When Life Asks Questions

Sitting on the bank of Hooghly river, Raktim thinks and sobs. The pink sunlight was falling on the dwindling waves of the river and with this reflection of sunshower, the waves dazzle. It is a calm and serene environment. Far on the horizon, along the river, boats were floating. As it is a part of the Ganga, the river is considered holy by not only Bengalis but by Indian people living in any part of India. It is told its water purifies the soul, frees the soul of a person from the bondage of the earth. But Raktim is in no mood to either enjoy the sensational panoramic view of nature or to perceive the glorious holiness of the watercourse. He is sobbing at a stretch, he is sinking and sinking in the ocean of melancholiness and depression.

Raktim's parents got separated five years ago. After divorce, none was ready to take his responsibility. Then as a messenger of God, came his maternal Grandfather and he told that if nobody would care for this lonely boy, he would himself take the responsibility of his very own favorite grandson. Days were going well, but now the situation has got changed and become precarious.

Last year, his GrandPa's soul departed for Heaven and the last advice he gave to Raktim was not to put his head down in any situation, just fight and fight to the last breath, be honest. Very soon the golden days would come. Now Raktim works in an IT firm. His salary isn't that high, but he is a hard-working employee. Always he gets appreciations from his manager and hopes to be promoted very soon.

But the current situation is quite wearisome, quite gargantuan. And currently, Raktim can't find any way out of this situation, he is feeling like just a fish out of water. His mother has fallen ill. Now the responsibility of that mother who was never ready to accept responsibility for her own child falls on his shoulders. With the low salary and the responsibility of his family falling over her shoulders, it becomes very tough for Raktim to make ends meet. And there are some so-called 'kith and kin', who in lieu of supporting morally or financially in that toughest time, always criticize him, mock at his salary, job status. Yesterday night, his uncle had phoned him and scolded in very rough language for not looking after his mom. He had got deeply hurt. And this very uncle even hasn't spent a penny for his sister. It is easier said than done.

The cool breeze and the pristine waves remind Raktim of Oindrila, his childhood friend. With the passage of time, the sweet friendship of his Oindri has been rendered into his love interest. When in the topsy turvy situation, no one is standing beside him, Oindrila always supports him, encourages him, inspires him with her motivating words. She always tells Raktim that he has great potential and he should look for a better opportunity. One day the whole situation will change.

Raktim can remember the wonderful moments he spent with his Oindri in the beautiful parks in the wonderful season of the Rituraaj Spring in the good times. Sunflower, marigold, lilac, daffodil, tulip and the symbol of love - rose were in the full bloom. The southern wind was blowing and whispering in the air about the songs of love. And on a fresh watery afternoon, once when he and Oindri were sitting in the park, and near somewhere a cuckoo was singing the divine song. The sun was just about to set and the whole environment was filled with a unique aroma of romance. Raktim was lost in Oindrila's deep and dark eyes, he was lost in her crimson red lips, he was obsessed with her dark glossy hairs. He was trying to disclose his feelings in words but failed. But Cupid played his part. He took the hold of Oindri's soft hands and suddenly kissed her lips passionately. Oindrila was dazed and stunned. But she responded about her feelings very quickly. Soon they got stuck in a wild embrace.

Oh, the memories are so good! Raktim thinks and thinks. Then he decides. He must have to prove himself, at least for his very own lady love.

Seven years have passed. Beautifully dressed and with a gracious smile on the faces, all have gathered in the engagement party of the IAS Officer Raktim. Surrounded by friends and well-wishers, Raktim placed the engagement ring on the ring finger of the left hand of his inamorata Oindri. Slowly Oindrila says, "Thank you for the grand surprise. I am proud of you." Raktim answers, "When life asks so many questions, I am grateful to have that sweetest friend. And that is you. I am surely proud of you. You define not only the true meaning of love but the true meaning of friendship also."Then they both burst out laughing.