This is the story of two hearts—one, immersed in devotion, and the other, bound in love. One's world revolves around their deity, while for the other, that same world has become the reason for their breath. This story is of a journey where devotion a... This is the story of two hearts—one, immersed in devotion, and the other, bound in love. One's world revolves around their deity, while for the other, that same world has become the reason for their breath. This story is of a journey where devotion and love collide, test each other, and ultimately reveal a profound truth. One heart, completely dedicated to the service of its deity, is beyond worldly attachments, and the other, bound by the bond of love, has accepted that same deity as the foundation of its life.<br /> <br /> But when devotion and love come face to face, does one have to choose a single path? Is love separate from devotion, or is it a form of the same?<br /> <br /> This story seeks answers to these very questions—through struggle, longing, surrender, and enlightenment. Where one mind is absorbed in penance, the other vanishes in love.<br />
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Kishori Sharma, wearing a light saffron sari, sat in the temple courtyard. In her hand, she held a beautiful peacock feather, which she twirled between her fingers repeatedly, as if her entire world was contained within it. She gently caressed the peacock feather with her fingers, as if touching Krishna himself. A captivating smile played on Kishori's lips.
Around Kishori sat some elderly people, to whom Kishori was lovingly recounting the divine tales of Krishna.
Just then, a young man entered the temple. His gaze was fixed directly on Kishori.
This was Vasu, Vasu Trivedi, who was in love with Kishori. Vasu wore a white shirt and blue jeans. His curly hair was scattered across his forehead, and a sweet smile graced his lips, which deepened as he saw Kishori.
If one were to look into Vasu's eyes, they would see only one face—Kishori's. As if she had always been a part of his eyes, as if she resided in them every moment. His eyes were so deep that if anyone looked into them, they would feel as if they were swimming in a blue ocean, and in that ocean, only one boat sailed—the boat of Kishori's thoughts. If one were to describe Vasu’s gaze, it would be like a moon that casts its light across the entire sky, but its light is directed in only one direction—towards Kishori.
Vasu said to himself,
"Kishori, you are mad in devotion, so I am mad for you.
You worship Kanhaiya,
But!
For me, you are my Kanhaiya.
You take Kanhaiya’s name every morning,
I get lost in your memories every night.
You remain calm in devotion to Kanhaiya,
But!
In my heart, you become a storm."
Vasu glanced at the elderly people seated around Kishori, who were listening intently.
Vasu leaned against a pillar and began to gaze at Kishori with immense love.
After a while, when the elderly people left, Vasu began to approach Kishori. With every step, Vasu's heart pounded faster.
Vasu looked directly into Kishori's eyes. For a moment, it felt as if time had stopped. There was something in Vasu's eyes that made it impossible for Kishori to look away, even if she wanted to.
Approaching Kishori, Vasu said, "Radhe-Radhe, Kishori."
Seeing Vasu, Kishori smiled and replied, "Radhe-Radhe, Vasu."
Vasu suddenly bowed towards Kishori's feet and touched them.
Kishori quickly stepped back and exclaimed, "What are you doing, Vasu? Men do not touch women's feet! You are making me a participant in sin, Vasu."
Vasu gave a slight smile at Kishori’s naive words.
Vasu replied, "What sin? What sin, Kishori? I was merely touching the feet of my God. Does touching God's feet also incur sin?"
Kishori said, "Vasu! God's idol is there, in that direction... and you are touching my feet here."
Vasu smiled slightly again, "But you are my God, aren't you."
Kishori's eyes widened. She didn't understand how to respond to Vasu's statement. Her eyes widened in surprise. She could neither laugh nor speak.
After a moment of silence, Kishori said softly, "Vasu, listening to you, it seems as if you are worshipping me, but I am just an ordinary human. God is elsewhere, and their worship is done differently."
Vasu replied in a gentle tone, "Kishori, the worship of God is not limited to idols. They are also in our minds and emotions. And when I come to you, it feels as if you are the center of my devotion."
Kishori was once again in a state of confusion.
"Radhe-Radhe! I must leave now, or I'll get scolded by Mom again today." Saying this, Vasu began to leave with a smile, and Kishori continued to watch him.
Kishori watched Vasu leave, a hint of confusion in her eyes. Then, turning towards the Radha-Krishna idol, she said, "Lord, is this the true form of love? Is love defined this way, that one human considers another a god?"
She remained silent for a moment, then said softly, "I don't understand how to comprehend Vasu's feelings. Is this true love, or just a wave of emotion? My mind is in turmoil, Lord."
Then she slowly closed her eyes and began to pray silently. The atmosphere of the temple was serene and divine. Kishori felt a deep sense of peace, but her thoughts were still entangled with Vasu's words.
Kishori looked at the idol of God and said:
"Kanha, you are the embodiment of love, you tell me, how should I resolve this confusion, which path should I take? Vasu's love is true, I understand that now, but I don't feel like I can separate myself from your devotion.
Shri Radha Rani, you show me some way, explain to me how to resolve this confusion of love. You are the Goddess of love, the true definition of love, without you, how can I know, how can I understand this bond of love?
Vasu's love is true and pure, he says that I am his Krishna, I am his divine play. But I am only immersed in you, how can I accept another lover after separating from you?
O Krishna Kanhaiya, grant me the path to resolution from this confusion, Lord."
Kishori stood before the Lord with folded hands, her eyes closed. After a while, she opened her eyes and continued to look at the Lord... tears began to flow from her eyes.
Kishori meditated, and tried to delve deep into her soul. She felt an inner conflict within her mind. Could she express her feelings towards Vasu? Would it be right? Would her love affect her devotion? These questions echoed in her thoughts.
"O Kanhaiya," she said to herself, "should I abandon my devotion and accept Vasu's love? Can love and devotion be the same, or is there a wall between them?"
She took a deep breath and tried to regain her peace of mind. She knew that devotion was a deep and sacred bond, existing only between her and Krishna. In all her prayers, she asked Krishna for this—His grace, His blessings, and the fortune of being in His presence.
But now, this wall between her devotion and Vasu's love was troubling her. She looked intently at Krishna's idol, as if seeking an answer from Him. "Lord, I want you to help me out of this confusion. I do not want Vasu's love to affect my devotion. Tell me, can I balance both?"
Kishori closed her eyes and took a deep breath. In the tranquility of the temple, the turmoil in her mind intensified. She was thinking, "No, I will not stray from the path of my devotion. Love will diminish my devotion." This thought itself frightened her.
When Vasu returned to the temple, he stopped upon hearing Kishori's words... tears flowed from Vasu's eyes, and he left the temple without saying a word.
Vasu said softly:
You are intoxicated with devotion to Shyam,
We have become mad in your love,
You are as pure and sacred as the Ganges,
So, by merging into you, we flow like the Yamuna.
You are dyed in Shyam's color,
We have become the blank pages of your heart.
You are the sweet melody of Shyam's flute,
We have become entranced by your tune.
You received Shyam's love,
We were left yearning just to behold you,
You filled the temple with color every day,
And we burned like the sun behind you.
You are Shyam's devotee, he is your beloved,
We have merely become lovers by name,
In your every tear, his reflection was seen,
We were even deprived of your smile.
When you lit the lamp in the Aarti,
We remained like a extinguished wick,
You found Mohan's companionship,
We were entangled in incomplete dreams.
You reached the zenith of devotion,
And we built a temple of love within you.
For Vasu, Kishori was his entire world. His love for Kishori was what inspired him in every action, every thought, every step. Kishori's devotion was an inspiration to him, but while understanding this devotion, he could not confine it solely within the boundaries of devotion. For Vasu, Kishori was not just a devotee, but a unique love, whom he had given the place of God in his heart. Vasu had always seen Kishori lost in her devotion, but for him, it was also the truth that his love had taken the form of her devotion.
"Kishori, you worship Krishna, you consider him your everything, but for me, you are my Krishna. The strength in your devotion always draws me towards you. You cannot understand that when I look at you, I feel as if I myself am bowing before you like a devotee. You are my worship, my faith. Just as you find Krishna, I find myself in your love."
To know what happens next, wait for the next part and also keep sharing your reviews.
Tears streaming from Vasu's eyes narrated the depths of his heart. Without a word, he stepped out of the temple and began to walk slowly. Kishori's words echoed in Vasu's mind, and the tears from his eyes wouldn't stop. He reached a garden.
"Kishori, can I not be so great for your love? Are my feelings just a wave of passion?"
Vasu looked up at the sky and said, "Oh Radha Rani, you are the embodiment of love, you are the definition of love. You showered the nectar of love even in the fire of separation. But Kishori, why doesn't she understand my love? Yes, why? I have dedicated my life to her worship, yet why doesn't she recognize this true love of mine?
You made love immortal even without Kanhaiya, you perfumed Braj with the fragrance of his love even in separation. But Kishori, why doesn't she understand that for me, she is my Radha, she is my Kanhaiya?
Oh Radha Rani, you have conquered the whole world with your love, then why doesn't my Kishori see the love in my heart? Why is she bound only to her Kanha? Why can't she understand the essence of my love?
I considered my love for her as Krishna, but only he resides in her heart, her Kanha. You tell me, Radha Rani, how do I express my feelings? How do I make her understand that my love is also true and eternal?
Oh Radha Rani, you also embraced love without Kanhaiya, then why doesn't my Kishori see this wonderful form of my love, this selfless surrender? Now, you do something, teach her to look towards me even once.
Vasu's pain remained unspoken and unheard. His love resided in his eyes, in his every breath. But before Kishori's devotion, he found himself small, and wondered if his love would ever reach her heart?
Vasu sat in the garden, trying to control his pain and emotions. Slowly, his eyes calmed down and his tears dried, though his eyes were still red. He took a deep breath and focused to compose himself. He closed his eyes. As soon as he closed his eyes, the face of Kishori appeared before him, Kishori engrossed in devotion. Against his will, Vasu smiled.
Just then, Vasu heard a familiar voice.
"Hey Vasu! Your mom is looking for you." It was Parth's voice. Parth was Vasu's only friend who understood Vasu, understood his love.
When Parth saw Vasu's red eyes, he rushed towards Vasu and said, "You're thinking of Kishori again, aren't you?" Parth said, coming to Vasu, panting. Seeing his red eyes, Parth quickly understood that Vasu was drowning in the same pain again.
"How many times have I told you, Vasu! She is not made for you. Her world is different, her devotion is different."
Vasu took a deep breath and fixed his gaze on the ground. His voice was low and tired, "Parth, I try to run away from her, but her devotion... her faith always pulls me back. She belongs only to Krishna, and I understand that, but still... what do I do with my heart? How do I stop these feelings? She has touched my soul."
Parth placed his hand on Vasu's shoulder, "Friend, try to understand... For Kishori, Krishna is not just a God, he is the center of her life. You have fallen in love with her, but she has already dedicated herself to someone else. Where will you fit in her life?"
Vasu gave a tired laugh, "That's the question, Parth. Maybe nowhere. But can I live without her? Her devotion, her dedication—all this takes me to an unknown world. How can I forget her?"
Parth gave him a deep look and then said a little sternly, "Vasu, you have to control yourself. Look, I'm not saying your love is false. But falling in love with someone who can never see you in that light, isn't that injustice to yourself?"
Tears welled up in Vasu's eyes again. His voice started to tremble, "You don't understand, Parth. She is not just a girl. Her devotion has brought me closer to Krishna. I cannot go away from her, just as Radha could not go away from Krishna, similarly, I cannot go away from Kishori."
Parth took a deep breath and said calmly, "Friend, these matters of love and devotion are very complex. But you are breaking yourself. Look, sometimes we have to understand our heart's matters ourselves. Maybe you found in Kishori what you needed—an inspiration, a dedication, but perhaps giving it a name of a relationship is not right."
Vasu nodded, as if he himself was struggling with this. He said slowly, "Maybe you are right, but is it necessary to give love a name? Can't I just love her in the form of her devotion?"
Parth: "And her? Has she ever looked at you that way? No Vasu, she only sees her Kanha. Your love is one-sided, and you are throwing yourself into this pain."
Vasu lowered his eyes, his heavy breaths slowed. "Parth, I know that for Kishori, her Kanha is everything. But what about my heart? Can I deny my feelings? How do I forget her?"
Parth placed his hand on Vasu's shoulder, "Forgetting is not easy, I agree. But you yourself have seen, every time you meet her, she always sees you as a devotee, not as a lover. Do you want to wound your heart further?"
The pain was evident in Vasu's eyes. "Parth, she is the center of my worship. I don't see her as just a human being; for me, she is the idol of my devotion. If her devotion is for Kanha, then my love for her is equally sacred."
Parth took a deep breath and then said softly, "Vasu, you should respect your feelings, but one-sided love will only give you pain. You have to move on, or continue to drown in this suffering."
Vasu slowly nodded, but the image of Kishori was still in his eyes. He said, "I don't know, Parth, I don't know how I can forget her. Every word of hers, every smile of hers is etched in my heart. The fear of losing her even for a moment pierces me."
Parth looked at Vasu in silence for a moment, then said seriously, "No, Vasu. But I cannot see you in this pain. You are destroying yourself."
Parth's nature was the opposite of Vasu's – playful and cheerful. He found humor in everything and lightened the mood. Whenever Vasu was lost in his deep pain, Parth would try to break his trance with his mischief. His words were sharp and humorous like arrows, but they also hid a deep understanding.
"Oh King Vasu, shall I give you some advice?" Parth said, lightly patting Vasu's head.
Vasu glared at him, "What is it, Parth?"
"Oh, listen, you can do this crying later, first listen to my advice. Advice to write a great love story – 'Vasu and Kishori: A Unique Saga of Unrequited Love'. It will be a bestseller, friend!" Parth said with mock seriousness and then burst into laughter himself.
Vasu said in a tired voice, "Parth, this is not the time for jokes."
"Oh, am I snatching your chance to become a priest at Krishna's temple? I'm just trying to understand why you're making such a big drama out of your heartache."
Vasu said irritably, "Parth, my feelings are not a drama."
"Yes, yes, your feelings are not a drama, they are a Ramlila. Just remove Ram and put Kishori." Parth said, mocking him again and putting his arm around Vasu's neck.
Vasu, trying to suppress a slight smile, said, "Parth, you can never be serious, can you?"
Parth immediately replied, "Oh brother, life is not meant to be serious. Seeing you cry, even Lord Krishna must be thinking, 'Wow, I've never seen such devotion.'"
It was this attitude of Parth's that both troubled and supported Vasu. He knew that behind Parth's every playful remark was a true friend, who was trying his best to pull him out of his pain.
Suddenly, Parth said with a slight smile, "Now come on, your mom is looking for you. She is worried about you, and you are sitting here lost in thoughts of Kishori."
Vasu closed his eyes and then opened them, saying, "Yes, let's go. But Kishori... thoughts associated with her... I don't know, Parth, how will I get out of this."
Parth grabbed his hand and pulled him, "Enough! Not today, let's go now. And yes, forget Kishori for a while, your mom is looking for you, come on, don't break your mom's heart right now."
Vasu smiled reluctantly and wiped his tears, walking along with Parth.
'What is love if tears don't flow from the eyes' True love is that which touches the depths of the heart, where emotions are so strong that even the tears flowing from the eyes become a part of love. Tears are not just a symbol of sadness; they are sometimes the culmination of love, happiness, and spiritual satisfaction. This is the purest state of love, where every tear flows as a wish, a prayer, and an untold story. Such love is rare, and whoever experiences it is the luckiest person in the world. It involves sacrifice, dedication, and a unique depth that takes a person beyond themselves, connecting them to a divine experience.
There was a deep stillness in Vasu's eyes, as if he were thinking something immeasurable. He suddenly smiled and looked at Parth, saying, "Parth, have you ever thought, why is love like a wave?"
Parth looked at him, startled, "What do you mean?"
Vasu said, hiding a hint of deep understanding in his voice, "See, what is the relationship between a wave and the ocean? A wave is always born from the ocean, struggling every moment to break out of its boundaries. But the ocean engulfs it back. This is love. Sometimes, like a wave, we struggle, we fight with our emotions, but in the end, when we lose ourselves in our love, we embrace it within us like the ocean."
Parth nodded and said a little irritably, "Now has this love business made you a poet too? Ocean and wave... what nonsense?"
"No, it's not nonsense, Parth," Vasu said seriously, "These are my feelings. Love is not just pain, it's an unspoken ocean that carries us far away."
Parth said, shaking him, "Oh, man! What all you are thinking. What if your mom comes here looking for you... Come on quickly, don't think too deeply."
Vasu said irritably, "You will never understand, Parth. When there is so much in the heart, words fall short."
"That's your problem, man! You get lost in words, and I am practical. Okay, understood? Come on now, if not your mom, my mom will get angry." Parth said, pulling him.
Vasu looked at Parth with a slight smile, but the deep confusion was still in his eyes. "Parth, do you really think I just get lost in words?" he asked after a pause.
Parth bowed his head, "Yes, and I don't want to see fictional drama about you. This romantic tension will lead you nowhere. Your mom must be waiting, and you should leave all this and pay attention to her."
"Okay," Vasu said with a smile, but then paused for a moment. "But... sometimes I feel like there's a different world in Kishori's eyes. Like she herself is lost in her Kanha, and I... I am just an external shadow."
"Hey, you've started thinking at an artificial level!" Parth said with a laugh, "She will consider you her devotee, not a lover. When will you understand this truth?"
Vasu took a deep breath, and then said softly, "I understand, Parth. But this is not just a simple matter. This is a matter of the heart, which I can never give up."
Parth turned to him and said, "Then you should do something practical instead of this matter of the heart. Love, faith, and devotion are all fine, but if you trap yourself in them, your life will become just a burden of regrets."
Vasu remained silent, confusion in his eyes. He felt as if he were drowning in a deep ocean, and Parth was trying to save him by holding his hand.
As Vasu and Parth were walking slowly, suddenly water fell on Parth. The water fell completely on Parth, while Vasu, who was walking a little behind, was spared.
Parth quickly closed his eyes, and when he felt water all over his body, his brows furrowed in anger. He looked up at the sky in anger and then immediately looked towards the roof, where a girl was standing. She had an empty bucket in her hand, and she was looking at Parth with a mischievous smile, her finger in her mouth.
And now, a girl has arrived in the story with a new mischief, who has angered Parth. Will this girl bring a new turn in the story of Vasu and Parth? Will Vasu be able to forget Kishori and move on, or will her devotion and love drown him in deeper emotions?
Stay tuned for the next part to find out what happens next. Also, keep reviewing.
Radhe Radhe 🪷
Vasu and Parth were walking slowly. Suddenly, water fell on Parth. The water fell entirely on Parth, while Vasu, who was walking a little behind, was spared.
Parth quickly closed his eyes. When he realized that water had fallen all over his body, his eyebrows furrowed in anger. He looked up at the sky in anger and then immediately looked up at the roof above. A girl was standing there. She had an empty bucket in her hand and was looking at Parth with a mischievous smile, her finger in her mouth. It was none other than Subhika.
"What have you done, Subhika?" Parth shouted angrily.
"Oh, I was just watering the plants, why did you come in between?" Subhika said innocently, winking her eyes.
"Were you watering the plants or me?" Parth said, pointing to his wet clothes.
Subhika tried to suppress her laughter, but the sparkle in her eyes revealed that she had done it all intentionally.
"Oh, the water accidentally spilled from the bucket. What should I do now? Why are you getting so angry?" she said mischievously.
"Subhika, this was your fault! You do this to me every time. I will take revenge on you for this! You just wait and see." Parth clenched his fists in anger.
"Oh wow! Talking about revenge! First, dry yourself, then take revenge." Subhika said, fanning herself with her hands.
Vasu, who had been watching the entire incident silently, suddenly burst out laughing and said, "Parth, you get caught every time. It seems Subhika has drenched you again this time."
"You laugh too, Vasu! But mark my words, I won't let Subhika get away with this one." Parth glared at Vasu.
"First, dry yourself. Then take revenge!" Vasu said jokingly.
"Hey, Parth! You're getting so angry, as if I'm intentionally getting you wet. Anyway, when do you ever bathe? It's good for you, I gave you a bath," Subhika said, also suppressing her laughter.
Hearing this, Parth's anger reached its peak.
"You wait, Subhika! I will teach you a lesson today." he said angrily.
"Oh wow! Look, look, Mr. Parth is angry! Come on, let's run now!" Subhika teased him with a smile.
And with that, Subhika started running. She hurried down from the roof towards the stairs. Parth immediately ran after her, but being completely drenched slowed his pace a bit.
Vasu stood there laughing. He knew that the banter between Subhika and Parth was famous throughout the neighborhood. Wherever these two met, a new story would emerge. Their arguments never seemed to end.
Once, Subhika and Parth encountered each other at the grocery store on the corner of the neighborhood. Subhika had come with a long list, containing every little and big item. Parth had also come to buy some things at his mother's request.
As soon as Parth reached the shop, he saw Subhika standing inside the shop with her list, dictating items to the shopkeeper one by one.
"Subhika, have you bought this shop? You've been inside for half an hour and still haven't finished with the items?" Parth said irritably.
"Parth, if you're in a hurry, go to another shop. I came here first, and my work will be done first." Subhika retorted.
"Uncle, give me my items first. She looks like she's buying the whole shop. I only need two or three things." Parth said angrily to the shop owner.
"Uncle, look, I came first. Complete my order first." Subhika said, waving her list.
"So, you made this rule? It seems you like the 'first come, first served' rule a bit too much." Parth said with a smile.
"Hey, both of you be quiet! I'll get both your items." The shopkeeper, annoyed by their argument, said.
But as the shopkeeper started getting the items, Parth suddenly said, "Uncle, I want this packet of chips."
"I'm taking that packet first. Didn't you see, I signaled first." Subhika immediately replied.
"I didn't see your signal, but I've definitely seen your habit. The habit of claiming ownership everywhere." Parth said irritably.
In the end, the shopkeeper gave the packet of chips to neither of them but to a child standing there. The other customers in the shop burst out laughing at their argument.
The fights between Subhika and Parth were not limited to the shop.
Just a few days ago, a special puja was being held at the temple. Parth had come with his mother, Radhika Ji, and his mother had asked him to stand in line with the Prasad thali.
"Mom, the line is so long. You know I'm not one for standing in lines," Parth said irritably.
"Parth, everyone is equal in God's house. You have to stand in line. Go!" Parth's mother said, glaring at him.
Parth reluctantly stood in line with the thali. At that very moment, Subhika also came to the temple. She was wearing a light pink kurti and had a white dupatta over her head. Seeing her, Parth got another chance to tease her.
As soon as Subhika joined the line, Parth turned around and said, "Oh wow, Subhika! Now you've come to teach God your rules and regulations too."
"Parth, if you like talking so much, then get a microphone and stand there. Your voice is loud enough to reach God anyway," Subhika said, rolling her eyes.
"I think even God looks at you and wonders why He sent you to earth. I've never seen such a quarrelsome person." Parth said, laughing.
"Parth, mind your tongue. You're in a temple, God is watching everything here." Subhika said, showing her displeasure.
"Yes, God is watching you quarrel with me again. By the way, what's your plan? Do you intend to create a fuss even after getting Prasad?" Parth said, scratching his head.
Meanwhile, the priest began distributing Prasad. Parth quickly pushed his thali forward and tried to get Prasad before Subhika. But Subhika wasn't going to stay behind. She pushed her thali forward and said, "Priest Ji, give it to me first."
"Son, there's no first or last in God's house. Both of you will get Prasad together," the priest said, smiling at their antics.
"Why together? I don't know her. Give it to her separately," Parth said with displeasure.
"I don't want to know him either. I just want Prasad," Subhika retorted.
Finally, the priest gave them Prasad in the same thali and said, "Now stop fighting. Live peacefully in God's house."
Both took the Prasad unwillingly and came out, glaring at each other.
The fights between Parth and Subhika didn't end there. Once, during the summer days, the tap water was running in the neighborhood street. Children were playing, and elders were busy filling their buckets.
Parth was filling water with his bucket when Subhika came with her bucket and placed it in front of his.
"What are you doing? Haven't you heard of standing in line?" Parth said, raising his eyebrows.
"I'm in a hurry, Parth. You don't have any other work anyway. Wait a bit," Subhika said carelessly.
"Really! So now you're calling me lazy too? Wait, I'll show you." Parth said angrily.
With that, Parth poured the water from Subhika's bucket into his own. Subhika, flustered, pulled her bucket away.
"Parth! What are you doing? You're always up to mischief," Subhika said.
"You were in a hurry, weren't you? Here, your bucket is empty now. Fill it quickly," Parth said, laughing.
Subhika angrily overturned Parth's bucket. The people standing nearby were rolling with laughter at their fight.
Thinking all this, Vasu shook his head.
"It's the same with these two every time," Vasu thought to himself.
Subhika, descending the stairs, shouted at Parth, "Parth, I can run faster than you! Dry your clothes first, then think about catching me!"
"Wait, Subhika! I won't let you go," Parth shouted angrily.
"Oh, it was a joke! Why are you getting so angry?" Subhika said, laughing.
Vasu saw that they were now running after each other.
"Man, these two will never learn," he said, smiling.
"You two play your game of tag... I'm off to my house," Vasu said, starting towards his home.
As soon as Subhika turned a corner, Parth ran towards her quickly. But suddenly, Subhika slipped on a stone and started to fall. Parth, who was angry, immediately dropped his anger and rushed to help her. He caught her before she could fall.
Subhika looked at Parth in surprise.
"See, this is the result of all your mischief. You always get yourself into trouble," Parth said, steadying her.
Subhika's heart was beating fast, and she was staring intently at Parth.
When Parth saw Subhika staring at him, he snapped his fingers in front of her face and said, "Oh hello Madam... where did you get lost?"
"Oh, nothing! I was just thinking about how you caught me today," Subhika said, quickly coming back to her senses.
"Why? What were you thinking, that you would get away as usual? Not this time!" Parth said, smiling slightly at her.
"Oh, leave it! Anyway, you've always been trying to be a hero. You got a chance today, so you started your drama!" Subhika said with another mischievous smile.
"Hero? If I wasn't there, you would still be lying on the ground. Now stop this drama and listen to me, think before you throw water next time," Parth said, laughing at her words.
"Oh ho! You've made such a big issue out of such a small thing. Okay, I admit I made a mistake. But you're behaving as if I drench you in water every day," Subhika replied teasingly.
