Nested Dolls

I stumbled upon a set of nested dolls in the attic. My uncle had given them to me as a birthday gift. With a leisurely weekend ahead, I decided to unpack the set of nested dolls. To my astonishment, the dolls had undergone a remarkable transformation. Their once uniform colours and expressions had evolved into … Continue reading Nested Dolls

Mysterious

The ethereal beauty of the singer's voice, a stark contrast to the mindless violence on the streets, echoed through the night. Freya was right about putting a hold on all celebrations for some time. How he wished she could have lived to unravel the night's story, a mystery that still eludes him. The police, lacking … Continue reading Mysterious

On Dusk’s Shoulders

The day’s events gallop away into twilight, leaving a sparkling sky for me to meditate on. I sink into slumber inviting dreams, but something hangs heavy on a tired shoulder.  A few thoughts failed to make the cut and did not dissolve in dusk. They appear to be desperately calling for attention, despite being pushed … Continue reading On Dusk’s Shoulders

Demons

Emotional garbage is strewn all across social media as people respond to accidents and murders. Many others draw on it to tailor their piece best to cater to popular sentiment. Their courage fizzles out when they try to take an integrated view of the situation, as they might see their not-so-clean reflections in the story. … Continue reading Demons

Twisted Tendrils

“All I remember about the girl is two strands of auburn hair hanging on her forehead and menacing eyes”, said the victim of an attack, his head still dizzy with the almost fatal blow. “Does she remind you of someone who belongs to your past?” The investigating officer’s tone is cold and matter-of-fact, in stark … Continue reading Twisted Tendrils

Recycle and Reprocess

I am embarrassed to admit I once joined a coaching class to learn Microsoft Office. I was ridiculed at home because everybody else learnt on the job. I am not ashamed to say that I have seen life before the internet and mobiles became inextricably linked to our existence. We have witnessed typewriters, cassette players, … Continue reading Recycle and Reprocess

Let her?

“Wealth has bred arrogance in her. She has no sympathy for her sick husband.” The patriarchy groaned under the onslaught of verbal attacks. “In this family, I was always declared guilty. Yet, I retain my right to live the way I like.” She fumed in response. Her words resonated with those who could reach the … Continue reading Let her?

Alternatives

“Would you like to look at these books before I turn them over to a junk dealer?” Uncle was kind enough to ask when I visited him last. The so-called junk, a term that didn't sit well with me, belonged to my grandfather. I’d scanned through those books a couple of years ago, each holding … Continue reading Alternatives

I see, but don’t see

The township is divided into overpopulated sections with defined and guarded boundaries that are not geographical. The inhabitants, driven by a deep sense of insecurity, are suspicious of each other’s intent and fiercely guard their women and children from anticipated abductions. Despite the challenges, leaders tirelessly promote unity in diversity on international platforms. They showcase … Continue reading I see, but don’t see

The Last Train

“Don’t miss the last train at 1.30 am. We’ll be waiting for you.” The train rolled in a little late, and only one door opened. He was the only passenger to board the train. The names of stations on the display panel were strange. “The last train goes to Churchgate. I don’t see the name … Continue reading The Last Train