The After Marriage Call

Ma smiles whenever she receives that call. That particular call is always more important than her work. She doesn’t roll the edges of her sari or plays with her curls when over the call, but she is elated. She stops by for few minutes in every room while attending her work, she forgets she was busy.

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She complains about how naughty the younger son is to delay his homework and avoid tuitions. She argues how callous her elder daughter is regarding her career and recites prayers for her success. She goes on to tell about how the maid didn’t turn up for the 3rd day in a row, the pressure she faces in school as a teacher and pacifies by saying that at least she is earning.

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She shares everything over the call, she has too. Those thirty minutes, the entire house witnesses her broadest smiles. And when Maa smiles, the house lits up. It becomes a home where we all now know, we can escape a scolding today.

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Maa has been married for 25 years now but only that person can cheer her up like a kid with bags full of candies and toys.

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After all, only for a mother, you remain a child forever, that child who rants, argues, scolds and cries in the same lap. That lap where sleep is pious and the shared laughs like Christmas carols.

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So, one day I told Ma when I get married and be miles away from you, I will wait for your call. I will giggle and jump around the house, tell you the umpteen time that I have had my meal, listen about your kitty parties and how Papa forgets to take his medicines. She chuckled while hugging me.

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"Maa, it’s been 5 years, I am still waiting for your call. Maa, my marriage is not a mistake. I am sorry for not obeying you but Rizwaan is a nice guy. He really keeps me happy and loves me a lot. Please hear me out once. Mariyam keeps asking why I don't celebrate the happiest part of my day like you did." I send a voice message, cutting the call with a sob.