"And what if I start drenching you every day?" Parth said, leaning towards her.
"Dare to try! I'll see who drenchs whom every day!" Subhika said, rolling her eyes.
"Alright then, get ready. Next week I will throw water on you, and then I'll see how you run," Parth challenged.
"Oho! So now you'll take revenge on me? Let's see. Anyway, Parth, your revenge record is quite bad," Subhika said, winking her eyes.
"You'll see, Subhika, I will definitely improve this record this time. Don't try to run now, you will definitely get your answer!" Parth said, rolling up his sleeves.
"Let's see. But first, dry yourself, or you'll catch a cold and get sick before you can take revenge," Subhika replied mischievously.
"Subhika! This is too much. Now I'm really not going to let you go!" Parth said, feigning anger at her remark.
And with that, both of them started running again, this time Subhika running faster with laughter, and Parth right behind her.
Parth's anger and Subhika's mischief are their specialties, and every time, these two get closer to each other, no matter the circumstances.
What form will Parth's revenge take in the next part of the story? And will Subhika be able to escape this time, or will Parth truly teach her a lesson?
To find out, be sure to wait for the next installment, and let us know what you thought of this part by giving your feedback!
Radhe Radhe! 🪷
Parth showed fake anger and said, "Subhika! This has gone too far. I'm really not going to leave you now!"
As soon as he said this, both of them started running again. This time, Subhika was laughing and running faster than before, with Parth right behind her.
Subhika was laughing and running. Suddenly, she noticed a group of women sitting ahead. Among them was her stepmother, Malti Ji, who was sitting at the forefront. Her face was filled with anger and disgust. Subhika's steps automatically stopped, and Parth, who was running behind her, also stopped.
Malti Ji said sternly, "Subhika! I never thought I'd see the day when my daughter would roam around laughing with boys like this! Don't you feel any shame?"
Subhika bowed her head. A hint of helplessness and shame was visible in her eyes. Before she could say anything, another woman, who was Malti Ji's friend, said sarcastically, "Malti, your daughter has really outdone all the girls in the village! Look at her running and laughing with boys. Malti, what kind of upbringing have you given your daughter?"
Malti Ji's eyes filled with anger.
She glared at Subhika and said, "You're a young girl, and you're running around with boys on the street like this? Have you lost all sense of decency? Don't you care about my reputation?"
The spark of mischief on Subhika's face suddenly disappeared. Tears began to well up in her eyes. Her stepmother's taunts always hurt her deeply, and this time was no exception.
The group of women, who had been silent until now, began to chime in with Malti Ji, taunting Subhika one by one.
"Aren't girls these days shameless, Malti?"
"That's completely right. Running around with boys openly; is that any kind of culture?"
"The marriageable age has come, but look at her, having fun with boys here and there."
Subhika's heart began to sink. Tears flowed more rapidly from her eyes, but she was trying to hold them back. Her face had turned pale, and her cheerful smile was now nowhere to be seen.
Parth, who had been joking with Subhika until now, suddenly turned serious. He saw that Subhika was completely broken, and the taunts from the women had deeply hurt her soul. Parth took a step forward, approached Subhika, and patted her back.
Malti Ji turned to Parth and said, "And you? What are you doing with her? Do you think it's okay to roam around with girls like this?"
Parth replied calmly but firmly, "Aunty Ji, you're misunderstanding. Subhika and I were just joking around. There's nothing wrong with that."
Malti Ji glared and replied, "Joking? At her age, openly joking with boys; is that right? Don't you feel any shame?"
Parth's voice became firmer, "Aunty Ji, it's not right to look at everything with a wrong perspective. What you all think is wrong. We're just friends and having some fun. There's nothing wrong with that."
Another woman sitting next to Malti Ji said tauntingly, "Friendship? Yes, yes, we know all about this 'friendship'!"
Malti Ji looked at Subhika again and said, "Let's go home! That's enough. A young girl like you can't do things like this. I'll talk to your father."
Subhika, who had been trying to control her emotions until now, broke down and said, "I didn't do anything wrong, Mother! Why do you always understand me wrong?"
Malti Ji's eyes became sharper, "Be quiet, Subhika! Young girls don't understand anything, and on top of that, you're arguing! Let's go home quietly!"
Subhika's eyes overflowed with tears.
Parth stepped forward and said, "Aunty, I know you're upset, but you're misunderstanding. Subhika didn't do anything that would make her feel ashamed."
Malti Ji glared at him and said, "You just stay out of this! Boys like you are the ones who corrupt girls."
Saying this, Malti Ji pulled Subhika along. Subhika's head was bowed, and tears still flowed from her eyes.
Parth was feeling very angry with himself, wondering why he had followed Subhika and now... Parth was realizing that his small prank had put Subhika in a lot of trouble. He was angry with himself for not thinking about how Malti Ji would react, knowing how strict she was. But Parth wasn't someone who would sit quietly on his mistake.
Subhika stood quietly, her eyes filled with tears. Every taunt hurt her heart, but she had no response. Finally, Parth came forward. His eyes were clearly filled with anger.
"That's enough, all of you!" Parth's voice was loud and stern. The group of women looked at each other in surprise. Parth continued, "You people just need an opportunity to humiliate someone. She's not your daughter, Subhika is the most talented girl in this village. She's top in studies, and she's made a name for herself everywhere. And you're humiliating her just because she was running and laughing?"
Malti Ji said angrily, "Shut up, Parth! This is our family's matter. You don't need to interfere."
Parth looked straight into her eyes and said, "Malti Aunty, if you considered her your daughter, perhaps you wouldn't have humiliated her in front of everyone like this. And this 'family matter' would have been resolved behind closed doors. Is it right to humiliate her in public?"
Malti Ji paused for a moment, but her friend said sarcastically, "Oh, boy, why are you defending her so much? Is there something going on between you two?"
Parth took a deep breath and said seriously, "People like you are the ones who take society backward. Can't a boy and girl be friends? And if they are, that's their personal matter. Who gave you the right to insult others' dignity?"
Subhika held Parth's hand and said, "Parth, let it go. Arguing with them is useless."
But Parth looked at her and said, "No, Subhika. It's necessary. You shouldn't quietly bear and suffer. If you don't stand up for yourself, people will always try to suppress you."
Vasu's mother was slightly surprised to hear him. Taking a step forward, she said, "Oh Vasu, you don't understand. This is not a small matter. Our only son, if he studies at a local college, what will people say? Our reputation will be questioned. Everyone will say that even though we have money, we didn't send you to a good college."
Vasu looked at his mother. Deep worry was reflected in his eyes, but his heart was dominated by thoughts of Kishori. That Kishori, whose every smile was like worship for Vasu; that Kishori, the thought of being away from whom would break Vasu. Gathering some courage, he said, "Mom, I know you and Dad always think well for me. But I am happy here, I want to study here. I don't want to go out of town."
Vasu's mother looked deeply into his eyes. She realized that Vasu was adamant about his decision. Her anger began to rise slightly. "Vasu, since when have you become so stubborn? We have never let you lack anything. We have fulfilled your every dream, so why are you being stubborn now? You have to go out, that's final!"
Vasu saw the anger on his mother's face, but he had decided that this time he would stand firm on his word. Composing his emotions for a moment, he said, "Mom, not everything is measured by money and respect. Sometimes we have to make decisions for our own happiness. I want to study here, and that's my final word. I don't want to go to a big college and be far away from here."
Vasu's mother became a bit more serious. She said in a stern tone, "What are you saying? Why are you so attached to this place? What's the problem with going out? Your studies, your life there, your career – everything will improve. And also remember, this stubbornness of yours can make us look bad in society."
Vasu took a deep breath for a moment and then looked directly into his mother's eyes. "Mom, it's not just about studies. It's about being happy here. Here I get everything I need... and..."
"Enough... I won't listen to anything you say... you will go, meaning you will go... otherwise, I will never talk to you again." Vasu's mother said angrily.
Vasu's mother stormed out without listening to Vasu.
Vasu's mother's nature had always been to prioritize society and people's opinions above all else. She always thought about what society would say, how people would perceive their family. Her biggest worry in life was that her family and her name would remain respected in society under any circumstances. She was very strict and stuck to her word, but behind this strictness was also a mother's love, which was always concerned for her family's well-being.
Her eyes were always worried that her son would follow the right path and their family's honor would be maintained. As a mother, Vasu's mother had provided her son with every comfort and convenience. She had tried to fulfill his dreams at every step, but there was something in that love that never wanted him to step outside the boundaries of 'society' and 'fame'. For her, Vasu studying in the city and making a decision that deviated from societal norms felt unacceptable.
"What will society say?" This sentence was always on her lips. She thought that if Vasu studied at a local college, people would say that even though they had money, they didn't send their son to a good college. This was the biggest concern for her. She wanted Vasu's career and future to be such that their prestige in society remained intact.
But despite this, her maternal affection never ended. She would always pressure her son, even while wanting him to be happy. There was a deep emotional concern in her eyes, which was for Vasu's good. She wanted her son to always be happy, but for this happiness, she sometimes made decisions beyond her limits.
Vasu's mother, as strict as she appeared, was equally gentle and full of love. When she stood firm on something for her son, it was due to her immense love and concern. She never wanted her son to go in the wrong direction, and that's why when Vasu didn't obey her, her anger flared up. But even in that anger, there was a deep maternal affection hidden, which Vasu had sensed.
Her mother's personality was made up of two different aspects – on one hand, she was very concerned about her son's future, and on the other hand, like a true mother, she tried to understand her son's decisions. She knew that societal opinion and respect mattered, but she also understood that her son's happiness and joy were most important.
She believed that a mother's job wasn't to choose a path for her son, but to give him the courage to walk on that path. But sometimes she got so entangled in her own expectations and societal pressures that she forgot her son's happiness.
Although she stood by her son at every step, sometimes she didn't understand that every decision should be her son's own, and that he should be happy with that decision, whether it aligned with societal norms or not. When Vasu insisted on his point and explained it to her, her heart melted a little, but her anger still prevailed.
Her maternal love and understanding were always in conflict like this. When she felt her son was going in the wrong direction, she would scold and explain. And when she felt her son was truly on his path, her heart would fill with relief.
Vasu's mother's love was like a storm – sometimes strong, sometimes gentle, but always in the direction where her son would be safe and happy. She had deep maternal affection for Vasu, which would never end, even if her strictness sometimes hurt him. For her, understanding Vasu's happiness and his stubbornness was as important as maintaining respect in society.
Both aspects of her world always clashed with each other, but in the end, she always wanted her son to be happy and content with his decisions, and for that, she never hesitated to be strict.
Vasu watched his mother go out the door; a slight moisture welled up in his eyes. Caught between the image of Kishori and his mother's harsh words, he went and stood by the window. Raindrops were falling outside, and with that rain, the pain residing in his heart began to take shape in words.
Vasu took a deep breath, as if the pain in his heart was flowing with the raindrops. But deep down, he knew he had to make a big decision now.
Meanwhile, as Kishori came out of the temple, raindrops began to fall on her face. The image of the temple lamp and the idol of God was still etched in her eyes. She kept looking at the sky, as if the rain was trying to bring peace to her soul, but there was a deep turmoil within her. Her eyelids became heavy with raindrops, but something else was going on in her heart. Was she unaware of Vasu's love, or was she deliberately ignoring it, because in her devotion, her Krishna Kanhaiya was everything?
In Kishori's mind, every day, every moment, there was only the thought of her Kanhaiya. Her prayers, her devotion, her thoughts – everything was immersed in Krishna. Whenever she sat before Krishna's idol, a unique wave of peace would run through her heart. She felt that everything in the world was futile, only her devotion to Kanhaiya was true. The image of Krishna was imprinted in her eyes, and this kept her away from the world.
Running in the rain, she said to herself, "Vasu? Why should I think of him? My world is in my Kanhaiya."
But thoughts of Vasu kept recurring in the corners of her mind, making her restless. Kishori knew that Vasu loved her, but she herself was not ready to understand or accept this love. For her, this was not a trivial matter.
She began to speak softly to herself, "Vasu should understand, my love and my devotion are only for my Krishna. His love... perhaps it is right, but for me, this worldly love is nothing. I only find happiness in devotion to Krishna."
Kishori's pace had now slowed down. She had come quite far from the temple, and her breathing was becoming faster. Amidst the raindrops, she started walking slowly. Her thoughts once again led her to Krishna's idol. Every moment spent in the temple, the flickering flame of the lamp, and the peace of God – everything pulled her away from Vasu.
"As soon as I step into the temple, it's as if a blanket of peace covers every stress, every sorrow. We have all experienced this at some point, where all the worries of the world get lost in that temple peace. The heart becomes so light after going to the temple. There, it feels like every problem in the world has become small, and whatever inner turmoil exists, it automatically calms down before some divine power."
On the other hand, Vasu was also enduring inner turmoil at that moment. The raindrops were flowing down from his window, as if carrying the burden of all his emotions. The thought of Kishori deepened in his heart, and for a moment, he couldn't distance himself from that thought.
Looking out the window, he vowed inwardly, "If Kishori's devotion is her strength, then my love is also my strength. Whether I get her or not, I will not let her go."
Because from the beginning of his day, Vasu starts searching for Kishori in everything. As soon as he wakes up, he thinks, "Today will be a good day after seeing Kishori." All he needs is the solace of seeing Kishori smile and look at him once. No matter how many people are around, his eyes are always searching for Kishori.
Whenever Vasu goes through any trouble, he just feels that if Kishori were with him, everything would be alright. Even if he gets hurt, he feels happy thinking, "I wish Kishori sees this injury and worries about me." In all his troubles, he only seeks Kishori's company.
Vasu sees Kishori's smile in the raindrops, the sweetness of her laughter in the cup of tea, and even Kishori's fragrance in the air. If he hears a song, he feels, "This song is written for Kishori." He is so deeply connected that he feels Kishori's presence in every little thing.
Vasu's greatest happiness is that Kishori should be happy. Whether Vasu has any place in her happiness or not, he is satisfied just knowing that Kishori is smiling. If he feels that his presence might increase Kishori's pain, he is ready to distance himself. There is not a speck of selfishness in his love.
Vasu often feels that his life is incomplete without Kishori. If he can't see Kishori even for a moment, he becomes restless, feeling as if his breath will stop. His restlessness is so deep that people say upon seeing him, "Vasu has truly gone mad."
Whenever anyone looks into Vasu's eyes, they get a glimpse of that unparalleled love for Kishori. In his eyes, there is such unwavering love and respect for Kishori, as if she is the center of his world. No matter how silent Vasu remains, his eyes always convey what is in his heart.
Vasu's love knows not just how to gain, but how to give. Every color, every feeling, every dream of his world revolves only around Kishori. He worships her, respects her, and wants to see her happy in all circumstances. Vasu's love touches the pinnacle of true love, where one forgets oneself and revels only in the existence of their beloved.
Vasu picked up his diary and started writing a poem in it:
You are like the flame of that lamp, which shows the way with its light even in darkness,
We are like the life-giving spirits revolving around that lamp.
You are like the moonlight, which illuminates everything with its light even in the silence of the night,
We are like the ocean waves with that moonlight, you dissolve into every wave.
You are like the sun's ray, which brings the freshness of morning,
We are like the shadows attached to you, which cannot stay without you.
You are like the root of that tree, which gives life to untouched parts of the earth,
We are like the branches of that tree, which realize their existence only from you.
You are like the stream of every river, which makes the way to reach the ocean,
We are like the sailors moving with the support of that stream, you are our direction, you are our shore.
You are like warmth in winter, which melts even icy paths,
We are like those fighting the cold with that warmth, not stopping, moving forward.
You are like the fragrance of every flower, residing in any garden,
We are like the colorful flowers of that garden, which gain beauty only from you.
You are like the sweet tune of music, which calms the hearts,
We are like the notes of that music, which are meaningful only when you bring them together.
You are like a calm sea even in a fierce storm,
We are like the calm waters of that sea, which finds its existence only from you.
You are like that stream of rivers that flows for centuries,
We are like creatures standing by that stream, who can never go far from you.
You are the entire universe, you are that infinite power,
We are just a part of that power, which becomes complete by meeting you.
Vasu closed his diary and stared at it for a while. The lotus flower on the surface of the diary seemed to encompass all his emotions at once. It was an old-fashioned diary, but its make was completely new and neat. The diary's pages were thick and strong, with a finely engraved lotus flower on top, spread out in all its unrestrained beauty, as if it were the deep emotion of every word hidden in this diary.
The lotus flower, a symbol of purity and novelty when blooming in water, was just like this diary, a symbol of the purity and depth of Vasu's love. The petals of the flower were so delicate that every detail was engraved with great thought and consideration. Inside the lotus, there was simple beauty and also an extraordinary strength, like Vasu's love – which was delicate, but no one could understand its power.
He gazed at the lotus flower for a few moments, as if trying to feel the words he had written from the depth of his heart. All his emotions were contained within the pages of that diary, and he wondered if Kishori would ever be able to understand these emotions. Would she see that lotus flower and understand it, as he understood her?
The edges of the diary pages had faint white smudges, as if time had left its mark on the pages of an old book. But that mark was making this diary even more special. Like Vasu's love, which had been tested by time, yet lived on in all its beauty. The thick lines of the diary and the engraved designs on them were a symbol that Vasu had written his emotions with complete honesty, as if he were pouring out his soul onto those pages.
There was a faint golden flow around the lotus flower, which made it even more royal and special. In Vasu's hands, that diary felt as if he were holding an indescribable treasure. He gently opened it again and picked up a pen to write another poem, because he felt that no poem could ever be complete for the soul residing in Kishori's smile.
A little later...
Kishori was watering the plants in her courtyard. Chirping of birds and a gentle cool breeze were blowing all around. Then, two fifteen-year-old girls from the neighborhood came running.
"Kishori didi!" said one of them with a smile, "We have to ask you something."
Kishori placed the water pot aside and said, "Come, sit. What do you want to ask?"
"People call Makhan Chorography mischief. Was it really theft?" asked the first girl.
"Makhan Chorography wasn't just mischief. It was a message. Makhan was a symbol of wealth at that time, and those who had more butter hoarded it. Kanha ji showed that wealth should be shared, it should reach the needy. There was divine justice hidden in his Makhan Chorography," Kishori said.
"People question Raslila the most. Was it really wrong?" the second girl asked.
"Raslila? That was the purest expression of love. Raslila means the union of souls. The Gopis, leaving all their bonds, were engrossed in the love of God. Kanha ji taught that true love is beyond the body. Raslila was a form of worship, where every soul experienced connection with the divine. Those who misunderstand it haven't understood its depth," Kishori said seriously.
"And what was the meaning of lifting Govardhan mountain, didi?" the first girl asked excitedly.
"That was God's greatest message. When Lord Indra, in his arrogance, sent rain and storms upon Gokul, Kanha ji lifted Govardhan mountain, showing that true strength lies in devotion and unity. He taught that when we move forward with our collective efforts and faith, no calamity can harm us," Kishori said with a smile.
"People consider the story of Sudama Ji very good. What's special about it?" the second girl said.
"The story of Sudama Ji teaches us that in true friendship, money, wealth, and status have no importance. Sudama Ji was poor, but Kanha Ji gave him such respect and love that even a king wouldn't get. It teaches that love and devotion are the real wealth," Kishori said in a loving tone.
"And that story, when Draupadi was being disrobed? People say why didn't God save her earlier?" the first girl asked nervously.
"Kanha Ji never took away anyone's karma. He gave Draupadi the opportunity to call out for help herself. When Draupadi had made all her efforts and finally called out to God, then only did He help. The message is that God doesn't help until we try ourselves. And when we surrender, God will surely protect us," Kishori said.
"And the knowledge of the Gita in the Mahabharata war? Why was it given, didi?" the second girl said.
"The knowledge of the Gita was for all humanity. Arjuna was in a moral dilemma when he had to fight against his own kin. Kanha Ji taught him that performing our duty in life is our dharma, and acting according to our duty without worrying about the results is the true path. This knowledge teaches us to make the right decisions in every situation and to dedicate our actions to God," Kishori said.
"But didi, when Krishna Ji saw his own dynasty being destroyed, why didn't he stop it?" the first girl asked in surprise.
"This divine play teaches that everything in the world is perishable. Kanha Ji did not stop the destruction of his lineage because it was the cycle of time. He showed that when arrogance and mistakes cross limits, they must be destroyed, even if it is one's own lineage. He also taught that even God follows His rules," Kishori said with a deep gaze.
"Didi, people say many things about Krishna Ji's 16,108 wives. Is this true? And what does it mean?" the second girl asked hesitantly.
Kishori smiled and said, "This question is very profound. Krishna Ji's 16,108 wives are symbolic. To understand its meaning, we need to look at his stories from a spiritual perspective."
The girls looked at her curiously. Kishori continued, "Actually, this number represents souls. 16,108 are those souls who were connected to Lord Krishna. These were the souls whom Narakasura had imprisoned. Krishna Ji freed them. When those women were afraid to return to society because society wouldn't accept them, then Kanha Ji accepted them as his wives. This was a way to teach society that every person should be respected, no matter what circumstances they have gone through."
"But didi, did he really give his time to each of them?" the first girl asked in surprise.
"This is the divine play of God. Krishna is not just one person; He is omnipresent. He can be individually connected with every soul. To understand this, one needs to adopt a spiritual perspective, leaving behind the physical viewpoint. He was present with each wife at the time she called him. This teaches that God is everywhere and with everyone," Kishori replied.
Both girls became quiet. Kishori said, "Every act of Kanha Ji has a lesson. If people only see the external form, then some things might seem wrong. But when you delve into the depth of his actions, you will understand that he was teaching us something every moment."
"You explained everything so well, didi. Now we will never misunderstand Kanhaiya Ji's divine plays," the girls said, nodding.
"Remember, what you see is not always the truth. To understand Krishna Ji's life, one must immerse oneself in devotion," Kishori said with a smile.
The girls left smiling. Kishori went back to watering the plants, but the echoes of Kanhaiya Ji's divine plays continued to resonate in her mind for a long time.
You have seen how entangled the thoughts and feelings between Vasu and Kishori are. On one hand, there is Vasu's unwavering love for Kishori, which makes him stand against his parents' decisions. On the other hand, there is Kishori, who is so immersed in her devotion that she is hesitant to accept worldly love.
Kishori's heart holds immense devotion and love for Krishna, and this keeps her away from Vasu. However, is Kishori truly unaware of her heart's truth, or is she deliberately ignoring it? Meanwhile, Vasu is on the verge of making the biggest decision of his life, and will his stubbornness bring him closer to Kishori or push her further away?
"Lost in your love, we forget everything,
Supported by your memories, we endure every pain,
You are formless, like Krishna,
In the beat of my heart,
You have resided, my beloved,
Kishori, your name alone."
"I still remember Kishori," Vasu said, "that day... the day we first met."
Kishori was 14 years old and went to the temple every day with her father, Pandit Manohar ji. As soon as she reached there, she would close her eyes before the statues of the gods and pray with complete devotion. One day, she said to her father,
"Papa, I also want to perform the aarti of God with my own hands."
Pandit ji, smiling at her innocence, said,
"Daughter, you will too... one day will come when you will spread your devotion in every corner of this temple." There was a spark in Kishori's eyes; her devotion and faith set her apart.
However, Kishori's story at school was a bit different. She never took interest in studies. She failed in 8th grade and had to repeat the same class. When she rejoined 8th grade, her old habits continued—every page of her notebook was filled with drawings of Lord Krishna. For her, studying meant only drawing pictures of Lord Krishna and being immersed in his devotion.
The teachers were extremely troubled by Kishori's habit. One day, the teacher angrily said in class,
"Kishori! You have no interest in studies, you only keep drawing Krishna, Krishna. This girl will bring shame to the school!"
Vasu met Kishori the day she failed 8th grade again and had to repeat it. Kishori was a full two years older than Vasu.
8th grade... all the children were making a racket as if it were not a classroom but a fish market.
Just then, one child said,
"Hey, everyone, be quiet... Principal sir is coming."
All the children immediately sat down quietly in their places as if nothing had happened. The principal's arrival in class was a big deal. But what was even more surprising was that there was a girl with the Principal sir; small, wearing a school uniform, with an innocent face.
All the children in the 8th grade were staring at the girl because the Principal had never brought any child to the class specifically before.
The Principal said,
"Good morning students!"
All the children stood up together and in one long drawl, said,
"Gooood mooorninggg sirrr!"
The Principal said,
"This is Kishori, your new classmate."
Kishori looked at all the children with a slight smile, her eyes held an innocence that immediately attracted everyone's attention. Vasu also peeked at Kishori from his seat. A soft whisper spread through the classroom. The children got up from their seats and looked towards Kishori, curiosity and eagerness reflected on their faces.
One child softly said,
"Isn't she lovely?"
Another child teasingly said,
"Look, she's not lovely, look closely, her height is more than yours and mine... such a big girl in our class now!"
Kishori, with a little nervousness, tried to sit in her place, but her silence and simplicity made her stand out from everyone else.
The Principal said,
"Kishori, will you have any problem joining our class?"
Kishori hesitantly bowed her head, but not a single word came from her mouth. The Principal bowed his head and gestured for everyone to start the class and left. The children's eyes were fixed on Kishori. After a while, Mishra sir came into the class. All the children stood up, wished Mishra sir good morning, and then sat in their places. Mishra sir glanced at the entire class, and then as his gaze fell upon Kishori, a flame of anger erupted in Mishra sir's eyes.
"Hey Kishori! You failed 8th grade again?"
As soon as Mishra sir said this, all the children started whispering amongst themselves. Chaos ensued in the class. All the children looked at each other with surprised and bewildered expressions. Vasu's gaze remained fixed on Kishori's face.
Mishra sir looked at Kishori angrily and said,
"Don't you have any interest in studies? How many times have we told you to concentrate."
As Mishra sir's words fell on Kishori, a commotion arose in the classroom. The children began to look at each other, surprise and interest flashing in their eyes. But Kishori's face was completely calm and steady. Mishra sir's eyes were fixed on Kishori's face, his angry voice devoid of any gentleness.
"You failed 8th grade again?" he said loudly, as if the sentence itself was a punishment. Kishori slightly raised her bowed head and looked at Mishra sir with a faint smile. There was a kind of coolness in her smile. Mishra sir's anger increased when Kishori did not respond to anything he said.
