Maya is the CEO of a bank, headquartered in Bombay, who hails from a backward state in India. She recollects how she often felt stifled by the village's traditions. Her doting grandmother, cherished the old ways. One evening, Maya confided, "I want to explore the world.” Grandma smiled gently, "I once felt the same. But … Continue reading Overwhelmed
Welcome to the last Challenge of 2024! The next one will appear on 4th Jan'25. PROMPT #360 Images sourced from Pixabay We have two images to fire your imagination in the next three weeks. If you can connect the two, that would be fine. If you cannot, you may choose to write two separate pieces. … Continue reading Reena’s Xploration Challenge #360
If old benches and bikes remind you of grandparents, think again. Ascending those creaky stairs is daunting, but I make the journey with resilience. The space at the top may be modest, but it's all I need to thrive—a bed, a microwave, a chair, and a table with a reading lamp. The bike parked below … Continue reading A star – yet to be born
The teacher had this nasty habit of writing test scores on the board. The toppers enjoyed the applause for sure, but many secretly wished it was not all put out in the open. Why should everyone know he prefers playing with his dog to solving algebra equations? Nobody cares to know that he draws and … Continue reading My teacher will disagree
The red sari that widows are not allowed to wear mocked her whenever she peeked into her present wardrobe of pastels. “You are still young,” said someone, looking at her hopefully. She did not want to be trapped in a marital bond again, not after having experienced bliss in a solitary existence. “I’ll gift this … Continue reading The Red Sari
Personification is distinct from personal recognition. One is a mere image, the other a true understanding. When you personify, you translate my essence into an image that you have of me and eulogise or worship me. You have placed aquatic creatures that do not belong here, and I can sense their discomfort. You drew stars … Continue reading Personification
We are a network of people with a common ideal —tourists should always return with a positive impression of our beloved city. We formed a non-profit organisation to ensure their journeys were joyous and smooth. It wasn't very reassuring that memories faded as they returned to their own lives. Forgotten, we linger in the shadows … Continue reading Appreciation
“Ensure you don’t repeat the same mistakes you always do”. “You are talking about the image you have of me, not the real me,” Amina's voice quivered, revealing the depth of her struggle. Tim was nonplussed for a moment. For the past few years, he had been locked in a relentless battle with himself, each … Continue reading Shadow-boxing
Welcome back! Well, 358 is not a milestone, and I wish the number was a round figure like 350 or 400. But it is Thanksgiving Day! I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you. Together, we have reached an incredible milestone of 357 episodes of our weekly writing prompt. Your creativity, dedication, … Continue reading Reena’s Xploration Challenge #358
The old woman kept repeating stories about the saddest parts of her life, cribbing, complaining and blaming. Gradually, people started avoiding her company. Happiness waited somewhere in the vicinity, begging for attention. Her infant grandson squealed with delight as her coffin was taken away. He had spotted the waiting guest. Weekend Writing Prompt #391
Creative Experiments and More 