Nisha B. Thakur's Blog, page 5

King Surya’s Integrity | Bedtime stories for kids

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Once upon a time, there lived a prince called Surya. Surya loved his mother a lot. When he reached his twenties, he ascended the throne and became a king. He became the youngest ruler of his country. His mother started searching for his prospective bride. She liked Nandini as her future daughter-in-law. Nandini was her friend’s daughter. She promised marriage to her friend. But Surya had other plans.

He loved his childhood friend Surekha. Surekha was a farmer’s daughter. Surya married her and came back to his kingdom. When mother came to know about Surya’s marriage with Surekha, she was filled with rage. Chagrined she decided to leave the palace and started living in the forests. Surya when reached the palace to meet his mother. He took Surekha along. He wanted to surprise her mother. But shock awaited him. He was devasted to know his mother is angry. He went to the woods. His mother didn’t speak to him. He begged and cried for forgiveness. But she didn’t budge. At last, Surya decided to come back when his mother’s anger has subsided.

Surya didn’t eat for many days. He didn’t speak to Surekha too. Worried, Surekha decided to take the matter in her hands. She thought the royal mother had not seen her yet. She changed her royal attire to a simple village girl. Simpleton Surekha reached the woods. She began searching for her mother.

She saw the royal mother was living in a small hut. She cursed herself. But she controlled herself and met the royal mother. Royal mother offered her food, water. Royal mother was surprised to see Surekha’s soft hands. She complimented Surekha’s soft hands. Royal mother asked her about her husband. She said my husband is very upset and he is not in village. She said her husband has not eaten for days. Royal mother sympathized with her.

Royal mother was generous and offered Surekha to stay back. Surekha accepted the invitation. Royal mother didn’t know that she was Surya’s wife and her daughter-in-law. Surekha took care of the royal mother. She did all household chores, in spite of royal mother having servants at her disposal, Surekha did all work for her. The royal mother was happy. Surekha won her heart.

At last, Surekha decided to reveal her truth to the royal mother.

But before her revelation Surya arrived to meet his mother. On seeing Surekha, he ran to her and hugged her. Royal mother saw this and blamed Surekha for being deceitful to her. Royal mother understood Surekha was Surya’s wife.

Surekha started crying; she covered her face with her hands and cried. Then the royal mother saw her hand. She remembered the first time they met; her hands were soft. Now her hands were bruised and rough. Royal mother wiped Surekha’s tears. She realized her mistake; she judged her wrongly. Royal mother, Surya, and Surekha returned happily to their palace. They lived happily ever after.

Moral of the story- Goodness always finds its way.

Happy reading!

About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly appreciated novels First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Talk to Me | Urban Short Stories | Chapter 3

“OMG! I can’t believe. You are crying for a boy,” said Meenakshi with her mouth wide open. Avanti covered her face with her hands; tears traveled down her swollen red eyes to her red cheeks.  “I think you are in love,” said Rachana. “What do you mean; you think she is in love? It is so evident that she is in love. Now, I know why you cried during the trip,” said Meenakshi.

