The Casanova's Wife

His parents fished out the prettiest girl's photograph from the huge collection. As planned, the girl was from a village, far removed from the maddening city.

The fact that their son had been a Casanova of sorts all his life, was a different story altogether. The son could involve in multiple affairs and girlfriends but the daughter-in-law had to be perfect. Traditional, adhering to the Indian culture, bowing down meekly to her husband's demands. And who would understand our traditions better than a village belle?

A few days into the wedding and the new rural bride displayed her frustration. She refused to tolerate her husband's late night parties, his long chats on phone, his indifference towards her.

"You are from a village, you are supposed to be traditional, obedient. How dare you quarrel with me, your husband? I married someone like you so I could live my life with no questions asked. Where is your culture, your SANSKAAR, has nobody taught you to follow your husband?" he screamed in the middle of a fight one day.

"Yes I am from a village and my culture tells me that in any marriage, the wife happens to be an equal partner. The traditions in my family don't dictate me to obey my husband blindly and endure his nonsense. I strongly believe in the institution of marriage, so to keep it going, I am prepared to give it a chance. Provided, I am respected and treated like your partner. But if that does not want you want, then my rural upbringing doesn't bind me to you, I'll bid goodbye forever. " she spoke loud and clear.