Sunday, May 30, 2010

Death

Missing kinfolk a minute drives us mad

We search every nook and corner.

Without seeing them,

our heart even misses a beat.

But we still remain confident,

because we know we will meet them again.

But

When they lie in front of us lifeless

Can we say we will meet them again?

Why did they disappear suddenly?

Are they bored of earthly life?

Where do they go?

Did we hurt them?

Who will resolve my questions?

Shalini Samuel

Departure

Parting a person with a hope

We can meet again

Brings tears in our eyes

What will happen while,

Parting a person suddenly

Knowing we can never

Meet them again

Shalini Samuel

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Blue Angel - Chapter 4

Previous Story...

Drizzly moonless night with pin drop silence would have enthralled me, if my mind wasn’t turbulent like sea. Theft case was pondering me a lot. How can a person steal from a closed room? Now, I too felt, it would have been some witchcraft work. I felt shameful of not getting any clue in this mysterious case. Initially, I doubted Sathya, that’s why was shocked knowing Reshma was his friend. Today evening, I met Reshma and had a casual talk with her. She was so friendly and lovely. I asked about Sathya too. She said, she met him in a book exhibition first and then at a singing competition. He was a good Classical singer. “We are friends for about five years, he has been a very good friend of mine”, was her quick statement.

After talking to blue angel, I was forced to remove Sathya from my suspect list. Mrs Jayaram cannot be doubted as she is a very soft weak lady; how can she lift those big shutters? One possibility is someone could have stolen the keys, used it and replaced it perfectly. Mr. Jayaram believes the keys remained undisturbed. Even inside the shop, there weren’t any signs of disturbance. If these were all true, what would have happened that mysterious night?

After dinner dad sat near me and touched my hands gently. I turned towards him. He smiled back with a question in his eyes.

“What happened dear? Why do you look so disturbed?”

I detailed dad about the mysterious theft case in Crimson Street.

“Don’t worry my son; you will surely crack this case. Be confident dear. Try to bring out what you have seen and heard today. Jot it down on a piece of paper as though you are taking notes. Read it again and again. You may get a clue. Your guess may be right or wrong. Investigate your guess, may be this will lead to additional information regarding the thief. My intuition says thief is somewhere near.”

I felt enthusiastic hearing my dad’s words of encouragement. This idea seemed to be good. Rather than being blank, gathering more details in relation to this theft might help me.

Next morning with a clear mind I read the paper once again loudly.

“Satish got down from his Indica, the first thing he saw was a gold-plated mini car parked in front of Sathya Jewellers. As Satish walked in, he could see the cash counter on the left, next to it was the bangles section. Bangles were neatly arranged in the showcase. Opposite to bangles section was earrings and rings section and in between there were separate sections for Necklaces, Chains and miscellaneous jewels. Small ventilators were closed using iron bars. Through a small door in the cash counter we can enter into the office. Office was neatly arranged with ten blue chairs for visitors. A large office desk had a group photograph of the employees along with Mr. and Mrs.Jayaram. Mr.Jayaram was sitting on rolling chair. There were three files on the right of the table arranged in order. A pen stand near the files was holding two Parker pens and a pencil in it. The only outgoing door was the shutters at the front of the shop.

Closed Circuit Television camera didn’t give any clue; there was a power cut that night due to some problems in the transformer. Varun said there was no way to doubt the staff. Everyone is from far off places and they left the premises immediately after closing the shutters. There wasn’t a way for them to gain access to the key. Moreover they were getting good salaries and Jayarams treated them as their own family members. They were so subservient to the Jayarams. Reshma’s certificate for Sathya said he is a good responsible boy. Mr.Jayaram didn’t have any doubts on his family or his employees. According to watchmen and neighbors’ words, they didn’t find anything doubtful.”

After my loud reading, some doubts and guesses arose in my mind. Again I took another piece of paper and started writing my deductions.

Will be continued...

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Blue Angel - Chapter 3

Previous Story

As my car traveled forward, my thoughts traveled backward. My evergreen childhood memories lined up in front of my eyes. I my mom and dad lead a very happy life in our peaceful lake side villa. My dad was a police inspector. I felt very proud of his big moustache; he had very broad shoulders and was so taller giving him a majestic look. He used to carry me on his shoulders during our evening walks. He was my guide, well-wisher, care-taker and whatever it may be. We used to share everything during our walks. He used to be hearing with utmost patience all my childhood blabber. I wonder will I be so kind with my children.

My mom showered her utmost care and kindness on me. She never scolds me, prepares sweet dishes for me, teaches me and dresses me up like King. Most days, she used to do my home-works. When I was 8 years old, we had a new addition in our family. Christened Akshaya she was the queen of our family. Akshaya’s first birthday was celebrated with pomp and gaiety. On one fine Monday, everything turned into turmoil. I couldn’t understand anything. My mom was hospitalized. I knew nothing, Akshaya was not at home. I sat lonely with my mom in the hospital. She didn’t talk to me. Her panic-stricken face stayed in my heart forever.