"Vasu!" Mishra sir said in a sharp voice.
Vasu was startled and quickly stood up,
"Yes sir!"
Mishra sir said,
"You are the class monitor, aren't you? Sit Kishori with you and you have to teach her. You have to make her understand that studies are important, otherwise, this girl will bring shame to the school."
Vasu was stunned, but the next moment a sweet smile appeared on his face when Kishori looked at Vasu... but Kishori's face still held no expression. Mishra sir, without saying anything further, threw Kishori's bag onto Vasu's bench. It was unusual for a teacher to show such harshness without any additional words, but Vasu felt concerned about it. He carefully picked up the bag and looked at Kishori, who stood there looking calm and helpless.
Kishori slowly walked over and sat down next to Vasu. Vasu's table already had a pile of books and notebooks. He quickly shifted his things aside to make space for Kishori.
Vasu looked at Kishori with a slight smile and softly said,
"Hi, I'm Vasu. I'm the class monitor. Let me know if you have any problems."
Kishori glanced at him but said nothing. Her silence made Vasu a bit uncomfortable.
Mishra sir said, writing a math problem on the blackboard,
"Now, note down everything I am teaching. Kishori, pay attention, this is for you too."
Kishori nodded slightly and opened her book. Mishra sir began explaining the problem, but the attention of the children in the class was more on Kishori and Vasu than on his words. Some children were laughing, while others were whispering.
One girl whispered in her friend's ear,
"Look, how quietly she's sitting with Vasu. Otherwise, she would have started crying by now."
Vasu was surprised that Kishori still had no expression on her face. He thought, "Why is this girl so quiet? Doesn't she get angry at all?"
The other replied,
"Oh, this girl is very strange. She neither laughs nor says anything."
Vasu heard these whispers but ignored them. He leaned towards Kishori and said,
"Don't worry, they all talk like this. I'll help you with your studies. Okay?"
Kishori nodded slightly, but her eyes were still fixed on the book. Mishra sir taught for half an hour and then gave the children some problems to solve.
"Whoever cannot solve the problem will get double homework. Kishori, this is your last chance. If you fail again, then..."
He left the sentence unfinished, but the threat was evident in his voice. As soon as Mishra sir left, the class became restless again. The children started talking to each other.
"She'll fail again," one boy said.
"Hey, be quiet! This girl seems different."
"Different what? Just strange."
Vasu heard their words and said with irritation,
"Everyone be quiet! No one pays attention to their studies, they just want to talk about others."
His anger silenced the entire class.
Vasu softly said to Kishori,
"If you need any help, let me know. I'm here."
Kishori still said nothing and quietly took out a book, opened it, and started writing something in it. Vasu took a look to see what Kishori was writing. Vasu saw that Kishori was filling the entire page with "Jai Shri Krishna" written on the pages of her book.
Vasu softly said,
"Oh! Now I understand!"
Then Vasu added,
"You like Kanha ji, that's why you are writing his name."
Kishori suddenly gripped her pen tightly and looked at Vasu, nodding her head in affirmation. A long smile spread across Vasu's face. The other children in the class gradually began to talk less about Kishori, as Vasu's calm and affectionate behavior gradually drew everyone's attention. Kishori began to write the name of Kanha ji more beautifully on the pages of her book, as if expressing the depth of her heart in every word.
"Do you ever talk to Kanha ji?" Vasu asked curiously.
Kishori lowered her head and softly said,
"Yes, sometimes. Whenever I am sad or don't understand something, I talk to him. My conversations with him are very special."
Vasu listened to her words carefully and then said,
"Yes, my mother says that Kanha ji hears children's words quickly."
Hearing Vasu's words, a slight sparkle appeared in Kishori's eyes. She smiled gently and said,
"Your mother speaks the truth. Kanha ji is always with us, he never leaves us alone."
Vasu quickly extended his hand and said,
"So, will you be friends with me?"
Kishori shook her head and said,
"No... I am only Kanha ji's friend... no one else's."
Vasu's face fell, but he quickly composed himself. He said with a smile,
"Okay, if you are only Kanha ji's friend, then it's fine... but I am always here, if you ever need help with anything."
Kishori listened to his words and once again bowed her head with a faint smile. Vasu looked at Kishori, who was drawing a picture of Krishna in her notebook, and a faint smile played on his lips. Vasu felt an inexplicable pull towards Kishori's smile.
Days passed by like this, but there was no improvement in Kishori. Getting scolded by teachers daily had become her habit, and it didn't affect her at all. Vasu would get very angry when any teacher or child said something to Kishori... and Vasu would always take Kishori's side, but Kishori remained unaffected.
The science period had begun. As soon as Shastri sir entered the class, as per his habit, he ordered all the children to sit quietly. There was pin-drop silence in the class. All the children had opened their science books. Kishori sat quietly in her place as usual. Her eyes were on the book, but her mind was elsewhere. She kept flipping through the pages, as if trying to understand, but in reality, she was lost in her own thoughts, disconnected from the teacher's words.
Shastri sir suddenly looked at her and said,
"Kishori! Stand up!"
Kishori was startled. She slowly stood up and said,
"Yes sir."
Shastri sir asked angrily,
"Did you understand what I taught?"
Kishori softly said,
"No sir."
Hearing this, Shastri sir's anger reached its peak. He angrily hit his stick on the desk and said,
"How many times have I told you to study carefully! You get scolded every day, you are punished every day, but no improvement. Today I will give you a punishment that you will remember your whole life."
The entire class was stunned. Fear and curiosity were mixed on the children's faces. Vasu, who was sitting right next to Kishori, was already alert. He sensed that Shastri sir was about to do something harsh.
Shastri sir said angrily,
"Climb onto the bench and raise your hands. Stand like this until I say so."
Kishori said nothing. She quietly climbed onto the bench and raised her hands. Whispers started throughout the class. The children started laughing. Someone said,
"Look, she's such a big girl, but she gets punished so many times!"
Another added,
"Maybe they will expel her from school this time."
Vasu was getting very angry hearing all this. He tried to control himself, but the children's taunts and laughter stung him even more. Vasu suddenly closed his book and stood up.
"Sir!" he said in a loud voice. Shastri sir looked at him angrily.
"What is it Vasu?"
Vasu said firmly,
"Sir, this is not right. Why is it necessary for you to punish Kishori in front of everyone? If she doesn't understand, it doesn't mean you should embarrass her."
Shastri sir became even angrier at his words.
"Are you trying to defend her, Vasu? Did you also read the answer to the question?"
Vasu said,
"Yes sir. You can ask me. But my point is that if a child is weak, shaming them in front of everyone is not the right way."
Silence fell upon the class. No one had ever dared to talk to a teacher like this before. Shastri sir stared at Vasu for a few moments. Then he said,
"If you have so much knowledge, then you teach Kishori. Let's see how you bring about improvement."
Vasu immediately said,
"Okay, sir. I will teach her. But please don't punish her now. She is already very embarrassed."
Shastri sir said irritably,
"Fine. But if she doesn't learn anything this time either, then both of you will be punished."
He ordered Kishori to get down from the bench. Kishori quietly got down and sat in her seat. After class, when all the children left, laughing and talking in their groups, Vasu looked at Kishori.
Vasu was still looking at Kishori and thinking to himself how to explain things to this girl. Kishori couldn't understand why this boy, who grabbed everyone's attention in class and whom everyone liked, was looking at her now.
Vasu softly said,
"Kishori, if you pay a little attention to your studies, it might be good for both of us."
Without any response, Kishori started drawing Krishna's picture in her notebook again. For Vasu, this was a challenge—to motivate a girl who was solely engrossed in the devotion of Lord Krishna to study. Vasu made up his mind that no matter what, he would inspire Kishori to focus on her studies. From that day, an unusual journey began with Kishori, where he tried in his own way to make her pay attention to her studies, but Kishori always reminded him of her path of devotion. Gradually, Vasu developed a different kind of affection for Kishori's innocence and true devotion, which was beyond his previous understanding.
Days passed by slowly. Vasu thought, "Maybe I can explain it to her."
Vasu softly said,
"Kishori, if you study a little, your father will also be happy. Think, if you get good marks, it won't diminish your devotion."
Kishori looked at him, her eyes devoid of interest. She replied,
"I can only study for Kanha. Everything else is useless." And she resumed her drawings.
Vasu realized that it would be difficult to explain to Kishori in a normal way. He decided to adopt a new strategy. Vasu went close to Kishori and said,
"Okay, if you will study for Kanha, then I will answer every question through his stories. How about that?"
Kishori paid attention to Vasu's words. A hint of curiosity showed on her face.
"Alright, then tell me, how can this math problem be connected to Kanha's stories?"
Vasu said with a smile,
"Look, just as Kanha devised various methods to steal butter, we also have to try different ways to solve math problems. Sometimes we solve them directly, sometimes in a complicated way."
Kishori said after a moment's thought,
"Okay, then explain."
Vasu felt his plan was working. He gradually began to teach Kishori math and science problems by referencing Kanha's stories. Meanwhile, Kishori also started realizing that Vasu was trying to understand her. She also liked that someone was respecting her devotion while helping her with her studies.
Vasu decided to teach Kishori about microorganisms. He knew that Kishori loved Lord Krishna's divine plays, and if he explained this chapter by connecting it to Krishna's plays, perhaps she would show interest in understanding it. So, Vasu adopted a new strategy.
He approached Kishori and said,
"Kishori, today we will study about microorganisms. But I will explain it by connecting it to Krishna's divine plays, so that it becomes even more interesting for you."
Kishori listened to Vasu and then looked at him with a little curiosity,
"So, what is connected to Kanha's divine plays about microorganisms?" she asked.
Vasu said with a smile,
"Look, Krishna's divine plays had many small events and elements that could be a little difficult to understand. Just as Krishna took care of many small things in the butter-stealing play, these small elements were the cause of big results. Similarly, microorganisms are very small, but their effects can bring about big changes."
Kishori bowed her head and started thinking,
"So, just as Krishna's small divine plays had a big impact, do microorganisms also have a big effect?"
Vasu said,
"Absolutely! Just as Krishna stole butter in his divine plays and lifted the Govardhan mountain, all these events were small, but the reason and purpose behind them were very big. Microorganisms are also small, but their life and work are very important."
Kishori listened attentively, and Vasu began to explain microorganisms in more detail.
"Microorganisms are those invisible creatures that we cannot see with our eyes. They are like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Although they are very small, they have a great impact on our lives."
He continued,
"Just as Krishna explained the importance of every small thing in his divine plays, every aspect of microorganisms is also important. For example, there are bacteria that do both good and bad things inside our bodies. Just as Krishna took God's name in every situation and performed every action correctly from a religious perspective."
Kishori thought for a while and then asked,
"So, can microorganisms also have a good effect on our lives?"
Vasu said with a smile,
"Absolutely! Just as Krishna brought joy to the hearts of the villagers by stealing butter, similarly some bacteria are beneficial for our bodies. For instance, there are good bacteria in our stomachs that help digest food. They are helpful in maintaining our health."
Kishori asked more questions,
"But are all microorganisms good?"
Vasu took a deep breath and said,
"No, not all microorganisms are good. Just as there were demons and monsters in Krishna's divine plays, similarly some microorganisms are also bad, like viruses and certain types of bacteria that spread diseases. These microorganisms can harm our bodies, just as demons tried to obstruct Krishna's path."
Kishori bowed her head,
"So, just as Krishna fought with demons and saved his devotees, we also need to find ways to protect ourselves from these bad microorganisms."
Vasu said happily,
"Absolutely! Just as Krishna protected his devotees, we should also adopt safety measures. We should wash our hands, drink clean water, and maintain hygiene so that bad microorganisms cannot harm us."
Then Vasu gave another example,
"Krishna used clever methods to steal butter, similarly, scientists also use many methods to learn and understand microorganisms, so that we can avoid them and use them correctly."
Kishori now paid full attention and said,
"I understand! Just as Krishna did every small task with great cleverness, similarly, by understanding microorganisms and knowing their effects, we should take care of our health."
Vasu said happily,
"Now you understand, Kishori! Microorganisms are small, but their impact on our lives is very significant. And just as Krishna's divine plays change the direction of our lives, microorganisms can also have a big impact on our health and life."
Kishori said with a smile,
"Thank you, Vasu! Now I understand the importance of microorganisms."
Vasu said happily,
"Whenever you see something small, remember that it is sometimes a part of something very big, like Krishna's divine plays and microorganisms."
For the first time, Kishori showed interest and opened her book. She said,
"Okay, let me solve the questions now. But you promise to explain every lesson by connecting it to Kanha ji's stories."
Vasu said with a laugh,
"A definite promise! Now, let's start working on the next question."
Many weeks passed like this. Kishori's notebook now showed not only pictures of Kanha but also the fruits of Vasu's hard work. Her grades began to improve, and even the school teachers were surprised to see that Kishori had started showing some interest in her studies.
Similarly, Vasu thought of a new way to teach Kishori about cells. He thought that if he explained this lesson by referencing Krishna's divine plays, perhaps Kishori would understand it easily.
"Kishori, if you understand cells by connecting them to Kanha's divine plays, it might be easier for you."
Kishori raised her head and looked at him with some curiosity. Vasu began again:
"Look, just as Kanha protected the people of Gokul by lifting the Govardhan mountain, similarly, our cells also have a structure that protects our body. Whatever we eat or drink goes into the cells, and the cells deliver it to the body. Just as the Govardhan mountain saved the people of Gokul, our cells save our bodies."
A sparkle appeared in Kishori's eyes. She listened attentively and then asked Vasu,
"So, do all cells in the body perform the same function?"
Vasu said with a smile,
"No, absolutely not. Just as every deity has a different role in Kanha's divine plays, similarly, the cells in our body perform different functions. Some cells circulate blood in the body, some cells strengthen our bones, and some cells control the functions of our brain."
Kishori was now fully attentive, and a new understanding began to appear in her eyes.
"So, just as every divine play of Kanha has a purpose, similarly, our cells also..."
Vasu tried many times to keep himself away from Kishori, but failed every time. Whenever he was with her, a strange stir would arise in his mind, as if he was being drawn towards Kishori by an invisible string.
Seeing Kishori's devotion to Krishna, a feeling of reverence awakened in Vasu's heart. He began to like Kishori's simple demeanor, which he had never seen in anyone before. He often wondered, "How can someone so easily shed all their sorrows and worries before God and feel lighter? Why does her innocent devotion appeal to me so much?"
One day, while Kishori was meditating on Krishna with her eyes closed, Vasu stood at a distance, gazing at her. A smile played on his lips, his eyes sparkled, and his face seemed illuminated by some divine power.
He murmured to himself, "Kishori, you are truly unique. Far from the worldly illusions, dedicated solely to your Krishna. And I... I just want to become like you by watching you. There is something in your devotion that touches my heart."
Gradually, the feeling began to deepen in Vasu's heart that this unknown pull and attraction towards Kishori's devotion was perhaps love. But he resolved to nurture this love with purity. He said to his heart, "The love I have for Kishori is different from any worldly love. It is a love that is trying to bring me closer to that Krishna to whom she is so deeply devoted."
And thus, this first feeling of love in Vasu's heart for Kishori deepened day by day, like an unspoken vow, without any expectations. He knew that Kishori might not see him as more than a friend, but in his heart, it had sunk deep that he was slowly embarking on a journey to find Krishna through Kishori's love.
He now sat by Kishori every day, trying to find Krishna in her words, in the sparkle of her eyes. His mind had now chosen a new path for itself – a path where love, devotion, and surrender walked together, and Vasu was slowly losing himself in that love, which he hadn't even understood until now.
Vasu had always been good at art alongside his studies. His drawing book was always with him, in which he often made beautiful pictures. Kishori saw Vasu's drawing book for the first time, in which a beautiful picture of Krishna was drawn. In the picture, Lord Krishna was smiling with a flute in his hands, and there was an amazing peace in his eyes.
Kishori liked the picture so much that she forgot her study habits and approached Vasu. She spoke to him directly for the first time, "I want this."
Vasu was a little taken aback, as Kishori never spoke directly to him before. He had gotten to know her a little, and he was well aware of her devotion and her unwavering faith in Lord Krishna.
Vasu said with a smile, "Do you really like it?"
Kishori nodded and said, "Yes, I find Kanha very dear."
Vasu tore the page from his drawing book without delay and gave it to Kishori. For the first time, Kishori looked at Vasu carefully. She realized that Vasu also had a deep love for God.
Days passed like this, and now Kishori spoke a little with Vasu directly.
One day, during a break in class, Kishori said to Vasu, "You are really very strange, Vasu. You teach me, and you also narrate stories of my God."
Vasu said with a laugh, "Because I know that Kanha is both your strength and your weakness."
Kishori said with a slight smile, "Being with you, it feels like Kanha himself is with me."
Vasu felt something at that moment—perhaps Kishori's devotion had also influenced him. He realized that love is not just about possessing, but also a form of surrender. He resolved not only to teach Kishori but also to delve deeper into her devotion.
Thus, the time for the annual examinations also arrived.
Now Kishori spoke properly with Vasu, but she had one condition—any conversation had to begin with 'Jai Shri Krishna' or 'Radhe Radhe'. The love in Vasu's heart for Kishori grew day by day. He waited for the right time to express his true feelings for Kishori.
Kishori's interest in studies had now awakened, but her love for Krishna remained unwavering.
Kishori passed the 8th grade, which surprised all the teachers, but they were inwardly happy that Kishori was showing interest in her studies.
After some time, a fancy dress competition was organized in the school. Every student was preparing their costumes and practicing their performances. Kishori's mind was always focused on devotion to Lord Krishna, so she had decided to participate as Radha. When she told her father, Pandit Manohar Ji, he smiled proudly and said, "Daughter, by becoming Radha, you will spread the message of Krishna devotion in this school."
Kishori's mother had always told her stories of Radha and Krishna. Her mother believed that the love of Radha and Krishna was a symbol of true love. Therefore, Kishori also had deep reverence for Radha and Krishna in her heart.
Vasu, who was going to play the role of Krishna in this competition, was busy with his costume and flute, fully prepared. When he heard that Kishori was participating as Radha, he was happy. He thought, "Perhaps this time we can even appear on stage together."
The day of the fancy dress competition arrived. The school auditorium was dazzling with colorful lights and decorations. Everyone looked splendid in their costumes, but Vasu and Kishori drew the most attention. Kishori was wearing Radha's costume – a light pink and white lehenga-choli, a bindi on her forehead, and colorful bangles on her hands. There was a wonderful expression of simplicity and devotion in her eyes. On the other hand, Vasu was dressed as Lord Krishna in a yellow dhoti, a blue angavastra, and a peacock-feathered crown. His flute and smile made his costume even more effective.
As Kishori was getting ready behind the stage, her gaze fell on Vasu. Vasu looked exactly like Kanha – as if he had come alive from a painting. An unknown joy bloomed in Kishori's heart. Vasu also saw her and smiled, pretending to play the flute towards her. A faint smile appeared on Kishori's face, and she mentally thanked Lord Krishna for giving her such a good friend who understood her devotion.
As the competition began, one by one, students came onto the stage in their respective characters. The audience welcomed them with thunderous applause. Then it was Vasu's turn. He entered the stage, flute in hand. His gait was slow and dignified, as if he were Lord Krishna himself. Upon reaching the stage, he brought the flute to his lips and acted as if playing it. There was the same calm smile in his eyes as in the picture. The audience was mesmerized by his performance.
Then it was Kishori's turn. As she came onto the stage, she greeted Lord Krishna with folded hands and performed with a unique expression of devotion in her eyes. Her acting was so natural that the audience felt as if Radha herself had appeared before them.
As Kishori finished her performance, Vasu walked towards her on the stage. They looked at each other in the center of the stage, as if Krishna and Radha were meeting. The audience erupted in applause. The pair of Vasu and Kishori had won the hearts of the entire auditorium. At the end of the competition, Vasu and Kishori received the award for 'Best Pair'.
After the competition, Kishori and Vasu came down from the stage and sat together.
Kishori said with a smile, "You really played a very good Krishna."
Vasu replied, "And you looked just like Radha – alive and pure."
Kishori pointed to his flute and said, "You know, Krishna's flute only played for Radha."
Vasu said with a laugh, "And the same happened today."
Kishori looked at him silently.
Should I call you Shyam, Radha's? Or say you are Rukmini's?
Or call you Shyam of Meera, dear, what name should I give?
Sometimes you are the flute-holding Gopal, sometimes the charming Murali,
Saanvariya, in your love, how can I keep the whole world bound?
Sometimes you are Radha's beloved, sometimes Rukmini's cherished one,
In Meera's heart's temple, you are the rhythm of everyone's soul.
In the lanes of Braj, you are Mohan, residing in every heart,
You are Mohan, you are Madhav, Hari, you are the dispeller of everyone's wanderings.
Shyam, your divine plays are infinite, how can anyone understand?
Sometimes a child-Gopal in Gokul, sometimes you arrive as a mighty warrior.
Your names are millions, dear, how can one hold them in this heart?
Should I call you Radha's Shyam, or Meera's Mohan?
Some words rose in her heart, but she couldn't say them. Vasu also looked into her eyes, as if a lot was being communicated between them without words. In that moment, an unspoken understanding formed between Kishori and Vasu, born solely from devotion to Krishna and Radha.
Now the question arises, will Kishori ever understand Vasu's unspoken feelings? Will she also accept Vasu's love with the same reverence as she has accepted Krishna? And Vasu, who considers Kishori's devotion as love, will he ever be able to express his heart's feelings?
In the next turn of this story, the depth of Vasu and Kishori's relationship and new challenges will emerge.
Stay tuned to know more and be sure to give your feedback.
Radhe Radhe!
The sound of temple bells and the sweet melody of bhajans in the morning sanctified the atmosphere. Kishori, every day, went to the temple with her father, Pandit Manohar ji. She would sit in the main courtyard of the temple, humming bhajans and meditating.
Ever since Vasu had come to know about Kishori, it had become his habit to also come to the temple every morning. At first, he thought he was merely coming to help or explain things to Kishori, but gradually, he began to feel that there was something special in Kishori's devotion that was drawing him in.
One day, Pandit Manohar ji told Vasu,
"Son Vasu, escort Kishori home today. I am going out of town for some work."
Vasu immediately agreed.
"Yes, Pandit ji, you rest assured. I will get her home safe and sound."
Kishori gently looked at Vasu and said nothing. The same calm innocence was in her eyes.
As Vasu and Kishori were returning from the temple, an aunt from the neighborhood, whom everyone called 'Lakshmi Auntie', suddenly came in their path. Lakshmi Auntie's nature was such that she considered it her right to add a dash of taunts and advice to everyone's life.
As soon as she saw Kishori, she winked and said,
"Oh Kishori, you are acting like a great Mira these days. Temple morning and evening, bhajans, God... Hey, studies are also important. Or have you decided that God himself will come and pass you?"
Vasu, who had been standing quietly until now, got annoyed as soon as he heard Lakshmi Auntie's words. He immediately said,
"Auntie ji, whether God will pass you or not, only God knows, but He can make you top if you also start going to the temple and singing bhajans."
Lakshmi Auntie was a bit taken aback.
"Hey, this boy! I was just saying..."
Vasu quickly replied,
"Yes, you were just saying, but you also know that becoming Mira requires a very big heart, which perhaps not everyone has."
Kishori quietly lowered her head slightly. She knew that what Vasu had said was in her support, but she was accustomed to such taunts.
Lakshmi Auntie said grudgingly,
"Okay, okay! I was just explaining."
Vasu said with a smile,
"Auntie ji, have you taken a contract to explain things? Even God must think when seeing you, 'This woman gives more advice than me.'"
The aunt left muttering angrily. Kishori looked at Vasu and said,
"Why did you answer like that? She might feel bad."
Vasu said with a slight laugh,
"If she doesn't feel bad, then what's the fun of the answer? And anyway, I was supporting you. You should have thanked me by now."
Kishori lowered her head and smiled softly.
As they were walking, Vasu started speaking again,
"By the way, Kishori, I think people like Lakshmi Auntie spend more time monitoring others than God. They should open their own CCTV camera and make it their temple."
Kishori giggled slightly and said,
"Why do you always say such things? What's the need to argue in front of everyone?"
Vasu shook his head and replied,
"You won't understand. It's my habit to support the right. And anyway, if I don't support you, who else will?"
Kishori looked at him and smiled.
As they reached Kishori's house, Vasu said with a smile,
"Here, your house has arrived. So, let's meet at the temple tomorrow morning. And yes, if anyone else taunts you, I will come to teach them a lesson again."
Kishori said with a slight smile,
"You have a habit of arguing everywhere. But still, thank you."
Vasu said, laughing,
"Hey, there's no need for thanks. You are my friend, and such small things keep happening in friendship."
For the first time, Kishori said goodbye to him with a smile.
Sometimes I feel like talking to you,
Sometimes I feel like getting lost in your eyes.
Your smile is like the morning ray,
Which makes the flowers of hope bloom in my heart.
The dream is to be with you every moment,
But I don't have the courage to say it in words.
This heart just wishes,
To tell you something someday.
But I'm afraid that in your eyes,
I might not find the answer to my feelings.
Sometimes I feel like sitting with you,
And listening to your words,
Even in your silence,
I feel like saying some unspoken words.
Sometimes I think, I should say something to you,
But then I ask myself,
Will you understand this?
Will you feel this?
You are my heartbeat, my breath,
Every moment connected to you is special,
I have a lot to say to you,
But will you understand my silence?
Whether it's talking to you,
Or staying away from you without saying anything,
You will always be close to my heart,
Because in your memories,
I live a new dream every day.
—Vasu
Vasu hid this poem in his book, hoping that someday these words would reach Kishori, but he could never say it.
The days when Kishori didn't come to school, Vasu's face would seem to wither. All day, his eyes held a peculiar, quiet sadness, as if he had lost something. These days felt like cold, lifeless winds to him, giving him a chilling sensation at every step. For him, every hour of school felt like a burden, because without Kishori, every school activity seemed meaningless.
He would always turn his gaze towards Kishori's bench, as if searching for something in her eyes, but her seat was always empty. When he sat with his friends, their conversations sounded hollow to him. He felt as if something was missing in his world, and that deficiency could only be fulfilled by sitting next to Kishori.
Sometimes, he felt that doing anything in school was useless. He remembered Kishori in every corner—her smile, her words, her little laugh, and those moments when they were silently together.
