A modest family lived in the quaint village of Pratapur, nestled amidst the lush green fields of India. Rajesh, the head of the family, was a school teacher, and his wife, Meera, was a homemaker. They had two children, Aryan and Kavya. Their home was small but filled with warmth, laughter, and the fragrance of Meera’s delicious cooking.
Rajesh believed that happiness lay in the simplest of things. Every morning, he would cycle to the local school, where he taught mathematics. His students adored him, not just for his knowledge but for his genuine care and interest in their lives. Meera managed the household gracefully, ensuring that every meal was prepared with love and every corner of their home was clean and welcoming.
In the evenings, the family would gather on their modest veranda. Aryan and Kavya would share stories from their day at school, their eyes sparkling with excitement. Rajesh would listen intently, often helping them with their homework, while Meera would knit or prepare snacks for them. Their life was simple but full of contentment.
Rajesh’s best friend, Mohan, was a farmer. They had known each other since childhood, and their bond was unbreakable. Mohan often visited Rajesh, and they would spend hours discussing everything under the sun – from local politics to the best farming techniques.
Mohan’s wife, Sita, and Meera were equally close. They often exchanged recipes, shared household tips, and supported each other through thick and thin. Their friendship was a source of immense joy and comfort. The families often spent weekends together, the children playing in the fields while the adults shared laughter and stories.
One summer, Mohan and Sita invited Rajesh’s family to spend a weekend at their farmhouse. The children were thrilled, and even Rajesh and Meera looked forward to the change of scenery. The farmhouse was surrounded by vast fields of wheat, and the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers. They spent the days exploring the fields, playing games, and relishing the simple pleasures of rural life. The weekend was a refreshing break from their routine and strengthened the bond between the two families.
Rajesh had a profound love for books. His modest collection, though small, was his treasure. He often spent his free time immersed in a novel or a biography, losing himself in the worlds created by words. He believed that books were windows to different lives and experiences, offering wisdom and solace.
One day, Aryan found a dusty old book in the attic. It was a novel that Rajesh had written long back when he was a young boy. Seeing his son’s curiosity, Rajesh decided to read the book to both Aryan and Kavya. Every night, they would gather around Rajesh as he narrated the story, his voice bringing the characters to life. This nightly ritual became a cherished tradition, instilling in the children a love for reading.
Kavya, in particular, developed a passion for poetry. She began writing her own poems, often inspired by the stories her father read. Rajesh encouraged her creativity, proud of her talent and the joy it brought her. Through books, the family discovered a shared love for stories and the immense happiness they could bring.
Every year, Rajesh saved a portion of his modest income for a family holiday. These trips were not extravagant, but they were eagerly anticipated by everyone. They would visit nearby towns, historical sites, or scenic spots, exploring new places and creating memories.
( TO BE CONTINUED)
Rajat Chandra Sarmah , Guwahati , Assam , India
17/07/2024
Email ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
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