The Last 50 Days --Part3!!!!!!!!!!

DAY 2

It was Saturday morning. Generally IT employees see Saturday as a gift as they can extend their sleep by a few hours. But I saw it as an opportunity to see Anu. Every Saturday morning 8:00am she comes to the Hanuman Temple in an area called HSR Layout. Though she is quite a casual girl, she is god fearing too. HSR Layout was around 2 hours by bus from my place. I woke up at 5:00am. My parents were shocked when they came to know I was going to the temple early in the morning. I got ready and left home by 5.45am. I caught the bus at 5:55am. As I am not used to getting up early, I dozed off in the bus. I reached HSR Layout by 7:45am.

The pooja was going on, it was a small temple and since it was Saturday the crowd was increasing every minute. I was standing at the entrance near the “Slippers Counter”. The Man in charge was not available. People who entered the temple assumed that I was the person in charge for the slippers counter. I entered the temple and waited inside. The pooja was over and still no sign of Anu.

Maybe she was tired and slept off? Or maybe she went to some other temple? Or maybe I missed her in the crowd? I was longing to see her, but couldn’t. I left the temple at 11:00am and reached home by 1:00pm. I couldn’t do anything else but watch TV, the whole day. My mind was fully occupied with Anu and as to why she hadn’t come to the temple.

DAY 3

I went to meet Shiva at his place. He had called me over to his room for watching a movie. After the movie was over, shiva enquired “Raghav, do u seriously love her?” I looked at him scornfully. “Hey I am just trying to help you dude” he said in a reaffirming tone.

“Of course I do shiva, She is the only person I think of from morning to night. She is the only person I yearn for and she is the only woman I want to live with.”  

“Okay dude, relax. Having so much in heart and mind, why do you want to postpone things?” Shiva asked.

“I have never postponed telling it. It’s just that whenever I try talking or telling her something or someone comes in between.” I said in a confident tone.

“If there is anything I can do to help ur love, do ask me da.” Shiva said with a pat on my shoulders.

“Thanks machan, I have got to go now. See you tomorrow.” Saying this I left his place. The evening was very normal and didn’t have any special events. I slept early at night in order to look fresh next morning when I propose to Anu.

DAY 4

I had no expectations for the day. Everything was normal like it used to be unlike the previous Friday. I slept in the bus. I got down at office, had my breakfast and went to my cubicle. In the morning, I had to call my parents to tell them to do shopping for my departure to the United States. I had received admission from an university in California a month back. My visa was approved a fortnight back and I had a make a lot of arrangements like booking tickets, shopping, etc.  It was 10:30am and still there were no signs of Anu. Something in me said she had a problem. I thought of asking my manager as to why she had been on leave. But what reason can I give?

Suddenly, I remembered the team outing mail. I went straight to my manager’s cabin. This was the first time I went and spoke to him and he hardly remembered me. His name was Abhilash and people called him short as Abhi. He was a nice person in general, but very strict when it comes to work.

“Abhi, is it a good time to talk to you?” I asked pertinently. “Yes, come in”, he said.

I struggled to talk but somehow managed to spurt “Anu... Anushka.”

“Anushka is on leave for a week. She has gone to Noida. “He said.

“Why? What happened Abhi?”, I asked in a worried tone.

“She told she has some personal work. She prefers keeping things to herself I guess. Anyways is it something important?” Abhi asked.

“Ahhh... Yeah...  Oh no, of course not, It’s about the team outing.” I blurted.

“Oh. That’s fine. You contact Praveen.” Abhi said.

“Ok then, thanks Abhi. “

I left the cabin and was seriously thinking as to what personal work would she have in order to take leave for a week?

Was she going to get engaged? Was she going to get married? Or was it a casual trip? Many questions created a traffic jam in my mind. I was totally confused and not knowing what to do. What if she’s getting engaged? I need to tell her how and what I feel about her. I wanted to see her immediately, for which...

I HAD TO GO TO NOIDA.

I was all set, ready to start my journey. But where could I go? Where does she stay? How can I know her details? My mind was totally blocked trying hard to think for a solution, that’s when a dialogue came to my mind.

“If there is anything I can do to help ur love, do ask me da.”

Yes, Shiva. I rushed to meet him. Unfortunately he was in a Video Conference (VC). It took him around couple of hours to meet me after the VC. As he came near me, I ran to him pulled his arm to rush to the cafeteria.

I explained him what had happened three hours back. “What NOIDA?? Are you mad?” Shiva asked in a shocking tone.

“Yes, Noida and am mad about her. I don’t want to miss her Shiva.”

“But how... Er... where will you? You don’t even know Hindi right? How will you manage?”

“Yes Shiva, you’re right. That’s why I want you to come with me”

“What! Are you joking? I have an appraisal meeting tomorrow.”

“Yes, I know. We will speak with Abhi and make the necessary arrangements.”

“Well...”

“Shiva you’re my only hope. Remember that day you gave me a word that you would do anything for my love.”

“Yes, I did just like friends do in movies. But, never expected something like this to pop in. Anyways I am not guaranteeing you anything. We’ll speak with Abhi and decide what to do next.”

“Sounds great machi. Thanks Shiv. Evalavoo pannitom Itha panna maatoma?”

“Dai stop it da. I will meet him and speak with you.”

“Okay Shiv, once u finish talking I will have to speak with him about applying leave.”

After fifteen minutes, Shiva came out of Abhi’s room. I went running to him and asked what had happened.

“Machi, Abhi has given me a week’s permission and has agreed to postpone my appraisal meeting to next week.”

“That’s awesome Shiv. What reason did u give?”

“I couldn’t find any better reason to give than telling that am going to get engaged.”

“You’re too good a friend.” I said winking at him.

“Don’t be too happy, first go and speak to him for your leave.”

“That’s a piece of cake. Wait here I will come.”

Shiva had seriously lit up my spirits. I would be going to Noida for sure and seeing my Anu. I entered Abhi’s room.

“Hi Abhi, is it a good time to talk to you?”

“Yes, please sit. Give me two minutes. I am sending a mail.”

“Okay.” Saying which I sat on the seat and was thinking what reason to give.

The biggest advantage with me is my face. I can suitably change my face to the situation. I kept my face as a sad one.

“Yes, tell me... I forgot your name...”

“Raghavendran... Raghav”

“Yes raghav, tell me.”

“Well Abhi, I want to take leave for a week.”