“She cried in the Matheran trip too? When?” asked Rachana expressing her concern. “She thought Aakash is ignoring her,” replied Meenakshi. “Avanti, don’t cry. Please, don’t cry,” said Rachana wiping her tears with a handkerchief. Avanti controlled her tears. Meenakshi offered her water. Avanti was comforted. “I liked him the moment I saw him. I could not keep my eyes away from him. Initially, I thought, it is his good looks that attracted me to him. But my eyes always look for him, they follow him. Whenever he is around, I experience a strange control over me. I feel helpless. Days passed, and we became good friends, I started liking him. I loved spending time with him; I like to share things with him. I have struggled with myself for days, unable to understand why am I behaving so strangely? But, now, I can’t take this helplessness anymore,” said Avanti in immense pain. Meenakshi held Avanti’s hand in her hand and said, “Avanti dear I know this is not easy, but still, listen to me carefully. He is already dating someone. You have no choice but to interact less with him. Please stayaway from him and his thoughts, as much as possible. I understand this won’t happen overnight, but you will have to try.""Yes, Meenakshi is right. We are the marketing students, so I would explain to you using marketing jargon. This situation is called ‘Restriction of new entrants in the market,’” said Rachana. “That’s disgusting, Rachana,” Meenakshi said angrily. “Alright, I mean to say, talk to him; but less,” said Rachana in embarrassment. “I will talk to him less,” said Avanti. I will talk to him less, very less.
Next evening, Avanti was in the library, reading a novel. Meenakshi and Rachana had occupied chairs beside her. Aakash walks into the library and then to their table. Avanti had noticed his absence from the class this morning and was happy aboutseeing him. I saw him for the first time today. Why didn’t he come to the class? Is he unwell? “Hi girls,” said Aakash. The three girls replied unanimously, “Hi Aakash.” I want to know is he okay? Hope he is not unwell. Why didn’t he come to the class? But if I talk to him, Meenakshi and Rachana will get angry. “Meenakshi I am not feeling well. Will you please accompany me to the doctor?” asked Aakash. Avanti stood in concern. Avanti wanted to ask him what happened and wanted to offer him care, but Rachana held Avanti’s hand and signaledher not to get involved much. To cover Avanti’s act of concern, Meenakshi too stood in concern.  “What happened?” asked Meenakshi. “Fever,” replied Aakash. “Let’s go to the doctor,” said Meenakshi and they both left. Rachana looked at Avanti in disapproval.  “I am sorry for my behavior,” said Avanti. “It’s ok. Things won’t change overnight,” said Rachana offering sympathy. “Thanks,” said Avanti. He could have asked me to accompany him to the doctor. But he didn’t. He instead preferred Meenakshi. But, that’s not important.He gets well soon that is most important. After a few days, Meenakshi and Aakash are in the canteen. “I am so hungry,” said Aakash.“I miss my home-made food,” said Meenakshi. “Awww!” said Rachana. Avanti arrived in the canteen and then joined them at the table.
“Hi Avanti,” said Aakash.
“Hi,” replied Avanti. “I like this coconut curry with rice,” said Meenakshi. “I like it too,” said Aakash. “Eat this along with roasted papad, it’s awesome,” said Avanti. “Good idea!” exclaimed Meenakshi. “Avanti, do you know cooking?” asked Aakash. “Yes, I do,” replied Avanti.  “What about you?” asked Aakash, turning to Meenakshi. “Even I am fond of cooking,” replied Meenakshi.  Avanti was happy as this was the first question ever asked by Aakash in the last one week after she had decided to talk less with him. I am feeling guilty that I am only answering him and talking less. I hope, I am not hurting you, Aakash. I am sorry for my behavior. Has he noticed these days I talk less with him? Is he missing me? “I miss something these days,” said Aakash. Is he reading my thoughts? Are my thoughts audible? Does he miss talking to me? “And what’s that you missing these days?” asked Meenakshi. “Evening cricket! I miss the evening cricket. This rainy season ruins it,” said Aakash, expressing disappointment. Avanti was unhappy that Aakash didn’t mention that he also missed the way she always encouraged him when he was playing. I remember once you said, “I missed you so much. Last evening when you were not at your window, there was no one to cheer me. I didn’t feel like playing.” Now he no longer misses me. He misses cricket. I am not important. Has he even noticed that it'dbeen a week that we haven’t spoken to each other? But, I miss you. The green beauty of Matheran gets further enhanced with the free-flowing white patches of the waterfall on the green mountains. The rain God was extremely happy, and it was raining heavily for the past ten hours.  “When will it stop raining?” concerned Meenakshi asked. “No idea,” replied Rachana in irritation.  “Mom and dad just came back from office, they have reached home safely,” said Meenakshi. “My parents too reached home safely. Just spoke to them sometimes back. What about your parents, Rachana?” asked Avanti. “Same here. They have reached home safely,” replied Rachana. “These news channels are saying that it is raining heavily in Mumbai. Local trains are not working, and it is expected to rain heavily over there for a few more hours,” said Avanti standing near her room window. The water poured continuously from the sky. The water level had reached the first floor. Avanti looked down from her second-floor window room. “Avanti, please close the window, rainwater is getting inside the room because of the breeze,” said Meenakshi. “I was checking the water level. It has reached the first floor,” said Avanti as she was closing the window.  “OMG! I am scared,” said worried Meenakshi. “The girls on the first floor would be soon shifting to the second floor, as they have already shifted the girls on the ground floor to the first floor,” said Rachana. “I think we should also pack our belongings,” said Avanti. “Let’s hope it stops raining soon,” said Meenakshi. “I just saw a green snake in the water,” said Avanti. “Stop scaring me, Avanti!” yelled Meenakshi. “Sorry,” said Avanti in embarrassment. The rain God was in no mood to stop and the water level was on its way to the second floor. Now it was 2 a.m. The college management prepared to rescue all the students. Students were asked to assemble on the third floor of the hostel. After some time, the entire batch of the students was present there. There was no electricity. They had candles, emergency lights, and torches with them. It was very dark, and people arestanding at one end were not visible to the people standing on the other side. They had to work with the help of candles, emergency light, and torches. It was raining heavily outside. The water level had reached the second floor. The management did not share this news with the students so that the students don’t panic. Strict instructions were given to the students, not to stand near the window or move out of the third floor so that no snake or water animal could harm them. Aakash, Meenakshi, Rachana, and Avanti sat at one corner of the third floor.  “What if the water enters the second floor?” asked Meenakshi. “All our belongings would drain away,” said Rachana. “I hope, you girls have collected most of your belongings,” said Aakash. Meenakshi     replied,    “Yes,    we    have    collected certificates and mark sheets, the documents that we have.”  “What about your most important stuff like nail paints, lipsticks, eyeliner, kajal, etc.” teased Aakash. They all burst out laughing.  “I am happy, at least you girls laughed. Don’t worry girls. Keep smiling. This trouble won’t last long,” said Aakash. “We hope so,” said Meenakshi. A batchmate called Aakash from the other end of the third floor. “Girls, see you in some time. I will be right back,” said Aakash and went to the other end of the corridor and sat with his other group of friends. “Aakash mingles with everyone,” said Meenakshi. “Yes, right,” said Avanti. She preferred not to speakwhen Aakash was around. Aakash was unaffected by her not talking much, especially when he is around. He talks to everyone. Most of the people in our batch are his friends. He gels well with everyone. He has no time even to realize that someone is not talking to him anymore. He is unaffected. Avanti was tired of sitting in one place and was walking across the third floor. It was dark, andshe carried a torch in her hand, she kept walking in a small place, to and fro.  It is so difficult to ignore him. I feel so guilty when I ignore him. I am sorry if I am hurting you. Please, forgive me, Aakash. Someone pulled her dupatta. Avanti turned to see who it was and saw Aakash was standing in front of her.  “Hi,” said Aakash and smiled. “Hi,” replied Avanti. “So, how many more days to go?” asked Aakash. Avanti gave him a puzzled look.  “I didn’t get you?” quizzed Avanti. “I am asking how many more days do you want to ignore me? I am asking you directly so that we can end this matter at once,” said Aakash. “I don’t understand what you are talking about?” asked Avanti with a straight face. “You talk less when I am around. I have noticed this. I don’t understand what your problem is. So, I am asking you directly, how many more days to go; so that I prepare myself that my friend Avanti Mallik is not going to talk to me for these numbers of days. And then, once you are happy, we can resume our friendship. So, now, tell me how many more days?” asked Aakash and then walked off angrily. Avanti was unable to react. She was happy. She wanted to dance. He is affected! Wow. I can’t believe. He is affected. The following morning, the rain God showed mercy, and the rain stopped.As the water level came down slowly, all the students were collectively asked to move to the canteen from the third floor of the hostel. The hostel rooms which were flooded with water last night were no longer in operational conditions. The muddy water stains were visible all around the hostel; themuddy water spots were on the walls, fans and electricity wires. The college management declared a fifteen days holiday for the students so that the management can make the hostel operational again.  Meenakshi, Rachana, and Avanti were in the canteen. “I am hungry,” said Meenakshi.“Me too,” said Rachana as she was sipping tea.  Avanti smiled at her two best friends.  “I am very happy. I want to dance,” said Avanti. “I know you are happy about the unplanned vacations that we got in the mid of the session,” said Meenakshi. “Yeah, right,” said Avanti and smiled. Avanti lovingly stared at Aakash, who was sitting at the table at the corner of the canteen. No gals, I am happy about something that happened last night. Though, he is angry and is not speaking to me. But, now, I know my behavior affects him.
Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Girlfriend or No Girlfriend | Urban Short Stories | Chapter 2

