Upon joining my new project, I realized the urgency behind my posting there. The previous Head of Project (HoP) had faced issues with union leaders despite having helped them in the past. They turned against him due to their petty interests and forced his removal taking the advantage of a weak management. Some major critical works were going on that time and removing the head of the project was a very unfortunate decision. It was a disheartening display of ingratitude and selfishness by the Unions. I took over and successfully resolved the challenges we faced, leading to a celebration. However, the union leaders were unhappy with me for not inviting them to the party.

The region faced a serious law and order problem due to insurgency-related issues then, and we lost seven employees to insurgent attacks. Union leaders caused more problems during this time, but a retired colleague volunteered to help us in our effort to restore normalcy. His commitment and involvement were commendable, and I was grateful for his support. This experience also revealed the decipherable nature of some individuals who stepped forward to help in times of crisis, even when my supposed to be friends acted indifferently. The lessons learned from these experiences were invaluable.There was no dearth of genuine friendship because for their love of a common cause and the company which can be seen at the time of crisis.

After almost three years, the union’s influence led to my abrupt transfer. I left with a heavy heart, leaving behind a dedicated team. It was a stark reminder of how human behavior could be indecipherable when friend and  colleagues conspired internally and taking advantage of the management’s incompetency and inferiority complexes.

The people are normally a selfish brute and friendship is only for good times . Incompetent people are having inferiority complex leading to jealously and external showbiz of their  superiorty but by heart they are afraid of the performers and always have the fear if  any one is not giving importance to them .

On transfer , I joined a new project where one machine was under breakdown. The project authority has made and agreement with OEM to restore the machine in six months time . I was surprised and called a meeting of my power house engineers . I convince them that we can do it in less than two months without external support and during the period I stand by my team day and night and the machine restored on 43rd day . All project engineers were happy but I created a team of enemy by doing this at head quarter and those friends taking advantage of a incompetent management harassed me like anything but I got a new group of people whom I had taken care in this journey , my friends ready to obey all my request and helping me to run the project . During this period I completed a bridge over the reservoir which was pending for 11 years. Because of the faith and respect of my team. Friendship is a matter of give and take . If you care your team and work hand in hand they always reciprocate with a helping hand . Few exceptions are always there.

Soon I was transferred to head quarter , Shillong and was given responsibility of heading several crucial departments as head . Due to the authority , I had during that time , all show me respect but I know , most of them are doing so because of the authority I had . Respect can not come due to the authority one have , this is fake . I believed that after my retirement if 5-10% of these people show me the respect , then I was successful in my job otherwise not . Those 5-10% people are genuine people who will fight with their leader when he /she was supposed to be wrong helping the leader to correct his decision. Work whole heartedly without any sweet talks and celebrate with the team on success . Success is always of a team effort and no individual can claimas his own . Only difference that counts is the leadership, whether it is decisive , compassionate and able to guide and take the team together . He is not working directly but got the work done taking the team together to achieve the objective.Soon Nina joined in my Department under me.

The corporation had introduced a system where each department presented their work, progress, and future plans to foster inter-departmental cooperation and provide insight into the corporation’s activities. I had given a critical presentation showcasing my departments works and strategies. It was well-received, and my colleague praised it as the best among several presentations from various departments already given.

After the presentation, Nina , my colleague, who had been a close friend for over 30 years, joined me to return home .We had a routine of commuting together in coming to and going back after work, and we shared a strong friendship which was for more than 30 years now.

She said the presentation was excellent, smooth, and simple, and communicated the message quite well. 

She continued, it was the best out of the four-five presentation already done in earlier months by other departments.      I came back from Delhi two days back, attending a crucial meeting. Considering the importance of this presentation, I took personal care so that the presentation should be good and carry meaningful communication with other departments and employees in simple language. It was already late as the employees and the senior management officials asked many questions. Most of the officers and Employees needed more exposure to the IT sector, I feel and try to explain in the simplest language for clarity our strategy to expand the IT facilities, the department I was Heading and the subject of that day’s presentation. She, as usual, comes to my office car, as soon as the presentation was over and together we move to her house, drop her,and come to my house. As she is not entitled to an official car then, and we have been good friends for more than thirty years, I used to pick up and drop her from her home to the office and back; sometimes I was late, or sometimes she was, but we go together after the office.

My son came on vacation. We were gossiping after our dinner and I just went to bed.But after some time, I felt very uncomfortable. My son insisted on taking me to the hospital, but I thought better. I will go in the morning.

I could not wait, and my son called my driver, who was staying nearby and at nearly 3 am, we were in a hospital. The doctor in the emergency checked up and did some tests, and told me that I had a severe heart attack ,they put me in the ICU. Until then, I was externally alright except for that uncomfortableness. Without any delay, the doctors  placed me on the ventilator, and gradually I understood I was seriously ill this time. I do not remember going to a hospital for any treatment except for the annual health check, which was mandatory. The last test was done a few months back at a renowned hospital in Delhi, and there was no heart-related issues reported. I was in Ladakh at 17000 ft for nearly 20 days for some official work three months back without any trouble. But this time, I felt I was not well, and I told my son my feeling. My wife had also reached the hospital, and my other kids were informed. And they took the earliest flight available. Through my colleagues, I sent a message to our CEO to hand over my charge to Nina, who had been under me for a substantial time in my department and knew the job. Accordingly, temporary charge order was issued. All my colleagues including my CEO, visited the Hospital and met my family, as not allowed inside the ICU. Nina also came once during my 14-day stay at the hospital in Shillong.