“One week? That’s impossible. We’ve lots of work and I am running short of people.”

“Yes, I understand but I am in a very delicate position. My family needs me in Chennai. I need to go. I am willing to work overtime once I am back.”

“Hmmm... Well, I am not allowed to sanction leave to you as you’re on notice period.”

“Yes, I understand Abhi. But I don’t have a choice. It’s too exceptional to reject. So please...”

“Okay fine. You apply for leave. I will approve it.”

“Thanks Abhi, I owe you one.”

“Fine, Take care. Hope it’s not a prank for you to go for some vacation.”

“You bet it’s not, Abhi”

I left the room. Thirty minutes later Shiva and I were going to our room.

DAY 5

The next day afternoon, I called my mom.

My mom picked the phone after a couple of rings.

“Hi ma, What are u doing?”

“I just finished watching my favourite soap.”

“Oh mom, I guess that serial will never end. What happened to that girl? Did she get married with her lover?“

“No the marriage stopped because her grandmother died.”

“Mom, guess I will get married before the girl in the serial gets married.”

“There are chances.” She said in a merry. “Anyways, what’s the matter? How is Anu? “

“Yes, she’s doing good mom. She has gone to Noida for some personal work it seems. She won’t be here for a week. I am wondering what work it will be for a week. I am afraid that it may be her engagement.” 

“Well jillu, it certainly won’t be so. You like her so much. True Love never fails.”

“That’s true mom. I am planning to go to Noida for a week and check if things are fine. Just ask dad to deposit Rs.5000 in my HDFC bank account mom and ask brother to top up my mobile for Rs.500. I have spoken to my manager and asked permission for a week.”

“Ok da jillu, how are you going to go?”

“By train mom, tonight. Shiva is accompanying me.”

“That’s good. Please take care of ur health. Eat in good shops.”

“Sure thing ma.”

“Wait jillu, one more thing.”

“Yes ma.”

“No adventures. Promise me. And take care of my daughter in law. Keep me posted.”

“Sure ma. Promise and yes I will take care of her, but before that I need to speak to her once which is being the most difficult thing.”

“Don worry jillu. You will succeed in everything and anything u do. Be patient and she is only yours.”

“Thanks mom. Love u.”

“Love u jillu. Take care.”

I hung up the phone. If I had told someone that I spoke with my mom regarding Anu, they would be shocked as well as surprised. I had the most coolest parents in the world. Most of the parents in the world try controlling their children especially during adolescent stage. But my parents were totally different. They never controlled nor restricted me. Though my parents were kind of strict during exams, otherwise they never interfered in anything I did. They always believed that I would never do anything unethical or wrong. This faith towards me always guided me towards the right path.

Mom and dad were never against me falling in love with Anu. Infact, once I even asked my parents to come to office in the evening. She was walking past when I showed her to them. The very same instant, they were happy and satisfied with my Anu. They even told that they’ll speak to her parents but I was totally against it.

“Shiva, are you ready?”

“Yes machi. Two minutes.”

“Okay. Take your time. The train is at 10:00pm.”

“Yeah okay da.” Shiva said as he was doing the packing.

Dad knew a person at the Indian Railway Board. She was a very good family friend of ours. Her name was Sindhu. I called her to ask if the tickets are available.

“Hi Sindhu aunty, how r u?”

“Hey raghav, It’s been a long time. Am doing good. How are you?”

“I am doing fine aunty. I need a favour.”

“Go on. Tell me.”

“Actually, I need to go to Noida today for some personal work. I just wanted to know if there are any tickets available. I need two tickets”

“Ok fine. I will just check and call you back.”

I received a call after five long minutes.

“Raghav, this is Sindhu.”

“Yes, Aunty are tickets available? “

“Yes, it is available but only in First Class.”

“That’s awesome. How much will it cost aunty?”

“Around 2,400 rupees.”

“Okay, you don’t mind sponsoring right? You already owe me one treat don’t you?”

“Yes, but isn’t this a costly treat?”

“Maybe but I know you can manage aunty. I will come to the station and call you to receive the tickets. Thank you. Bye.”

“Hey ahhh... okay. Wait, don’t hang up. Why are you going to Noida? Is it because of Anushka?”

Mom, you told her is it? I imagined.

“Yes aunty, All for my Anu.”

“Okay fine. All the best for your love.”

“Thanks aunty. Take care. Bye.”

By the time I hung up the phone, Shiva was ready with his bag.

“I’m ready da.” He said with a glee.

“That’s cool Shiv. We’ve tickets only in the night train 10:00pm. We’ll collect the tickets from my family friend at the railway station.”

“So at 10:00pm is it. There is still around 7 hours. What do we do?”

“Well, we need to work out a few statistics.” I said with a big smile on my face.

“Stat... What? What do u mean? I don’t understand.”

“Shiva, we don’t know anything about Anu in Noida. I mean where she lives, how to go and so on. We need to find that.”

“What do u mean we?”

“There’s the twist. We can make good use of these 7 hours Shiv.”

“Good use? Please tell clearly.”

“Okay fine. Listen up Shiv. First we are going to get her details from two persons. We need to meet them in person. Then we need to get a ‘HOW TO SPEAK HINDI IN A DAY’ book so that we can manage it there. Then we will have dinner and start to the railway station. I hope am clear.”

“Yes, but who are the two persons?”

“Well, you know them Shiv.” I said winking at him.

“Me? Okay tell who are they?”

“Well the first person is Lavanya and the second person is Sudha.”

“With Sudha it’s fine. She’s pretty close with me and with Anu. But I don’t know who Lavanya is.”

“Lavanya is my good friend and co-incidentally Anu’s hostel mate. They live in the same hostel. I came to know this only few weeks back. If we can meet her up, it will be quite helpful. I ve already asked her to get the details last week. She had her brother’s marriage last week. I also went right. But I didn’t want to disturb her there. Now I guess it’s the right time Shiv.”

“Okay fine. We’ll start. Where is Anu’s hostel by the way?”

“It’s near Sri Sathya Sai Hospital in Whitefield. While coming back we can meet Sudha at M.G.Road and we can leave to the railway station at Majestic.”

“Sounds like it will be tight as far as the time is concerned machi.” Shiva said in a worried tone.

“Yes and we’ve to hurry.”

Shiva and me started. I had the gut feeling that everything was getting along well. I was praying hard that nothing should have happened to Anu or her family. We reached whitefield at 5:00pm. Since Lavanya didn’t want us to meet her near the hostel. We met at CCD (Cafe Coffee Day) nearby.