That day, when Kishori hadn't come, Vasu was very sad. He looked around the room, sometimes at his friends, sometimes out the window. But nothing could satisfy him. There was a restless anxiety in his eyes. As if he had realized something important that was lost.
He looked towards his diary, which had now become his closest possession. His feelings written in it, which perhaps would never reach Kishori, pricked him with every word. He remembered that he had written another poem in his diary:
"Sometimes I feel like sitting with you,
And listening to your words,
Even in your silence,
I feel like saying some unspoken words.
Sometimes I think, I should say something to you,
But then I ask myself,
Will you understand this?
Will you feel this?"
Vasu felt that the emotions in this poem could not be contained within those words. He often wondered if Kishori would ever understand him completely, if she could feel the words of his heart.
Sometimes, when he was among friends and the absence of Kishori affected him even more deeply, he would suddenly stand up and secretly turn his eyes towards Kishori's bench. A desire would linger in his heart—"Will she come? Will I get a glimpse of her?"
And when Kishori appeared, it was as if Vasu's lost heartbeat returned. A strange sparkle would come into his eyes, as if a lost treasure had been found. His eyes were always searching for Kishori, and as soon as he saw Kishori, his face would suddenly light up, as if the first ray of the sun had appeared on the snow. Vasu felt as if all the happiness in the world had been given to him at that moment.
Seeing Kishori, a stir would arise in his heart, like the waves of the ocean crashing against the shore. He felt as if some magic was accelerating his heartbeat. Every time Kishori came in front of him, he felt like a gust of wind, ready to fly anywhere. This feeling was like a freshness flowing in his veins, like sweet, cool water that quenches thirst.
Vasu's face would suddenly shine like sunlight. While looking at Kishori, he would feel something different within himself, as if a new life was being born in his heart. His eyes held that innocence and truth that is found only in the eyes of a true lover. Vasu had never loved anyone so much, and as soon as Kishori appeared, his entire world seemed to stop.
"Sometimes, seeing Kishori, he felt as if all the joys of the world had been given to him." Vasu's eyes would have that sparkle at that moment, like a small child happy to get his favorite toy. Every dream seemed to reside in his smile, and seeing that smile, Vasu's heart would find solace. He was speechless, but his eyes conveyed everything that was in his heart.
Sometimes, he felt that if Kishori looked at him with a smile, all the troubles of the world would vanish in an instant. As soon as she appeared, Vasu's heart would beat so fast, as if someone was running very fast.
As his trance broke, Vasu realized that he had come out of his world. As if a closed door suddenly opened and a ray of light entered.
This was always a difficult moment for Vasu, because he could not express his feelings to Kishori. But every smile on her face, every little word, every glance from her eyes, lit a new hope in Vasu's heart. He felt as if Kishori had also seen him, felt his emotions. As if it were an interesting scene from a movie, where both understood each other, but lacked words.
There was a suffocation in his heart, wondering if Kishori would ever understand him? Would she ever feel that love which Vasu had given her by losing himself? But Vasu knew that love is not pressure, it is an invisible bond that reaches from heart to heart without words.
Sometimes when Kishori was near, he felt like he was flying in the air, and when she was far away, he found it difficult even to keep his feet on the ground. Without Kishori, he lost his existence. Like day without sun, night without moon, and flow without a river. Kishori was everything to him. He couldn't express it in his silence, but everything was in the depth of his eyes.
"Sometimes, one feels like getting lost in love." And Vasu felt just that, he got lost in Kishori. In Kishori's every step, in her every laugh, he saw a different world, and that's what pulled him towards her again and again.
...
While Kishori's father Manohar ji was a priest and her mother a housewife, Vasu's father was the village chief and his mother a housewife... Both Vasu and Kishori were the only children of their respective parents.
One day, Mahant Krishnanand ji was scheduled to visit Vasu's house, the chief's house, where he was to narrate a story.
Kishori and her father Manohar ji were also present at the narration. Vasu was overjoyed when he saw Kishori.
Listening to Krishnanand ji's story, tears streamed down Kishori's eyes.
When Krishnanand ji saw Kishori crying, he said,
"In this world, very few people cry in remembrance of the Lord... Your daughter is fortunate, Pandit Manohar."
Pandit Manohar, who had been listening silently until then, gently said,
"It is your blessing, Krishnanand ji. What you have explained to my daughter is invaluable. She cries in remembrance of the Lord, and that is her greatest strength."
Krishnanand ji smiled,
"Your daughter is fortunate, Pandit Manohar. Her devotion will guide her life."
There was a deep sparkle in Krishnanand ji's eyes, as if he were seeing some unseen mystery of the future. When he saw Vasu, he called Vasu to him as well, and placing his hand on Vasu's head, he said,
"Son, there is much sorrow in your destiny, yet you are very strong. The real fight in life is when a person fights with himself. Your purpose in this life is not just to live your own life, but also to teach a lesson to those who understand love as merely an emotion."
Vasu raised his eyes and looked at Krishnanand ji, as if absorbing every word. Krishnanand ji continued,
"You have to become a modern example of love in this life. Love is not just about gaining, but also about giving, surrender, and sacrifice. This battle will be difficult, very difficult... but this is your path... you have to fight your battle with yourself."
Vasu said in a low voice,
"But, Mahant ji, how will I know if I am on the right path?"
Krishnanand ji replied,
"When you find peace within yourself, when you feel duty along with love in your heart, then understand that you are on the right path. Every sorrow, every challenge will make you stronger. Your purpose in this world is to redefine love—because true love is that which remains steadfast in every circumstance, no matter what."
Vasu took in Krishnanand ji's words and, with renewed energy, strengthened his resolve. Now he understood that his life was a penance—a penance in which he had to conquer himself, understand his love, and teach others the true meaning of love.
Pandit Manohar said with a slightly worried tone,
"Mahant ji, my daughter... will this struggle be equally difficult for her?"
Krishnanand ji said seriously,
"Pandit ji, your daughter is also a special soul, and her path will also be fraught with difficulties, but she too will make her place through her devotion, love, and faith. This world will also see and learn from her."
Vasu strengthened his voice and said,
"Mahant ji, if this is my destiny, then I will fight it. No matter what happens, I am ready to fulfill my love and my duty."
Krishnanand ji blessed him, saying,
"Your resolve is your greatest strength, Vasu. Remember, the path of love and duty is difficult, but those who walk on it become immortal. Go, and write your story—a story that will inspire generations to come."
Vasu bowed his head, touched Krishnanand ji's feet, and moved forward with a firm resolve for his journey, knowing that his life was about to become part of an infinite narrative, where love, sacrifice, and duty flowed together.
Thus, the days passed, and Vasu and Kishori reached the 12th grade. Vasu's love for Kishori continued to grow, while Kishori's devotion to Krishna became even stronger.
But Kishori was unaware of Vasu's love for her.
One day, when it was the last paper of the 12th grade, Vasu decided that he would definitely tell Kishori about his love.
Vasu thought that now he would express his feelings to Kishori. After the exam, in a secluded corner, Vasu called Kishori. There was a strange sparkle in his eyes, his heart was pounding.
"Kishori, today I am going to tell you something that has been in my heart for a long time, but I never gathered the courage to say it."
Kishori looked at him attentively, but said nothing. The same innocence was in her eyes, and she waited for Vasu to speak.
Vasu took a deep breath and started speaking slowly, looking into Kishori's eyes, as if each word was coming from his heart and reaching Kishori.
"Kishori," his voice had a strange tremor, showing the depth of his emotions. "I know that your entire life is dedicated to Krishna's devotion. The peace on your face, the sparkle in your eyes, everything reflects the power of your devotion. I will never try to change you, and honestly, I don't want to change you. It is this devotion of yours that draws me to you."
He paused for a moment, as if carefully choosing his words. Then he continued,
"But I want to tell you that the feeling I have for you in my heart is not just infatuation. It is love, Kishori. A love that does not just desire to possess. I wouldn't even dare to ask for you for myself. But I... I want to belong to you, I want to be around you. That's all."
Kishori, who had been listening silently until now, lowered her eyes slightly. Vasu said with a slight smile,
"I know, Kishori, that your heart beats only for Krishna. And I don't want to change that. I just want to be a part of that world of yours, where the music of your devotion plays. I just want that whenever you take Krishna's name, there is a little place for me there... even if only as a friend."
Kishori now looked at Vasu. There was a deep sparkle in her eyes, as if she were trying to understand Vasu's words. The color of her devotion and her innocence both reflected in her eyes. She said softly,
"Vasu, I can understand what you are saying. But this life of mine is only and only for Kanhaiya. My devotion is my world. I know how much you feel for me, but I cannot reciprocate your love."
Vasu listened to her words carefully. He nodded and said with a slight smile,
"Kishori, I don't even need your answer. I don't need your love either. I just want to belong to you. I respect your devotion, and I will not even try to be a part of that world. But I will always be with you, at every step. If you fall, I will always stand with you to support you."
Kishori's face became serious. Choosing her words, she said,
"Vasu, I don't want you to have to struggle between your devotion and your love. I want you to move forward in your life. You have many dreams, which are your responsibility to pursue."
Vasu said slowly,
"Kishori, you are the biggest dream for me. And if being with you and becoming a part of your devotion is my destiny, then I will accept it gladly."
Kishori nodded slightly and said,
"Vasu, your love is very beautiful. But I want you to take it in a direction that can give new dimensions to your life. My devotion is my own path, and I cannot include anyone else in it."
Vasu sighed deeply, understanding her words, and said,
"Alright, Kishori. I respect your decision. But whenever you need me, I will always be there for you. Whether you realize it or not, I will always stand by you like a messenger of your Krishna."
Kishori looked into his eyes and smiled, saying,
"Jai Shri Krishna."
Vasu also replied with a smile,
"Jai Shri Krishna."
His love for Kishori was still unwavering, but now that love was free from selfishness.
Kishori said "Jai Shri Krishna" with a smile and kept looking into Vasu's eyes. In that moment, Kishori's innocence and the color of her devotion deepened further in Vasu's heart. Vasu also replied with a slight smile, "Jai Shri Krishna."
Kishori slowly walked away from there. Her two school braids swayed gently, as if her faith and devotion were also dancing in the air. Vasu stood there, his gaze fixed on her receding figure. Her innocence, her simplicity, and her devotion—all these had further gripped Vasu's heart.
As Kishori reached the gate, the hairband of one of her braids suddenly loosened and fell down. She probably didn't even realize it, because she kept moving forward without stopping. Vasu's eyes fell on the hairband. He immediately bent down and picked up the hairband, holding it in his palm.
Vasu looked at the hairband. It was a simple cloth band, but now it had become priceless to Vasu. He carefully put it in his pocket, as if it were a precious treasure. There was a slight moisture in his eyes, but also a calm smile.
After Kishori left, Vasu took a deep breath. He started talking to himself,
"Kishori, my love for you is not based on any selfishness. I know that your life is dedicated to Krishna, but I also know this truth that your every step, every breath inspires me even more."
Vasu slowly placed the hairband inside his book, as if it had now become a part of his life. He promised himself,
"I cannot be with you, but I will learn to live for you. Taking inspiration from your devotion, I will also give some meaning to my life."
He stood there for a few moments, feeling Kishori's devotion and his memories in the air. The school bell had rung, children were going in their respective directions, but Vasu's world had stopped there.
He slung his bag over his shoulder and walked slowly towards the school gate. With every step, his heart bowed even more towards Kishori.
That hairband was no longer just an ordinary object. It had become a symbol of Kishori's memories for Vasu. Every night, he would take out that hairband from his book, look at it, and feel how close he was to Kishori.
For many days, he would pass through that same street, hoping to see Kishori somewhere. But every time he would tell himself,
"This love is not just about possessing, it is about connecting oneself to her devotion."
On the other hand, Kishori never even knew that her hairband had become an important part of Vasu's life. She remained immersed in her devotion, unaware of Vasu's feelings.
But Vasu knew that his love would never challenge Kishori's devotion. He was happy seeing Kishori from afar.
You have seen that the love between Vasu and Kishori is not just an ordinary love story, but a deep bond of souls. Vasu understood the true meaning of love—sacrifice, surrender, and that form of true love which is beyond selfishness. Kishori's devotion to Krishna and Vasu's unwavering love both gave each other a new perspective. There will be more twists and turns in this story, where Vasu and Kishori will face important decisions in their lives.
What will be the next part of the story? How will Vasu define his love? Will Kishori listen to her heart and make Vasu a part of her life?
Stay tuned for the upcoming story, and don't forget to give your review.
Radhe Radhe 🪷
In fact, that hairband had become an invaluable object for Vasu. Every day, he would keep it in his books, between his notebooks, and whenever a difficulty arose, he would look at the hairband and remember Kishori's devotion. He felt as if some form of Kishori was always with him, like a blessing that gave him the strength to overcome every trouble.
One day, Vasu was sitting in his room, engrossed in his studies. Suddenly, he realized that the hairband was nowhere to be seen. He turned his bag and books upside down, but it was nowhere to be found. A strange nervousness began to grip Vasu. His heart started pounding as if something very important had been lost.
He immediately stood up and started looking all over the room. Holding his head, he began to think, "Did I drop it somewhere? Or did I keep it somewhere around here?" He felt a little worried but quickly tried to compose himself.
"No, I must understand that it is not just a hairband; it is a part of Kishori's memories," he told himself, yet the nervousness did not subside. He scoured every corner of the room, but the hairband was nowhere to be seen.
Suddenly, his gaze fell on the dust and items under the small bed. Vasu peered under the bed without delay, and a moment later, his eyes landed on that small cloth band, lying perfectly in place. It was the hairband, which had now become his source of memories and inspiration.
Vasu took a deep breath and picked it up, placing it in his palm. He slowly felt it, as if he himself were near Kishori. A slight tear shimmered in his eyes, but these were not tears of sorrow, but of contentment and peace.
"Kishori, your devotion and your memories are with me," he whispered. "This small hairband of yours has now become the greatest inspiration in my life. I will never let it go."
Vasu slowly held the hairband in his palm, feeling its delicacy. He thought about how heartbroken he would be if it were lost again. It was not just a hairband; it had become a symbol of Kishori's devotion and her innocence. For him, it was like a revitalizing herb that helped him overcome every difficulty.
He wandered around his room, lost in thought. "What if it gets lost again...? What will happen?" He tossed this question deep into his heart. He thought, "No, this cannot happen. I must always keep it with me, so that I am reminded of Kishori's memories and her devotion at all times."
He was suddenly startled by an idea. "If it gets lost again, can I make another form of it?" he thought. A new thought came to his mind—"What if I get this hairband made into a bracelet?"
This thought gave him new hope. He immediately stood up and began writing his thoughts in a diary lying on his room desk. "If I get this hairband made into a bracelet, I can wear it all the time, and when that happens, Kishori's memories will always be with me."
But then a question arose, "Will it really be able to become a bracelet?" He kept questioning himself irritably, "It's just an ordinary cloth band, can it really be shaped into a bracelet?"
He began to think about it. He knew it wouldn't be a gold or silver bracelet, but its meaning and importance would be immense. He thought, "If it is made with embroidery, wouldn't that bracelet become a precious thing?" He imagined that the same small pearls or threads that connected him to Kishori's devotion could be attached to the bracelet.
The very next day, Vasu went to an old jewelry shop and expressed his idea of making a bracelet. The shopkeeper assured him that such a thing could be done, provided he got it designed well. Vasu thought to himself, "This bracelet will be the materialized form of Kishori's devotion, which will always be with me."
Days went by, and Vasu began working on making the bracelet. And when the bracelet was ready, he was astonished to see it. That ordinary band had now become a beautiful bracelet.
Small pearls were set on the bracelet as if stars were studded in the depths of the sky. In the center, a silver lotus flower was made. Just below the flower, a silver peacock sat with its feathers spread, appearing like a glimpse of divinity. The peacock's feathers had fine blue and green carving, which brought it to life. Just below it, a small bell hung, which made a sweet sound even in a slight breeze, as if it were the melody of Kishori's hymn.
Vasu put the bracelet on his hand and smiled.
It was evening, and the last rays of the sun were painting the sky in golden hues. Vasu sat in his room, his table cluttered with books and pens-pencils, but his gaze was fixed on only one thing, away from all of them—his sketchbook.
He gently opened the sketchbook and looked at the first page. On the first page was the same picture he had drawn long ago. It was a picture of Krishna and Radha, but for Vasu, that picture was much more than an ordinary drawing.
One day, Kishori's mother suddenly passed away. A wave of grief spread through the house, and everyone looked towards Kishori, expecting tears from her eyes. But Kishori's eyes were calm, as if there was no storm within them, but a deep peace. She stood near her mother's mortal remains, with folded hands and closed eyes. People's faces showed surprise and concern.
"What kind of daughter is this? She isn't crying even at her mother's death," someone said in a low voice.
"It's as if she has turned to stone," another added.
But Kishori remained silent. She opened her eyes and said in a soft voice, "Mother's soul has now reunited with the divine. This body was merely a vessel that had completed its time. Our tears will not set her free, but will make her journey difficult."
The people were even more surprised to hear this. Some began whispering among themselves, "It seems the girl has gone mad. The Bhagavad Gita has influenced her a lot."
In the last 2 months, Kishori had studied the 'Bhagavad Gita' with her whole heart. She had found great peace from this scripture. After her mother's departure, she dedicated herself to devotion. She would chant the Lord's name for hours and engage in understanding the meaning of the Gita's verses.
Some people started taunting, "Look, this girl is acting like Meera. She isn't even mourning her mother's death."
But there was an unshakeable peace on Kishori's face. She remained absorbed in the name of her deity and ignored those taunts.
Seeing the shadow of peace on Kishori's face, some people from the village started taunting even more. The question arose in their minds as to how a girl could remain so calm at her mother's demise. Was this normal, or had she truly begun to deny her human emotions due to the influence of the Gita?
"What's the use of such devotion?" said one woman. "She feels no grief even at her mother's death. Doesn't reading the Gita give a person any sense of true relationships?"
"Yes, absolutely!" added another woman. "Now, only devotion to God remains in her heart; humaneness and emotion have no importance. She has become like Meera Bai, who wants nothing but devotion to God."
Kishori's silence made everyone even more agitated.
"Has this girl become completely stone-hearted?" said an elder. "What kind of devotion is this, that she doesn't understand her parents' grief?"
"She is the daughter of a Pandit father, now she herself has started chanting God's name. She probably doesn't help with household chores either," said a woman sarcastically.
Some people were looking towards their house and commenting, "Look, she doesn't value her relationships. This is the result of reading the Gita: a person doesn't even understand the pain of their loved ones. This girl will now walk with her head held high in the entire village because she considers herself dear to God."
But Kishori's silence remained the same. She did not respond to any taunts. There was no nervousness in her eyes, nor was there any sorrow.
"Will she ever realize?" someone said. "Will she ever feel that her life is incomplete without her mother?"
Seeing Kishori's grief and peace, Vasu's heart melted. He saw that his dear Kishori was not only calm at her mother's death but was also immersed in deep devotion. Vasu's soul was also touched by Kishori's devotion and surrender.
The devotion and peace of Pandit Manohar Ji's daughter deeply touched his heart. Sometimes he wondered if Kishori was truly his daughter, because the level of her devotion and surrender far exceeded his own experience. He felt that Kishori had given a new definition not only to her family's expectations but also to her father's faith.
Vasu also learned a lot... At this young age, Vasu also felt by observing Kishori's devotion and peace that she had understood a deep truth of life, which very few people understand. Kishori's devotion was not just a religious habit but a part of life's purpose and understanding.
You, who were happy in Krishna's presence,
We wandered from door to door searching for that happiness.
When you were immersed in the melody of love,
We dissolved in our loneliness.
You, who were immersed in the verses of the Bhagavad Gita,
We searched for the meaning of those words on our paths.
When you were engrossed in the vision of Shyam,
We only searched for his image in our eyes.
You, who were illuminated in the night of love,
We sat in the moonlight of that night, hoping only to connect with you.
You, who were lost in the worship of Shyam every day,
We forgot our existence in the memories of that very worship.
Not a single day passed for Vasu without him seeing Kishori. It had become a habit for him; his day was incomplete without seeing the face of that innocent girl. In the early morning, when the first ray of the sun fell on her face and her eyes slowly opened, his first thought was how he would be able to see Kishori.
Vasu's day was like any other ordinary day, but without seeing Kishori, he felt incomplete. Every morning, he would be busy with his work, but his eyes would search for the place where Kishori used to come and go. As soon as Kishori was seen going towards the temple, Vasu's face would light up.
When Kishori went to the temple and bowed her head before Lord Krishna, Vasu would watch her from afar. He felt as if there was something in Kishori's devotion that pulled his heart. For Vasu, that sight was like worshipping a deity. Kishori's calm smile, her innocent eyes, and her unique love for Krishna touched Vasu's heart.
Even during the day's work, Vasu's mind remained stuck there. He would remember Kishori's face, her tiny bangles, the rosary held in her hands, and the slight smile that appeared on her face for Krishna, all the time. Many times, he would get lost in his books, but Kishori's image would float somewhere in his mind.
In the evening, when the sun began to set and the sky filled with redness, Vasu would be overcome with a strange restlessness. He felt that if he didn't see Kishori today, something would remain incomplete. He would quickly reach the place where Kishori was often found.
Upon reaching there, the sparkle in his eyes and his smile would return. He would stand and watch her from a distance, and many questions would arise in his heart, "Will she ever look at me like this? Will she also have any feelings for me in her heart?" But the very next moment, he would smile to himself, as if saying, "Her love is only for Krishna, and I am happy just by seeing his shadow."
Thus, days passed, and Vasu's heart never found peace without seeing Kishori. A silent love resided in his heart, which wanted to see Kishori every day, even without any expectations.
You have seen how Kishori's devotion and surrender profoundly impacted not only her family but also the lives of Pandit Manohar Ji and Vasu. Her peace and patience after her mother's death amazed people, but her devotion gave her unique strength and understanding. This event gave a new direction to Kishori and her father's relationship and also helped Vasu understand a new perspective on life.
The impact of Kishori's journey was not limited to her personal life but also inspired and taught new lessons to those around her. Her devotion became not just a religious practice but a path to understanding the deeper meaning and purpose of life.
In the next part of the story, we will see what the further consequences of Kishori's devotion and life journey will be. Will Vasu become more deeply devoted to her devotion? And how will the relationship between Pandit Manohar Ji and Kishori develop further? Stay tuned to find out and do share your feedback!
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The rain was pouring outside, and Subhika sat silently in her room, sobbing. Tears streamed down her face, unceasing. Her mother, Malti Ji's words, which had pierced her heart deeply, still echoed in her mind. Subhika's state of mind was so shattered that even the sound of the rain felt unbearable.
Just then, the room door burst open, and Malti Ji, filled with anger, strode in. Her face was contorted with deep resentment. She saw Subhika huddled in a corner.
"Oh, you unlucky one, aren't you supposed to be working instead of sitting here comfortably?" Malti Ji's voice was sharp and harsh. "There are dishes waiting to be washed. And you're sitting here as if everything is perfectly fine!"
Subhika lowered her head, accepting her situation without a word. Her eyes were still tearful, and her soul felt weary. She made no attempt to respond to her mother's angry and frustrated words. She knew there was no way to calm Malti Ji's anger.
Malti Ji advanced further into the room, saying, "Just as household chores mean nothing to you, the honor of this family in this house means nothing to you, understand? It's because of your actions that we hang our heads in shame."
Subhika slowly stood up and said, "Mother, I didn't do anything wrong. I just had a little fun with my friend."
Malti Ji paid no attention to her words and said in an angry tone, "Aren't you ashamed? You don't know how to think about your own life, but you're so worried about what outsiders will think. Doing household chores is your duty, and you must do it without complaint."
Wiping her tears, Subhika gathered her courage and said, "I'll do it, Mother."
"Then hurry up, time is running out," Malti Ji commanded and left the room.
As soon as her mother left, Subhika wiped her tears and tried to compose herself. She thought that perhaps everything would be alright with time.
She went to the kitchen to wash the dishes. The sound of the rain was audible from outside, and she felt as if she were washing away her pain with every dish. Her hands grew numb from washing, and waves of deep sorrow washed over her soul.
While washing the dishes, she reflected that her fun with Parth was not a big deal, but Malti Ji's anger and harsh words were breaking her from within. She also began to understand that her mother's anger was not solely due to her behavior, but perhaps also due to family stress and expectations.
As she finished washing the dishes, she tried to shift her perspective. She realized that her mother's anger was not for her well-being, but a result of some unknown anxiety and pressure.
Malti Ji's anger and harsh words had inadvertently made her stronger from within.
My laughter got lost in the raindrops,
The ocean of anger covered every joy in my heart.
Still, I will hide the pain in a corner of my heart,
After all, I will find myself somewhere even in this difficult time.
My tears have also flowed, but my heartbeat remains the same.
My hopes are nestled behind these tears,
I will win this battle of life, one day, I believe.
Subhika's stepmother, Malti Ji, was indeed very strict. She was a woman for whom household chores, social standing, and family honor were paramount. Subhika was always a burden to her, no matter how hard she tried to prove herself; Malti Ji's heart never softened.
Malti Ji always believed that Subhika should work hard all the time and bring honor to the family name, even if it meant sacrificing her own happiness and desires. She would often taunt Subhika, saying, "Girls like you cannot come into the eyes of society. Like others, you should also understand the value of your own honor." Malti Ji's attitude caused Subhika daily stress.
Trying to understand Malti Ji's words, Subhika's eyes filled with even more pain. She wondered, "Are societal taunts and family reputation truly everything?" Her mother's anger, under the guise of making her self-reliant, always weakened her. Malti Ji did not care about Subhika's feelings, her exhaustion, or her mental state. She always reminded her, "No one considers girls like you to be anything in this world, and household chores mean nothing to you."
Subhika, who was very sensitive on the inside, absorbed these words. She never expected love or support from Malti Ji. She knew that her mother's anger would never cease, and no matter what she did, she would never be satisfied. Every time Subhika struggled with a problem, Malti Ji would punish her with even harsher words instead of understanding her pain.
Subhika's heart was heavy, but she was trying to understand that perhaps Malti Ji's anger was solely for her own good. But the truth was that this anger always remained a burden on her emotions. Every mistake of hers was linked to the family's honor, and this always broke her from within.