After my release from the hospital, I stayed two days in my house and all my well-wishers visited me but Nina whom I considered one of my best friends did not visit us or call. In the meantime, I, again, felt breathless, and I was shifted to Delhi by my family. Where I underwent a major heart surgery. And after release, I took a house for two months on rent for the post-operative checkups and all my family was with me. During the entire period, Nina calls my wife once as I cannot use the mobile.

After I was declared fit though very weak, and lost quite a few kg of my weight, and as per doctors’ advice, my CEO allowed me to join- at Guwahati office and take care of my department from Guwahati instead of going to Shillong which was very cold at December and at a high altitude. And Nina was relieved from her additional duty to supervise my office and posted to a project as head. After joining, I talked to her once but have not gotten a warm response. Later also, several times, when I called her, she, on the pretext of some meeting or some urgency, told me that she would call me back, but that never happened. During that time, her project was supposed to go on Live of digitalisation which I was heading, and there was a critical problem there. She called me at night, and I helped her to sort out the problem during that night, she was constantly in touch with me till late night and till the problem was resolved.She did not even give me a coursey call, which I was expecting as one of my best friends for the help I was providing even with my illness at midnight. Several times later, my call was not properly responded to, I did not know why she behaved that way. Nearly a year passed, and we did not even have a telephone conversation. Soon, the date of my retirement came, and all senior officers from HQ and the project called me to visit them before the farewell and also wished me best on the day I left the corporation on retirement. However, Nina did not even give me a courtesy call on my last date. I felt extremely bad, as we had been close friends for the last 36 years, and almost every day, we talked or met each other in last few years particularly when she was posted in my office. Practically we were a family sharing everything with her and sharing suggestions from time to time .Visit places on holidays together with my wife or take food in some restaurant together . Since she was staying alone , I always provide my driver to her to help her if anything is needed .But even after a year of my retirement, I did not get the call I was waiting for. The reasons of the silence best known to her only. She was the last official person I met before my incident when I went to drop her at her residence after the presentation. Till then, we had no issues, small or big at least as I know from my side.

 This was shocking for me and I could not decipher in which category , I can place this episode .Other incidents atleast I could got a reason for explaining peoples behaviour but in these case , it is a story of total Indeciferability of a friend’s behaviour who was my closest of allys for last 36 years .

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

everything happened according to God’s will and accepted the betrayals. I realized the unpredictability of friendship and never sought special favors during my 36-year career.Result – not a single foreign training assignment in my entire service live.

Soon, I was transferred to Guwahati, and after joining, I was dispatched to a project facing significant commissioning challenges. My colleagues and I spent months addressing these issues and working day and night with the project team to achieve success. Upon returning after successful completion of the job, I was quickly sent to another project to resolve another major problem there. My new boss was a competent and decisive individual, and I couldn’t discern why he favored me. He frequently sought my opinion, and when he couldn’t visit certain work sites, he would send me in his place. My role shifted from a period of personal non grata to a 24/7 commitment, including extensive travel on often difficult roads. My boss’s preferences led to some internal resentment to some of my closed friends, which I brought to the knowledge of my boss but he paid little heed to this , simply laughed away . I  proceeded as per his instructions. I felt it is difficult to built a person competent and takes lot of time but very easy to spoil him by a simple act. My belief deepened that performance that only counts in long run and gains received by other means are very temporary.

Promotion interviews took place soon, and while awaiting results, I received a call from the Personal Secretary to our new CEO, who connected me to the CEO. Our new CEO who seems to be a terror to all the senior officers.I was scared to get his call for the first time as I never had any interaction with him earlier . He asked if I could go to a project far from Guwahati that day itself, and I agreed, knowing he disliked hearing “no.” However, I suggested leaving the next morning if the matter is not such urgent  , but he wanted me there by noon the next day. To my surprise, he informed me  that I was being transferred with a promotion as Engineer in charge of the electro-mechanical works of a major project the company was undertaking. Upon reaching the project office the next day, I was astonished to find that Nina’s name was not on the promotion list, and she had been transferred from Delhi, where she had served for nearly 15 years.

I joined at my new place of posting, My task was to establish my new office since the project was in very initial stage, and I had to take charge from the head of the project who temporarily managed responsibilities of all Engineer In Charges as posting of the new officers is in process then. The engineers and staff were not located at the project site yet, the accommodations weren’t ready, and the road to the site was under construction. We had to work from our office at a small township called Bhalukpong where getting a  rental house is a big issue. Fortunately, two of my friends offered me a space in their rented house, making me the third member of their mess.An understanding friend at the time of difficulties are rare but exists.