I introduced Lavanya and Shiva to each other. Shiva was instantly impressed with her mannerisms, her charm and of course her looks.

Shiva first Anu and then Lavanya, please. I thought within myself.

The whole time I talked with Lavanya, Shiva was like filled with awe. She too seemed to like him.

“Ok lavi, so we’re starting to Noida tonight. I want to know the details which you collected.”

“Ok fine. Is he accompanying you? Wow that’s sweet of you to help for ur friend’s love.”

“Yes, people say I’m very sweet. Right raghav?”

I was like please stop it guys. You’ll get a chance. I am in a hurry. But I just gave a blank smile.

“Ok lavi. Time’s running out. I’m in a hurry. So please...”

“Ok raghav. She lives in a town called Kakod in Gautam Buddha nagar district in Noida.”

“There you have to go into the town around 3kms. Her place is near a super market named some singh... Ah! I forgot it’s name. But it the next house to the super market.

“Okay, I think this is enough. Excuse me guys I need to call someone.”

“Take your time.” Shiva said as though he was waiting for such an opportunity.

I had called Sudha and asked her to come to M.G.Road bus stop at 7:00pm. It was 5.30pm.

“Shiva, we need to leave now. Right away.”

“Can’t we...”

“No.” I said strongly.

He looked at me in disappointment.

“Excuse me lavi.” I said and took Shiva aside.

“Look Shiva, Lavanya doesn’t have a boyfriend and she’s single. I know you think she’s hot. She’s safe here in Bangalore. But I don’t know about Anu. I am worried about her. Now move ur ass so that we can go and meet sudha and catch the train on time. I promise that if you co-operate I can even speak to Lavanya regarding you.”

“You really will?” He asked in an excited tone.

I was angry that he never paid attention to other things I said but the words “I promise that if you co-operate I can even speak to Lavanya regarding you.”

Anyways he was in the same state as me - In love so I could totally understand his situation.

“So lavi, we are leaving. Have to catch the train.”

“Okay guys. Catch u later and Take care. All the best Raghav. Keep me posted.”

Before I could tell “Sure”, shiva interrupted. “Sure, I can update you as he will be busy, but how can I update when I don’t have ur number?”

“Well you can get it from your friend.” She said smiling.

“That’s cool lavi and shiva. Now let’s make a move.” I said hurriedly.

As I said that, I witnessed another scene but this time between lavi and Shiva. It was like as though two lovers were getting separated because the guy has to go out of station.

I started and reached MG Road at 7:30pm. The traffic in peak hours is so horrible that we were late by half hour.

“Hi sudha. How are u?”

“Am fine Raghav. How about you?”

“Worried but fine. By the way this is Shiva, my best friend.”

“Oh... Hi. How r u?” She asked.

“Am fine. Thank u.” He replied.

“So then tell me raghav. What is so urgent?”

“Well, I am starting to Noida to see Anu. I am really worried about her. She has gone home for a week. I suspect something bad like marriage or someone close to her has fallen ill. Just wanna ensure that everything is fine.”

“Though me and Anu are close, She keeps things to herself. Anyways what help can I do for you?” Sudha asked in a surprised tone.

“Well, you know a hotel in kakod right? I just want you to book a room for three days.”

“Yes, I do. My father was the manager of the hotel. I can arrange it no issues. Is there anything else da?”

“Well, I need a person who can guide me through Noida like pick up from station and help me in the routes. Could you arrange that too?”

“Not a problem, the hotel will arrange that too.” She said smiling.

“The last one I need Anu’s phone number just for emergency purposes.”

“Sure, I will send a text message now.”

“Thanks a lot sudha. I really owe you one.”

“This is nothing more than what you did.”

“Don mention it.” I said smiling.

“Okay I won’t. You’re such a sweet person. Anu’s is very lucky.”

“I hope I am more lucky than her.”

“Of course you are raghav.” Shiva and sudha said in chorus.

We spoke with her for half hour. We got Anu’s phone number just for emergency purposes. We left at 8:00pm

Shiva told me in a surprised tone “Man, people really do things for you. I mean everyone.”

“Yup” I said smiling.

“Why did she say that ‘This is nothing more than what you did.’?”

“Oh... That’s a long story. But in short, I donated blood for her father’s heart operation. Mine’s a rare blood group (AB –ve). That’s the reason man.“

“Oh, you’re such a nice person and a very good friend for all.” Shiva said in a satisfied tone.

“Thank you. Now let’s have dinner and rush to the station.”

We finished dinner by 9:00pm. I called up Sindhu aunty. We entered the railway station. Though it was a weekday the crowd was so much. I wondered where all went despite the recession and economic breakdown. But I realised there were many youngsters like me. Maybe they are also going in search og their love, I thought.

We met Sindhu aunty and got the tickets. First class A/C. Shiva was delighted. The train started. Shiva had been pestering me for Lavanya’s number for the past 4 hours. Finally when I gave it, he called her and they were talking all night. There blossomed another Love story.

I was thinking about the next steps as to what to do. It was side berth for us. Shiva took the upper one and I took the lower. Others were kind of pretty old people except a man. He was a singh with a turban. He was not looking healthy. He entered and straight he went to bed.

“Guess he had a tough day at office.” I thought.

I messaged my mom that I started safely. I also messaged Sudha and Lavanya. While mom and Sudha replied, Lavanya was busy talking phone with Shiva.

I was happy that I took one step towards Anu and one step towards Noida. I fell asleep.

DAY 6:

It was 9:00am in the morning, when I woke up. We were in border of Maharashtra and Karnataka. I had been so tired that I went into a deep sleep. Everything seemed to be normal that day. I was very restless trying to kill time. Meanwhile Shiva was busy flirting. His battery drained out completely and he had switched sims with my mobile.

We had lunch at 12:00pm. The food in the first class compartment was really tasty. God bless Sindhu aunty, I thought.

The rest of the day was fully spent with endless hearing of songs and useless talks with shiva. Sidney Sheldon helped me kill my boredom while Lavanya helped Shiva kill his boredom.

We had dinner at 9:00pm. I finished it and went to wash my hands. Just as I finished, I was about to enter the compartment. The Singh came near the wash basin. Since the passage was too small to allow both of us, I had to retrace my path.

“Thank you beta. Thum kahan Jaatha hai?” He asked.