Malti Ji's nature was always like this – angry about everything, pressuring in every task, and exaggerating Subhika's smallest mistakes as if she were doing something wrong. The words, "Girls like you cannot gain respect in society," kept echoing in her mind.
Meanwhile, Parth, after returning home, couldn't stop thinking about the incident with Subhika. He was consumed by guilt and worry, realizing how much trouble his fun had caused Subhika. Subhika's tear-streaked face and her stepmother Malti Ji's taunts shook his soul.
Parth sat on his bed in his room, feeling helpless. He wondered if he could have helped Subhika or if he hadn't understood her situation properly. His guilt compelled him to try and rectify his mistake.
That night, as Parth drifted off to sleep, Subhika's tearful face kept appearing before his eyes. He understood how much of a storm his prank had stirred up in Subhika's life.
In the silence of the night, it was difficult to control the storm raging within Parth's soul. Subhika's tearful face kept flashing before his eyes, and he deeply regretted his actions.
Thinking about all this, Parth fell asleep without even realizing it.
The next morning, the atmosphere after the rain was incredibly fresh. The chirping of birds and the earthy scent of the soil filled the air. Vashu's father and mother were both having breakfast at the dining table. Vashu's father asked about Vashu amidst breakfast, "Oh, fortunate one! Hasn't Vashu woken up yet?"
Vashu's mother said softly, "How would I know? You know your darling, you."
Vashu's father laughed and said, "Oh brother, what happened that you're now calling your darling mine? I know his stubbornness, but it's never happened that he wouldn't wake up without a reason."
Vashu's mother fell silent. Her face also looked unhappy.
Just then, Vashu came down the stairs and started heading outside without a word. Vashu's father said, "Hey Vashu! Are you going without breakfast! Come on, eat quickly."
Vashu was about to refuse when his stomach rumbled, and he straightaway sat down at the dining table.
Vashu's father was surprised by his son Vashu's strange behavior. The father glanced at his wife, who was staring at Vashu. The father quickly understood that something must have happened between his wife and son.
Sensing the situation, the father said, "Well! Now tell me, what's the matter?"
Mother expressed her anger by clattering the dishes. She placed the teapot down forcefully and said, "Our honor, worries about what society says, and this... this Vashu just doesn't understand! This Vashu always sticks to his stubbornness."
Vashu, setting aside his anger and frustration, replied, "Mom, you always talk about society and honor, but you never try to listen to my heart. I am happy here, I want to study here. I don't want to go out."
Mother clattered the dishes again in anger and said, "You don't understand. These things are about social respect. And you... you are sticking to your stubbornness. Because of your studies, we will face ridicule in society."
Father tried to calm his anger by holding his teacup and said, "Hey! Why all this fuss over such a small matter? Vashu is saying he wants to study here, so let him stay here. Why so much tension about what society says?"
Mother placed the teacup firmly on the table and said angrily, "It's not that simple, Mukhiya Ji. It takes time to change societal thinking, and we always have to think about our honor. Everything was going well, and now it will all be ruined."
Father said in a calm voice, "But if Vashu is happy and wants to study here, then we should give him a chance to choose his path. Why all this commotion over such a small thing?"
Mother lowered her head in anger and said, "It's not a small matter. In the eyes of society, questions will be raised about us. People will say that even though we have money, we couldn't send him to a good college. This is a matter of our honor."
Vashu looked at his mother and said, "Mom, I need to think about my studies and my future. If I'm happy here and want to study here, doesn't that matter?"
Father sighed deeply and said, "Look, it might not be easy to agree with Vashu, but sometimes we should respect our children's happiness."
But Father didn't know that confronting his wife was like meeting Yama himself. A wife is a wife, after all... steadfast in her opinions.
Mother, clattering the dishes angrily, said, "It's easy to say, but how will we face society? Isn't it our responsibility to give our children the best opportunity?"
Father cast a deep glance and said, "More important than societal thinking is that our children should be happy, and we should respect their decisions."
Mother said angrily, "You always talk like this, but in the end, society points fingers at us."
Father said softly, "Look, I am trying to change societal thinking. If we ourselves bring about a change in our thinking, perhaps society will change too."
Mother, venting her anger, said, "Your thinking will not lead us in the right direction. Instead of falling in the eyes of society, we can choose a better option."
Vashu said from the depths of his heart, "Mom, I understand that you and Dad want the best for me, but I also have to take care of my own happiness."
Father said finally, "Let's, if Vashu wants to stay and study here, then we should honor his happiness. We should not give more importance to societal talk than our family's happiness."
Mother said angrily, "If that's the case, then I will have to be ready to answer society."
Father said, calming his wife, "More important than what society says is that we respect our children's happiness."
Mother, hearing the final words, looked at Mukhiya Ji with a face flushed with anger. Slamming the ladle in her hand on the ground, she said, "You only see your son's happiness, but what about my life and my honor? How many people will question us in society? When people say our only son didn't study abroad, what will you say?"
Father sighed deeply and said, "Look, until we ourselves change our thinking, society will not get a chance to change. I admit that societal concerns exist, but we should not compromise on our children's happiness."
Mother said with sarcasm, "Oh wow! What a statement! Are you becoming a social reformer now? When I was asking you to get me a diamond necklace, you didn't care about society. You said, what use would you have for a diamond necklace? And now, on your son's matter, you're talking about changing society!"
Father said, a bit exasperated, "Why do you twist everything and blame me? The necklace was a different matter. This is about Vashu... we should respect our children's happiness and their wishes."
Mother picked up her teacup and said angrily, "Don't you understand what it means to fall in the eyes of society? People will talk. And then how will our home environment be affected, do you even have an idea?"
Vashu, who had been silent until now, suddenly got up and said, "Mom! If we have to sacrifice our dreams and happiness out of fear of society, then what's the point? I have always listened to you, but this time I want to choose my own future."
Mother stared at Vashu for a moment and said, "What do you think you know? You only think as much as you've seen. Do you have any idea how hard we have worked to make a name for ourselves in society?"
Vashu said angrily, "I need to take care of my studies and my dreams, Mom. I will study here, no matter what society says."
Mother started trembling with anger, her voice shaking as it rose, "If this is what you wanted to do, why didn't you tell me earlier? Are you going to shame us in front of everyone now?"
Father adopted a slightly firmer tone and said, "Enough! There's no need to prolong this matter. Vashu has made up his mind, and we should respect it. Society will always talk, but our children's happiness and their future matter more."
Mother slammed her teacup on the table so hard that it fell and broke, "If Vashu stays here, I will have to face society myself. And remember, if anyone points a finger, I will blame you, Mukhiya Ji!"
Father replied in a calm voice, "Let society's fingers point as much as they want, I am ready. But I will not compromise on my son's happiness."
Father's nature was always wise and thoughtful. He prioritized his family's happiness and future over societal pressures. He believed that the true purpose of life is self-satisfaction and happiness, not adhering to false societal beliefs and traditions. His thinking was exactly the same in Vashu's case. He knew that Vashu's life was his own, and whatever he chose would be the right thing.
Father said in a calm voice, "Look, before worrying about society, we should understand that the children who love us will do what they think is right in their lives. This step is necessary for Vashu because he has grown up now and has his own thoughts. We want to see him happy, and that doesn't mean we should crush his desires out of fear of society."
Mother sighed deeply after hearing his words, but there was dissatisfaction in her eyes. She said, "I understand that you want to see Vashu happy, but can't you see that we are a respected family? Our honor in the eyes of society is most important. If Vashu chooses his own path, people will damage our image."
Father replied in a deep and serious voice, "Honor in the eyes of society doesn't come from mere superficial displays. Honor comes from self-respect, and that should be within every person. Our family respects each other's feelings. I don't think we should compromise our children's happiness by listening to anyone."
Vashu, who had been quiet until now, slowly came to his father and said, "Dad, you have always understood me, and I want you to respect my thinking too. I know the fear of society is immense, but I want to live my life my way. I am grown up now, and I have the right to choose my own happiness."
Father hugged him and said, "Vashu, I am always with you. Your happiness is my happiness, and respecting your wishes is my duty. You do what feels right in your heart, I will stand by you."
Mother fell silent. She understood that her opposition was now futile because Father's decision was final for her. He stood like a resolute hero as always, prioritizing the happiness and contentment of every family member. He supported Vashu's decision and resolved to face every finger of society.
To know what happens next, keep waiting for the next part and also keep reviewing.
The atmosphere after the rain was filled with a new freshness, but at the same time, deep puddles had formed in many places, filled with water. Mud had also accumulated here and there, making it difficult to walk. Vasu thought he should hurry towards the temple, so he could have darshan of Kishori and fully experience his joy.
Vasu took his steps and started walking on the muddy path. With every squish of his slippers, he felt a deep slipperiness under his feet. Ignoring the slipperiness of the path, he walked with focus. Raindrops were falling on his forehead, but he moved forward, overlooking these minor obstacles.
On the other hand, the sound of devotional singing was clearly audible near the temple. The holy atmosphere and the sound of the bhajan brought peace and joy to Vasu's soul. As he reached the temple, he took a deep breath and entered, shaking off his wet clothes.
Upon reaching inside the temple, Vasu saw that a few little children had gathered around Kishori. Their eyes held curiosity and excitement. They were listening attentively to Kishori. Kishori looked at the children with a sweet smile and said, "Do you know, your mothers also see you as Kanha? Because when Kanha lived his life, he lived it in such a way that even today, mothers find little Kanha in their children."
The children asked eagerly, "Sister, tell us more about Kanha?"
Kishori, infusing her words with the sweetness of devotion and love, said, "When Kanha loved, he loved in such a way that no one has been able to love like that even today, and people search for Kanha in their beloveds. Kanha taught us that there should be sacrifice in love, and this love connects us to our family."
A small child said, "Did Kanha ever hurt anyone?"
Kishori shook her head and said, "No, children. Kanha always spread happiness. He was always ready to help others. When he gave Arjuna the knowledge of the Gita, he taught him that difficulties will come in life, but if we walk the path of truth and dharma, we can overcome every hardship. But even today, there is no teacher like him. His teachings always inspire us in life."
She began to explain slowly to the children, "Kanha taught us that we should never forget our duties. He encouraged Arjuna to face his struggles. He said that true wealth is our actions, and we should always focus on our actions."
The children listened attentively, and then another child said, "So, can we also become good like Kanha?"
Kishori smiled and said, "Absolutely!"
Hearing her words, the children chirped with joy. One of them said, "We will also become like Kanha and help others!"
Meanwhile, Vasu listened intently to Kishori's words. The sparkle of pride and love was in his eyes. He realized that Kishori was not only teaching the children about Kanha but also guiding their thoughts in the right direction.
While talking to the children, Kishori told them, "Remember, true love and compassion are never small or big. Whatever you do, do it with your heart. This is Kanha's teaching."
The children said in unison, "We understand, Sister!" Then they happily clapped, chanting Kanha's name.
Vasu, seeing all this, felt that Kishori's love touched not just him, but everyone.
Vasu thought, "Kishori possesses everything a true devotee should have—devotion, love, compassion, and wisdom."
Then Kishori said to the children, "Now, sing everything you have learned from me." The children enthusiastically began to sing a bhajan, "Kanhaiya, protect me, I am your devotee."
Then the children said, "Sister, now you sing!"
Kishori closed her eyes and began to sing:
"I know,
You are everywhere, not just in the idol of the temple.
You are in every particle of this creation,
In the mind of every living being, dwelling in every heartbeat.
People say you reside in the stone idol,
But I know, you also reside in those eyes,
That see you with love, that bow with faith.
Your idol is just a medium,
An excuse to feel your presence.
You are in the farmer's hard work,
In the mother's affection, who raises her child.
You are in the heart of the lover, who finds you in the beats of their love,
You are in the smile of the infant, who feels you even without speaking.
The idol in the temple is just a glimpse of you,
Your true form is spread everywhere.
I know, you are in my every breath,
Dwelling in every tear, every laughter, every hope.
Sometimes you are in the coolness of the wind,
Sometimes in the warmth of the sun, sometimes in the raindrops.
I see you in your idol,
But in reality, you are in every place,
Where someone remembers you with a true heart.
You are not in the idol,
You are in my mind, in my soul,
In every place where there is love, devotion, and truth.
Because you are omnipresent, the foundation of all,
And everywhere is your love."
These lines of the bhajan filled Vasu with a new energy. Kishori's grandeur and the purity of her voice gave a unique aura to the temple walls. Vasu saw that Kishori's face was serene and filled with a divine radiance, as if she were engrossed in an eternal dialogue with God himself.
Vasu slowly went and sat in a corner of the temple, closing his eyes.
"You flowed like rivers,
We waited to merge into you,
In your devotion was infinite strength,
We simply became the dust of your feet.
You danced with Shyam,
We watched you in silence,
In your voice was a sweet melody,
We lost our lives in its echo.
You swayed at Shyam's feet,
We remained bound in your longing,
The love contained in your idol,
We lived its shadow in our minds.
You resided in every verse of the Gita,
We remained entangled in the lifeless words of our minds,
Your devotion made you the Supreme Being,
We lost ourselves in the desire to learn from your love.
You, in whose devotion was surrender,
We lost ourselves in the path of love.
You, who were colored in Shyam's hues,
We lost our identities,
You, who became his idol,
We became lost in his heartbeat."
The atmosphere of the temple was very peaceful and enchanting. Along with the melody of the bhajan, dim lights and rays of sunlight spread inside the temple.
Vasu felt that this moment had completely transformed him. All his worries and struggles seemed to dissolve into the sanctity of the temple.
As the bhajan ended, Kishori opened her eyes, and her gaze fell upon Vasu.
Vasu's eyes were still closed, as if the bhajan were still echoing in his ears even after it had stopped.
Kishori's eyes remained fixed on Vasu... Vasu's words echoed in her ears... the words Vasu always told her.
"If you are mad with devotion, Kishori, then we are mad for you.
Kishori, you worship Kanhaiya, but for us, you are our Kanhaiya."
The echo of Vasu's voice, the echo of those words, was now intensifying the hidden worries and questions in Kishori's heart.
Vasu opened his eyes... his eyes met Kishori's.
There was a hypnotic quality in Vasu's eyes, which was putting Kishori in a strange state. Vasu's eyes seemed to feel every beat of her heart and fully understood her truth and emotions.
A strange enchantment was occurring within Kishori due to the effect of Vasu's gaze. A stir was rising in her soul. Kishori felt that there was a special kind of attraction in Vasu's eyes, which was pulling her towards him. This attraction was infusing a new consciousness within her, but it was clashing with her devotion and her spiritual commitment.
Vasu slowly stood up and took steps towards Kishori. There was a deep emotional progression in his gait, as if he were walking to touch the depths of Kishori's heart. There was a kind of resolve, an unspoken word hidden in his eyes, which was rendering Kishori speechless. A storm was rising in Kishori's mind—on one hand, she was feeling Vasu's love, and on the other, her devotion and resolve were holding her back.
Suddenly regaining her senses, Kishori thought, "No, I must hide from Vasu. His words are affecting my heart, and I am getting distracted from my devotion and spiritual commitment." The conflict arising in her heart had alerted her that she needed to distance herself from Vasu's advancing steps.
But Vasu was now standing before her. Kishori couldn't understand anything.
There was still the same innocent smile on Vasu's face... he bent down and touched Kishori's feet.
Kishori stood frozen in her place as if turned to stone.
Vasu stood up, joined his hands before Kishori, and said, "Radhe Radhe! Kishori."
Kishori said softly, "Radhe Radhe! Vasu."
Vasu turned and started to leave. Kishori's hands instinctively reached out to stop Vasu, but her lips wouldn't open, her words wouldn't support her in speaking. She kept looking at Vasu's retreating back.
There was a sea of confusion and emotions in Kishori's eyes.
Suddenly, Vasu turned and looked towards Kishori. There was a strange intensity in his eyes, as if he could hear every word of Kishori's heart. Kishori's eyes were filled with moisture, and her silence indicated a deep sadness. Vasu took a deep breath and slowly approached Kishori.
There was an endless dilemma in Kishori's eyes. She felt the emotions hidden in the depths of her heart, but Vasu's words were directly connecting her to the dharma of her devotion towards Lord Krishna.
Kishori: "Vasu, devotion is offered to God. It is a sacred bond of our soul, which cannot be broken for any personal love."
Vasu: "But Kishori, you are my God. There is no one greater than you for me."
Kishori: "Vasu, if you are truly a devotee of God, would you want God to be angry with you?"
Vasu: "Then let him be angry. If God gets angry with me, I will accept it."
Kishori: "Why don't you understand what I'm saying, Vasu? Our relationship of devotion with God is very sacred. You and I cannot break this relationship."
Vasu: "Can you stop worshipping your Kanhaiya, Kishori?"
Kishori: "No, Vasu."
Vasu: "Then how can I stop worshipping my God?"
Kishori fell silent, her eyes lost in deep thought. Vasu's words had touched every corner of her heart. She was trying to understand the rising emotions within her and the depth of her devotion, but there was a confusion in her soul. Vasu's presence and his words were challenging her devotional surrender, leaving her feeling both fulfilled and restless.
Kishori: "Vasu, what do you want?"
Vasu: "I respect your devotion. I just want to walk with you. I know my love might seem insignificant compared to your devotion, but I want us to walk together. I know your devotion is a part of your soul, and I understand that. I only want you to be my companion in my life, and for us to manage our respective dharmas and love together."
Kishori: "Vasu, but for me, devotion is paramount. Can you understand my dharma?"
Vasu: "I understand that devotion is an integral part of your life. But can we not try to understand each other's love as well? I want your devotion and our love to go hand in hand, without harming each other's sanctity."
Kishori: "Devotion is one path, and love is another. Walking both together is difficult, especially when the depth of devotion is so sacred. Can you truly understand the importance of devotion for me?"
Vasu: "I understand, Kishori. Devotion is the voice of your soul, and I will always honor it. But will you accept that love can also be a form of devotion? We can both enter each other's lives and follow our own dharmas. I will try to understand you and accept the importance of your devotion."
Kishori: "But this is impossible, Vasu. Devotion and love can never go together, especially when devotion is related to God."
Vasu bowed his head and slowly walked away. There were signs of disappointment and sadness on his face. He looked one last time into Kishori's eyes and, without a word, quietly left.
Kishori watched as Vasu walked away, a vacant pull in her eyes. She felt a void and a sense of unpreparedness in her heart. She was trying to understand and accept her emotions, but after Vasu left, she felt a deep mental and emotional struggle.
When Vasu heard Kishori's words, a storm brewed in his heart. He knew his love was not less than devotion, but Kishori's devotion was a sacred part of her faith in God. As he walked away alone, his emotions began to take shape into words.
"The love I saw in your eyes,
Was a form of devotion.
You say devotion is supreme,
I say love is no less.
You say love and devotion cannot merge,
But what about my heart, which cannot be separated from you?
If this love is also not part of devotion,
Then why is this love of the heart so close to the divine?
I will annihilate myself in your path,
Just hold me at your feet."
But somewhere in Vasu's heart, a flicker of hope still remained—perhaps, one day, Kishori would understand his feelings and accept him in her life.
Vasu, thinking all this, went towards the pond behind the temple.
This pond was very large, and beautiful lotus flowers bloomed within it.
A unique peace was felt on the banks of this pond.
There were many large stones by the pond, where people often sat.
But at this time, very few people came to the pond's edge to feel this peace.
Vasu was one of those who often came here. And for hours, he would gaze at the lotus flowers blooming in the pond's water.
And today too, he sat on a stone, his eyes fixed on the lotus flowers, floating gently on the water's surface. There was a strange peace in his soul, which he felt here by the pond every time.
Looking towards the sky, he said to himself:
Vasu: "Sky, can you understand me? Is there any place in this vastness where I can resolve this unbreakable conflict between Kishori's devotion and my love? Is there any path on this earth that accepts love without breaking the sanctity of devotion?"
As if an unspoken word was hidden in the blue expanse of the sky, Vasu took a deep breath and tried to put his emotions into words:
Vasu: "Kishori, I understand that your devotion is an integral part of your life. But will you accept that love can also be a form of devotion? When I am with you, I feel closer to the divine. The love in your eyes, doesn't that love also fill the sacred ocean of your devotion with a unique color?"
He said, looking towards the sky:
Vasu: "My heart is incomplete without you. This love, this longing, every moment I want to spend with you, can't all this also be a part of devotion? When I am with you, my heart's beats intertwine with your love. Isn't this love also a kind of devotion?"
Then he slowly bowed his head and said to himself:
"Perhaps I need time to understand myself and you. But my love for you will always remain the same as before. If a union between devotion and love is ever possible, I would always want to be with you."
After some time, Vasu realized that someone had come and sat beside him.
Vasu knew very well who it was.
A smile appeared on Vasu's face.
The morning sunlight was slowly entering the house. Parth opened his eyes and saw that the clock indicated 10 o'clock. Lazily getting out of bed, he headed towards the bathroom.
After bathing, Parth wore a white shirt and black pants. Looking at himself in the mirror, he gave a faint smile.
As soon as he came into the hall, his mother, Radhika ji, was mopping. Her face showed clear anger as Parth stepped onto the wet floor.
"Oh, you rascal! I just mopped, and you've made it all dirty!" Radhika ji said irritably.
Parth said with a slightly mischievous smile,
"Oh Mummy, there will be a little dust on your moon-like floor, won't there?"
"Oh, try mopping sometime and see how much effort it takes! But no, what would you understand," Radhika ji said, raising her voice. "How much one mother works alone, but it doesn't matter to you."
Parth muttered to himself,
"There she goes again, ready to tell her 'Mummy Purana Katha' (Mother's ancient stories)."
Radhika ji said,
"Oh, learn something from Vasu... how innocent and understanding he is... and you, rascal... you wake up like Kumbhakarna."
Parth tried to move past, ignoring his mother's words.
Parth thought to himself,
"Mummy, you don't know how clueless Vasu himself is."
"Mummy, are you comparing me to Vasu?" Parth said jokingly. "Am I that bad?"
Parth blinked his eyes playfully.
Radhika ji glared at him.
Parth said with a faint smile,
"Mummy, are you planning to make me a 'super student' like Vasu? Do you want me to be immersed in books too?"
Radhika ji said, narrowing her eyes,
"Forget being immersed in books, you're immersed in your bed. Do you even know the benefits of waking up in the morning?"
"Yes Mummy, I know it's important to wake up early... especially when breakfast is already prepared," Parth quipped.
"You are a rascal!" Radhika ji said angrily. "Oh, I wonder when you'll understand that the fruit of hard work is also sweet."
"Mummy, if the fruit of hard work is so sweet, then give me a big sweet date today. Maybe then I'll start thinking," Parth said.
Radhika ji's nature was exactly like Parth's, and perhaps that was why they often had playful banter. Radhika ji, a strong and responsible woman, did everything for her family, but her fun and mischief were also a part of her identity. She was never a strictly serious, rigid woman.
Radhika ji still showed the same mischievous and fun-loving nature she had as a child. If there was a chance for a little fun while doing any work at home, she wouldn't miss it. Just as Parth was never averse to teasing in small, funny ways, Radhika ji also never took herself too seriously. She often joked with Parth, teased him lightly, and even when angry, her anger was wrapped in jokes and humor.
Radhika ji was well aware of Parth's mischief because she herself used to get into similar mischiefs as a child. When Parth played dangerous pranks on her, Radhika ji would engage him, responding to his pranks with her own, and this cycle would increase day by day.
Radhika ji had a big heart and always gave Parth the freedom to live as he pleased. She never forced him into anything, but rather taught him that the joy of living by one's own thoughts is something else. Parth also learned this from Radhika ji—never to let others' thoughts dictate your happiness, and to do what your heart desires.
Although Radhika ji was quite fun-loving, when it came to Parth's discipline, she became quite strict. But her anger was also full of love, like when she sometimes had to say harsh things to wake Parth up, there was a hidden affection in her strictness. When Parth lazily refused to get out of bed, Radhika ji's anger would transform into a smile on her face.
Radhika ji always taught Parth that one has to work hard in life, but her way was a bit different. She herself never took anything too seriously, but after her hard work, she expected Parth to learn something similar. Sometimes she would say to Parth, "You see for yourself, how hard I have worked to run this house, but have you ever understood it?" These words always made Parth think, but he also knew that this was all her way, which, though strict, was filled with immense love.
Another special thing about Radhika ji's nature was that she always looked for opportunities to tease Parth. She knew that Parth should never be pressured seriously, but rather through laughter and small matters, he could be guided towards the important aspects of life. It was this nature that made Parth love her from his heart, even after listening to her "Mummy Purana Katha."
Overall, Radhika ji's nature was very similar to Parth's—engaging in their mischief and fun without interfering with others' affairs, living life responsibly, and seeing the world with laughter and love, combining all these things.
Meanwhile...
Vasu said without turning, "Mayur, you're here! Kishori must be looking for you, right?"
The peacock, whom Kishori had named Mayur, slowly came and sat near Vasu. The shine of its blue-green feathers and the dignity in its gait were special.
Just as Mayur was very close to Kishori, he was also very close to Vasu, and there was an unspoken understanding between them.
Mayur spread its beautiful feathers and remained quiet for a while, as if sensing Vasu's worries and confusions. Vasu looked at him and said with a slight smile, "Mayur, you are very lucky."
Mayur bowed its neck, as if understanding Vasu's words. There was a spark and understanding in its eyes, as if it understood Vasu's every emotion. It gently went near Vasu and rubbed its head lightly against his shoulder, and Vasu, stroking its feathers, said, "You know, Mayur, sometimes I feel like you—I always want to be near Kishori, I want to be lost in her devotion, but there's always a distance between us."
Mayur felt Vasu's words, and suddenly it raised its head and looked towards the sky. A light cool breeze was blowing along the pond, and Mayur's feathers began to sway in that breeze. Vasu watched its reaction intently, and a special spark appeared in his eyes, as if Mayur wanted to tell him something.
It kept looking towards the sky, and in a few moments, it spread its beautiful feathers and began to dance. Seeing Mayur dance, a slight spark appeared in Vasu's eyes too. He understood that Mayur was trying to cheer him up. Mayur's dance was filled with devotion, just like his own, reminding him that even in the journey of devotion and love in life, surrender is possible.
Vasu watched Mayur dance, and he knew that Kishori's devotion was only towards Kanha, but Vasu also had a similar love in his heart, which was selfless. He smiled watching Mayur's dance and thought to himself,
"Perhaps Mayur is trying to tell me that there is joy in love too, even if it is one-sided."