The road from Bhalukpong to Khuppi (a small hamlet) was motorable, but from Khuppi to Kimi , where the powerhouse site was decided, the road formation cutting was going on, making it a challenging 30-kilometer journey. We established a camp at the 14-kilometer point and would walk nearly 16 kilometers to reach the site, where we focused on investigative work. It was a tough time, with frequent landslides, poor road conditions, and the constant threat of falling boulders.

Life was very tough , we all were staying in bachelor hostels temporarily made till the quarters are ready. We all work the whole day , but we were a very closely knit team taking food together , spending life in total isolation from the world and families. All are helping each other at the time of ones problem .The problem faced by all were similar and there was no probability of a transfer soon. It has given me the reason to belief that when all are having similar threat perceptions, the friendship grows , survives and can be easily interpretable.The friendship which was based on  to face similar problems together, normally survives longer and dependable .However, the same group of people will behave quite differently under different conditions.

Gradually, the road stabilized, and we started moving to our temporary accommodations and hostels, but we were totally cut off from the outside world. It took nearly two years to convince a service provider to establish temporary voice communication. Within three years, we managed to establish grid power supply, cable TV, and temporary voice communication, overcoming the challenging terrain.

I soon got a promotion to General Manager and was appointed as the Head of the Kopili Hydro Electric Project. I was instructed to shift immediately, but my colleagues there insisted on a formal farewell. The emotional farewell showed the strong bond I had with my team. They were dependable and trustworthy, and I was grateful for their support. Friendship sometimes coming from persons where you expect the least.This is pure from the heart and without any gratifications.

Rajat chandra sarmah

Email ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

website : musingofrajat.wordpress.com

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In due course, Nina found her life partner and tied the knot. Her husband worked in Delhi, and she was fortunate to secure a transfer to the same city. Their union was the culmination of a love story that had its roots in their college days, although she had kept this a secret and we got a shock when, one fine morning she disclosed about her impending marriage. Once she settled in Delhi, our official phones facilitated occasional contact. Due to my frequent visits to Delhi for project-related matters, we typically met almost every  month, aligning with my schedule in the city.

We had a favorite South Indian restaurant where we often enjoyed lunch. Nina, however, had a peculiar penchant for saree shopping, a task her husband found less than appealing. Despite my reluctance, she would drag me along, and I would inevitably find myself an unwitting participant. About a year later, it was my turn to embark on the journey of marriage. I was transferred to an interior project where telecommunication facilities were not available.

My life gradually became very hectic as the project work progressed with a tough timeline , and our interactions became infrequent. Her son, who was around 3 to 4 years old at the time and started going to school,when I left HQ Shillong for the project, . Despite the physical distance, the essence of our enduring friendship remained intact, patiently waiting for the next opportunity to rekindle the connection that had withstood the test of time and circumstances.

The days continued to pass, and my involvement in the project deepened as the completion deadline drew near. Leaving the project was becoming increasingly challenging, and even going home became a rare occurrence, I could visit my house, only after several months. My contact with Nina had dwindled to nearly nothing for almost a year, until the project was commissioned, and I finally managed to visit my family in Golaghat the nearby township from my project. During this period, we managed to get a telephone connection at my home in Golaghat. I used this new connection to call Nina a few times. The power station where I was stationed also acquired a telephone line, but it was prone to frequent outages. Nonetheless, we cherished the occasional moments when we could talk.

Soon, I was transferred back to Shillong, and after some difficulty, I got a small house on rent. However, my family remained in Golaghat. At this point, my office boss attempted to assign me work, but my colleagues who were my friends consistently thwarted his efforts, perhaps acting out of their special brand of friendship, that prevented my boss from redistributing the responsibilities. During this period, I felt like a persona non-grata. My boss was  genuinely a kind and soft-spoken person but was not a leader who preferred maintaining the status quo rather than making decisions that might displease anyone. He often encouraged me to stay at home, with my  family telling me that I had worked tirelessly on the most difficult project for several years and need some good time. The actual reason for my marginalization was clear to me. Some close friends and officers of my rank in the office were hesitant to share their responsibilities, as it might lead to their transfers from Shillong to remote locations. My boss, not inclined to wield his authority, chose not to displease them. This arrangement made me happy as it had allowed me to spend more time with my family without officially taking leave. My boss seemed relieved when I didn’t visit his chamber, given him relieve from the unease when I happens to visit his chamber.So my absence from station is a win win situation for me and him both and also given me a opportunity to understand more of the behaviour of friends . When someones interest is at stake , friendship is coming much below than the self interest, this is clearly deciferable . So long, ones interest is not affected , we are good friends.

This experience reinforced the lesson that power and friendship often don’t coexist harmoniously. The external demeanor people project themselves can be quite different from their internal motivations and compulsions. What someone holds in their mind may sharply in contrast with their external dealings with a lovely smile. When we initially joined the corporation, we were proud of the camaraderie and cooperation among our batch, but over time, as we climbed the corporate ladder, we observed a transformation. Friendship became an decipherable code,self is always first and the complexities of human behavior are revealing gradually with time. This was my another lesson on learning friendship which I did not realised earlier and experience taught me a tough lesson. 

