The Thief's Brother

Hema and his brother Puma were orphaned before reaching teenage, they earned their living by working at road side dhaba and running errands for small shopkeepers. They slept on footpaths, park benches or temple stairs as the small hut owned by their parents were taken over by their own uncle. Hunger and dishonesty of people made Puma two-faced, while Hema started as a helper to a washerman and in a small span of time he had his own pushcart stationed in a lane where he ironed clothes. Puma often joked 'we brothers have iron and steel business, my brother irons and I steal'. Puma working in Dhaba would steal food and give away to the poor kids, he would sell flowers near a Temple and steal footwear handing out to the poor.

One unfortunate morning Puma while stealing shoes was caught in the act by police, was taken to police station beaten up and then let go. Hema was furious as Puma's act influenced his business and he was labeled thief's brother. But, his heart knew Puma was an emotional fool and the only family he had. Hema offered Puma to work with him and do what he wished with his earning. Puma readily accepted the offer.