A while later, Mayur finished its dance and sat calmly beside Vasu. Vasu picked it up in his lap and, stroking its feathers, said, "You are right, Mayur. Perhaps I should also find happiness in my love."
Mayur closed its eyes, as if agreeing with Vasu's words.
Vasu felt that his love for Kishori was not about obstacles or conflicts. That love had become a part of his soul. And just as Mayur had found joy in devotion by spreading its wings and dancing, Vasu too had to accept his love and enjoy it.
He began to think,
"I will always be in Kishori's life, whether she accepts me or not. In her devotion, her innocence, and her sincerity, I have found a purpose in my life."
Mayur hopped from his lap and flew towards the edge of the pond again, spreading its wings in the air and circling around the pond. Watching it fly, a smile appeared on Vasu's face.
Meanwhile...
Parth was walking slowly, thinking about Subhika. The scolding given by Subhika's stepmother, Malti ji, still echoed in his mind. He was thinking about how his mischief had put Subhika in such a big trouble. Just then, he saw Subhika washing clothes with her friends at the hand pump, splashing water and having fun.
The sound of Subhika's laughter and her mischievous smile startled Parth. Parth thought,
"Is this the same Subhika whom her mother had scolded so much? And now she's having fun without a care in the world?"
Parth said to himself,
"I was the crazy one thinking so much about her. Look at this Queen Subhika, having so much fun as if nothing happened."
As he was thinking this, he shook his head and turned to leave, when suddenly his foot slipped in the mud, and he fell into a puddle of water.
There was a loud splash, and with the fall into the water, all of Parth's worries and emotions vanished.
As soon as Subhika heard the splash, she saw Parth fall and burst into loud laughter. Parth tried to get out of the mud, but his situation was quite ridiculous.
Parth, now completely covered in mud, became utterly annoyed. His clothes were stained with water and dirt, and his face was turning red with anger. Subhika and her friends were trying hard to suppress their laughter seeing him.
Subhika said, roaring with laughter,
Subhika: "Parth ji, what have you done to yourself? Is this a new fashion? If it is, then tell us too."
The friends were also doubling over with laughter. One quipped,
Friend: "Subhika, it seems Parth bhai sahib thought this shade of mud would suit him well."
Parth said, gritting his teeth in anger,
Parth: "Enough joking! Now be quiet, or else you'll see..."
Subhika asked mischievously,
Subhika: "See what? What will you see, Parth ji? You look like you came to apologize to us, and on top of that, you've given this mud show as a gift."
Parth (shouting): "Subhika, you little thing, shut up! Or else—"
Subhika interrupted him, saying,
Subhika: "Or else what? Now you'll push us into the mud? Well, try it, but get up yourself first."
Hearing this, all the friends burst into loud laughter. Parth, annoyed, tried to get up, but slipped in the mud and fell with a thud again.
One of the friends joked,
Friend: "It seems Parth bhai really likes this mud. It will be difficult to move him from here now."
Parth said angrily,
Parth: "Do you all do anything besides laughing? Instead of helping, you're watching a spectacle."
Subhika: "Oh Maharaj, what help can we offer? You are so fond of falling into the mud that even our help won't do anything. However, if you wish, we can get you soap and water."
Parth: "That's enough, Subhika! I will teach you a lesson now."
Subhika smiled at his threat and said,
Subhika: "First, improve your own condition, Maharaj. And yes, don't tell your mom when you get home that Subhika troubled you. Otherwise, you'll get scolded even more."
The friends burst into loud laughter again. Parth, annoyed, tried to get up, but slipped in the mud and fell again. Parth, annoyed, walked away from there. But as he left, Subhika threw a bucket of water behind him.
Parth, drenched in water, looked back and shouted,
Parth: "Are you crazy? Now I will definitely take revenge on you!"
Subhika (laughing): "Revenge? Oh, first learn to avoid falling, Parth Babu. You can take revenge later!"
Subhika's laughter and mischievous smile were further igniting Parth's anger. He quietly picked up a pot lying near the puddle and began to fill it with muddy water.
Subhika, who couldn't stop laughing, said,
Subhika: "Oh Parth Babu, are you going to worship with the pot now? Or are you going to offer mud?"
The friends laughed hearing this, but when they saw Parth filling the pot with water, their laughter suddenly stopped. One said,
Friend: "Oh Subhika, I think Parth is really going to do something wrong. I'm leaving!"
The other friends also gathered their belongings and started running away.
Subhika (anxiously): "Oh, where are you running? Leaving me alone?"
One of the friends turned back and said,
Friend: "Sorry, Subhika! But we can't handle Parth bhai's anger. You handle him!"
Now only Parth and Subhika were left there. Parth lifted the pot and said with a smile,
Parth: "Now I'll stop your laughter, Queen Subhika!"
Hearing him, Subhika immediately tried to move back, but Parth splashed a stream of water from the pot towards her. Subhika got completely drenched, and her clothes were stained with mud.
Subhika (shouting): "Parth! Have you gone mad? Look, you've ruined my clothes!"
Parth (laughing): "This is just the beginning, Subhika. This is revenge for all your mischief!"
Subhika, in anger, took off her slipper and threw it at Parth, but Parth dodged quickly.
Subhika (screaming): "Stop, I won't leave you!"
Subhika looked around, but there was no one to help. Just then, Parth went near her and held her hand.
Parth (smiling): "Don't try to run. Now you'll have to apologize to me."
Subhika (angrily): "Apologize? You should apologize to me! You disgraced me in front of my friends, and now all this!"
Parth: "Forget about friends. Now it's just you and me here. And you know, this mischief of yours lands me in trouble."
Subhika tried to free herself from his hand, but Parth didn't let her go.
Subhika: "Parth, I'm telling you, let go of my hand! Or else..."
Parth (mischievously): "Or else what? What else will you do now, Miss Subhika?"
Subhika stamped her foot in anger and said,
Subhika: "You will apologize to me one day, Parth. Remember!"
Parth said, looking into her eyes,
Parth: "Okay, let's see."
Hearing this, Subhika's anger subsided a bit, but she immediately hid her emotions and said,
Subhika: "Don't act so proud, Parth. I still have to take revenge on you!"
Parth let her go, and Subhika left, stamping her feet in anger. But as she left, she looked back, and Parth's smile surprised her a bit.
Subhika (to herself): "Why does this Parth bother me so much? But his smile... uff!"
On the other hand, Parth, dusting off his clothes, muttered to himself,
Parth: "This girl, as much as she teases me, she's also quite endearing. But how do I tell her that?"
Parth, dusting off his mud-covered shirt, said with a faint smile,
Parth (to himself): "She bothers me, but she also brings a strange peace to my heart. I don't know if it's her mischief or her big eyes that always keep me entangled. But if I tell her, she'll create a scene."
He moved his wet hair back and slowly headed towards the hand pump, washing his hands and face with water.
Parth (to himself): "Oh no, Parth! You should stay away from her. This girl is a box of troubles. But... when she puffs up her nose in anger, I swear... she looks so cute."
He splashed water to clean his face and turned back to look at the path from where Subhika had just stormed off.
Parth (laughing): "And what should I say to this angry queen? She shows hatred, but every time she pulls me closer. It seems my excuse for revenge is also over. Now I'll have to find a new way to tease her."
Parth shook his wet shirt and then, shaking his head, slowly started walking towards home. On the way, he started talking to himself again,
Parth: "I don't know why she disgraces me so much in front of her friends. But why don't her words affect my heart? Instead, I feel good when she teases me. Is this... is this the same feeling everyone talks about? No, no! Parth, you've gone crazy. This is just fun. Just fun."
But his smile conveyed something else. Parth tried to control himself, but every time he remembered Subhika's laughter and her mischievous words, his smile deepened.
Parth (to himself): "I don't even know what I'm feeling is real. But one thing is certain—Subhika has become a part of my life that I cannot ignore even if I want to."
Parth (to himself): "Now you see, Subhika. Next time you bother me, I'll give you such a reply that you'll also wonder when Parth became so smart!"
He chuckled at his own thought.
Subhika was going towards her house, stamping her feet rapidly. Her white kurti and jeans were stained with mud, and water droplets hung in her hair. Her face was red with anger, but there was a strange confusion in her eyes.
Subhika (to herself): "This Parth! What does he think of himself? Every time he comes to bring a storm into my life. He disgraced me in front of my friends. And that laughter? Uff! His mischievous smile... I don't know why, along with teasing me, it also bothers me from the inside."
She stopped while walking and became annoyed looking at her condition.
Subhika (to herself): "And look at my condition! I'm covered in mud. I'll get scolded by Mom as soon as I reach home. But no, I will definitely take revenge on Parth."
She started shaking her slipper in her hand, but Parth's face kept coming to her mind.
Subhika (to herself): "But why does it happen that when he troubles me, along with anger... my heart also feels happy somewhere deep inside? No, no! What am I thinking? I should hate him. He always finds a way to tease me."
In a short while, she reached near her house. But stopping at the door of the house, she turned to look at the path where she and Parth had stood.
Subhika (softly): "But why is he always so mischievous? He should be serious sometimes. And that smile... uff, what a dangerous boy."
As soon as she entered the house, her mother widened her eyes seeing her condition.
Mother: "Oh, what have you done to yourself, Subhika? Where were you?"
Subhika (anxiously): "Mom, I... water accidentally spilled."
Mother (suspiciously): "Accidentally water? Or someone's mischief?"
Subhika: "Mom! You too... I'll take a bath."
Going into her room, she took off her wet kurti and stood in front of the mirror. Drying her hair with a towel, she looked at herself.
Subhika (to herself): "Parth has crossed the limit today. But there was something different in his eyes. As if he just wanted to see me by bothering me. No, what am I thinking? He's just... a scoundrel, nothing more."
She lay down on the bed and tried to close her eyes. But as soon as she closed her eyes, Parth's smile emerged in her memories.
Subhika (to herself): "His smile... it makes me angry every time, and... I don't know why, it feels good too. But I won't let him off! I'll teach him a good lesson tomorrow."
She tightly held the pillow and smiled softly, but then immediately scolded herself.
Subhika (to herself): "No! No smiling. Parth must answer for his actions."
But in some corner of her heart, there was a slight warmth that even Subhika herself couldn't understand.
Meanwhile...
Kishori was sitting on the threshold of the temple. Her eyes were closed, and a subtle pain was etched on her lips. As the light cool breeze touched her face, a deep restlessness arose in her mind. Her soul seemed to yearn for an unspoken call, and she was trying to connect only with Kanha.
Diyas were lit inside the temple, and their dim light fell on the idol. Sitting in front of Kanha's idol, Kishori slowly blinked her eyelids and began to speak, looking at Kanha, as if she were communicating directly with him.
Kishori: "Kanha, the attachment of this world has left me. My soul is only in search of you. Since I gained consciousness, I have been taught that worldly attachments, illusions, relationships, all are important in life. But for me, you are everything. No relationship, no bond can satisfy my soul, except yours. But Kanha, Vasu! His words always leave me speechless."
There was a deep sadness in her voice, but also a unique peace, which was a symbol of her devotion and surrender. The tears flowing from her eyes found their place on the cool floor of the temple, but a smile remained on her face, as if she was offering even this sorrow at Kanha's feet.
Kishori: "Sometimes I wonder, Kanha, do you hear my call? Do you know that my heart beats only for you? People tell me that leaving this world is not easy. But tell me, Kanha, can this world truly be important to anyone when their soul is with you?"
She picked up the rosary lying in her lap with her hands and began to slowly move the beads through her fingers. With each bead, her heartbeats seemed to move towards Kanha. There was a sparkle in her eyes, which showed her unwavering faith.
Kishori: "Kanha, my only wish is to spend my life under your shade. This world, its people, its relationships... everything seems burdensome to me. You are the only one who can give satisfaction to my soul. You are the one without whom this life is incomplete."
She remained silent for a while, as if her soul had now moved beyond her words. She was so immersed in her devotion.
Vasu took a deep breath and walked slowly along the edge of the pond. A turmoil was going on in his mind. He had found joy in the peacock's dance, but his heart was still not ready to completely let go of his love for Kishori. He knew that Kishori's devotion was true, but the desires of his heart did not allow him to rest.
After walking a few steps, he suddenly stopped and looked at the peacock. The peacock was still flying along the edge of the pond, as if calling him. Vasu called out softly, "Peacock, wait."
The peacock heard his voice and immediately slowed its flight. It turned towards Vasu and sat near him again, as if understanding that Vasu had some more things to say.
"Peacock," Vasu said, "You live with Kishori, don't you? You are closest to her. You know what is going on in her mind. Do you understand my love? Look, I won't even try to explain to you, because you are wiser than me. But still... I wish Kishori could understand me like you do."
Vasu's mind was entangled with Kishori's words. He had never imagined that this clash of love and devotion would make him so helpless. He looked into the peacock's eyes, as if trying to catch a glimpse of Kishori in them.
"You know, Peacock," Vasu said, "When I look into Kishori's eyes, I see only peace there, a peace that I can never touch. And I know that this peace is a part of her devotion. But my love is not separate from it, Peacock. My love is also pure. Yet... why doesn't she understand? Why does she think my love is just a infatuation?"
The peacock stood quietly, as if listening to and understanding Vasu's every word. There was a deep peace in its eyes, and its beauty lightened Vasu's mind for a few moments. Vasu stroked the peacock's feathers with his palms, and a slight sparkle appeared in his eyes.
"Peacock," Vasu said, "You are with her every day, a witness to her devotion. Have you ever felt that there might be a place for me in Kishori's heart? Or is her devotion so unwavering that there is no room left for anyone else? I don't know... perhaps it is futile to ask you this, but what can I do? My heart is so entangled that even trying to find an answer tires me."
Vasu looked at the peacock, and then some emotions surfaced in his eyes.
"Peacock," Vasu said, "I understand that happiness should be sought in love, but why doesn't it feel so easy? Kishori's devotion has driven her away from me, and I know I cannot take her away from her Kanha. But why doesn't the love in my heart find peace?"
He gently placed his hand on the peacock's head and then looked into its eyes, as if trying to get some answer from the peacock. The peacock blinked its eyes and then rubbed its head against Vasu's shoulder again. Vasu smiled faintly at its simplicity, but there was a deep restlessness in his eyes.
"You are very fortunate, Peacock," Vasu said, "You are closest to Kishori, a part of her every day. And I am here... I can only watch from afar, understand her devotion, but never create a place for myself in her heart."
The peacock nodded slightly upon hearing his words, as if trying to console him. Vasu took a deep breath and then looked towards the sky. Some other emotions were awakening in his eyes now—an invisible battle, in which his heart and mind were entangled.
"Sometimes I wonder," Vasu said, "Should I let go of this love? Should I not interfere with Kishori's devotion? But whenever I think so, my heart refuses to agree."
He fell silent, as if the voice of his heart had been lost somewhere. The peacock looked at him and then suddenly started looking into the pond's water. Vasu also looked at it, and then he realized that the peacock was trying to signal something to him.
"Are you trying to tell me something, Peacock?" Vasu asked.
The peacock lightly touched the water with its beak, and then, looking at him, spread its wings. Vasu watched attentively, and a thought came to his mind—should he let his love flow like water?
"Perhaps you are right, Peacock," Vasu said, "Love cannot be stopped, just as water cannot be stopped. It has to be allowed to flow, in whatever direction it may go."
He sat on the edge of the pond and began to look at his reflection in the water. A slight peace was now coming into his eyes. He knew that Kishori's heart would always beat for Kanha, and he had to accept that devotion.
Vasu looked at the peacock again and called out to it, "Peacock, perhaps this is the truth of love—sometimes we have to let it flow, and sometimes we just have to feel it, without any expectations."
The peacock heard his words and climbed into his lap again. Vasu stroked him and said softly, "I will always be near Kishori, in the shade of her devotion. And perhaps this is the truth of my love."
The peacock closed its eyes, and a new peace settled in Vasu's heart. He felt that love not only has the power to attain, but also to feel it with an open heart.
Vasu looked up at the sky and said with a slight smile, "Perhaps it is the right time, Peacock, to accept the journey of my love."
The peacock looked at him and then flew towards the pond. Vasu watched it go and then got up from the edge of the pond and started walking on his own path, now having fully accepted his love for Kishori in his heart.
"Love is true only when there is no desire to possess, only to give. Perhaps this was the lesson for me. Kishori's devotion is her identity, and I cannot challenge her devotion with my love. If she is destined to live only for God, then I will not seek a place for myself in her life," Vasu said softly to himself.
"Perhaps this is right, Peacock. Love also involves sacrifice, and if my love is true, I should not impose it forcefully. I should not come in the way of her devotion. Perhaps this is my role—to watch her from afar, to find my happiness in her joy. But yes, one thing is certain, I will never be able to forget her."
"I wish Kishori could understand that my love is as pure as her devotion. I don't want to be an obstacle in her path, I just want to be with her... in the shade of her devotion, in her smile. But now I am realizing that some loves can only be felt, not attained. Perhaps this is my test, Peacock. Krishna also loved, but Radha was not always with him."
It was morning. Light showers were falling, and dark clouds had formed a dense canopy in the sky. Dewdrops clinging to the plants around the temple were shimmering. The air felt both cool and fresh. Kishori felt restless because her father, Pandit Manohar Ji, was quite ill. His health was deteriorating, and he could not come to the temple today. Kishori decided that she would go to the temple today and perform the Aarti.
Kishori was walking quickly towards the temple. As soon as she reached the temple, her gaze fell upon the idol of Lord Krishna. Immense devotion towards Kanha welled up in her heart. She quickly went into the temple's sanctum sanctorum and began preparing for the Aarti. Diyas, flowers, and camphor were arranged in the thali.
But as soon as Kishori picked up the Aarti thali in her hands and started preparing to sing the bhajan while playing the manjira, some men and women, who were already present in the temple, started looking at her askance. One middle-aged woman whispered softly, "Girls don't look good performing Aarti. This work is for men."
Others nodded in agreement. An elderly man said in a bitter voice, "This is the work of priests, not girls. The sanctity of the temple should be maintained."
Kishori felt hurt by this. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she held them back. Her heart still held immense love and devotion for God, but these taunts momentarily shackled her steps. She was about to open her mouth to say something when a little girl, about eight or nine years old, entered the temple. Her face was innocent. She went directly to those who were taunting Kishori.
With a courageous voice, the girl said, "Do God only belong to priests and men? Did Krishna ever say that only men can perform His Aarti? No, Kanha belongs to everyone who loves Him with a true heart."
There was innocence in her voice, but seriousness and truth in her words. Everyone was taken aback by her words. The girl was looking directly into their eyes, as if conveying the truth to their hearts.
She further said, "When Lord Krishna accepted the love of the Gopis, when He performed Rasa with Radha, did He ever think that they were not men? No! Krishna never discriminated. Then why are you people doing it? Can there be any caste, any gender, any class in God's love and devotion?"
There was no answer on the faces of the people. There was hesitation in their eyes. The girl looked at everyone with her innocent eyes and then turned towards Kishori, who had been hiding her tears until now. She went to Kishori, took her hand, and said, "Sister, you perform the Aarti. You have true devotion within you, and Lord Krishna only sees that. For Him, the purity of the heart is most important, not these rules and regulations that people make."
Kishori felt the truth and courage in the little girl's words. A new spark appeared in her eyes. She picked up the Aarti thali again and stood before the idol of Lord Krishna. Her voice now held not only devotion, but also confidence. She started playing the manjira and sang the Aarti with complete surrender:
"Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari,
Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva."
Her voice echoed throughout the temple, and all the people, who were previously taunting her, now quietly joined her Aarti. They felt ashamed of their earlier words.
The little girl watched her victory with a smile and slowly walked out of the temple. Her innocent words and immaculate heart had accomplished what even an elder might not have been able to.
Kishori completed the Aarti, and tears were now flowing from her eyes, not of sorrow, but of love and faith for Lord Krishna.
Kishori finished the Aarti and felt a new energy in her heart. She had been inspired by the little girl's words. Now she was searching for her, but the girl was nowhere to be found in the temple. She looked around the temple courtyard, but there was no trace of her.
Suddenly, a voice came from behind, "Hey, sister, are you looking for me?" Kishori turned, and the little girl was standing before her again. There was a sparkle in her eyes and an innocent smile on her face.
"What is your name, child?" Kishori asked, "And how can you say such profound things?"
"My name is Vaibhavi," the little girl said with a smile, "And I had gone to get this flute for you." She opened a small bag tied to her back and took out a flute from it.
Kishori looked at the flute in surprise. It was no ordinary flute; it was very beautiful. It had colorful patterns on it, and its surface was gilded. But the most amazing thing was that at one end, a beautiful peacock shape was made, merging with the flute.
"This is very beautiful, Vaibhavi!" Kishori exclaimed, her eyes shining. "Did you make it yourself?"
"Yes!" Vaibhavi said proudly. "I made it with my own hands. When I saw you performing the Aarti, I thought you would like it. The peacock is made on the flute because Kanha likes peacocks very much."
Kishori took the flute and touched it lovingly. The flute carried the fragrance of Vaibhavi's hard work and devotion. "You have made it very beautiful," Kishori said. "Can you teach me how to play it?"
"Absolutely!" Vaibhavi said happily. "But first, it should be offered to Kanha. Then we can start playing it."
Kishori held the flute close to her heart and said, "Yes, first let's dedicate it to Lord Krishna. Then we will play it together."
They both went into the temple's sanctum sanctorum. Kishori placed the flute before the idol of Lord Krishna and said with complete reverence, "O Kanha, this flute is dedicated to Your love. Give me the strength to play it." Her eyes were moist, but this time they were tears of joy.
"Now let's play it," Vaibhavi said, and both sat in the temple courtyard and made a small space for the flute.
Kishori placed the flute between her lips and tried to produce a sound slowly. After a few failed attempts, a sweet melody finally emerged. Vaibhavi smiled and said, "Wow, sister! You are playing very well!"
Kishori felt her confidence grow further upon hearing Vaibhavi's praise. She was lost in the sweet tunes of the flute, but Vaibhavi's innocent voice startled her.
"Sister," Vaibhavi said with a seriousness, "Devotion and love are both the same. When we love someone with all our heart, we experience devotion within ourselves. Just as our devotion to Kanha, our love should also have purity."
"But Vaibhavi," Kishori said with some confusion, "Devotion is only towards God. Love is a different emotion."
"No, sister," Vaibhavi said with a smile, "When we love from our heart, it is also a kind of devotion. Just as Radha sacrificed everything in her life for Kanha. There is an element of devotion in their love. When we truly love someone, we treat them like God."
Kishori became lost in thought. She found Vaibhavi's words a bit profound. "But love sometimes brings sorrow too," she said, "Devotion always brings happiness."
"You are right," Vaibhavi said, "But when we love, every aspect of it teaches us. In happiness, we find joy, and in sorrow, it teaches us how to move forward. The love Krishna had with Radha had both happiness and sorrow. But in the end, it was love that won everything."
Vasu stepped onto the temple threshold. And Kishori's gaze fixed on Vasu.
"Sister, I'm leaving," Vaibhavi said with a smile, "My friend must be looking for me. He is a big fan of yours, so I brought this flute for you."
"Who is your friend, Vaibhavi?" Kishori asked in surprise, "Can you tell me something about him?"
But Vaibhavi laughed and said, "No, sister! Let me go now." And without giving any answer, she quickly ran out of the temple courtyard. But as Vaibhavi left, she glanced at Vasu and smiled.
Vasu had a smile on his face, and he stood before Kishori with folded hands and said, "Radhe Radhe, Kishori!"
"Radhe Radhe, Vasu!" Kishori said with a smile.
Vasu bowed down and touched Kishori's feet.
Vasu touched Kishori's feet, and when he stood up, a deep faith and love were clearly reflected in his eyes.
"Kishori," Vasu said softly, "My devotion to you is unwavering, but this love is also a part of it."
Kishori was silent for a moment after hearing Vasu's words. Vaibhavi's words echoed in her mind—"Love is also a form of devotion." But for Kishori, love and devotion were separate. She was confused whether Vasu's love was taking her away from her devotion or bringing her closer.
"Vasu," Kishori said in a serious tone, "For me, devotion is the greatest truth. Love can become an obstacle in my path."
Vasu bowed his head and said, "I understand, Kishori. But I will only say that love is also a form of God. Just as you love Kanha, I love you. And if my love is hindering your devotion, then I will step back."
A slight moisture appeared in Kishori's eyes. She felt Vasu's true feelings, but she was still unable to come out of her mental confusions. Vaibhavi's words, Vasu's love, and her own devotion—all these were plunging her into further confusion.
"I don't understand, Vasu," Kishori said softly. "I still haven't fully understood Vaibhavi's words. Can love and devotion truly be one?"
Vasu reassured Kishori, saying, "Time will explain everything to you, Kishori. I only know that my love for you will never come between your devotion."
Kishori looked at him, and a slight smile appeared on her face. But still, there were questions in her mind, which had not yet been answered.
It was 10 in the morning, and Parth was sleeping soundly on his bed. Soft light was spreading in his room, and the chirping of birds was echoing in his ears. Suddenly, his mother, Radhika Ji, came into the room, sweeping. When she saw Parth sleeping, all her anger erupted and poured onto Parth.
"Hey, you worthless! You are still sleeping? Look how late it is!" Radhika Ji said in a loud voice.
Parth covered his ears with a pillow, as if he didn't want to hear. But Radhika Ji got angrier. She put the broom aside and cast a burning gaze at Parth.
"You are a fool! Hey, at least go to the temple early in the morning, but no, you only know how to sleep like Kumbhakarna here.... Hey, you worthless, wake up... at least going to the temple will wash away all your sins!" Radhika Ji taunted.
"Oh, Mom, let me sleep for a while, man! I'm sleepy," Parth said irritably.
"Oh! So, is sleeping the right thing for you?" Radhika Ji said peevishly, "Your friend Vasu goes to the temple every day, learn something from him."
"Oh, Mom! Don't start with Vasu's talk!" Parth got up and said as he headed towards the bathroom.
"Go, now bathe quickly! And listen, you will go to the temple today," Mommy said again.
Parth entered the bathroom irritably and slammed the door shut.
Parth put on a black t-shirt and black pants and walked out of his room. He told his mother, Radhika Ji, "Mommmyyyy! I'm going to the temple to wash away my sins."