During my time in Shillong after I joined there,for the first time, I stayed for a long period span of nearly eight years, I was retained against my wishes, despite my repeated requests for a change. This period of stay, taught me invaluable lessons. Sitting at the headquarters did little to boost my confidence in making independent decisions as required to be done by project officers. My work kept me so occupied that I had little time for anything else without any supporting hand being provided after a lot of requests and reporting directly to the Chief.

During this period, six lists for foreign training opportunities were released for officials at my level. With substantial daily allowances in Dollars. I was informed that my name appeared on the first list, but to my disappointment, the sixth list was also published, and my name was absent from all of them. Later, I discovered that some of my friends had played an important role in this which can be very easily understandable as when own interest comes , who is a friend ? Eventually,one day, my Director called me to his office, expressed regret, and mentioned a mistake in the lists. He assured me that I would be sent for foreign training against another project which is due in the coming months. However, six more lists were released for that project too, and my name did not appear on any of them. I felt hurt, but I chose not to confront anyone or seek recourse through official channels. Instead, I silently believed that everything occurred according to divine will. This allowed me to find solace, even though a lingering sense of betrayal remained.Here also someone closed to me played his role.Flattering is liked by all specifically those who are incompetent or have a vested interest or indebted to someone for something or other . Expecting justice from such people are meaningless.

Rajat chandra sarmah

Mail ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

With a mix of fear and anticipation, I entered the office. My eyes quickly scanned the nameplates on each room until I found the door to the office chamber of the Chief Engineer, the head of the department. His personal secretary, a lovely Khasi lady with a warm smile, greeted me. She appeared to be around 40, dressed in traditional Khasi attire and spoke fluent English. With a friendly tone, she inquired about my identity. Her smile was infectious and talked attractively.

I explained that I had been posted to the office and had come to join. She ushered me into her room and offered me a chair before returning to her typewriter. Soon, her intercom rang, and she hurried to the Chief Engineer’s chamber. After a while, she returned with a smile and gestured for me to enter his office.

“Good morning, sir,” I greeted, feeling a touch of apprehension as I opened the door.

He seemed to be in his mid-50s, with a substantial build, a figure of wisdom and warmth greeted me with a smile, as I noticed the enchanting setting of his chamber. He invited me to sit and warmly welcomed me. He pressed the intercom, summoning a young man in his thirties, who was both tall and handsome. The Chief Engineer ordered tea for both of us. As we sipped our tea, he inquired about my background, including my education and family. He offered his assistance in finding a rented house in Shillong as the company has no official quarters available at the Head Quarter and is only available at project sites, briefed me about the weather in Shillong, and addressed various topics other than the work. He appeared to be a kind and fatherly figure. Later I came to know he is also a taskmaster and strict in maintaining discipline.

He called in his personal secretary, Mrs Kharkhonger, as I know from the nameplate in her room and instructed her to introduce me to the administrative officer, Mr Roy, who sits on the second floor. The Chief Engineer extended his best wishes as I left his office, and I expressed my gratitude before departing.

Mrs. Kharkhonger accompanied me to Mr. Roy’s office, she introduced me to Mr Roy and left. Once the joining formalities were completed, Mr. Roy, a pleasant personality in his late fifties, guided me on the next steps. He also mentioned that another colleague from our appointment list had recently joined. Mr. Roy organized a meal for me through Sharma, the young man who had served tea in the Chief Engineer’s chamber. This was December, and Shillong was experiencing chilly weather. All the rooms were equipped with charcoal stoves as the primary source of warmth. Electric heaters were not commonly used, as far as I could see. After attending to my joining procedures and enjoying a satisfying lunch, I gathered as much information as I could, from Mr. Roy. He also assured me that warm clothing would be provided in the guest house where my accommodation was arranged temporarily. I left his office with a pleasant experience. Mr Roy’s friendly assistance made me feel comfortable

After completing my tasks, I visited the colleague who joined a few days ago to gain insights into the office and our responsibilities. My specific duties were already outlined in my appointment letter. Our colleague’s room was a spacious hall where she sat with another officer. She was of medium height, tanned-skinned, wearing a churidar suit, a long overcoat, a muffler, and a woollen cap. Only her eyes, mouth and nose were visible. It was a frigid month, and charcoal stoves provided the necessary warmth. We were formally introduced and quickly became friends due to our similar wavelengths.

Both of them were from Shillong and promised to assist me in finding a rented house. They explained the office’s organisation and emphasized the importance of discipline, but also noted that the senior officers were cooperative and helpful. The girl, Nina, introduced me to some of the senior officers in the office. I was impressed by the homely and supportive atmosphere, although I didn’t spend much time with them, as everyone appeared quite busy.

During our initial meeting, the Chief Engineer informed me that he wouldn’t assign me any work for the first week so that I could settle in comfortably. The workload was substantial, and everyone was deeply engrossed in their tasks. I expressed my gratitude to Nina for introducing me to the senior officers. 