The session began in full swing. Avanti was now friends with most of her batch mates and seniors too. As she entered the third week of her new life, she realized that she has started liking the new place. The pollution free environment, new friends in her life, new learning, lectures, assignment, watching evening cricket, her window, the sunrise, the sunset, the moon, the library, the canteen, the post-dinner walk with her friends and then retiring to her room, all was worth enjoying.


I miss you, mom and dad. If today, I like this place, it is because of my new friends. They add a special meaning to this place. Aakash had also become her new friend. In a week’s time, he was no longer only Meenakshi’s friend but also became a part of the group. Her eyes followed him wherever he went. She realized she should not be looking at him, but every time she felt that a sort of helplessness had empowered her. The more she desired to be away from him, the more she was attracted. During the first week, Avanti and Aakash shared a casual talk, being good to each other. The ice broke between them, the day when.Avanti was in the library. The library was divided into two parts. A glass door and a glass wall worked as partitions.  The first part occupied several book racks. The second part was the sitting area, with table and chairs. Avanti was sitting in the second part, at the corner table. She sat in a way which made the entire library visible to her. She was busy with her assignment. There were books all over the table she had occupied. She was working on her laptop. “Hi Avanti,” said Aakash with a sweet smile on his face. Avanti looked up and saw Aakash was standing in front of her. “Hi Aakash,” replied Avanti. “Are you working on your HR assignment?” asked Aakash. “Yes,” replied Avanti. “If you don’t mind, can I complete this assignment with you?” asked Aakash. “Sure,” said Avanti, with a charming smile on her face. “Thanks. This assignment is boring. I wish the submission date gets postponed or the teacher falls ill. I wish, it rains so heavily that the entire lecture gets postponed,” said Aakash in a disgusted tone. Avanti was amused and burst into laughter, “Do boys always talk like that? I thought cribbing and crying over assignments were girlish.” Aakash moved his chair closer to Avanti’s chair. Aakash gazed at her, directly into her eyes. Avanti got uncomfortable as he came near. Aakash shuttered in a whispering tone, “I like your pink earrings.” Avanti was confused with Aakash’s changed behavior. Her charming smile faded, fumbling she said, “Tha. Thanks.” Aakash came closer to her, “I like when girls’ color coordinates their stuff, like the color of your lips, matches exactly with the color of your earrings.” Avanti was speechless, but replied, “Okay.” Aakash moved his chair further close, “Your lips are beautiful, lovely pink. You are a beauty. You have an awesome complexion.” Avanti became speechless, and it was impossible for her to answer him. She ignored his comment and opened one of the books kept on the table. She started reading.  Why is Aakash behaving so weirdly? Has he noticed that I keep on looking at him? What will I answer if he asks me about my staring acts when I don’t have any answers. “I thought we were doing an HR assignment,” said Aakash. “Yes, you are right,” replied Avanti. “Then why do you have to open a Business Management book?” asked Aakash. Avanti on the spur of the moment closed the book and looked at him in confusion. “So Ms. Avanti, do boys talk like this?” asked Aakash.  Aakash burst out laughing.  “Were you joking all this while?” asked Avanti with a straight face. “What? You thought I would flirt with you, no ways,” said Aakash laughing. “You are so mean. You scared me. And for heaven's sake pull your chair back, right now,” said Avanti in an embarrassing tone. Aakash laughed and in an animated tone teased her, “Do boys talk like that? I always thought cribbing and crying over assignments were girlish.” Avanti lightly smacked him with her book.  ----------------------- The other day near the lake.“So, you come here every day, just to feed fishes?” Avanti asked. “Yes, poor fishes, they don’t get anything to eat,” said Aakash, holding a packet of bread in his hand. He was tearing bread into small pieces and feeding. Avanti was admiring his innocence and then she looked at him in awe while he continued to feed. Aakash is so caring.Aakash looked at her; she was embarrassed and then she pretended to cover her glancing act and played with her bangles. Damn! He caught me. What will he think about me? Why this girl has to always stare at me? Avanti was deeply lost in her thoughts. He splashed water on her face. She was astonished bywater droplets hitting her face; hermouth was open. “No! You are so mean!” she wiped her face with her dupatta. “Welcome back!” said Aakash making fun of Avanti. “Oh! Please,” she walked off angrily and accidentally smacked her leg to a huge stone lying there. “Ouch,” cried Avanti in pain. “Hey, Avanti! Watch out,” said Aakash. “AAA…” cried Avanti. “Are you okay? Is it paining?” asked Aakash scrutinizing her feet, checking whether she was hurt. “I am fine... Am fine,” Avanti said in a low tone. God, what's wrong with me? Why am I blushing? Please help God!