Radhika Ji looked Parth up and down and said, "Hmph, you foolish boy! Are you going to the temple wearing these black clothes?"
Parth replied dismissively, with a lot of attitude, "Oh, come on, Mom! These black clothes suit me. I look like a hero in these black clothes."
"Hero?" Radhika Ji retorted sarcastically. "It's not time for you to be a hero. At least today, you should dress up a little. What will people in the temple say?"
Parth replied with a mischievous smile, "Oh Mom, people will see me by my intentions, not my clothes. And besides, God will see my heart."
"It's God's job to see the heart, you rascal! But your job is to look good," Radhika Ji said. "At least learn to wear something sensible."
"Like you always say, 'Purity of the soul is what truly matters.' So, I'm going to cleanse my soul," Parth declared emphatically and quickly left the house without listening to his mother, so he wouldn't have to hear her lecture.
Parth stepped outside the house and as soon as he reached the street corner, he started muttering to himself. "Ugh, Mom! She nags about everything. It's like I've built the 'Taj Mahal' on her head." He glanced at his black t-shirt and pants and said, "Oh man, these clothes are a 'trump card' of style. And Mom thinks I'm going to a 'Ramlila' dressed as a demon!"
As he walked along, he told himself again, "I just don't understand, will God be pleased by clothes in the temple or by the devotee's faith? Who will explain to Mom that God has nothing to do with clothes; He looks directly into the heart. And my heart? My heart is as pure as 'milk'." He smiled, adjusted his t-shirt collar, and said, "Even if Mom sees me as a 'white cat in a black blanket', I'm my own 'superhero'."
As he reached the street corner, he saw a neighbor, an uncle. The uncle saw him in black clothes and said, "Parth, son, what's this? Are you going to the temple or to a 'movie shoot'?" Parth quickly replied, "Uncle, nowadays the atmosphere is like a shoot everywhere. I'm going to the temple to 'cleanse my heart'."
The uncle smiled and said, "Good son, but one should go to the temple a bit more decently."
Parth thought to himself, "Oh dear! Now this uncle has also become my 'Radhika Mom Part 2'."
He dismissed the uncle with a polite "Yes, Uncle" and continued on his way.
As he approached the temple, he brushed off his black clothes and said, "Come on, Parth, let's go to God with the 'pot of sins'. Maybe God will like my t-shirt too. After all, God must also be fashion-conscious, otherwise, where did Narada Muni's 'splendid style' come from?"
Just outside the temple, he felt the priest's eyes on his clothes. The priest had just opened his mouth to say something when Parth blurted out, "Pandit ji, don't pay attention to the clothes. I've come directly to ask for 'exclusive forgiveness' from God." The priest smiled and said, "As your heart is, so shall be your worship."
As Parth climbed the temple steps, he started thinking about Vasu. A hint of worry flickered in his eyes, but the same mischievous smile remained on his face. "Vasu, honestly, he's completely crazy," he said to himself. "He does so much for Kishori, and she doesn't even look at him."
He understood Vasu's unrequited love but couldn't comprehend why Vasu was putting himself through so much trouble. Going to the temple every morning, lingering around Kishori, gazing at her face immersed in devotion—all this had become Vasu's daily routine. Parth had often sensed the love in his eyes for Kishori. Parth often teased him, "Brother, such deep love and so much waiting? How long will you remain silent like this?"
But Vasu would always say seriously, "Patience is essential in love. Kishori's heart has God, and until her gaze falls upon me, I cannot bother her."
Parth never understood Vasu's reasoning. He felt Vasu should just speak his heart out, and perhaps Kishori would understand his truth and accept him. But Vasu, in his opinion, "cannot spoil everything by speaking his heart out before the time is right."
Upon reaching the temple, Parth saw that it was already quite crowded. Women in colorful attire had come to worship God, and children were playing around the temple. Parth glanced at himself and then at the people around him. He thought, "Truly, everyone looks different from me. But what difference does it make to me?"
He slowly walked towards the temple's sanctum sanctorum. As he entered, his eyes fell on Kishori. Kishori, as always, was draped in a saffron sari, her hands folded, eyes closed, standing in deep meditation. The depth of her devotion always surprised Parth. Every day, she would stand before Lord Krishna in the temple as if she were having a live conversation with Him. There was such absorption in her devotion that Parth's steps involuntarily slowed down.
Seeing Kishori's devotion stirred something within Parth's heart. He said to himself, "This girl... she makes me think every time. Her love for God is something else entirely." Parth tried to suppress his mischievous smile, but his carefree nature wouldn't let him. He smiled lightly, went near Kishori, and softly said, "Hey, devotee, if you look at God so intently, even God will get shy."
Kishori heard him but didn't open her eyes. She remained in the same posture, as if her entire world was contained within God. Parth tried a little more and said, "You look even more beautiful in this sari. It seems Lord Krishna won't be able to resist looking at you either."
Now Kishori slowly opened her eyes, but there was no anger in their depths, only peace and seriousness. She said in a calm voice, "Parth, there's no point in teasing God. His love is infinite, and He is not influenced by anyone's clothes or words."
Parth replied with a laugh, "So tell me, how should I impress God? You know I try very hard."
Kishori looked at him with a slight smile and said, "To impress God, you don't need effort, but true devotion. Your mischief might appeal to your friends, but not to God."
Parth felt a sting from her words, but he didn't abandon his nonchalance. "Oh, so you're saying my heart isn't pure?"
Kishori looked at him and said in a very serious tone, "The heart is pure, Parth. But it needs to be kept pure. Show-off and mischief on one side, and devotion on the other."
Her words shook Parth to his core, but he was still in a playful mood. He said with a laugh, "Alright, devotee, I'll appease God in my own style. You just watch."
Saying this, Parth entered the temple and stood directly before the idol. He bowed his head and paid his respects to God, but the carelessness was still on his face. His eyes lacked the seriousness that was in Kishori's eyes. Parth took some coins from his pocket, dropped them into the donation box, and thought to himself, "Oh God! Mom nagged me to death this morning and sent me here. Now, only you can save me. And yes, if you liked these black clothes, then go into Mom's dream and explain to her that being stylish is also an art. And yes, tell Kishori that I too worship wholeheartedly, in my own style."
As soon as he finished his unique prayer to God, he turned and saw Kishori staring at him. Parth gave a slight shake of his neck and said, "Hey, devotee, don't cast such intense glances at me, or God himself might get jealous."
Kishori adjusted the pallu of her sari and said, "Parth, your words sometimes seem so childish that it feels like I'm talking to a child."
Parth widened his eyes and replied, "Child? Oh, devotee, my mom says I've grown up, and you know moms are never wrong!"
Kishori shook her head with a smile. "Your mom might be right, but looking at your actions, it seems your age is counting backward. God must also wonder how He made you!"
Parth put on a fake serious face and said, "God must be thinking, 'If another model like Parth is made, the company will shut down.' Now tell me, am I unique or not?"
"You are unique," Kishori said with a smile, "but more than your uniqueness, your words give me a headache."
Parth sighed dramatically and said, "Devotee, you spoke the truth, I am indeed a headache."
Kishori shook her head and said, "Parth, God knows where you get the power to speak so much. Moreover, even the temple bells fall silent before you."
Parth immediately replied, "The bells are silent because they know Parth is speaking, and when Parth speaks, everyone else listens."
Kishori put her hands on her head. "Answering your arguments is like hitting your head against a wall."
Parth immediately said, "Oh, devotee, you might as well hit your head against a wall, but don't clash with Parth. I'm not a wall, I'm a whole fort. And yes, this fort always delivers a full dose of fun."
Just then, a child playing near the temple ran towards Parth and said, "Brother, this flower fell. Do you want it?"
Parth looked at the flower and said, "Oh, this is for me! God must have sent it. Kishori, see, God recognizes me as His special devotee."
Parth took the flower in his hand and, with feigned emotion, waved it in front of Kishori and said, "See, devotee, God has understood my devotion too. Now it's up to you when you're going to take me seriously."
Kishori looked at the flower and then said calmly, "Parth, God might have sent you the flower, but perhaps it's to explain to you that there is no pretense in devotion."
Parth dramatically rolled his eyes and said, "Oh, devotee, you're saying it as if I'm acting in my devotion. My devotion is straightforward and honest, like rain falling from dark clouds."
Kishori adjusted her sari pallu a bit more and said, "Parth, your devotion is like salt in kheer. It's neither palatable nor can it be discarded."
Parth immediately replied, rolling his eyes, "Wow, devotee, you admit my devotion is delicious, now you just have to learn to digest it."
Then Parth pointed to the bells hanging in a corner of the temple and said, "Look, devotee, these bells are so happy to see me. As if they are saying, 'Parth, if you weren't here, the temple's charm would be gone.'"
Kishori said in a calm voice, "Parth, the bells are for worshipping God, not for your jokes."
Parth quickly replied, "God must also laugh, devotee, otherwise how would He create such a wonderful world? And believe me, God must be thinking seeing me, 'Wow, creating a devotee like this is an art!'"
Kishori sighed deeply and said, "Parth, answering your words is like filling holes in a cot. The more you try, the more the headache increases."
Parth immediately clapped his hands and said, "Wow, devotee, you've made my heart happy. But look, I am also a person who finds a way through every hole. After all, I am Parth!"
Kishori said with a slight smile, "Parth, your words are like applying butter on dry bread. Shiny on the outside, but empty on the inside."
Parth put on a fake sad face and said, "Devotee, this is too much. You've insulted me by calling me dry bread. But it's okay, I also know how to apply butter with my words."
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As soon as Parth exited the temple, he headed towards the garden. He knew Vasu would be there, lost in his own world. Parth walked with his usual slight swagger, his mind still tangled with the girl's words.
But then, a familiar voice echoed in his ears.
"Please... let me go!"
The voice was somewhat panicked.
Parth stopped and listened intently, then moved in the direction of the voice. Reaching a small alley, he saw Subhika surrounded by a pack of dogs. The dogs had her cornered, barking, and Subhika was trembling with fear. Her voice held desperation.
"Please, let me go."
She looked as desperate as a runner who had lost a competition.
Seeing his chance, Parth thought with a mischievous smile,
"This is going to be fun!"
Subhika and Parth had a very contentious relationship; every meeting between them ended in some sort of argument. And today, Parth had an opportunity to tease her. He slowly moved towards the alley, preparing to record a video on his phone, and shouted from a distance.
"Hey Queen Subhika! What's happening? These dogs look so cute, why are you scared of them?"
Upon hearing his voice, Subhika looked at him angrily.
"Parth! Help me, shoo these dogs away. They are very scary!"
Her voice held fear mixed with some frustration, as if she knew Parth was going to enjoy this moment.
Parth chuckled and said,
"Oh man, dogs are God's beloved creatures. They won't hurt you. Besides, you're so brave, Subhika."
Subhika's anger was now overpowering her fear.
"Parth! If you don't get these dogs away, I won't let you go!"
She said threateningly, but her voice was still trembling.
Parth was now in full amusement mode. Looking at the dogs, he said,
"Listen up, guys, let our madam Subhika go. Or she might yell at you too!"
The dogs barked a couple of times and then quieted down, but they were still close to Subhika.
Subhika was in a bad situation, and she didn't know what to do. She shouted,
"Parth! If you don't come here now, I'll... I'll smash your head, understand?"
Parth replied mischievously,
"Oh, forget smashing heads, save your life first. And yes, should I make a video of you being scared and post it on Instagram? The caption would be: 'When the lioness got scared of dogs!'"
Subhika's anger began to outweigh her fear. She practically shouted,
"Parth...!"
Before Subhika could finish her sentence, Parth took a packet of biscuits from his bag and threw it towards the dogs.
"Hey friends, have breakfast and leave our madam Subhika alone."
The dogs ran towards the biscuits, leaving Subhika alone. Subhika breathed a sigh of relief, but turned to Parth with a look that said,
"Now you're in trouble."
Parth walked towards her and said with a smile,
"See? I helped. But I'm telling you, you don't need to be so afraid of dogs. They were just barking affectionately."
Subhika glared at Parth and said,
"You're always looking for opportunities to bother me, aren't you?"
Parth replied with a mischievous smile,
"Oh, you give me such opportunities yourself. Anyway, you're so brave, but why are you so scared of dogs?"
Subhika stamped her foot angrily and said,
"I'm not afraid of anyone, understand! And definitely not of you!"
Parth laughed and said,
"Okay, okay, I believe you. But next time, don't be so scared of dogs, or I'll make a video and viral it."
Subhika stamped her foot and said,
"Parth, you are the biggest headache in the world. When God made you, he must have said, 'Send him with an extra packet of mischief.'"
Parth immediately replied,
"And when he made you, God must have said, 'Give her a full dose of fear of dogs and anger.' By the way, seeing your anger, I think you might bite me too, not just the dogs."
Subhika took his words seriously and said,
"If you do anything like that, I'll...!"
But before she could say anything else, Parth quickly ran towards the garden, laughing.
Subhika stood there, annoyed by his antics, but deep down she also realized that Parth always bothered her, but he never left her alone in trouble.
Subhika muttered to herself, stamping her feet in anger. The fear of the dogs was still in her eyes, but Parth's mischief only fueled her rage further.
"This Parth! God sent him only to trouble me. Every time he'll create some new drama and then run away laughing. What does he think of himself? A superhero?"
She grumbled, adjusting her dupatta, and stood at the corner of the alley, looking at the dogs with hateful eyes.
"Even the dogs probably consider him their companion. That's why he can easily enter amongst them and save me. And then he finds opportunities to taunt me. Next time, I won't spare him! I'll take away all his swagger."
Subhika looked up at the sky and said,
"Oh God! Don't I have the right to live a peaceful day? Dogs, Parth, and all his foolishness... I want freedom from all of it."
The sound of Parth's laughter coming from the garden from a short distance further fueled her anger.
"Look how he's laughing. As if he just won a great battle."
As Parth continued towards the garden, he was smiling, reminiscing about the fun incident with Subhika.
Parth kept muttering to himself as he walked towards the garden.
With every step, his smile grew wider, and he felt as if he had won an epic battle by defeating Subhika.
"Oh, this Subhika too... she's a bundle of trouble."
Parth reassured himself,
"But what fun it was! Truly, it was as if not dogs, but Subhika herself was standing before me as my prey."
He let out a mischievous laugh and muttered,
"Now Subhika will understand that everyone is a flightless duck in front of Parth! Well, she's used to confronting me. She's the crazy one, always looking for opportunities to bother me."
Parth was lost in his thoughts.
"Yes, it's also true that since Subhika arrived, my life has gained a new thrill. It's like a boring movie, and suddenly a superstar jumps into it!"
"What should I say? My heart tells me to leave her in peace for a day, but then my mind says, 'Oh man, I want to have fun!' Anyway, if I don't make people laugh, who will?"
Parth said to himself and burst into laughter.
"And then, what! Her being scared of dogs, and the swagger I showed saving her, was no less than a movie hero."
But as he took another step into the garden, his eyes fell on Vasu. Vasu was sitting on a bench, his sketchbook in his hand. Parth saw that Vasu was drawing someone with great concentration. He moved a little closer and understood that it was none other than Kishori, whose face Vasu was imprinting on paper with his entire soul.
Parth stood silently for a while, watching him intently. There was a unique absorption in Vasu's eyes, and a depth in every stroke, as if he were feeling every small and large detail of Kishori's face with his heart. Parth was a little surprised to see when Vasu's new hobby began. He started thinking,
"This Vasu turned out to be an artist!"
Parth broke the silence and said,
"Brother, what's this! This is amazing art. It looks like Kishori is standing right here."
Vasu was suddenly startled; he hadn't even realized when Parth had come and stood next to him. He looked at Parth for a moment, then with a faint smile, he closed the sketchbook and said,
"Kishori's face is such that if you keep gazing at it, the lines form themselves."
Parth took his sketchbook in his hand and said,
"Oh wow! But brother, this art filled with love is quite dangerous. You might get stuck on this paper!"
Vasu dismissed his comment lightly and said,
"Parth, you won't understand. This isn't just a sketch, it's my emotion. I never want to bother Kishori, but when I sketch her on paper like this, I feel like I understand her, I'm close to her."
Parth took a deep breath and said jokingly,
"Man Vasu, you're feeling too much. Falling in love is good, but for my friend Kishori, her devotion is paramount! Then you keep shedding tears in her memory. And I can't see you like this."
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Vasudeva bowed his head and said, "I know, his love for God is so pure that I can never interfere with it."
Parth remained silent for a while, trying to understand the depth of Vasudeva's love. He knew that Vasudeva's love was genuine, but he also knew that this approach might not always work.
Parth opened Vasudeva's sketchbook again and looked at the sketch of Kishori, saying, "You are really crazy. This sketch of Kishori shows more love than you do. But sometimes love can't be understood just by looking; it needs to be expressed."
"Love is not meant to be spoken; it's meant to be felt, Parth," Vasudeva said with a smile.
"Oh, look at the philosopher! You've become a great one," Parth joked.
Vasudeva just smiled lightly, as if he didn't have an answer to Parth's remark, but the depth in his eyes made Parth think. He understood how deeply rooted Vasudeva's love was in his heart, but he always disagreed with Vasudeva's approach. He wanted Vasudeva to take some steps, to say something, because in Parth's view, this wait was filled with uncertainty.
Vasudeva got lost in his sketchbook again, but this time Parth interrupted him seriously, saying, "Brother, be careful not to lose yourself in this wait one day. In love, you have to take the initiative; otherwise, you'll regret it later."
Vasudeva looked at Parth, his eyes filled with deep understanding and peace. He said calmly, "I know, Parth. But I believe that when the right time comes, Kishori will understand my feelings."
Parth listened to Vasudeva's words and muttered to himself, "You're completely relying on God. I'm telling you to be a bit modern and leave this God thing for a while; do something in reality."
"For you, it's just about God and love, but for me, that's reality. I've connected my life with Kishori in such a way. I know she'll understand my love one day," Vasudeva said with a smile.
Parth nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. He knew Vasudeva's love was pure, but he couldn't help but feel that Vasudeva's approach was too passive.
As they talked, Parth noticed Kishori walking towards them from a distance, with some flowers in her hands and a peaceful gait that always drew Vasudeva to her. Parth saw that Vasudeva hadn't noticed her yet, still engrossed in his sketchbook.
A peacock, Kishori's favorite, was slowly approaching Vasudeva. The peacock was a special bird in the garden, and everyone called it "Mayur." It was Kishori's beloved pet and often roamed the garden, sometimes with Kishori and sometimes alone. However, what was special about Mayur was that it was just as affectionate to Vasudeva as it was to Kishori.
Mayur reached Vasudeva's side, spread its feathers, and began to circle around him, as if performing a dance to please him. Vasudeva looked down, and his eyes lit up with joy as he saw Mayur.
"You came too? Today, you also came to meet me in Kishori's memory, didn't you?" Vasudeva said, gently stroking Mayur's head. Mayur tilted its neck, as if responding to Vasudeva's words.
Parth watched this scene from a distance, feeling a bit irritated. He didn't like Mayur's behavior, especially when it completely ignored him. He thought to himself, "This peacock loves Vasudeva so much and doesn't even like to look at me."
Parth joked, "Hey Mayur, you've forgotten me, haven't you? Now, Vasudeva is your only friend, isn't he?"
Mayur seemed to ignore Parth's words. It turned its long neck, didn't even glance at Parth, and went back to Vasudeva, lightly touching his feet with its feathers, as if saying that Vasudeva was its only true friend.
Parth got even more irritated. He said jokingly, "You're very selective, aren't you, Mayur? Only friends with Vasudeva, huh? Ignoring me completely!"
Vasudeva laughed and said, "Parth, Mayur might be a bit upset with you. Don't ignore him; otherwise, he might attack you with his feathers."
Parth replied with a mischievous smile, "I'm not afraid of a peacock, and anyway, Mayur is Kishori's favorite. Maybe he knows I tease you, so he keeps his distance from me."
Vasudeva laughed and said, "Maybe! But see, brother, you can tease me as much as you want, but don't mess with Mayur. He's really good at annoying you."
Parth looked at Mayur, and as he moved forward, Mayur spread its feathers, warning him not to come closer. Parth stopped and thought to himself, "This peacock is really an expert at annoying me."
Parth said, "Okay, Mayur, I'm not saying anything to you, but if you ignore me, I'll complain to Kishori about you."
Mayur didn't seem to hear Parth's threat and continued to hover around Vasudeva. Parth looked at Vasudeva, who was now completely absorbed with Mayur. This deep connection gave Parth a sense of peace, and he couldn't help but smile.
However, the irritation was still there. Parth took a biscuit piece from his pocket and offered it to Mayur, saying, "Come on, Mayur! Let's make friends."
Mayur glanced at Parth for a moment, then turned its neck away and completely ignored the biscuit.
Parth got even more annoyed and said, "This is too much! You won't even make friends with me?"
Vasudeva laughed and said, "Leave it, brother. Mayur is not for people like you. He only recognizes those with a pure heart."
Parth joked, "Oh, so I'm not pure-hearted now? Alright, let's have a feud from today."
Vasudeva smiled and said, "Say what you want, but Mayur will never stop ignoring you. He's Kishori's, and Kishori means..."
Vasudeva left the sentence unfinished, but Parth understood what he meant.
Parth tried to control his irritation for a while, then suddenly said, "Alright, brother, I'll leave you and Mayur alone. I'm going back to my world, and see, next time Mayur will come with me!"
Vasudeva patted Parth's back and said with a smile, "Try, Parth! Maybe one day Mayur will accept you."
Parth winked at him and left, but before leaving, his eyes fell on Kishori again, who was picking flowers on the other side of the garden.
Parth stood in the garden, his mind filled with many thoughts. His gaze was fixed on the young girl slowly moving through the flowers.
Parth was watching the young girl, his mind entangled with thoughts. Suddenly, he felt a strong bump from behind.
Lost in his own thoughts, he was suddenly bumped hard from behind. He stumbled forward a bit and turned to look. He had bumped into someone, and that someone was none other than Subhika.
"Oh!" he exclaimed in surprise. "Subhika?"
Subhika, standing in front of him, was looking at him with anger. Resentment was clearly visible in her eyes. "Can't you see? This is such a large place, and you're standing right here!" she said irritably.
Parth saw her angry eyes and replied with his usual smile, "Oh, I was just... enjoying the breeze. But how are you here?"
Subhika replied angrily, "How I am here... I don't find it necessary to answer that question! And yes, don't think I've forgotten about that dog incident."
At first, Parth didn't understand what had happened, but his mischief was ignited again.
"Oh, look who it is! Miss Subhika, why are you so angry? Did the dogs bother you again after I left?"
Subhika, even more annoyed by Parth's remark, said, "Parth, one day you'll regret this! I won't let you get away with it!" Her eyes were red with anger, and looking at Parth, it seemed as if she could wring his neck.
Parth responded to her words with great mischief, "Oh, why are you getting angry? I was helping you, and that too, unconditionally."
Subhika, even more displeased by his statement, said, "Helping? You? If you truly wanted to help me, you would have chased away those dogs in the first place, instead of thinking about making a video!"
Parth laughed jokingly at her remark, "Oh man, I was making a video to show your bravery. Who knows, you might have looked like a lioness standing in front of the dogs!"
Subhika's anger had now reached its peak. She picked up a nearby stone and showed it to Parth, saying, "If you say anything more, I'll hit you over the head with this stone!"
Vasu, who had been enjoying the banter with Mayur until now, intervened and said, "Hey, hey, stop, Subhika. Parth is just joking."
Subhika looked at Vasu and said, "Do you even know how much he bothers me? Today, he almost got me killed by the dogs!"
Parth quipped, "Oh, I was just seeing how brave you are. Besides, the dogs were just barking affectionately."
Subhika stomped her foot in anger and said, "Barking affectionately? You and your words!"
Then she turned and glared at Parth, saying, "Parth, if you bother me like this again, I won't let you go!"
Parth replied with a laugh, "Alright, alright! Next time, I'll come to save you from the dogs myself, promise!"
Subhika looked at him with even more anger at his words and, without looking at Parth, turned to Vasu and said, "Vasu, have you seen Kishori didi? Pandit ji said she came this way."
Vasu's eyes were already fixed on Kishori. He was watching how she carefully looked at and then picked each flower. A deep smile was on Vasu's face, but his mind was also filled with many thoughts.
Before Vasu could say anything, Parth gestured and said, "She's over there, near the flowers."
Ignoring Parth's words, Subhika looked at Vasu and asked, "Vasu, tell me honestly, is she over there?"
Vasu slowly nodded and said, "Yes, she's near the flowers."
Without saying anything, Subhika stomped her foot in anger and started walking towards Kishori. Seeing her annoyed walk, Parth suppressed a slight laugh and said to Vasu, "Man, will Subhika's anger ever end?"
Vasu replied with a smile, "Parth, you deliberately add fuel to the fire and then ask this question!"
Parth was still watching Subhika leave, then turned to Vasu and said, "Man, this girl is very interesting. Her anger and my mischief are a perfect match!"
Vasu nodded and said, "You always tease her, but one day she'll really beat you."
Parth laughed and said, "Oh man, let that day come, then we'll see! For now, we're enjoying all this."
Vasu listened to him with a faint smile and then got lost in his sketchbook again. Parth watched him for a while, then glanced at Mayur one last time, and then looked towards where Subhika was talking to Kishori.
Meanwhile, Subhika quickly reached Kishori and said, "Didi, what are you doing here? Pandit ji has been looking for you."
Hearing Subhika, Kishori replied with a faint smile, "I just came to pick flowers. Tell Pandit ji, I'll be there in a little while."
Then she called Subhika a bit closer and said, "But why are you angry, Subhika? Did Parth do something mischievous again?"
Subhika said with a deep sigh, "Didi, there's no trust in that boy. Sometimes he bothers me with dogs, and sometimes with his nonsensical talk. I think he was born just to make my blood boil!"
Kishori smiled and said, "He does it just to tease you. But I think your anger gives him more pleasure."
Subhika said with slight annoyance, "Didi, you're taking his side too. Okay, let's go now."
Hearing her, Kishori slowly picked up the flower basket and said to Subhika, "You go, I'm just coming."
A while later, Subhika returned to the garden. This time, her face was not flushed with anger like before, but as soon as she saw Parth, her eyebrows furrowed again. She glared at Parth once, as if silently warning him that the effects of his mischief would no longer work.