The nights were exceptionally cold, and the blankets provided at the guest house were insufficient, forcing me to light the charcoal stove in the middle of the night. I shivered through the night, and the mornings were equally freezing. I shared my ordeal with Nina the following morning, and she expressed genuine concern. Since Saturday and Sunday were our weekly off days, and it was a Friday evening, I decided to travel to Guwahati to arrange warm clothes and additional blankets. On Sunday, I returned to Shillong well-prepared for the cold. From Monday onward, my primary task was finding a rented house.

During those days, two more officers from our list joined, and we worked collectively to find a suitable accommodation. We often returned to the office, sat in front of Nina’s desk, and had lunch from Sharma. We would then head out to inspect properties recommended by various sources. Nina also generously shared special homemade dishes packed by her mother. Soon, we secured a house near the office, and though it wasn’t in perfect condition, it was habitable. The three of us decided to share the house and began preparing our own meals. The first few days were challenging, but we quickly honed our cooking skills. Although Nina offered advice on cooking, we were sceptical of her culinary expertise, as her mother typically prepared her meals. We occasionally cheekily sampled her tiffin when she wasn’t around and filled her tiffin box with items from the sharma’s basket. 

As I became more deeply involved in office responsibilities and travelled extensively for work, I was given a separate room on the first floor. Nina normally came to my room to exchange morning greetings or have a cup of tea sometimes. I also visited her during lunchtime to enjoy her mother’s delicious preparations. Additionally, Sharma became our go-to for lunch and tea, carrying a bamboo basket filled with snacks. In Shillong, people consumed copious amounts of tea, and I, too, developed a penchant for black tea, perhaps due to the cold weather.

The four of us soon formed an inseparable bond, caring for each other like family. One of our friends, Paresh, had a girlfriend in Shillong who was undergoing her Post Graduate Research. The five of us would often embark on day trips, either on Saturdays or Sundays, carrying our food from the guest house or Sharma, ordering in advance. We sang, danced, gossiped, cracked jokes, and playfully targeted each other for amusement. Nina and Momi, Paresh’s girlfriend, were talented singers, adding to our enjoyment. We would return home exhausted but delighted. We used to drop Nina at her house, where her father, deeply concerned for his only daughter, treated her with great care like a kid, sometimes leading to her annoyance. 

 One evening, during a senior officer’s marriage celebration, the event ran late, and Nina grew worried. She informed me that she could not utilise my car because the driver was heavily intoxicated. I was also drunk then,  I had no alternative but offered to drive her home to ensure her safety. When we arrived, we saw her father waiting outside their house, the last house on the end of the bye lane at an elevation at that late hour in the cold. I dropped her off on the road instead of going to her home, avoiding interaction with her father, given my own intoxicated condition.

The following day, we were eager to hear what transpired with her father the previous night. To our relief, it was nothing more than a fatherly exchange of advice.

Days unfolded, strengthening the bond of our friendship. Her parents were well-acquainted with our close-knit group of five, Occasionally, we would receive invitations for meals or special treats her mother prepared. As time passed, all but Nina and I found their life partners, and our weekly gatherings became less frequent. Nevertheless, Nina and I would occasionally venture to the market for shopping. lunch or just roaming around the city although my project workload kept me busy even on holidays.

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

( My earlier story Indeciferable Friendship is rewritten as advised by some of my friends)

Email ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

However, the problem started with the stage arrangements as both the guest artists had different kinds of requirements and there was a delay in appointing the subcontractor. Bikash himself started negotiating with both the guest artist and after several rounds of meetings and cajoling efforts made by Bikash, a midway was found. Still, there was a substantial delay in the process and the subcontractor had to deploy additional manpower and equipment, costing some additional payment to them. As a  Leader Bikash built relationships with the artists, fostering trust and collaboration which solved the problem. He conveys the vision of the event to the guest artists and inspires them to deliver their best. 

Back up the power supply and the acoustic arrangement was made. The performance can be visible from all the stadium galleries with display boards all around. The stage design was approved by Bikash after consulting the two guest artists through video conferencing and their team of experts in sound and internal space arrangement for their pieces of equipment etc. Everything was going on at a breakneck speed and no one had time for rest. One day the Directors and the CEO, came to the ground and saw the people working the way he never expected, they seemed to be very happy and did not wait long and praised Bikash and his team.

 The other group, completed their sponsorship targets and started the booking of tickets as fixed by Bikash and no management approval was sought. Necessary provisions for free tickets for the VVIPs, patrons and other invited guest was kept in excess so that there should not be any problem later.

 The third group organised six groups of different ethnic troupes to display their music and dance for 5 minute slot to every group and another 10 minutes were kept for our in-house talents to show their performance. Every front was going fine and all the people, with the proper guidance of Bikash working round the clock. There were no complaints or fatigue when they saw their leader working round the clock with their hand in hand. Bikash arranged for food for all the workforce at locations so that time is not wasted. Bikash as the Leader ensured the team was aligned with the vision of the event, motivated and mobilised the teams, emphasizing the significance of the chosen event for the company in realizing the event’s goals.

As the event date approached, chaos began to surface with some panic reactions on some small issues as the people were nervous, Bikash understood the same and convinced the team to be relaxed and think coolly. It’s during this phase that the contrast between managing and leading becomes most evident. Bikash played the role of leadership perfectly while his managers were in a panic.