“I’m sorry, I don’t understand Hindi. I know English.” I said in an embarrassed tone.

“Mu ha ha ha... Okay. Thank you son. Where are you going to?”

“I’m going to Noida sir.”

“Could you hold this briefcase for me?” He asked.

“Sure. Why you could keep it inside na?”

“Beta, these days people are bad. I have got valuables in this briefcase for my daughter’s marriage this weekend.”

“Okay sir. How come you believe me?” I asked him with a glee.

“It’s because of ur face son. You work in an IT company right?”

“Yes sir. How do you know?” I was amazed at his instinct.

“My daughter also works in a software company. That’s why.”

“Oh okay sir.”

He grabbed the suitcase from me. I thought Maybe all software professionals had that weary look which made people to guess easily.

He continued persistently.

“I badly wanted her to look after my business but she was adamant. I totally lost interest in her career. But then I made it up to her when she accepted to get married.”

I seriously wondered why he was telling me all this. But I just nodded my head.

He opened his suitcase, took out an invitation. He handed over to me. It was very grand. On the envelope it was written:

Mahaveer Singh Patel and Poonam Singh Patel

Family welcomes you.

I had the biggest fear and doubt that this person maybe Anu’s dad. I opened the envelope very slowly with the worst fears in my mind. I removed the invitation and gave a deep breath of relief.

“Tanvi Singh Patel weds Rahul Sharma”

“You’ve to come on Friday itself.”

“I will surely try my best Sir. I’ve some work to finish.”

“Don’t worry you’ll finish your work and come to the wedding. You can have fun there.”

“Sure sir. Thank you.”

“Just give me your phone number so that I can call and remind you.”

I gave him my number. We went to bed.

DAY 7

Shiva and myself got down at the Nizammudin Railway station. Mr.Singh was kind enough to sponsor us breakfast. He had reminded me again about coming to the wedding and he had disappeared into the crowd.

We came out of the station. There was a middle aged man standing with a name board. The board contained our names with different awkward spellings but we could figure out that it was for us.

We went and approached the man and we introduced ourselves. We got into the car.

“Aapka naam kya hai?” I asked in a confident tone.

“My name is Mansoor Ali Khan and I can speak English.”

“Wow that’s great.” Exclaimed Shiva.

“We ll be having a long day bhaiya.” I said.

“That’s fine. We’ll go to the hotel first.” Mansoor said.

He played Hindi songs like “Sheila ki Jawani”, “Pehli Nazar Mein” and so on.

We reached the hotel at 10:15am. The hotel was a four star hotel. It looked awesome for the two of us.

God bless Sudha for booking this hotel. I was so thankful to her.

“Wow the bathtub is awesome.” Shiva said in an excited tone.

He immediately went to take a bath. I slept on the bed for some time.

At 11:00am both of us were ready. We went downstairs and boarded the cab.

The express way was awesome and we sped toward kakod which is located in greater Noida of the Gauthama Buddha Nagar. It took us one hour to reach kakod.

It was quite a big town comparing to the average town circumference. It had a population of about 7,500.  There were many fields in which a lot of children majority below 6 years of age were playing. There were huge trees below which tuition classes were going on. It was a very peaceful place to live in or even begin your life.

There were many small trade shops. I didn’t know Hindi much. I always resented the language. It was because of my horrible experience I had with my Hindi teacher.

Her name was Gowri and she used to freak the hell out of students. I was in my sixth grade. Hindi was always tough with me and I signed a pact with the subject that I always managed to scrape through. Gowri mam was different. She always wanted students to score at least 80 plus and she thought students who scraped through were fit for nothing.

It was my half yearly exams. I did my Hindi exam so horribly. The day mam was about to distribute the papers I was shivering. She called out my name, She giggled and said “See this little brat just managed to pass.”

“I’m sorry mam.”

“You’re not sorry, you just don’t understand the value of Hindi. That’s your problem.”

“I... actually...”

“Bring your Hindi textbook.”

I went back to my desk and searched my bag. My Hindi text book was missing. I knew I was going to get it bad from her. I was getting ready for it.

I went to her and dropped my head slowly.

“I forget my textbook.” I said in sad tone.

Within one blink of the eye, I was slapped hard on my left cheek. I started crying. From that day onwards, I completed hated Hindi as well as North Indians. Here I am, searching for the girl of my life who is a North Indian in North India. It was an awkward flashback to remember.

“This place is very cool. It’s so pleasant and quite.” Shiva exclaimed as we got down from the car. “I seriously wished lav was here.”He mourned.

“Things worked out so easily for you guys I guess Shiv.”

“Yes it did and I would love to thank you.”

“Hmmm... Mansoor you wait here we will call you once our work is done.”

I got his number. We started walking towards a medium sized road. It was more like a market street. But it was the main road in kakod. There were people of all age groups right from old people, middle aged, youngsters and many children.

I went across the road to enquire about the super market which Lavanya had mentioned to us earlier.

There was an old man in an hardware shop. He was in his sixties. Thanks to “LEARN HINDI IN 1 DAY” I managed to start speaking to him.

“Namaskhar sirji” I blurted keeping my palms together.

“Bholiye” He said warmly.

“Ye lo singh supermarket kahan hai sirji?”

He can surely find out I am a Tamilian by the way I speak. I thought.

“Seedha Jaake baai lena wahan pe aakri shop”

Though I couldn’t understand much, the directions he showed by his hands made me understand. He asked me to go straight and turn left and the destination is the last shop.

I received a call. It was from an unknown number. I answered the call. It was the man in the train. He had called to remind me of the wedding. He asked me to come at least by day after. I said I will make it and hung up the call.

I was damn excited and pulled Shiva and ran towards the car.

“Mansoor, quick go straight and take a left. We have to reach the end of the road.”

It was a small road and though Mansoor was driving at a decent speed that the road could afford, my heart was beating so fast that I was afraid Shiva and Mansoor could hear it. We reached the end of the road. Shiva and I got down from the car. Singh Super market was right in front of us.

I remembered Lavanya saying ‘the house next to the super market’. I was running towards the house. Shiva was running behind me shouting to slow down. I reached the entrance of Anu’s residence and I was shocked and disappointed. I dropped my head in disappointment. Shiva came behind and saw. He shouted “Oh my god. Shit...!”

Shiva patted on my shoulders and asked in a low tone “What do we do next? I never expected something like this to come our way.”