The other day in the academic block.“This is for you,” Aakash offered chocolate to Avanti. “Wow! Chocolate!” exclaimed Avanti in joy. “I got chocolates for all my friends, and this is for you,” said Aakash. Avanti answered casually, trying her best to conceal how happy she was on receiving the chocolate, “Thanks.” Why am I so happy? Just for a piece of chocolate! God help me! Why am I behaving this way?Oh, yeah! Now I know why I am so happy. I am happy with the chocolate irrespective of the fact which has given it to me.Yeah, girl, you are right! --------------------------------------------- The other day in the canteen. “Where were you the last evening? I missed you,” said Aakash to Avanti. Missed me. Avanti answered him, “In the library.” Aakash said further, “I missed you so much. Last evening when you were not seen at your window, there was no one to applaud. I didn’t feel like playing.” Avanti smiled and tried her best to conceal her happiness. Missed me. Now as they entered the third week of the college. Meenakshi, Rachana, Avanti, Aakash along with their college friends planned a day trip to Matheran. “Is this your first trip to Matheran?” asked Meenakshi. “Yes, as you know I am from Bangalore. I never got a chance to visit this side of the country. This would be my first trip to Matheran,” replied Aakash. Aakash and the group explored various hill points, shopping, and relishing the local food of Matheran. Avanti noticed that she did not get a chance to speak to Aakash since the morning. Aakash too was so occupied with the others that he had no time for Avanti. In the morning at 8 a.m. he said hello to me, andthat was the last time we spoke. Since then, he has been speaking to everyone except me. Is he ignoring me? “Avanti, come here,” called Meenakshi. Avanti was in her world, away from the trip, college and her friends.  Is he ignoring me? Why is he doing so? Has he noticed that I keep on staring at him and that’s why he is no longer interested in being friends? I think he will never talk to me. He will never talk to me. “Avanti, what are you thinking so much? I called you thrice. What happened?” asked Meenakshi expressing concern on Avanti’s behavior. Avanti’s eyes were full of tears; water streamed down her pink cheeks. She was crying wildly, finding hard to breathe, “I don’t know. I don’t like this.” “What is it that you don’t like?” asked Meenakshi. “I don’t like... when people. I call my friends, ignore me,” said Avanti controlling her tears. “Who ignored you?” asked Meenakshi. “No-one,” said Avanti in an embarrassed tone.
Meenakshi gave her a puzzled look, “Someone ignored you, andyou are so affected that you are crying like a baby, and now, you don’t even want to share the whole thing! Fine, even I don’t care.”  Meenakshi walked off angrily. Avanti was surprised at her behavior. Meenakshi’s words were echoing all over. Someone ignored you, and you are so affected that you cry like a baby. Meenakshi, Rachana, and Avanti were in Avanti’s room. Avanti’s bed showcased the entire day’s shopping goodies of the three girls. Avanti was still disappointed with Aakash’s behavior, but now she wanted her mind to stay away from his thoughts, engaging herself with her two best friends. Meenakshi had noticed changes in Avanti’s behavior and knew something was bothering her, but she preferred giving Avanti the desired time. Avanti is my friend; sooner or later she will tell me about the matter. Rachana stood in front of the mirror to test out how she looked in her latest addition to the wardrobe while Avanti and Meenakshi lazed in bed, after a tiresome day. “I like your T-shirt,” said Avanti. “Thanks. By the way, do you girls know the latest gossip at the college?” asked Rachana. “NO!” replied Meenakshi and Avanti, unanimously. “Priyanka, the hot babe, is interested in girls,” said Rachana. “OMG! Poor Aakash,” said Meenakshi. “What’s with Aakash now?” asked Avanti. “Poor Aakash. He finds Priyanka hot, this news will disappoint him,” added Meenakshi teasingly. “But he has a girlfriend, right?” asked Avanti. Meenakshi replied, “Yes, he has a girlfriend. They both like each other. Aakash is committed to her. They plan to get marr..” Meenakshi’s words were interrupted by Avanti, “Please stop it Meenakshi. I can’t hear this. Girlfriend! Girlfriend! Who is she? I hate her. Why does he have a girlfriend? I hate her. I don’t like her,” said Avanti crying uncontrollably. Meenakshi and Rachana were speechless on seeing Avanti cry, andher words echoed in the room. They had just witnessed something unbelievable. Meenakshi and Rachana looked at each other with their mouth wide open. They looked at Avanti in disbelief. They did not know how to react.
Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

The Fatal Attraction | Urban Short Stories | Chapter 1

The cheerful noon welcomed the local train, which arrived ata standstill at the Kandivali railway station. As the train stopped, the commuters standing near the door got anxious to move out.Correspondingly, the commuters standing on the platform were desperate to get in. The large crowd then moved out of the train, and the smaller set of people got inside. 