 But suddenly a major problem arose as one of the main sponsors suddenly withdrew from the programme and we are totally at a loss for what to do. Bikash started contacting all possible places and likely, he was able to convince one to our rescue. The decision to sue the defaulter sponsor was sent to our company’s legal department. Bikash coordinated with all the managers, so that, we were ready in all respects two days before the show and had a relaxed day previous to the day of the show.

He goes on checking each and every activity so that there is no missing link. 

All hotel rooms were checked, the menu was finalised and transport was arranged at various locations as necessary. 

With a clear concept and planning, the morning meeting everyday discusses any pending issues related to the Venue and provision of logistics in coordination with the performing groups , coordination of the Two groups and a break for the local artists, ticketing and sponsoring the team and their progress and concerns, security and crowd management, Liasioning with the state departments and personnel security staff of the artists technical audio/video, lighting and backups,  hospitality for the visiting artist like accommodation, catering and backstage arrangements and decisions taken at those meeting itself and managers were allowed to take some on the spot decisions. After the sponsorship issue was settled, things came under control and we were all sure of a grand evening. 

 Bikash was a relaxed man.

He called me to his room, ordered a fine scotch and both of us enjoyed it and hoped everything would go fine. 

We had full rehearsal two days before the show and the shortcomings that came to light were rectified. The Artists and their instruments started arriving and our respective teams were busy along with our subcontractor to putting them in the right place. Even then It was backstage, where performers, technicians, and organizers moved with a sense of urgency that bordered on chaos. The pressure here was palpable, like the rising action in a story.

  The dummy performers, adorned in dazzling costumes, were busy with last-minute rehearsals, nervous energy coursing through their veins. Their voices, usually so powerful on stage, were now reduced to hushed whispers, exchanging quick reminders and well-wishes.

 Technicians scurried about, adjusting lighting rigs, testing sound systems, and ensuring that every technical aspect was flawless. The weight of the entire production seemed to rest on their shoulders.

 One team were juggling multiple tasks, from resolving unexpected issues to coordinating the arrival of VIP guests. They were managing a never-ending list of to-dos, trying to maintain a semblance of order amid the chaos.

As the minutes ticked away, the tension in the backstage area reached its climax. The culmination of months of hard work, creativity, and dedication was about to unfold on the stage. The pressure was at its zenith, and just like the turning point in a story, it was time for the grand reveal.

At last the final day arrived, All were tense, Bikash with his smiling face encouraging everyone, but I know internally he was also very tense as everything was on his head but not show his nervousness to anyone.

And ultimately, the moment arrived. The curtains were lifted, and the stage was gradually illuminated and soon bathed in a flood of lights and the stadium gallery lights were gradually put off. The audience erupted into applause, and the pressure building behind the scenes shifted. This was the showtime pressure, akin to the climactic moment in a story.

The team previously nervous and anxious, transformed into radiant stars. Their voices soared, their movements were impeccable, and they delivered their best. The pressure that had gripped them was now channelled into their grand performances in all the front.

Technicians, who had meticulously set the stage, now operated with precision and grace. Their efforts were hidden behind the scenes, but they were the backbone of the show’s success.

Bikash watched from the wings, their faces a mix of anxiety and pride. They had navigated the backstage chaos to bring forth this spectacle, and now they were witnessing the audience’s emotional engagement, the true climax of the story. The CEO was interacting with the VVIP guests and sponsors. Things seem to be going  well.

As the musical reached its crescendo, the showtime pressure reached its peak. Every note, every step, and every lighting cue executed flawlessly. The audience was captivated, transported into a world of music and magic. The pressure was no longer a burden; it was the force that had created this unforgettable moment.

In the grand musical show, just like in a compelling story, the backstage pressure and the showtime pressure were essential elements, each playing a distinct role in the unfolding narrative of art and entertainment.

After the first group’s enthralling performance, the local folk and musical troup presented their performance. It was a brilliant performance and the crowd was shouting all along enjoying the show, which they had not expected, then came our team, They were a bit nervous at the beginning but overall people liked it as we were changing from one theme to another from the word go.

Bikash and I were behind the stage relaxing taking a scotch as the show going as planned when the second group entered the stage. There were loud noises from the crowd as people mainly came for his and his team’s performances. Shouting and singing and dancing by the audience along with the artist going on in full swing.

As the final notes of the grand musical show reverberated through the venue, the audience’s thunderous applause signalled not only the end of the performance but also the conclusion of a remarkable story. The performers took their well-deserved bows, their faces radiant with the knowledge that they had brought a magical tale to life.

Backstage, the pressure that had been building for weeks now dissolved into relieved smiles and tears of joy. Technicians shared a moment of satisfaction, knowing that their unseen efforts had contributed to this unforgettable night. The Organizers, our company CEO, Bikash and all of us too, breathed a collective sigh of relief, proud of the show’s success.

In that moment, it became evident that the grand musical show was more than just a performance; it was a narrative in itself, filled with dedication, passion, and the pursuit of perfection. The story had reached its resolution, leaving a lasting memory in the hearts of all who had been part of it, both on and off the stage. It is a triumph of the leadership.