Later that evening, I knew that Akshaya has been kidnapped by someone. Mom got paralyzed on knowing it. She was in bed for few more years and then closed her eyes peacefully. Dad tried all legal ways to find Akshaya, but every attempt was futile. I don’t even remember my sisters face now. Dad still believes she is alive. I have lost all my hopes on Akshaya.

I slowed down my Indica as I entered Crimson Street. A stout man was standing tensed in front of Sathya Jewelers. Two men in police attire were questioning him. He was answering them patiently, with brimming tears in his tiny eyes. Varun said, “Meet Mr.Jayaram, proprietor of Sathya Jewelers”. I smiled at him and said”I am Satish”. Hearing my name his face became bright; he welcomed me and took me inside the showroom. Meanwhile the police had left. They had finished all the legal formalities. I know they wont be doing anything more. They have completed their work.

Jayaram a man at his fifties looked me through his tiny eyes. He was thinking whether this small boy could find the thief. I gave a majestic smile, so as to remove his fear and tenderly asked, “What happened yesterday Sir? Do you suspect any one?”

Jayaram thought for a while and said “No Sir. I don’t have enemies.”

Yesterday’s mysterious tale goes on like this.

At 9.00 after closing the sales, manager Karthikeyan checked all workers as usual. Before that the sales details and the stock available were checked manually by Karthikeyan. Everything was intact. None was missing. All workers came out of the showroom the grill and the big wooden shutter were put on. Jayaram checked the locks before leaving with the key. He placed the key in his personal drawer near his bed and closed it. Today morning took the key and opened the showroom. When we entered precious diamond crown and a diamond necklace set are missing. Sales woman Kala found it immediately, as she entered her section. No sales had been done till then and no third person had entered the showroom. All workers were once again checked. The key or the lock was undisturbed.

I thought for a while and asked details about Jayaram’s family. He is living with his wife and only son Sathya. No other people are with them. I queried” Don’t you have a watchman Sir?” He said”Yeah, watchmen are there in our showroom as well as in our home. They didn’t see any miscreants or doubtful persons.” I casually asked him “What’s your son doing Sir? Can I meet him?” He informed his manager to call Sathya. He was standing out discussing about the theft with his friends.

A happy young man in his twenties entered the showroom. He was so handsome. Hair colored golden brown added more beauty to his blue tee-shirt. He didn’t seem to be worried about the chaos. I asked “Hai Sathya, I need to ask you some questions regarding the theft. Will you co-operate with me?”. He gave a prompt reply” Sure Sir. Its my pleasure.”

“Have you entered college young man.” I was sure he is studying in some college, just to make him proud of his young look, I asked him in such a manner.

With pride filled eyes he answered “I am doing my final year in engineering Sir.”

“Where were you yesterday night?”

His face turned pale for a second, I smiled at him as though I haven’t noticed it. He continued, “I went for cinema with my friends Sir.”

“Fine Sathya, will you please give me a tour of your showroom”

“It’s my pleasure Sir. Come with me”

I moved with Sathya and signaled Varun to inquire the workers in the showroom. Showroom was painted blue with pink curtains. Was so pleasant and colorful. I inquired, “Sathya who is the interior decorator for your showroom. It looks so beautiful.” Sathya smiled sheepishly and said “It was designed by me and my girlfriend Sir. She likes pink and I blue Sir and so we used this combination.” I smiled and didn’t disturb him with more questions. I noted all the things in the showroom. Theft case really seemed to be confusing.

It was already ten minutes past two and I decided to leave. Already my hunger has crossed its limit. As I walked out of the showroom with Varun and Sathya, I was shocked to see BLUE ANGEL once again. She was getting down from the Lancer and was coming towards Sathya Jewelers. Seeing me and Varun, her lips expanded little expressing a smile. Varun said,”Hai Reshma, why are you following us today? And don’t you know that Sathya Jewelers was robbed yesterday? Today you can’t do any purchase.”

Reshma modestly said “Sir, I haven’t come for purchase. I came here to meet my friend, Sathya.”

My heart nearly broke and I stood stumbled.

Will be Continued...

Monday, May 17, 2010

Blue Angel-Chapter 2

Previous Story...

Grandpa looked deep into my eyes and started giving me the details. I sharpened my ear and looked at him eagerly.

“Reshma is my elder-brothers grand-daughter. She will be staying here till she finishes her bachelors in Medicine”, his reply came bluntly. I thought he would say more, but he remained silent. I was bit shy to ask more regarding her. Out of my curiosity, I asked “Where is she doing her bachelors?”

He reluctantly replied, “ In Government Medical College. She will be attending classes by next week“.I guessed that Reshma would be staying here as college was nearer to the bungalow. I understood, I couldn’t get more words regarding this subject from grandpa. So safely changed the topic to Amit. We were talking about Amits parents. It was already 9:11 and still they haven’t returned from church. There was no other way, I had to return to office.

Back in office, my secretary had come and he was waiting for my presence. I understood he has some important news for me. As I came in I queried “Varun whats the matter? Anything serious?”