Parth, who was still talking to Vasu with Mayur, his mischief reignited as soon as he saw Subhika approaching. He said with a smile, "Oh, look who it is! The brave lioness from the dog incident has entered the arena again."
Subhika completely ignored his remark and came to Mayur, gently stroking his beautiful feathers. Mayur, who had been sitting comfortably with Parth and Vasu until now, raised his neck and came to her upon seeing Subhika. Mayur bowed his head towards Subhika with his soft beak.
Parth, who had been trying to tease Subhika with his mischievous words, was a bit surprised by Mayur's behavior. "Oh ho, Mayur has found his lioness!" he joked, "It seems Mayur will also leave Vasu and go with Subhika."
Subhika stroked Mayur's feathers even more lovingly and glared at Parth. Her eyes now held a calm determination instead of anger. She no longer seemed annoyed, but a cool seriousness was on her face. She looked at Parth without a word, but her gaze carried the same message – "No more teasing will be tolerated."
Mayur also seemed to understand Subhika's feelings. He gently touched her hands with his beak, as if offering comfort. Subhika gave a faint smile looking at Mayur, which was perhaps a sign to further provoke Parth.
Parth, stopping his laughter at her expression, said, "Oh brother, it seems Mayur has found true love! I'll have to learn how this happened?"
Subhika gently stroked Mayur's feathers and said, "Love is not something to be shown, Parth. What one feels, one understands. And as for Mayur—he doesn't believe in pretense like you do."
Parth, a bit confused by her serious statement, said, "Oh, what's this? Today everyone is giving me this wisdom... first Vasu... then you! I was just joking."
Subhika said in a calm voice, "Not everything is a joke, Parth. Sometimes, one must understand deeper things."
Parth, who had always teased Subhika and laughed, felt a little embarrassed this time. He realized that Subhika today was different. He gave a slight smile and looked at Vasu, who was still lost in his sketchbook, but was listening carefully to this small banter between Parth and Subhika.
Wait for the next part to know what will happen next. Also, keep reviewing.
Subhika’s new demeanor was a little strange for Parth. He was used to seeing her angry, but her words today were different. Parth noticed a deep seriousness on her face, which made him a little uncomfortable.
Subhika, stroking the peacock feathers with even more delicacy, said, "Both love and respect are things that cannot be forced. One must get accustomed to valuing them. You always tease me, Parth, but sometimes there is a bitterness in your words that I cannot ignore."
Hearing Subhika’s words, Parth realized that perhaps he had never seriously thought about how his antics could make someone feel. He tried to lighten the mood with a laugh.
"Oh, you're talking as if I always do wrong. I just wanted to have a little fun."
Subhika looked up at Parth. Her gaze was fixed directly on Parth’s eyes, as if conveying a message. She said softly, "Not all fun is enjoyable, Parth. Sometimes your words leave a greater impact. And lately, you don’t understand when jokes cross the line."
This was the first time Parth had seen this side of Subhika. He was realizing that perhaps he had gone too far. Vasu, who had been listening quietly until now, also felt that Subhika’s words were right. He teased Parth gently with a faint smile.
"See, brother? It's not just about dogs anymore."
Parth replied to Vasu, "Yes, man, I understand now that I went a bit too far." He looked at Subhika and said, "Sorry, man, if I ever hurt your feelings. I was just joking, but maybe it was the wrong time for a joke."
For the first time, Subhika gave a slight smile upon hearing Parth's apology. She gently stroked the peacock feathers and said, "That's all. Forgiveness mends everything, but it must be genuine, not superficial." Her smile now fully indicated peace.
This time, Parth felt he had truly understood Subhika. He took a deep breath and said, "Oh yes, I will improve from today. I will only joke at the right time now, I promise!"
Subhika nodded and said, "Learn something from the peacock! It respects everyone."
Parth narrowed his eyes and said, "Haha! Except me, this peacock respects everyone."
Vasu picked up his sketchbook, stood up, and said with a laugh, "Your antics are just like that, Parth! Let me go... Dad asked me to get some things from the market."
Saying this, Vasu got up to leave. Mayur also followed Vasu.
As soon as Parth saw Vasu leaving, a mischievous thought struck him again. He plucked a beautiful rose that was blooming nearby and offered it to Subhika.
Subhika saw the flower, but her heart started beating faster.
"Parth, what are you doing?" Subhika's heart was pounding.
Parth took a deep breath and said with a touch of seriousness,
"The truth is, I always..."
Subhika's heart was racing. Sweat beaded on her forehead.
Parth looked at Subhika's nervous face and then said, "The truth is, I always... I was always joking, but now I understand how important it is to consider your feelings. So, this flower is a symbol of your forgiveness. Subhika, take this flower and forgive me."
Subhika tried to control her emotions upon seeing the flower, but her heart was beating rapidly. She told herself, "Oh silly, what were you thinking?"
When Parth saw that she was a little nervous, but there was an unspoken beauty on her face, Parth extended the flower towards her and said, "This flower is for you. Hold it and forgive me!"
Subhika took the flower with her trembling hands.
Seeing Subhika's trembling hands, Parth quickly said, "One minute... one minute..."
Subhika looked at Parth.
Parth narrowed his eyes and said, "You weren't thinking something else, were you... I mean, these roses are often given by lovers to each other. You weren't thinking anything wrong, were you! Because these poor flowers have been so unfairly slandered by them."
Subhika thought for a moment after hearing Parth. Her mind was in a turmoil. The mix of Parth's playful manner and seriousness felt strange to her. But regaining her composure, she said, "No, Parth. I wasn't thinking anything like that."
Parth raised his eyebrows mischievously and said, "Oh, you weren't thinking anything like that? Then why is this sweat beading on your forehead, Subhika ji? Isn't something brewing inside?"
Subhika quickly wiped the sweat from her forehead and replied angrily, "Parth! I'm bothered by the sweat, and you're calling it 'brewing'? You'll have to answer for your actions!"
Parth said with a laugh, "I will answer, Your Majesty. But first, tell me, is my apology accepted or not?"
Subhika looked at the rose and was lost in its beauty for a moment. Then she said softly, "If you are truly talking about bringing about change, then the apology is accepted."
Parth sighed with relief. "That's good to hear. You know, I only joke with you, but you just don't understand my pranks, you silly."
Subhika took a deep breath and remained silent for a moment. Then, narrowing her eyes, she said angrily, "What did you call me... silly? Yes! You called me silly?"
Parth, looking a bit startled, widened his eyes, "Hey, if I call you silly, I'll call you silly!"
Subhika, in anger, thrust the flower back into Parth's hands, her face turning red at that moment. Pouting, she walked away without a word. The anger was evident in every step she took. Parth saw that not only had Subhika firmly placed the flower back in his hand, but she was also walking away briskly, ignoring his antics, as if she was fed up with him.
Parth’s heart stirred. He realized that perhaps he had crossed a line again. He took a deep breath and then ran after Subhika, saying, "Hey man, sorry sorry! Your mood was like that, I thought I'd crack a joke."
Subhika quickened her pace, but Parth continued to bother her from behind. "Sorry, man, please stop."
Subhika turned and looked at Parth. Anger still lingered on her face, but there was a slight conflict in her eyes, indicating that she herself felt she might be being a bit too strict. However, she still harbored a deep irritation towards Parth's pranks.
"You'll be the death of me one day, Parth!" Subhika took a deep breath and said in her anger-filled voice, "You'll never change. Always the same old jokes."
Parth softened his voice slightly and said, "Really sorry, man, I didn't know you'd take it so seriously. I never intended to joke with you."
Subhika increased her pace again, "No, I don't want to talk to you, understand! I'm leaving."
But Parth caught her hand and said with a slight smile, "Okay, okay, go ahead... but what's the fault of this poor rose... take it with you."
Subhika looked into his eyes with a deep gaze, then gently pulled her hand away from his and said, "Oh, so you still care about this rose... don't you."
Parth stifled his laughter and said, "Yes."
Subhika listened to Parth's words, then took a deep breath, changed her path, and started walking quickly again without saying anything.
Parth saw that Subhika had once again averted her gaze from him, and he knew it wouldn't be easy to brush this off now. His mischievous pranks had now taken their toll on Subhika. But still, he resolved in his heart to win her over this time. Moving towards her again, he composed himself slightly and said, "You know, you're quite strange too. You can show false anger, but deep down, you forgive me."
Subhika continued walking silently, trying to ignore his words, but her anger was still evident. "I don't want to talk to you, Parth?" she said after a slight pause, "I don't care if you're joking or not."
It was clear from Subhika's words that she was still angry, but Parth knew this anger was only superficial. Somewhere in her heart, there was a tenderness and affection for him, which she herself was trying to understand.
Parth gently cupped his ears, as if trying to protect himself from his own mischief. There was a seriousness in his eyes that had never been seen before. "Subhika," he said, softening his voice slightly, "You're right. I really have a lot to learn from you. You've been hurt because of my ignorance, and I deeply regret it." He paused for a moment and then said softly, "Can you forgive me?"
Subhika suddenly stopped and looked at him, her eyes filled with deep conflict.
Subhika's heart was in turmoil. Parth's pranks, his jokes, and his antics often bothered her, but in some corner of her heart, there was a soft feeling that she tried to hide even from herself.
Parth still stood before her, ears cupped, but this time his eyes truly held regret. Subhika looked at him, then smiled faintly, but the smile quickly vanished.
She told herself, "This Parth... he does things like this every time. I get angry, but then I forgive him just as quickly. Why? Is there really something for him in my heart? No, this is all madness."
But the palpitations of her heart and the questions arising within her continued to trouble her.
Parth broke her silence by saying, "Hey man, say something now. Don't look at me as if I'm the biggest criminal in the world."
Subhika glared at him and said, "Why don't you understand, Parth? Every time your pranks bother me. Every time I think, 'No more... I won't talk to you now.' But then I get caught in your words. I don't know why!"
Parth looked into her eyes and said, "Because you know I'm not bad at heart. And honestly, even your angry face is dear to me."
Subhika's face turned slightly red. She lowered her gaze and tried to calm herself.
There was a strange restlessness in her mind. Looking at Parth, she thought, "Why does this boy stir up my life every time? Why do I see honesty in his every word, which perhaps even he doesn't understand? Am I... am I starting to like him?"
But she quickly composed herself and said, "Parth, I am not a flower that you can pluck and appease as you please. I am a human being, and I have feelings. You have to understand that your actions hurt me every time."
Parth took a deep breath and said softly, "Subhika, I know I cross the line every time. But I truly want you to forgive me. And... perhaps you can understand that there's something more behind my pranks."
Subhika looked at him and said, "Something more? What do you mean?"
Parth smiled slightly and said, "Perhaps you'll need some time to understand that. And perhaps... I will too."
Subhika tried to ignore his words, but somewhere in her heart, Parth's words had sown a seed.
Looking at Parth, she began to think, "Will this mischievous boy truly understand what's going on in my heart? And even if he understands, will he ever feel it?"
Seeing Subhika lost in thought, Parth said, "Why are you in such deep thought? It looks like you're about to make a big decision."
Subhika chided him, "Stopping myself from thinking about a madman like you would be the biggest decision."
Parth teased her, "Oh, so you've admitted that I live in your head. Wow!"
Subhika playfully hugged him in anger and said, "Shut up, Parth!" and walked away briskly.
But the farther she went, the more her heart was drawn towards him. Parth's smile, his words, and his pranks had now become a part of her life.
And now she understood that for her, Parth was not just a friend. He was slowly becoming the most beautiful feeling in her life.
Light raindrops began to fall on the ground. Clouds gathered in the sky, and there was a strange coolness in the air. Parth ran his hand through his hair and looked up at the sky, taking a deep breath.
"What's happening to me?" he asked himself. "Why does Subhika enter my thoughts every time? Arguing with her, teasing her, and then pacifying her anger... all this used to be fun for me. But now... now it feels like she has become a part of my life. And I can't understand what all this is."
The rain began to intensify. Parth, holding his bag over his head, started walking towards home. Subhika's image kept reappearing in his mind. Her displeasure, her anger, and then her faint smile... everything was pulling him towards her.
"Maybe I'm overthinking," Parth tried to convince himself. "She's always been an angry person. I just tease her. There's nothing like love involved. Yes... absolutely not!"
But his heart refused to believe him.
By the time he reached home, the rain had intensified. Parth changed his clothes and, looking out the window, said, "I'm crazy. She's the girl who gets angry over every little thing. And I... I'll do anything to make her laugh. But why? Why does her laughter bring me peace every time?"
He looked out the window. Drops of water hit the glass, and Subhika's voice echoed in his mind:
"Stopping myself from thinking about a madman like you would be the biggest decision."
Parth smiled. "Hey man, this girl will drive me crazy. But does she ever think about me? Is there something behind her anger? Or am I just thinking unnecessarily?"
Meanwhile, Subhika sat in her room. The sound of raindrops echoed in her ears. Her eyes were on her book, but her mind was elsewhere.
"Parth..." she said softly to herself. "What is it that makes me get angry with him so quickly and then forgive him just as quickly? Why does he respond to my every word with a playful tone, yet his eyes always show sincerity?"
She looked out the window and smiled slowly.
"His pranks bother me, but his innocence also shines through those pranks. When he teases me, it feels like he's intentionally drawing me towards him. And I... I get caught in his words every time. Is this love?"
Subhika placed her hand on her heart. Her heart was beating faster. She shook her head, as if trying to convince herself.
"No, this can't be love. Parth behaves like this with everyone. He teases everyone, makes them laugh. But then... why does he apologize to me so often? Why does my displeasure bother him so much? And why... why do I always melt upon hearing his apology?"
A storm of questions raged in her mind.
Then she remembered Parth's words:
"Perhaps there's something more behind my pranks."
Subhika put her hand on her forehead. "What did he mean? Is he trying to say something that he can't? Or am I feeling something that I'm afraid to understand?"
The rain had intensified. Subhika closed the window and threw herself onto the bed. She wondered if Parth was as confused about these things as she was.
Hiding her face in the pillow, she told herself,
"Parth, if there's truly something behind your pranks, then one day I will understand it. But if this is just your joke, then I must take care of myself. I cannot stay in this confusion for long."
Her eyes slowly closed, but the image of Parth was still vivid in her heart.
Parth's words, his actions, and his mischievous laughter... everything seemed to have captured her heart.
Stay tuned for the next part to find out what happens next, and do provide your reviews.
The gentle drops of rain were falling on the earth. Water trickled from the trees, a gust of cool wind blew, and the earthy fragrance in the atmosphere seemed dreamlike. Dark clouds covered the sky, and amidst the faint rumbling, Mayur was nuzzling Vasu's hand with his beak.
Vasu smiled and said, "What's wrong, Mayur? Do you want to go to Kishori?"
Mayur nodded as if signaling "yes." Vasu was surprised by its intelligence and said with a light laugh, "But Kishori probably won't be at the temple at this hour."
Mayur pointed in a direction with his beak, as if sure of Kishori's whereabouts.
Vasu sighed deeply and said, "Alright, let's go see."
Mayur began to dance and sway, feeling the light raindrops. Vasu followed him.
Vasu's face, bathed in the moonlight, seemed to be showered by the rain. His wet hair scattered on his forehead, glistening with raindrops like pearls, as if the sky's love had descended upon his body. A smile bloomed on his lips, as if he was eagerly awaiting to meet Kishori.
His shirt, wet and clinging to his body, clearly revealed every line of his strong physique, much like the fragrance of earth emerging from the raindrops falling on it.
On the way, they passed through a lush green forest. Large trees, their branches adorned with hanging raindrops, looked as if nature had decorated them with pearls. Greenery was everywhere, and the chirping of birds created a wonderful symphony.
As Vasu and Mayur stepped into an open clearing of the forest, the sight there was mesmerizing. In the center was a clear space, from which a light mist was rising. Amidst that mist, Kishori appeared.
Kishori wore the same light orange cotton saree with white thread embroidery, which was slightly damp from the rain. The edges of her saree brushed against the ground, and her long, unbound hair swayed with the wind. Her eyes were closed, and she was lost in her own emotions, dancing to the chant of "Krishna, Krishna."
There was a rhythm in her every movement. Sometimes she raised both her hands, and sometimes she tapped her feet on the ground as if even the earth was swaying in her worship. The pearl-like bangles jingling on her wrists and the thin-stringed anklets on her feet, adorned with tiny bells, produced a melodious sound that made the gentle rain even sweeter.
When Vasu saw this scene, his eyes widened. His pace slowed, and his feet seemed to automatically start swaying to the rhythm of Kishori's dance. He came closer and stopped, watching Kishori's face, mesmerized.
Mayur, who was ahead of Vasu, went near Kishori and started circumambulating her. He too spread his beautiful tail and began to dance. Kishori opened her eyes and saw Mayur. Her smile deepened. As she continued dancing, she looked at Vasu, leaving a question in her eyes.
Vasu, now completely lost, couldn't stop his feet. He moved closer to Kishori and started dancing. Their dance, combined with the music of the rain, created a scene as if Radha and Krishna themselves had come alive in this setting.
Suddenly, the sound of the bhajan intensified, and it felt as if the entire forest had joined in their devotion.
Vasu, now completely lost in Kishori's dance and devotion, began to sing the bhajan unconsciously, "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare!" His soul was completely absorbed in Kishori's devotion.
A deep smile graced Kishori's face, and in Vasu's eyes, there was a love that could never be expressed in words.
He began to sing softly:
"He who dances with Radha, goes to Krishna, he who dances with Krishna, comes to Radha."
On the other hand, Subhika...
"Parth..." she whispered to herself. "What is the reason I get angry with him so quickly and then forgive him just as quickly? Why does he respond to my every word with a playful tone, yet his eyes always show sincerity?"
She looked out the window and smiled slowly.
"His pranks bother me, but his innocence also shines through those pranks. When he teases me, it feels like he's intentionally drawing me towards him. And I... I get caught in his words every time. Is this love?"
Subhika placed her hand on her heart. Her heart was beating faster. She shook her head, as if trying to convince herself.
"No, this can't be love. Parth behaves like this with everyone. He teases everyone, makes them laugh. But then... why does he apologize to me so often? Why does my displeasure bother him so much? And why... why do I always melt upon hearing his apology?"
A storm of questions raged in her mind.
Then she remembered Parth's words:
"Perhaps there's something more behind my pranks."
Subhika put her hand on her forehead. "What did he mean? Is he trying to say something that he can't? Or am I feeling something that I'm afraid to understand?"
The rain had intensified. Subhika closed the window and threw herself onto the bed. She wondered if Parth was as confused about these things as she was.
Hiding her face in the pillow, she told herself,
"Parth, if there's truly something behind your pranks, then one day I will understand it. But if this is just your joke, then I must take care of myself. I cannot stay in this confusion for long."
Her eyes slowly closed, but the image of Parth was still vivid in her heart.
Parth's words, his actions, and his mischievous laughter... everything seemed to have captured her heart.
Stay tuned for the next part to find out what happens next, and do provide your reviews.
Love is not what leads to the destination;
Love is what accompanies you on every path.
Your happiness is what my love is called.
May your every breath have Krishna's name,
And my role be to watch from afar.
As high as the sky of your devotion is,
So deep is my longing.
I know your devotion is unwavering,
Yet, the river of love in my heart,
Will continue to flow just like this.
It will keep surging, without expecting anything in return.
Vasu's daily routine had become like a ritual. Before going to college, he would wake up early every morning and first, catch a glimpse of Kishori at the temple. Because he knew he would find Kishori at the temple. The depth and serenity in Kishori's devotion provided Vasu with energy for the entire day. Kishori's unwavering love for Krishna stirred something in Vasu's heart. He would stand near Kishori and watch her worship from a distance, as if he himself were receiving something from Krishna. At that moment, Kishori was not focused on Vasu, nor anyone else; her eyes were simply immersed in Krishna's form.
Even today, sitting in his free class at college, Vasu was writing some thoughts in his diary, as was his habit. He wrote about yesterday's events, which were connected to Kishori. How she remained lost in her devotion all day, how her smile touched Vasu's heart.
There was a special feeling in Vasu's writing; the more he wrote about Kishori, the more he felt connected to her world. But today, something else was happening. As he looked around, shifting his gaze from the diary, Parth came and sat beside him.
"Dude, what are you doing here?" Vasu exclaimed, surprised.
"You've become quite the poet, Vasu. What are you writing?" Parth said, peeking into his diary with a slight smile. There was a hint of teasing and mockery in his voice.
"Nothing, man, just some things on my mind, so I wrote them down," Vasu said softly, trying to ignore him.
Parth, however, didn't let go of his curiosity. Sitting closer to Vasu, he began to say,
"Man, it's always the same girl, Kishori."
Vasu took a deep breath and said,
"Parth, you won't understand. She's not just some girl; she's a feeling. Even the air around her feels peaceful to me."
Parth began to listen to him quietly.
"Look, Parth, you can joke with me, but the love I feel is very personal to me," Vasu said, closing his diary.
"Whatever is in your heart, I know, but man, sometimes ask yourself, what you're feeling, is it just an emotion, or a destination?" Parth said with a smile.
Vasu's face suddenly turned serious. Parth's words had jolted him. He began to think silently, did he truly consider Kishori his destination? Was he experiencing that love merely as a feeling, or did he dream of living his entire life with that love?
After a while, Vasu bowed his head again and said,
"Love is not just an emotion; it's also a path. And I... I am ready to walk this path."
"Now, hearing this, it sounds like you're going to ruin your life behind that girl," Parth sighed and said with a laugh.
But this time, Vasu didn't interrupt him. He was sinking deeper into his emotions. His life was no longer just revolving around Kishori, but also thinking about the true relationships he could build.
Vasu opened his diary again and wrote, "There is never a destination in love; it is a journey, and I am ready to be a part of this journey."
Now, there was a new light in his eyes, a new hope. Parth's silence had made him understand that Vasu was no longer just feeling his love for Kishori, but was preparing to live that love.
Days passed...
Every day, sitting by the pond, he would watch Kishori as she was engrossed in her prayers. There was such depth of devotion for Krishna in her eyes, which Vasu would gaze at from afar and feel his longing. Kishori was unaware of his presence; her world was limited to her Kanha. But for Vasu, her every smile, the words of her every prayer, brought a new life.
Many times, Vasu questioned himself—why was he nurturing this love, without any expectations? Why, by witnessing Kishori's devotion every day, was he sacrificing his own love? But in response to these questions, Vasu found only peace—Kishori's happiness.
"My love is not seeking any outcome. I just want to witness her devotion, to find my happiness in her joy. Perhaps this love is my test, and in this test, I only have to give, without asking for anything."
Every day, Kishori would sit before the idol of her Kanha and pray for hours. There was such a glow of devotion in her eyes that Vasu couldn't stop looking at her. He never asked Kishori for anything, nor questioned her.
Because he knows that... Kishori's devotion is her identity. And he cannot see that love as mere attachment. Her heart has space only for Kanha, and Vasu must accept her as she is.
Days passed, and Vasu's love for Kishori deepened. He knew his love would never reach Kishori, but still, he let his feelings flow. Kishori's devotion became an inspiration for him, and his love continued on the path of sacrifice and selflessness.
Many times, Vasu wondered if Kishori would ever understand him, or if there was any feeling hidden for him behind her devotion. But each time, Vasu would calm his heart and tell himself—
"Perhaps this is my love—to see her, to respect her devotion, without any expectations. Love is that which is nurtured without any reason, like the love of Krishna and Radha."
Vasu's love was silent before Kishori's devotion, but equally deep. He knew his place was not in Kishori's world, yet he saw her every day in his prayers, feeling connected to her.
Vasu sat by the pond, a peacock standing nearby, as if listening to his every thought. Kishori's image appeared in the ripples of the water, as if she were expressing every feeling nestled in Vasu's heart. There was a slight sadness in Vasu's eyes, clearly reflecting the struggle within him. He looked slowly towards the pond, and seeing the blooming lotus flowers there, he paused for a moment.
He reached out and plucked a beautiful pink lotus from the pond, and then looking at the peacock, he said,
"Peacock, will you do something for me?"
The peacock looked into his eyes, as if understanding Vasu's every word. Vasu gently raised the lotus flower and extended it towards the peacock, saying,
"Place this flower at the feet of my Lord, that is, Kishori. I know Kishori will accept it with the spirit of her devotion, and perhaps this flower will become a symbol of my love, dedicated at the feet of her Kanha."
Without any delay, the peacock lowered its neck and took the flower from Vasu. The shimmer of its feathers instilled a sense of hope in Vasu's eyes. Vasu gently stroked the peacock's head and said,
"You are near Kishori every day, you witness her devotion. I don't know if there is any place for my love or not, but through this flower, I want to express my feelings."
Vasu's words came from the depths of his heart. He knew that Kishori's heart had space only for Kanha, but still, his heart continued to love her, understanding her devotion. The peacock secured the flower and flew from the edge of the pond towards Kishori, who was engrossed in prayer before the idol of Kanha inside the temple.
On the way to the temple, the peacock spread its wings and began to rise slowly into the air. Vasu watched it from afar, a hope in his eyes that perhaps this lotus flower would reach Kishori as a message of his feelings.
Inside the temple—
Kishori sat at Kanha's feet, her eyes closed. The aura of her devotion spread across her face, and only Kanha's name resided in her breaths. The peacock entered the temple door and went directly to the idol of Kanha, placing the lotus flower near Kishori's feet.
Kishori slowly opened her eyes and saw the lotus flower. A slight smile appeared in her eyes, as if she were considering the flower as a blessing from God. She did not know that this flower was a symbol of Vasu's love, which was dedicated in the sky of her devotion without any fanfare.
Vasu stood outside the temple, witnessing this scene. There was a deep peace in his eyes now.
"Perhaps this is my role—to find my place in her devotion, without any expectations. This flower is just a symbol, but for me, it is the purest form of my emotions. My happiness lies in Kishori's happiness, and this is the definition of my love." Vasu:
The peacock returned and sat beside Vasu again. Vasu looked into its eyes and said with a smile,
"Thank you, Peacock. You delivered my message. I need nothing more now."
Vasu took a deep breath and looked towards the sky. He had now found the answer to his heart's restlessness. Love is not just about receiving, but about giving and dedicating.
To know what happens next, keep waiting for the next part and keep reviewing as well.
