Laali

It was a hectic day; as I had to cover three long route cities including Indore, Ujjain & Omkareshwar in a single day; starting from Delhi, with my best companion, my Mother.

However, the day was passing by and after visiting holy temple of Omkareshwar, we wanted to relax and store energy before we could proceed further for our next destination.

Feeling hungry, we discovered a small dhaba, (roadside restaurant) nearby and walked down. It was a sweet little place serving tea, coffee, cold drinks and mouth watering snacks. We grabbed our chairs, adjusted ourselves and filled our stomach . We were tired but, were mentally relaxed too; as our journey was almost successful after visiting Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar.

Indore, was our last halt; after which next day we had to proceed back to our origin. While having tea, I saw a small girl standing in front of me and smiling. Firstly, I thought she is demanding anything. So, looking at her innocent gesture, I approached her & held her hands. She wasn’t scared and continued her smile. Asking her name she replied in a sweet voice “ Laali”. A three and a half year old dusky girl, quite confident, fearless and cheerful.

The old man serving us tea and snacks informed us, Laali, is his granddaughter. Also, he pointed to a lady wearing shabby saree; he said to be his daughter in law. She was making tea inside dhaba, she also smiled at me. I was feeling delighted with their innocent motions & the way they all were happy and cheerful. I offered cold drink to the little girl and she happily accepted my offer but her grandfather stopped her saying that it is for didi (me). Also, he got bit agitated and reminded her not to take anything from customers and also suggested to ask her mother for any requirements.

Laali turned to me and smiled again. What a purity in the act really! I asked Laali, if she would come with me to Delhi for which she nodded her head in yes. Her mother and grandfather started laughing loudly. Now, sitting in my lap, I also told Laali that, I will be sending her to school. Her grandfather replied, “beta we are already sending Laali school”.

After that, the poor old man told his story in short. “We are poor, my son works in a factory and my daughter in law helps me in dhaba. But we are earning enough to send her school, we will educate her and make her “Memsaab” like you."

His words, really touched my heart. I became little emotional. In today's world, where poor community is forcing kids to beg, killing girl child, this family is of such a positive thought. They are working hard & living with dignity. They are imparting good manners and nurturing the kid with so much positivity. I was amazed. I stayed there for couple of minutes, listened to what the old man said. While returning back, I offered Laali few candies, this time she looked at her grandfather who permitted her to accept, little token of love. She smiled and took all the candies and waved me a goodbye.

I felt a connection with Laali in the little span of time. It looked like, I had a strong bond and relation with her. I left unwillingly from there with a hope to visit the place again and see Laali changed, a grown up girl going school and chasing dreams of her family. This incident is very close to my heart and it changed my perception completely. I appreciate the thought of Laali’s grandfather and wish our people to follow it. Our country will be different and more beautiful.

Be the change.

Spread Happiness Always