At long last…

“I will walk out of the house one day”, fumes the breadwinner of the family on encountering opposition. It is enough to shush others into an uncomfortable silence, knowing that they have to comply for survival. Mom is an example – she gets beaten up regularly for not doing things to his liking, but still, … Continue reading At long last…

Lights and shadows

The city that never sleeps is buzzing with activity; the city provides livelihood if one is willing to put in the effort-and compromise with imposed lifestyles. Once again, I walk alone after a late shift at work, fearing for my safety and knowing I need luck to survive. Illuminated streets do not light up the … Continue reading Lights and shadows

Striking gold

“We’ve struck gold,” exclaimed Tony. “I expected you to clean up the room by now. It was a long queue at the supermarket.” Anna looked exhausted. “Anna, this used to be an artist’s home who walked out on his wife. And she had no regard for his artwork.” “Why are we researching their life, instead … Continue reading Striking gold

Keep them busy

“It is my alma mater.” the pride and loyalty in his voice was evident. “Mine too. Why are we turned away from each other?” “We’ve to guard the allocated space as loyal soldiers. Directions can be different.” “Are we committed to the same cause?” “I guess so …. Yes.” “Then why not fight together?” “Fight … Continue reading Keep them busy

Ice

A crack like a gunshot pierced the frozen air and the ice broke.  A few more followed, and the criminals were dead. They were accused of brutal rape, and public pressure to punish them fast was mounting. The nation celebrates. The police officers who executed the task are widely appreciated, congratulated and flowers sprinkled on … Continue reading Ice

Closed circuits

“I always wonder – what is it that they have and I don’t? How do they get everything they want, but I don’t?” “How often do you watch television, and what are the channels you patronize?” “Every day, international channels -but why do you ask?” “You know a lot of things that can’t help you. … Continue reading Closed circuits

Victory

High political drama unfolds over a month. Broken promises, split in alliances, unexpected parties joining the fray, and finally, a grand swearing-in ceremony for the Chief Minister at a prime location in town. Supporters go berserk in celebrations of victory. They claim to have been on high moral ground, while others manipulated things. There is … Continue reading Victory

Reena’s Exploration Challenge #115

Welcome to another week in a space to be yourself! Hats off to all those who responded to last week’s prompt, despite the gut-wrenching nature of the provocation! Evil is never an easy subject to talk about. Real evil is different from the caricatures we see on screen stories. I like the streak of strength … Continue reading Reena’s Exploration Challenge #115

Whose goals?

It is the CXOs last session with his coach. “Let me share something with you… I’m quitting the job.” “What? You are a critical resource for the company. We’ve worked hard so that you deliver your best.” “Heartfelt thanks for all that you made me see and think. I owe myself something, and my job … Continue reading Whose goals?

Executioner’s Head

The HR Head was persuaded to stay back by the new management, on better terms and conditions. “I will take my pound of flesh now”, boasted the inflated ego to his colleagues. There was a company-wide massacre of senior employees from the old regime, and the HR Head was the weapon they used to fire. … Continue reading Executioner’s Head