And so, as the curtain fell and the stage lights dimmed with stadium lights coming back, the grand musical show came to an end, but its story lived on in the hearts of the audience, the performers, the technicians, and the organizers. It was a tale of pressure and climax, of hard work and creativity, and of the transformative power of music and art. A story that would be retold, cherished, and remembered for years to come. Bikash’s leadership made it possible and he showed how a team to be led, involving them totally, encouraging them to share their ideas and always smiling even in the most critical situations and all credit for success is given to the team.  

                                         ******************CONCLUDED***********************

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

Mail ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

After finishing the coffee, he told me to have my notebook and scribble down the points whatever was coming to his mind and I knew it would be revised several times before giving the final shape. 

Organising a musical show on such a large scale, was a difficult job and considering the timeline it needs meticulous planning going out of the standard practices, decisions should be quick and easy to implement but there should be some X factor which makes it different from the normal shows.  A musical concert involves capturing the grandeur, excitement, and anticipation of the event and something more, the X factor, so that the audience keeps in their memory that something extra that was offered in this show. 

Visiting the Venue, is a priority, the spectacular setting for an unforgettable musical extravaganza! Nestled in the heart of the state, this state-of-the-art facility has to be carefully designed to provide an unparalleled experience for both performers and audiences alike. With world-class acoustics, a seating capacity of around ten thousand spectators, additional arrangements for patrons, sponsors and VVIPs, and cutting-edge lighting and sound systems, should be perfect and a perfect canvas for the grandest of musical productions.

Behind the scenes, the success of a large musical show relies heavily on effective leadership. The team, comprising producers, directors, and various production staff, plays pivotal roles in ensuring every aspect of the show, runs seamlessly. As a leader, Bikash has to arrange, coordinate and give a final result to the audience where all in the team combined have given their best and extraordinary satisfaction can be given to the spectator and all the team members should feel happy with his role.

 Bikash told me to call an urgent meeting of all the team members from the different departments the next day morning to have first-hand information about the diverse personalities and skills of the team and how the main character of the team dynamics and navigate with them to build their trust before selecting the team members to be approved by his management.  Thereafter to finalise the way forward, discuss and involve each one of them where they best fit. A detailed brainstorming where everybody’s ideas will be heard before making a final road map. As I know, the working of Bikash, always hears everybody before a decision but when a decision is taken there will be no compromises, all have to follow.  He always prefers a slim team as any extra will make the going difficult. Bikash took out his phone and talked to his CEO about certain things like the probable budget and who the artiste be coming as the main guest performers. The total duration of the programme, security responsibilities etc. to have a rough idea, of how he should move. Our team was very happy when they heard Bikash would act as their team leader for this major event, who always helps them to grow and always takes the blame on his head when something goes wrong. So people working under a very supportive leader like Bikash make them feel secure and always ready to give their best.

The next day after breakfast, we all met in the conference room and Bikash as usual in a relaxing mood, talked to the team about the event. He talked in such a way that if it is not a big thing, we can easily do it.  But I know by heart he must be having something in his mind which will come out in the latter part of the meeting. The Venue was already finalised and the necessary permission was already taken, security is not our responsibility, the same will be taken care of the government security and personal security of the artists. But we have to liaise with both to avoid any last-minute disruptions. I was surprised when Bikash told, our team that the performers were already world-known figures, our own artists and we must also take advantage of this show and arrange something from our company’s artists to perform something good to show our talents without any negative effect on the show. our team was delighted, even a 2-3-minute slot for them in between would be exceptional. I know, Bikash was telling this to make the team more active. Participating and happy.

The meeting was going on regarding planning, co-ordinations with various agencies involved and our internal team members, fast decision-making arrangements considering available time, selecting our best talents and motivating them to deliver their best performances in different areas of the total show and also perform in the show if get a chance. They also provide guidance and feedback to help performers reach their potential.

Another major hurdle was to make the budget and  Resource Management. Allocating not only the budget but also the best possible human resources to handle the responsibilities given to them, Managing budgets, allocating resources, and making strategic investments at the right time to maximize the show’s impact without overspending.

Bikash also talked about the marketing strategy to ensure the show reaches its target audience effectively, driving ticket sales and creating buzz.

We should also assess potential risks and develop contingency plans to address emergencies, ensuring the show can go on even in challenging situations, Bikash explained.

Engagement of the  Audience should be focussed on creating an emotional connection with the show, enhancing their experience and leaving a lasting impression. The public relation team need to be active immediately with their plan on this.

He encouraged everyone in our team to speak about the event-specific points with their prior experiences and imagination to identify the risk areas and our strengths leaving the weak points for later discussion so that enthusiasm of the team in the first meeting remains high and they came out with something beautiful and new.

 It was an enthralling discussion and all participated with their captivating ideas as advised by my boss Bikash, I noted down the headlines to work further, A team of four persons were made as a core group to decide instantly anything that needed a decision and reporting to Bikash.  Bikash takes responsibility for connecting the team with externals like the management, artists, security agencies etc including the risk analysis,  so that the team can concentrate on actual work and not be deflected to day-to-day issues. The meeting ended with the resolve that as a team we should show to all, that we are the best and that we can take the challenge of organising events of this scale where national and international audiences will be attending in addition to artists of great fame. The Japanese idea of “kaizen” will be adopted to make ourselves aware and better every day by meeting for 10 minutes each morning. Everybody will know during these 10 minutes the critical areas, and where we stand every day and resources can be allocated reshuffled or added in the critical areas.