“Well same here Shiva. I was very much looking forward to this.”

“That’s okay. Now what shall we do? “

“I have no idea Shiva.”

“It’s no point talking like this. It’s just that their house is locked. Maybe they would have gone to a family vacation.”

“Possible but I want to know the reality. Only then can I be calm and composed Shiv.”

“That’s quite understandable. Now let’s go to the nearby super market and enquire.”

“Shiva, nothing adverse would have happened right?” I asked expecting a promising answer.

“I don’t want to give you any sort of false hopes. We can just wish so. For your kind heart everything would be fine.”

“Thanks shiv. That was promising enough.”

My mind was completely blocked. I was not able to speak or think. Shiva called up Mansoor and asked him to come over to the super market.

Mansoor came in five minutes. Shiva told him to enquire about Anu’s dad in the super market.

Mansoor went inside and came after good ten minutes. When he came out and stood in front of us, I was like ‘Your answer is my only hope buddy.’

Shiva asked “What happened? What did they tell?”

“Mixed answers. The owner of this super market is ur friend’s dad. The manager of the super market has gone along with ur friends family. Few say they have gone for the vacation to chill out. Few say they have gone to Punjab for ur friend’s wedding. Few say they have gone to worship their deity. I don’t know what the truth is.”

It was getting even worse. Vacation, marriage or deity worship I was thinking hard to rule out the possibilities.

“Anu’s dad is the owner right. So he would have called his staff over to his daughter’s marriage right? So that’s the ruled out possibility.” Shiva probed.

“Well...” I said.

Mansoor interrupted “I asked about that too. They said that their boss always kept things to himself especially his personal issues.”

Like daughter, like father. I thought.

Shiva and I were looking helplessly at each other not knowing what to do.

“We will go back shiv.” I said.

“What? Are u kidding? You can’t give up now. Will you?” He asked with a doubted look.

“I will never give up on Anu’s issue. We shall go back to our room and then think what we can do.”

“Mansoor can you do me a favour?”

“Yes tell me.”

“I want you to get the phone number of this super market so that we can know if they had come by tomorrow or day after.”

“That’s fine. You both wait in the car. I will come.”

We left for the car slowly. My heart was saying that something bad is going to happen to her. It was beating hard.

Ten minutes after that, we were on the way back to our hotel. Due to the traffic it took us almost three hours to reach the hotel.

I called my mom once I reached the hotel.

“Hi mom.”

“Hi jillu, just now I thought of calling you. I was worried that you hadn’t called.”

“Sorry mom was travelling a lot.”

“I can understand. Tell me. What happened? Did u see her?”

“No ma. Tough luck.”

I told her what all happened from morning.

“Oh... okay so this is your problem?”

“Yes ma. I don’t know what to do.”

“It’s very simple. First call up the super market and ask what the manager’s name is. We might get a clue there.”

“I don’t understand ma. What do I do knowing the manager’s name?”

“Just do as I say jillu. I think we can crack this.”

“Okay ma. Will call you in sometime.”

I called up Mansoor immediately.

“Hi Mansoor, I need a favour.”

“Yes tell me.”

I told him the entire story from the start. The reason I came here and so on. He was listening very patiently.

“Now all I want you to do is that, call the super market and tell you want to meet the manager. Tell you calling from the Police Department. Try to collect his name and details about his character. That’s most important.”

“Sure. I will see what I can do. I will surely help to the maximum I can. ”

“I would appreciate it. Thank you.”

“Welcome.” And he hung up.

Ten minutes later Mansoor called up.

“Yes, tell me Mansoor.”

“I called them up. First time none picked up. The second time a lady picked up. She said that the manager’s name was “Joseph Bharani”. I was about to hung up when she also said that he’s one of the worst persons ever. He’s a nympho – maniac and that he had eyes on all the lady staff in the super market...”

He paused for a second and held his breath. Then he continued “He has an eye on your girl Anu also.

I was startled. I started thinking as to why would Mr.Patel hire a person who is a girl – maniac. Why had Mr.Patel taken the manager – nympho maniac with his family?

It got bigger now. These questions confused me more. I remembered mom asking me to call.

I immediately called mom and told her what Mansoor had reported. She was shocked and surprised.

“I think it’s getting dangerous now. I guess Mr.Patel wouldn’t have known about Joseph. Jillu I want you to understand one thing very clearly. That’s the inference we have to make from the information we have got.”

“What mom? I don’t understand.”

“First don’t let issues worry u. Have a clear mind always so that you can analyse things perfectly.” Mom said.

“Right mom.”

“That’s good. Now see Joseph Bharani seems to be a Christian name. It’s also plausible that he might be a hindu converted christian.”

“Oh my god. Now I understand mom. I have to start my search right away. I will keep you posted mom.”

“That’s fine jillu. Be brave and confident.”

“All right mom.”

“And Jillu...”

“Yes mom.”

“Please be careful. This hunt might be dangerous too!”

“Right mom. Love you. Bye.”

I hung up the phone. Shiva just came out from bath. I had told everything that happened. Right from Mansoor reporting to me and me reporting to mom.

“What the hell? So you mean to say we are caught with a nympho maniac?” Shiva exclaimed.

“Not exactly. Listen carefully Shiva. There were three options which Mansoor told in the morning. First one is vacation. Second is Anu’s wedding and the third is worshipping their deity. His name is Joseph Bharani and there are two possibilities. First possibility, he might be a Christian. Second possibility he might be Hindu converted Christian and he would have falsified his name. One more important to be noted that Joseph is a nympho maniac and that Mr.Patel has taken him along with his family. The lady in the super market had told that Joseph has an eye on Anu. So reducing the choices, I feel there is a great possibility that Joseph is trying a big plan on Anu and her family. We have to find out what the plan is.”

“Woww, that’s a brilliant analysis I must say. But how do we find out the plan?” Shiva asked.

“For that we need to see Mr.Mahavir Singh Patel right away.”

“I don’t understand raghav.”

“You soon will.” I said with voice trailing off “you will soon understand.”

“We have to start tomorrow morning Shiva. Good night.” I said.

DAY 8

The next day morning, we started to Noida at 6am. We reached at 7:30am. I called up Mahavir Singh Patel and told him that we are coming to the function. We asked him the address and reported it to Mansoor. It took us half an hour to reach the place where his daughter’s marriage was about to take place.

“So here we are.” Shiva said.

