looked inquiringly at him.

"I will make only small changes like planting a few more trees and a little bit of remodeling, so this can serve as a refuge for wildlife. I have no one after me either.And after that the plot will go to the village property with a condition that it will never be used for any construction," Shyam said.

We bid him goodbye.

"Phew", I looked at uncle and remarked,"the jinx sure helped the creatures."

"Yes, I just saw a snake slither by", he said as we walked..

I could see uncle smile.He always smiled when animals were cared for.