My grandpa dissuaded us from getting on these rickshaws, as it felt cruel to have a human pull your weight. By refraining, we deprived the rickshaw-puller of his income. But there is no end to certain ethical dilemmas. Then, came the cycle-rickshaw which was also a novelty for us. We had none of those in … Continue reading Humanity
At the fag end of life, I wonder why I did whatever I did, and what could have happened on the path not taken. I strained authenticity to prove a point to people who didn’t matter, and never stood by me. I followed rules which made no sense to me. A few approving glances came … Continue reading Masked
A large collage in vivid colours strikes the eye, as soon as one enters the living room. Undoubtedly, it’s been a labour of love to put together pieces that seemingly don’t match, but come together to write poetry on the wall. Grandma refuses to let go of this, though the rest of the house is … Continue reading Textures
Eyes – piercing, accusing, tormenting glances surround her spewing fire, till she shuts her own eyes to escape the lethal impact, and moves inward to find strength within. Eyes – watch with trepidation as the cross on her shoulders breaks to transform into artistic patterns and tells a story – a story which they do … Continue reading Eyes
Happy runs fast as he chases something I can’t see. He looks frustrated about missing a target. I realise it’s a housefly he can see across the glass of sliding doors. I wonder if the life we lead is a ‘mislife’ or missed life – something that exists outside a glass window, but is unreachable. … Continue reading Mis-life
It's a night of reminiscing and sharing. The campers are all above 60 years of age. Mona strums her guitar around the fireplace, while Aatish grills chunks of meat, veggies and fruits. Bernie is a little low, as she has to vacate the rented apartment next month, with no alternatives in sight. Karishma poses a … Continue reading Never say die
“Geometric magnificence with tiny imperfections gives so much character to the building. I’d like to come back to this place.” “This is the seventh time you are visiting, and you haven’t found the person you are looking for.” “This is what gives me so much character ….”, She smiles wryly. “Hey, come out of the … Continue reading Story-driven
The live-in relationship of Jane and Austin had some strings attached. Both were free to use each other’s financial assets and resources on the condition that every dime was returned if they decide to separate. Months later, Austin is arrested on charges of credit card fraud, and she is only one of his victims. “Everything … Continue reading Unsecured loans
A strange sense of peace descends on her. She struggles to get comfortable with it, and then realises that struggle is what she has eliminated from life. She’d forgiven everyone and emptied her home. Of all that gave it meaning, seemingly happy moments destroyed by sarcasm, creative efforts downgraded by derision and a denial of … Continue reading Soil
yellow lights dot a sky which isnot yet darkpessimistic shadows show shapesfamiliar, yet scaryunrealistic, but stonedto stoke fears of what is probablewhat can happenfrom a particular perspective those yellow lights look like signals from heavento someone who can’t sleepin fear of being overtaken, overpoweredby rivals, enemies or competitorsbut knows there’s a way out theresomewhereeven if … Continue reading Not Again
Creative Experiments and More 