“Not for long shiv. We might have to travel a lot from here on.”

“Machi, I wanted to tell you something. I proposed to Lavi day before and she accepted today morning.”

“Yes I know.” I said calmly as I got down from the car.

“How come da?” Shiva asked in surprise.

“Lavi messaged me today morning and thanked me for introducing you to her.”

“Okay. Don’t mistake me da. I didn’t tell because of your situation.”

“No problem Shiv. Let me tell you something. These two things i.e. me in search of Anu and you getting committed are independent. Just because of you telling this, I won’t get irritated. I would only be very happy.”

“You are one in a million I guess.” Shiva said.

“Nope nothing like that. I’m just being self-less. You are my friend and your happiness means to me. Anyways now we have to go inside.”

Just as we were about to enter inside, a man covering himself with a rugged shawl came out. He was having a long beard such that one couldn’t recognize or find his face. I had a gut feeling that I knew him.

We entered the big marriage hall. Everything was awesome. The arrangements were in full swing. The decorations were too good. A group of ladies were

Practicing dance which we thought would be after the reception. Many ladies adored their mehendi designs and many men were speaking gossips and playing cards.

We went inside and I called Mr.Patel. He came and welcomed us. We were headed straight for breakfast. The hospitality and the warmth were simply superb. He asked me to come to the guests room once I and Shiva completed breakfast. The food was really good. We were served with two varities of Nan, Masala’s and three varities of sweets.

Breakfast was over and we went to the guests room as told by Mr.Patel. Just as we entered the room Mr.Patel came, with him was a young smart guy in his late twenties.

“Hi, I’m Rahul.” He said. He extended his hand to me.

“Hi, I am Raghav and this is shiva.” I said shaking hands.

Shiva received a call.

“Excuse me.” He said. Shiva walked away talking over the phone.

I thought it would be Lavanya. Rahul was the groom. He was a friendly, warm and down to earth person. He broke into laughter when I cracked a poor joke.

“Man, you give good company dude.” Rahul said smiling. “So what brings you to Noida? Official or personal?”

“Personal.” I said smiling.

“Okay, whatever it is. All the best.”

Someone was calling Rahul. “Hey, I must go but we will surely catch up.”

“Sure. Congrats on your marriage.” I said.

“Thanks dude.”

Just as he was gone, Mr.Patel came to me and asked “So beta, how is my son in law?”

I was smiling and looking at Rahul. His relatives were around him and a lady, guess his mom gave him a sweet. For a second I couldn’t hear Mr.Patel’s question, my eyes were on the crowd. Something bad was going to happen. I knew it. Some instinct in me said so.

“I’m sorry sir. I can’t get you.” I said waking myself from the thoughts.

“I asked your opinion about my son in law. What happened to you? Is there anything wrong beta?” He asked.

“He’s just great, your daughter must be really lucky. By the way Sir, what’s that sweet?”

“It’s not a sweet beta, it a type of dokhla. It will taste really good. Wait...” He said.

He called a boy who was serving these dokhlas. Just as he called, a woman appeared in front of us.

Mr.Patel said, “This is woman I live my life for. My wife Poonam.”

I could realise their love in that few words of introduction. Mrs.Patel had shades of Anu. Just when I began to realise that, I thought ‘I might be going crazy and getting worried about the safety of Anu. That’s why all ladies and girls seem like my Anu.’

I greeted Mrs.Patel and bent down to touch her feet and get her blessings. She was shocked.

Mrs.Patel said, “It is shocking to see you youngsters falling at our feet. God bless you beta. You must be the guy in the train. He was all praise for you.”

“Thank you ma. It’s nothing to get shocked here. Just that people have become very busy that they find no time to attend to their parents and elders.” I said.

“Your parents have brought you up very well.” She said.

“Thank you. By the way where is your daughter Tanvi?” I asked.

“Oh... She has become more adamant nowadays. She has gone to worship our deity.” Mr.Patel said.

‘Worship our deity’. It struck very hard on my mind.

Some say they have gone to worship their deity... Along with their shop manager... He’s a nympho maniac... Mansoor said so.

Anushka Patel... Mahavir Singh Patel... But their daughter’s name is Tanvi where we have Anushka this side. May be it was her family name and Anushka was her official name. It was getting closer. I was dying to ask them the million dollar question ‘Is your daughter’s name Anushka?’

But I was silent. I didn’t want her marriage and her parent’s wishes to get spoilt. So I just asked “Has she gone alone? Where is the temple?”

“No she has gone with our family friend.” Mrs.Patel answered.

‘There is a possibility that family friend can be manager in their business. Even if I don’t marry Anu, I can’t leave her in danger. I had to ask them who the family friend was.’ I thought.

Just as I was about to ask, Shiva came after he had completed talking over phone. He stood in front of us.

“This is Shiva and Shiva this is Mrs.Patel.” I said.

They were introduced to each other. Shiva was looking worried. He called me aside. I said “Excuse me please.”

“What happened da?” I asked.

“Machi I’m afraid I have to leave immediately. My father is not well it seems. He has got his 2^nd heart attack.” Shiva said in a sad tone.

“Oh my god! I understand Shiva. Please leave right away.”

Just as we were talking, they guy who was carrying the dokhla came over to Mr. & Mrs.Patel. Both of them took one dokhla each.

“See shiva, I have one idea.” Saying so myself and Shiva went over to the Patel’s.

“Sir, I’m sorry to bother you. But we have a problem.” I said.

“What happened beta?” Mr.Patel asked.

“Do you know any air travel agent who can book a ticket to Bangalore today?” I asked.

“Yes, I do know a couple of agents. I can get you one. But for whom and why?” Mr.Patel asked.

As they were enquiring they started having the dokhla. I continued “ It’s for my friend shiva. His dad has got an attack now. He has to leave right away. Can you please help us?”

“Oh my god, that’s terrible. We can surely help you.” Mr.Patel said.

He immediately called for his driver and asked him to take Shiva to the air travel agency and then drop him at the airport. Shiva was too emotional to speak.

“I will never forget this help sir.” I said.

“No problem. Take care beta. Shiva please keep me posted about your dad’s health.” Mrs.Patel said.

“Sure mam. Thank you. Thank you sir.” Shiva said and he turned over to me.

“I’m sorry raghav that I wasn’t able to help you much.”

“It’s okay, I will be there tomorrow Shiva. Will meet you then. It’s no use staying here anymore. Just give me a call when you board the flight. I am sorry that I am not able to come with you.” I said.