He informed me about an abnormal theft that took place in Crimson Street the previous day. It seemed to be something extra ordinary as the shop remained undisturbed and locks were bolted, but the things inside disappeared. Rumors too started spreading that it was work of some evil effect. So I decided to go to the spot to investigate more regarding the theft. Before leaving I checked the revolver in my inner pocket.

While returning from Crimson Street, I saw Amit standing in front of an ice-cream parlor. I slowed my car and shouted “ Hai Amit. Happy birthday”. Got down and walked to him. I haven’t bought any presents for him. Gave him 500 Rupees and asked him to buy whatever he wishes. He happily hugged me and said “ Thankyou Uncle. I won’t spent this money. I will keep it safe with me, in remembrance of you”. I was really moved by his answer, tears flooded my eyes. I lifted him and kissed him.

I asked him “Why are you standing here Amit? Where is Blue Angel?” He looked at me puzzled.” Oh Sorry, Where is Reshma?”

Amit said she was inside the parlor and she would come after paying the bills. Meanwhile Reshma came there. This is the first time, I am seeing her face, so near. Sculpted long nose was the first thing I saw. It was so pointed. Her eyes were so innocent. She gave me a broad smile. Today she was clad in blue sari. I introduced myself “ I am Satish, I am running a private detective agency. My office is opposite Amit's residence”.

Blue Angel smiled and started speaking. The voice was so musical; it seemed to be a very familiar voice. I am sure, I have heard this voice before. She said”Nice to meet you, Sir. I am Reshma. I am doing my MBBS in Govt Medical college”. I couldn’t here any of her words. I smiled mechanically. She turned back to Varun and started talking with him. I was scratching my head to know about that musical voice. My mind said” You have heard this voice before. You know her “. With a heavy heart, I moved away from the place

Will be continued...

Childs Play

Of His largesse imperial games,

adored spherical aqua ball.

Whirling it excited Him.

Packed with water and sand;

Decorated it green with trees ;

Placed vibrant flowers everywhere;

Multihued fruits ornate trees;

Everywhere green and blue,

made His eyes dull.

Placed dynamic lively dolls;

Puppet shows played everywhere;

Emotional dolls danced according to His wish;

Remotely controlled every progress ;

Active and alert are His moves.

And dear Creator,

in your childs play,

kindly compose my puppet show,

with love and care

making it a grand success.

Blue Angel - Chapter 1

As I gazed outside my office window, I saw a bubbly teenage girl walking swiftly. She was of wheatish complexion with bright eyes and dark, thick hair.  So vibrant was she in her blue salwar and I couldn’t take off my eyes from her. Something was peculiar in her. Her face was so calm and bright, that everyone would wish to respect her. My eyes swallowed her, she was about to cross my visible area, it seemed to me as though I was missing my life. I was about to curse my eyes for not being able to view through obstacles. Wow! This is what people say luck. Today luck was in favor of me. She just slowed down and I peeped to find what’s she going to do. She steadily walked down the lawn of a nearby bungalow.

I haven’t seen her before. The bungalow belongs to a rich businessman who is also my family friend. He is living there along with his grandson. I really wondered why she went there. No work was done that day as I couldn’t move my eyes from the window. It was time to leave office. So hesitantly, I packed my bag, took my key and walked out of my office. As I walked towards my red Indica I glanced into the bungalow, my blue angel and Amit were playing chess. Amit used to be standing near the gate with the gardener, whenever I leave office. He used to give me a broad smile, whenever he sees me. Amit’s parents are living in America. He is here in the comforts of his lovely grandpa. Amit longed for kindness and care from his parents. Being a very naughty and intelligent boy, he has stolen the hearts of all in the bungalow.

Blue Angel may be grandpa’s relative and she would have come here to look after Amit. This was the thought running in my mind. I went home happily, as I could have a glimpse of my blue angel even for the days to come. The next day I got up early and prepared for office. Dressed in red shirt and jeans, I felt I was smarter than ever before. With a brown leather bag in my left hand, I bolted my door and came out. The day was so hot, I got into the driving seat and switched on the air condition. As I crossed my street I turned on the stereo. Celine Dion’s That’s the way it is, filled the air. Luckily because of fewer traffic, I reached office before 8:30. Grandpa was leisurely sitting on the verandah in his usual white and white outfit and was just looking through the paper uninterestedly. I locked my car and walked towards the bungalow. As I opened the gate, grandfather saw me.

He laid down the paper and wished me “Good morning lad”. I smiled back with a good morning in my lips. I just looked around casually, trying to have a glimpse at my blue angel. Couldn’t find any traces of Amit or Blue Angel in the surroundings. I asked  “Grandpa, where is Amit?”

Grandpa replied “Amit has gone to the church. Today is Amits seventh birthday. My son and daughter-in-law wished him through mail. Amit is very angry that his mom and dad hadn’t come home for this birthday too. He refused to attend the call from my son Deepak. Reshma only pacified him and took him to the church. “

Oh! Reshma, sweet name, I thought myself and asked grandpa “Who is Reshma, grandpa?”. I was curious to know more details about her. He smiled and his face started exhibiting lot of wrinkles as though he is going to roll back the time wheel. I started to prepare myself for a good old flashback.

Will be Continued....