The train continued its journey ahead to its next destination. At this moment, the train was relatively empty. Avanti quickly walked to the door.Cool, gentle wind met her face; her long black hair moved swiftly, andher pink skirt was free in the air, and her ear danglers jazzing to the breezy tone. The day was not sunny; it was windy. Meenakshi and Rachana, her two best friends,joined her near the door.
“Wow, a cool air!” Meenakshi exclaimed clinging to Avanti.“Yeah! It’s cold in here. Mumbai was burning,” agreed Avanti as she joined her hands and then rubbed them gently. “It’s May, and it’s summertime there. Mumbai is expected to be hot. We are near Matheran now, so this cool breeze is the effect of the hill station,” said Rachana. “Wow! Thanks for the information, Rachana! You are so intelligent! We never knew that we are near Matheran now, just a few kilometers away from Mumbai,” Meenakshi said in a teasing tone. Avanti and Meenakshi shared a good laugh. Avanti embraced Meenakshi’s arm. Further controlling her laughter, Avanti said, “Good one!”  Disapproved, Rachana stared at them, and in an animated tone she said, “It is not funny!” “Oh?” Meenakshi teasingly asked Rachana. Avanti sensed that the two of her best friends were about to enter into a heated conversation. Like every time, she interrupted before the things were propelled out of proportion. “I feel that Mumbai is no longer that hot,” said Avanti. “Why do you think so?” Asked Meenakshi. “We, the three hottest girls in Mumbai are here, so how can Mumbai remain hot anymore?” Said Avanti. “Yeah!” Agreed Meenakshi and the threesome giggled.  Their friendship was three years old. They met each other during their management graduation and were inseparable since then. They were on their way to embark on a fresh journey; to pursue higher management studies, that is, MBA. “As the train enters the Naval station, we would be able to see our college, but it is from the left side of the train,” said Rachana. “Come, let us move to the left door,” said Avanti. The three girls moved to the left side of the train, their eyes glued to the landscape, tall trees residing in lush land and the greenery around. Beautiful mountains behind them and the waterfall made the location even more picturesque! “It’s heavenly gorgeous! God must be a painter,” gasped Avanti. “No stupid, he is a photographer,” said Rachana. “What?” Asked Avanti in disgust. “He is a photographer, and he clicks when the sky thunders,” said Rachana. The threesome burst out laughing. “Hey look out, that’s our college,” said Rachana. The visibility from the train was restricted to the sole glass building standing tall in the middle of the lush green land. The campus area was not visible to her. Avanti rested on her toes and then jumped to see if it was further visible, but only the glass building was distinguished. Avanti gazed at it silently.
This is the place, where I am going to spend the next two years of my life, away from my family. I wonder what it has in store for me! But, I am happy about being a part of one of the most prestigious management schools. Only, one thought discomforts me. How will I stay away from mom and dad? All I wish is these two years should come to an end soon.
As she fixed her eyes on her new destination, her mind sparked a flashback, and thoughts about her mom and dad crept in.
“Avanti, let me and your father accompany you for the first day. We want to meet your teachers and see your new college.” “Come on mom, for how many times do you want to visit my college and meet my teachers? I have taken admission there, andhence, I am destined to spend the next two years there. Now, it’s my journey further on. If you accompany me, you know it very well that I will cry when you leave,” said Avanti in embarrassment. “Oh, Avanti!” Said her mother. “Mom, I don’t want to cry when you leave the campus,” cried Avanti. “Let her go alone, let her be strong!” Exclaimed Avanti’s father.  Her mother nodded. However, she exhibited her disapproval in her heart. Her thought went split as the train came to a halt abruptly. Her dry eyes altered moist, and a small drop of tear rolled down her right cheek. --------------------- After ending various official formalities Avanti, Meenakshi and Rachana crossed the main gate of the college and entered the college campus. The main gate ushered the way to the wide sides of the wide road, besides the muddy pathway. The muddy pathway extended to the vast meadows. The threesome looked around silently witnessing the beauty of nature, as maintained by the college staffs.  Rachana said, “The open spaces here make the sunrise, sunset and the moon so visible. You never get to see these in Mumbai because of the tall buildings around.” Avanti agreed, “This place is surely a photographer’s delight.” As the girls walked further, they saw the wide road ends into two pathways, one led them to the academic block and the other to the teacher’s restroom. The girls approached the academic block. “The building we saw from the train!” Exclaimed Meenakshi, pointing to the academic block. “Yeah,” agreed Avanti. As they entered the academic block, they saw, it had a fairly huge open space with few tables and chairs, beautifully placed around. Some were placed at the corner of the open space; some were in the center, yet placed decently away from each other tomaintain the beauty of the academic block. Many students and parents were standing there; the students were standing along with their luggage. The walls showcased a few paintings. “Excuse me, where is the main office?” Avanti queried from one of the students standing in the corridor. “The first room over there,” replied the student, pointing his finger to the room at the left corridor. “Thanks,” said Avanti. The three girls moved to the main office. The open space led them to several corridors. Each corridor had distinct rooms. The doors and one side of each room were made of glass. All that was happening in the room was visible from the outside. Only the main office on the academic block had a glass wall on the two sides, to make the happening in the room visible from the several corridors and the many rooms. They all spent half an hour in the office, completing formalities. The office staff gave them the keys to the room. They moved to the hostel building. It was four in the evening. “My room number is 202,” said Avanti. “I hope, we three are on the same floor, if not in the same room,” said Meenakshi. “I told you earlier that in management schools they don’t allowsame rooms to students from the same placeso that they get enough opportunity to gel with the other batch mates,” said Rachana. “Let us quickly change and meet our batch mates at the academic block. I saw someone very hot,” said Rachana rolling her eyes. Avanti entered her room. She kept her luggage on the bed. There was a window in the room, next to which was a side table and the room had an attached bathroom, it had a cupboard for a girl to stock belongings. She unlocked the window and witnessed a scenic panorama. The sky was orange. The sun was about to set. She got lost in the scenic beauty. What a beauty! For the next two years, I shall witness this beauty every day. How lucky I am! Avanti lovingly stared at the setting sun. Suddenly, a cricket ball smacked the window of the subsequent room. Her romance with the setting sun came to an end. She saw a group of boys playing cricket in the playground in front of her window. “Carry on the game, the window is safe,” yelled a fielder. “Anyways, there is no one in that room,” said the batsman, past that high strike, proudly defending himself. The batsman was at the striker's end. The bowler bowled. The batsman smacked six. Avanti clapped. Now, the bowler threw the next ball. Again, the batsman stroked six. Avanti applauded loudly. “Wow!” said Avanti. All the boys in the field were looking at her; she felt embarrassed. The batsman removed the helmet and smiled at her. She gazed at him, and their eyes met. She further gazed at him, this time with intense admiration. She experienced a terrible emptiness within her. Somewhere two planets have collided, and her world has come to an end. There was no one around. There was no sound to be heard, except her heartbeats. Something told her that he was not a stranger; she wasn’t feeling him for the first time. She was unable to take her eyes off him. As if some witch had cast a spell on her. She was unable to control her eyes. He grinned at the admiration of a newly arrived girl, and then he covered his face with the helmet, only his eyes were visible. Avanti’s eyes were still fixed on him. My heart is beating so loudly. She wanted to have some more glimpses of him. The batsman was again at the striker’s end. The batsman stroke four and his team won the match. There was much rejoicing in the playground. Then the batsman removed his helmet and started talking to the other players on the field. Avanti’s eyes followed him and only him. Like there was no one else on the ground. Avanti was still staring at him, unable to take her eyes off him.  Who is he? What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I take my eyes off him? ------------- Later in the evening Avanti, Meenakshi, and Rachana were walking around the campus. They came across a new management student recruit; all the three offered their introduction and received one in return. They were trying to gel in with the maximum recruitsaround, talking to them. The evening time had passed. It was now time for dinner. The girls moved towards the canteen. “So far so good,” said Rachana. “We have a good mix of batch mates, from different academic backgrounds, different cultures, and different work experience,” added Meenakshi. “Hello Meenakshi,” a voice came from behind. The three girls turned behind. Avanti saw the batsman from the field standing in front of her. “Hi Aakash,” Meenakshi replied.  “So, how are you, my friend?” Aakash asked. “I am doing well. Meet my friends, Rachana and Avanti. He is Aakash.” “Hello,” said Avanti and Rachana smiling at him. A male voice from the canteen called for Aakash. “Will talk to you girls later,” said Aakash.  Avanti’s eyes followed him until he was seen. She felt helpless when she saw him around and was unable to take her eyes off him. Why? Why? “How do you know him?” quizzed Rachana. “Two months back we met at the college entrance exam,” replied Meenakshi. “Oh, nice! Must say that he was good looking!” exclaimed Rachana. “Forget him; he is committed. He is dating someone and loves her,” replied Meenakshi. Avanti became unhappy after hearing this. She felt disappointed. I don’t care if he has a girlfriend; I am not bothered at all. I don't even know him. I just like the way he looks and nothing more. Avanti felt a bitter pinch and she experienced a unique emptiness and a strange sense of pain within her. Why am I so bothered? Why is he affecting me so much? I don’t even know him.

Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Diamond Merchant and Fairies | Folktale of India

A very long, long time ago, there lived a merchant called Bhima. Bhima loved his wife a lot. Bhima would gift her the best of the best jewels. His wife, Charu, loved the way Bhima pampered her. He would travel far land, buy jewels and sells it to rich people across the country. He was a very trusted merchant. He knew for the best jewels he could command any price, but he reserved it only for his wife.
One fine day, while coming back home from a long trip in his horse cart. He saw an old woman frantically waving her hand at him. She needed help. Bhima stopped his cart near her and offered her food. She didn’t accept food. Instead, he asked him to take her to a nearby village in his cart. Bhima happily obliged to her wishes. The old woman climbed the cart and dozed off. Bhima smiled at her. When he reached the village, he turned back to wake the old woman. To his surprise, the old woman disappeared. And on the seat, there was a diamond pendant. Bhima picked the pendant and started looking around but in vain.

He came back home. He narrated the whole tale to his wife. Charu too was confused. But she liked the pendant. Bhima gave the diamond pendant to her. Charu wore it.
‘Please don’t consider this diamond is yours. I am only giving it to you for custody,’ said Bhima.
Charu understood her husband’s moral values and agreed to give it back to him whenever the owner arrives. Few days passed, but Bhima still searched for the lady, where ever he traveled. But he didn’t find her.
One fine day, when Bhima and Charu were eating food. They heard a knock at the door. Bhima was surprised to see the old woman at the door. He welcomed her and told her that her pendant is safe. Just then another old woman arrived. Bhima was confused. Just then another old woman. They three looked the same.
‘You can’t be normal humans,’ said Bhima.
Three old women transformed into fairies- pink, red, and white. Now Bhima and Charu had a bigger challenge to outperform they had to decide- who is the true owner of the pendant.
‘I will tie pendant on the rope, and you will have to snatch it from the rope,’ said Bhima.
‘But in our snatching, the pendant can break,’ said the pink fairies.
Bhima said that there is a possibility.
Hearing this pink fairy backed out. Thus, Bhima understood that the pendant belonged to her. And he gave the pendant to her. Other two fairies accepted their mistake. Bhima and Charu lived happily ever after.
Moral of the story- Never back out of the challenges in life, just like Bhima in this story.
Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Sachi’s Best Doll | Folktale of India

Once upon a time, there lived a girl named Sachi. Sachi made a living by selling clay dolls made by mother. Sachi was only seven-years-old. Her father died a few years ago, leaving behind him a small house. Sachi and her mother comfortably lived there. 


Her mother made dolls from clay, and Sachi went to the village market to sell them. Sachi’s best friend, Satya, told her about the big fair happening outside the village. Both Satya and Sachi walked there to sell dolls, to earn extra money. Mother waited for Sachi till the evening. But when she didn’t return, she went to Satya’s house. Satya’s parents and Sachi’s mother went looking for them. Crying they called their names. They didn’t know what to do.
Away from them Satya and Sachi had reached outside the village. But there was no big fair happening there. Sachi started crying and scolded Satya. Together they started walking back to the village. Just then a huge snake named Shesha came there hissing. She took the form of a snake girl.
‘What is this?’ she asked, looking at the basket full of dolls.
Satya and Sachi were so frightened, they could barely speak.
Mustering courage Sachi said, ‘Dolls.’
Shesha said, ‘Oh! So human call this a doll.’
She started checking dolls. She then took one.
‘How much is this for?’ asked Shesha.
Sachi said that she could take them for free. But Shesha insisted on giving money. Sachi said the price. Shesha gave her a diamond ring.
Sachi refused to accept it. Shesha gave her a ring and asked Sachi to give her the best doll.Sachi gave her a pink doll. Happily, Shesha went away. Satya and Sachi reached home. She showed her mother a ring. Her mother kept the ring in the box and locked it. After a few days, magic started happening, and soon, they became very rich. Satya and her parents were surprised. Satya told them about the ring Shesha gave to Sachi.
Satya’s parent decided to rob it. They robbed it and kept in their house. They expected magic to happen. But to their horror. Satya’s father lost his job; his mother could barely move her legs. Satya too suffered a heavy fever. Satya’s father realized his mistake and returned the ring to Sachi’s mother. Sachi’s mother took the ring, and just then, the ring started sparkling.
‘This is a gift to Sachi for giving Shesha the best doll. No one apart from Sachi can own this ring,’ said the ring.
Sachi’s mother kept the ring in the box and locked it. She hugged Sachi and told her that ring belongs only to her and she should never lose the ring. Sachi promised her mother to never lose the ring.
Moral- Greed is your biggest enemy.
Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

The Priceless Wisdom | Folktale of India

Once upon a time, there lived a merchant called Rudra. Every morning he strolled near the river and then resumed his day’s work. The beauty of the river mesmerized him and gave a perfect start to his day. One day he found a very expensive ring near the river. He picked it up and wondered whose ring it could be. 


While returning from the river, he heard people talking about princess Shri’s visit to the river. Rudra understood that the ring could belong to her. He went to the palace and gave a ring to the King. King Yayati called princess Shri and gave her a ring. Princess Shri refused to take the ring as it didn’t belong to her. Rudra’s honesty touched King Yayati and gave him a ring back.
Rudra, however, was very worried about the ring. And was anxious and wanted to return the ring to the owner at any cost.
The next morning, he went to the river. Asked the birds around if they knew who is the owner of the ring. The birds too couldn’t answer. Then he decided to ask trees if they have witnessed anything. They too couldn’t tell it. 

There was a priest who saw Rudra eagerly looking for the ring’s owner. The priest walked to him and offered his words of wisdom.

He said, 'The ring belongs to you. It is in your destiny.'

He also said Rudra should keep it. Rudra went back home. The whole night he tossed in the bed thinking about priest’s words. He decided to keep the ring. However, the next morning, he walked to the river and dropped the ring in it.
‘I don’t know who this ring belongs to, but I am sure you know about it,’ said Rudra. Rudra prayed to the river to accept it.
The river goddess arrived from the stream. She was impressed with Rudra’s honesty and gifted her the ring.
‘I kept this ring near the river to test you, my son,’ said the river goddess. She gifted him the ring. Rudra happily wore the ring. The priest came to meet Rudra and said, ‘I told you that this ring is in your destiny.’
Rudra had to accept the priest’s wisdom.
Moral – The wise man knows all.
Happy reading!


About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Back to Gurukul | Folktale of India

A very long, long time ago, there lived a prince called Arjun. Arjun was only seven-years-old when his father King Yayati enrolled him in a Gurukul. His teacher saint Palasa was very disciplined. Arjun hated living in Gurukul. 