“That’s okay da. I will keep you posted and I will call you too.” Shiva said.

I hugged him tight and went along with him to the car. Shiva started. Now I was alone. I immediately went inside.

Just as I entered and was about to ask Mr.Patel his daughter’s other name if any, there was a sound shrill in the groom’s room.

Everyone started shouting. A lady came out and shouted “Rahul fell down unconscious.”

I was shocked. I was with the patel’s. Just as they were about to run and see Rahul, they also fell unconscious on the ground.

In few seconds the entire marriage hall was in panic. There were people all around. They called for ambulance.

In another half hour I was in the hospital. I somehow felt I should be there with them. Doctors were trying to diagnose the problem. Relatives were there standing there gossiping over family issues. I heard few people say “Tanvi should not stay with us... We already have many people at home... We need to talk about the will of Mahavir, etc.”

Two hours passed, still there was no call from the doctor. In another one hour a doctor came out and announced Rahul dead. He had a cardio muscular attack. Rahul’s parents and relatives were in great pain. It was very difficult to see them in pain. I heard few say “I told you that the girl was unlucky”, “You never listened to us”, etc.

‘He was a friendly, warm and down to earth person and now he’s no more.’ I thought to myself. Sometime life changes drastically in even seconds.

Four hours passed. The Patel’s condition was critical. Doctors had no hope. After an hour Mrs.Patel was announced dead.

The other doctor said that Mr.Patel was recovering slowly but is still critical.

Shiva called me.

“Hey shiva, did u board the flight?”

“Yes I did. I wanted to keep you informed.”

“That’s good Shiva. Take care of dad. Call me once you reach and once u see him. Alright?”

“Yes sure. Why are you talking hurriedly? Is there any problem?”

“No Shiva, not at all.” I said.

“ok fine. I will call you tomorrow. Bye take care.”

“Okay shiva, you too take care.”

I hung up the call. “Nothing is wrong shiva. Just that everything is going wrong.” I said to myself.

The doctors said that they will disburse the body of Mrs.Patel after knowing the condition of Mr.Patel. I was waiting the entire night for a positive reply. In just a day a whole family was gone. Everything had been spoilt. I spoke to my mom and told her things that had happened and my suspicions as whether Tanvi was Anushka. She asked me to wait patiently till the doctors assured Mr.Patel was safe.

I was wondering as to what will happen to Tanvi as her relatives were not ready to take her in if the situation turned adverse. Relatives were bothered only about the money. I wondered whether the relatives had informed Tanvi regarding her dad’s health and demise of rahul and her mom.

‘Poor girl. I don’t know how she’s going to take this.’ I imagined.

I slept in the hospital waiting room. I was hoping the next day would be “GOOD”.

DAY 9

I didn’t sleep till 4:00am. Just as when I was getting some sleep, a doctor came and woke me up. He said that Mr.Patel was fine and that he would recover soon. I was very happy for him. I was wondering why Tanvi was not yet here at the hospital. If she had come, it would have cleared my doubt that Tanvi and Anushka are the same or not.

I asked the doctor, “Doctor, when can I talk to him?”

“No interrogations as of now. You can interact only in the evening.” He said.

“Okay doctor. But if his position gets better, can I have a word with him? I

Want to know where his daughter is. This is very important doctor. Please understand.”

“Okay fine. I will but morning 9:00am.” Doctor said and he starting going away.

“Doctor...” I said.

He turned and faced me.

“What’s the cause of death of Mrs.Patel?”

“Still we are not able to predict it. Were you with them when they collapsed?” He asked.

“Yes doctor.”

“Were they normal? I mean their face, reactions, body language?” He asked.

“Yes very much normal. They had been talking to me in full josh.” I said in a assuring tone.

“Hmmm, I am not able to find out the reason. Both Mrs.Patel and Rahul have died because of cardio attack. However they have not had any previous signs of it nor have they had any symptoms. Anyways we have sent for the post mortem report. Let’s see what happens.” He said.

“Fine doctor. I have one more question.” I said.

“Yes please go on.” He said.

“Have you found out any traces of food poisoning?”

“No.” He said sternly.

“Okay doctor. The last thing both Rahul and Mrs.Patel ate was a dokhla. Maybe it had some poison, which instigated a cardio attack?”

“Oh, is it? Well, I will talk to the surgeon who is doing to post – mortem. If he finds something in the stomach, then we’ll try to analyse things. Okay?” He asked.

“That’s great doctor. Can I leave you my number so that you can keep me posted?” I asked.

“Yes sure.” He said.

I gave him my number and got his number too. I slept for some time. I woke up again at 9:00am. I came out of the hospital so that I could get something to eat.

I returned to the hospital. Mr.Patel was in ICU. I wondered how he could bear his wife’s death. ‘This is the woman for whom I live’ and now the woman is dead. The doctor gave me permission to sit near him in the ICU under the condition that I should not make him speak. I agreed to the condition.

I entered the ICU. It was big enough to accommodate at least twenty persons. Mr.Patel was lying there in Bed No. 9. I went and sat near him. He was lying there very pale and tired. A man who was laughing and talking yesterday. It seemed as though he had lost a bit weight.

‘Could a cardio attack reduce weight?’ I wanted answers for many questions. I waited for an hour to see whether Mr.Patel gained conscience. But no luck. I stood up and went to the waiting room.

In the waiting room, there was a guy working seriously on his laptop. Just as I went near I realised he was busy with Facebook. I sat near him.

“Hi, my name is Raghav. I need a favour.”

“Hi, I’m Nambi. Tell me.” He said.

“Well, I was thinking as whether you can give me your laptop for some time.”

“No problem dude.”He said and gave the laptop to me.

“Thanks. By the way, are you good with websites? I mean you know many of them?” I asked.

“Yes, I’m an expert in browsing.” He said with a pride.

“That’s great. I want to know about a disease. A forum like thing in which people can discuss their known facts.”

“Ok. So it’s something like a discussion forum right? Hmmm. Try out askthedoctor.com it’s one of the best I know. If anyone replies you can get it in your e-mail or mobile. AJAX & WAP technology.”

‘A typical software engineer he is.’ I thought.

“That’s great.”

I registered with the site. I gave the mobile number so that reply comes to the mobile itself. My question was:

Can a cardio attack cause weight loss. Patient had a dokhla before he collapsed.

Reply to 9000656824 – Raghav.

Suddenly a doctor came into the waiting room.

“Do we have any relatives of Mr.Mahavir Patel here? He is critical.” Doctor shouted.

There was no one for him except me. I said “Thanks Nambi. Now I ve got to go.”

I went to the doctor. I started speaking “I’m his son doctor.”

“That’s great. Please hurry. Come with me. Your dad is in danger.”

The doctor went inside the ICU. I went behind him. The doctor told to Mr.Patel, “Don’t worry sir. Your Son is here with you. You’ll be fine. Just breathe easy.”

“Sister, remove the mask. Put him on the ventilator.”

Mr.Patel looked on with a weary astonishment. He had no son. He had only a daughter. She was not to be seen anywhere. All the relatives were just with him for the fortune. The woman he lived for had passed away. Nothing more could go haywire for him. When he looked at me, still he managed a smile. As he smiled few tears rolled from his eyes. He called me with a blink of his eye.

I moved near him. It appeared as though there were too many pains, sorrows that he had inside him. He told something very feeble. I told him that I couldn’t understand. He held my hand tightly. He was struggling for words. At last, he blurted “Aa...Anu...shka...”

He gave a big jerk and he fell on the bed dead.

Doctor said “Sister quick get the defibrillator.”

They used the defibrillator but it was of no use. He was declared dead. A man who badly wanted to finish his responsibility of getting his daughter married is dead. It would have been a great marriage day after. Now he’s dead with no one for him. After all this trauma, I ve come to know that He’s my Anu’s father.

‘A couple had died due to cardio attack and even a youngster from cardio attack. There is very little chance of co-incidence. This is a planned brutal murder. Anushka is missing. I need to find her.’ I thought.

I finished the formalities and the hospital handed over the body of Mr. And Mrs. Patel. It was transported to their home in kakod. Two hours later, many people had gathered outside their place. It was 7:00pm in the evening. People started becoming restless. Relatives started pondering and arguing as to who will receive the bigger share of the family’s fortune.

‘Still no sign of Anushka. I have to find her out. But how?’ I thought.

Suddenly, a person raised the question “Who will do the final rights? One who does the final rights will have to take care of their daughter and their business.”

“Where is their daughter?” Another person asked.

Many voices raised different answers. “She eloped with the guy she loved.” One said. Another said “She didn’t like the marriage so she had run away.” Another old man said “She had gone to worship their deity.”

There were hushes and gossips all around and few voices said “We won’t have that unlucky girl.” Some said “We have already 2 daughters. We can’t take her in.” It was a clear sign of total separation of materialism and humanity.

“I will do the final rights.” I stood up and faced the people.

“Who are you?” A man asked.

“I’m a family friend of Mr.Patel.” I said sternly.

“But we haven’t seen you before the marriage function.”

“Maybe, but Mr.Patel stayed at my place when he was in Bangalore. I came along with him to Noida.” I said strongly.

“Are you aware that you’ve the biggest burden of taking care of their daughter and assets?” Another person asked.

“Maybe he’s doing this only for the money. We can’t let him do that.” Another woman yelled.

“I’m not at all interested in money, once their daughter comes I will make sure she gives the money as for your share. Taking care of Anushka will be the least I can do for Mr. & Mrs. Patel.” I said.

“But...” A old man started. But I interrupted.

“Look, I don’t want anyone to argue. I have signed the hospital papers as Mr.Patel’s son. So if anyone is troubling me then I will have to go to the police.” I said giving all of them a warning.

There was pin drop silence. All the rituals and funeral rights were over by 10:00pm. I came back to my home and called my mom.

I told her everything that happened.

“I’m not able to believe that people have become heartless and so materialistic mom.” I wept.

“Don’t feel for this. Now you can’t worry over anything. You’ve to find her out. I guess you need some help now as Shiva isn’t there. Shall I ask brother to come there?” My mom asked worriedly.

“Mom, not at all necessary. I can manage it. I will be careful and will call you once in a while. Now I ve few calls to make mom.”

“To whom?” Mom asked.

“First shiva, Need to ask him about his dad’s health. Next have to inform Abhi and extend my leave.”

“Okay fine jillu. Take care. Be careful.”

“Sure mom. Love you. Bye.”

I hung up the phone. I called up Shiva.

“Hi shiv, How is your dad doing now?”

“Yes da. He’s better. Sorry that I couldn’t call you, I was bit busy here.”

“That’s okay. I have one bad news for you. Mr. And Mrs. Patel are dead. The groom Rahul is dead.”

“What? What happened? How? When?” He exclaimed.

“Yesterday Mrs.Patel and Rahul. Today Mr.Patel. I completed the funeral rights just now. I suspect foul play in this. They died of a cardio attack is what the doctors told. But I feel there’s something fishy here. Main thing is that Tanvi is Anushka and she’s been missing.”

“What the hell? I totally don’t understand.” Shiva was in a shock.

“Yes, I’m planning to extend my leave Shiva and have to find out Anushka. Will keep you posted. Take care of urself and dad. Bye.”

“Okay. You too take care. Please keep me posted and hey...”

“Yes shiva.”

“Be careful. From what I have known from you, I guess you might be dealing with cold blooded murderers.”

“Okay I will be careful. Bye.” I said and hung up the phone.

‘Cold blooded murderers.’ I gulped hard.

Next I called up Abhi to his personal cell number. It was switched off. I dialled the office number hoping someone would attend the call though it was very late. My calls were not picked up.

I tried five more times. No luck. ‘One last chance’ I said to myself. I dialled the number. On the last ring I heard a man’s voice.

“Hi, I am Raghav. Project Gambita. May I speak to Abhilash Sharma?” I asked.

“Hi Raghav, this is Rajiv. You don’t know the matter?”

“Hi machi, sorry couldn’t recognise your voice. What matter?” I asked.

“Abhi resigned last week suddenly.”

“What?? Why? What’s the reason?” I was shocked.

“No one knows the reason. He spoke to the higher officials quoting some reasons. It’s very confusing. Few say he had some health problems and had to get treated immediately.” He said.

“Oh my god. Okay fine. I will get back to you later da. Bye.”

As I hung up the phone, I lay helpless. ‘I wanted to inform Abhi. He’s not there. Have to find out Anushka. May be she’s being captivated by that manager of the super market.’

I didn’t know what to do. I was thinking hard till mid night and without knowing I slept.