He missed the palace. Palasa’s rule was making Arjun very anxious, and he wondered when he would go back to his kingdom. Soon a year passed and came the time when Arjun was allowed to go back to his kingdom. Arjun decided he will never come back again.
After reaching the palace, he met his mother, Queen Pritha. Pritha loved Arjun a lot. For her, Arjun’s wished were very important. Arjun knew if he tells his mother about the discomforts he faced there. Pritha would never allow him to go back. But to his surprise, Pritha didn’t budge. Instead he wished Arjun that he was lucky to have a disciplined teacher. Disappointed Arjun wondered how to avoid going back to Gurukul. Then he met his grandmother Rati. Rati too explained Arjun about having proper schooling. Disappointed Arjun had no one to go.

At last, he decided to meet his father, King Yayati. Yayati was very smart. He took Arjun on a day’s picnic. And he then they took a bath in a river, enjoyed freshly cooked fishes from the river. Arjun enjoyed the day.
Then Yayati said, ‘oh! I missed my medicines.’
‘Wait, I will get medicines for you,’ said Arjun.
He ran inside the tent they built near the river. Arjun saw big bags, but he couldn’t read the label. Hence, he couldn’t figure out which one bag belongs to medicines.
Disappointed Arjun came out of the hut.
‘Sorry father I couldn’t get medicines as I couldn’t read it,’ said Arjun.
‘Now you know why studying is important,’ said Yayati.
Arjun realized his mistake of wasting a year in Gurukul and not able to learn to read. He promised Yayati to be serious about his education.
Moral – Schooling is important.


Happy reading!

About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 



appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Ramu Trusts his Instinct | Folktale of India

Once upon a time, there lived two farmers called Ramu and Bhola. Ramu and Bhola worked in the fields of landlord Shankar. They both aspired to have their farms one day. Ramu and Bhola earned a very little amount. They could hardly save. But with their determination and hard work, they saved a decent amount. 


Eagerly waiting to buy a piece of land. Ramu and Bhola searched to buy the land. But the land they liked was very expensive. So, they decided to buy the land together as a co-owner.
One day landlord Shankar told them about his land, which is in far away from the town. He wished to sell it as he was aging and wanted to avoid long-distance travel. Ramu and Bhola expressed their desire to buy it. They went to see the land. It was fairly barren. Ramu liked the land but Bhola was disappointed and apprehensive that will the land pay them back. But Ramu was very positive that with his hard work he can grow crops on the barren land too. After returning from land, they met Shankar. To their surprise, Shankar quoted a very less price. Now Bhola was very sure that land was of no use. However, Ramu was overjoyed to hear the price. But Bhola backed out. Ramu’s savings were not enough to buy the land. Shankar offered Ramu’s loan. Ramu bought the land. He happily shifted to that side of the town. Bhola thought Ramu’s decision was a bad one. He could have waited like him.
Ramu went to the land, and firstly, he built his hut. He worked hard day and night. Firstly, he sowed seeds of vegetable and flowers. He sold them and earned a few monies. After two years of hard work, he was able to grow crops of rice and wheat. Ramu went to meet Shankar to return his money. There he met Bhola who was still working for Shankar. Bhola was happy to be proved wrong by Ramu.
Moral- Hard work always pays.
Happy reading!

About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx. 

Tara’s Generosity | Folktale of India

Once upon a time, there lived a merchant called Mandara. He lived alone in his bungalow. His parents died a few years ago. He had no siblings. Mandara never complained of his misery. He concentrated on his work and considered his employees, servants like his family. 


Because of his loving nature, he had some good friends too. But living alone in a bungalow was very painful for Mandara. One-night Mandara grieved in pain and left the bungalow and walked to the woods. He stopped near the river and started crying loudly. Another sound of crying overpowered his cries. He looked around and saw a baby in a basket.
He bought the baby home. He started looking after the baby. He named her Tara. Mandara was overjoyed to have someone at home. Tara became his world. He always dressed up Tara like a doll. Tara’s smile made him smile too. Years passed, and Tara was now five-year-old.Mandara’s uncle, who lived in another village came to meet him. He got a marriage proposal of his friends’ daughter for Mandara. Mandara agreed to get married. He thought Tara would have a mother.Tara was happy to have a mother. Her name was Maya. Maya was very beautiful. So, was Tara. Tara’s beauty filled her with immense jealousy. Mandara’s love for Tara made her hate Tara even more.
Maya pretended to love Tara in front of Mandara. Once Mandara was gone for day’s work. She would beat her up. Mandara was unaware of Tara’a plight.
‘I have to go for a long work trip. I will be back in a month,’ said Mandara.
He started his journey. Taking the opportunity, Maya threw Tara out of the house. Crying Tara walked to the woods. An old woman living in a hut near the jungle saw Tara. She took Tara to her home. Tara started living with her.
Once Mandara was back he asked about Tara.
Maya said, crying, ‘Tara went to the village fair and has not returned since then.’Mandara started looking for her like a mad man. He cried a lot. Mandara’s servant told him about Maya’s truth. Mandara threw Maya out of the home. Maya begged for his forgiveness.  Mandara left to the jungle to search Tara. After a month he was able to locate Tara. Tara was elated to see Mandara.
‘Father, I knew you would come to take me,’ said Tara.
‘I threw that lady out of the house,’ said Mandara.
‘You didn’t do the right thing to the mother,’ said Tara.
Tara’s generosity touched Mandara’s heart. They both looked for Maya. They found Maya begging near the temple. Maya had learned her lesson. Maya, Mandara, and Tara lived happily ever after.
Moral- Generosity is the biggest blessing, own it!
Happy reading!

About the writer: Nisha B Thakur is the author of two highly 


appreciated novels- First You Plz & The Blue Jinx.