The meeting was over after nearly three long hours, Bikash and I were taking lunch in the office canteen. Bikash seemed to be very happy with the outcome and told me to fix an official meeting with the management in the evening and jot down the major points, if possible to prepare a few slides for the presentation of critical points to them. I know Bikash, he is always reluctant to take responsibility but when decides to take it, he gives his hundred per cent, and more than that he brings out more than a hundred per cent from the team, always patting their back and encouraging everyone that they can do it, It makes a great difference and people willingly volunteered for additional responsibilities. He talks to the top management point blank, about his requirements and where he needs complete independence without any interference. Some like his attitude, some hate it but no one can ignore him as he proved to be the best under such pressing situations and responsibilities always coming his way.

The CEO kept the meeting at 5 pm, all his Directors were present and with a very cordial atmosphere, the CEO started the discussion. He praised Bikash for taking the responsibility and wished that if we could successfully organise the programme, our reputation, as well as market value, would increase manyfold. Bikash then thanked everyone present there and took permission to present the slides that I prepared as per Bikash’s instructions an hour ago. 

Organizing a major music show is a thrilling endeavour that blends artistry, logistics, and leadership. Behind the scenes of a spectacular concert or music festival lies a whirlwind of chaos and pressure. This comprehensive exploration delves into the intricacies of managing and leading such an event, differentiating between the roles of a manager and a leader. From the initial planning stages to the electrifying moments on stage, we’ll journey through the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned in the world of musical event management. The journey of organizing a major music show of this magnitude begins long before the first note rings out in the venue. It commences with  meticulous planning and extensive preparation.

Bikash shouldered the responsibility of the journey of organizing this massive music show, understanding that meticulous planning and preparation were the keys. As the program’s leader, from the beginning, he tried to clarify the vision, motivate the team, and instil purpose. Each manager overseeing different aspects assessed their targets based on the expected audience preferences, stage and seating arrangements, musician details, power supply, and other essentials, to frame a clear publicity slogan and communicate with the public with various available platforms. All these are to be scrutinized and executed within a strict timeline.

In his initial discussion with the management of his company CEO and Directors, Bikash inquired about the budget, profit expectations, and agreements with artists, venue, and logistics. The Finance head confirmed agreements with two big and famous artist groups and the central covered stadium as the proposed venue. But the remaining details of expenses are being worked out. Bikash requested an estimated expenditure to secure sponsors and determine ticket prices, emphasizing the need for some decision-making authority to be delegated to him due to time constraints. He aimed to attract more sponsors to fill the stadium to capacity while the CEO prioritized the program’s success over profit, though profit was still essential. This collaborative discussion granted them full management authority.

Although the event’s duration was approximately three hours, Bikash had decided to extend it to four hours, reserving 45 minutes for local folk music teams between the two artist groups. Within this, they allocated 10 minutes for our own artist’s performance as discussed in the morning.  These will create the desired x-factor for the audience coming from outside to have a feel of the local folk music and the inclusion of our artist for 10 minutes makes them fully involved. I simply praised, Bikash for his thinking which was really unique. Working late, we calculated the total event expenses, aiming to recover 85-90% from sponsors and 30% from ticket sales, resulting in a reasonable 15-20% profit.

The following morning, Bikash and his core team visited the venue, finalized the stage and power details, and urged management to conclude pending agreements.

The role of Bikash as the leader of this program is to clarify the vision to the managers working under him, energise the team and instil a sense of purpose.  On the basis of this vision, the individual managers heading the different activities will identify their target based on the anticipated audience, research their probable likings or dislikes, the stage arrangement, seating arrangement for audiences and patrons, sponsors and VVIPs, team members of the musicians, their pieces of equipment, power supply and backup and such other details. All has to be scrutinised to the minutest detail and implemented within a set timeline.

Bikash prioritises his marketing team to gather as many sponsors at the earliest so that the fund is not a constraint and one team looks at all the pieces of information required from the visiting artists and their team and their requirements to start with. The arrangement of the stage is decided to be sublet to another professional company who have rich experience in the same as we do not have manpower or expertise. The third group of team members decided on the local folk musical team and accommodations etc for them as they considered the opportunity they got, and did not charge anything except transportation, accommodation and food. This team also preparing a few from our company who will get 10 minutes for their performance.  The three teams were working under a manager each and I was assisting Bikash. All the people got suddenly extremely busy. With inspiration from Bikash who had a great memory of calling everyone by name and was always helpful and encouraging. Never showed his temper to anyone though sometimes he was annoyed with some people, but never expressed his anger to them. 

Gradually, we started getting sponsors and it seems that maybe the whole expenses may be covered with the sponsored money. So we have the confidence now to spend a bit more to make the function more and more attractive.

Rajat chandra sarmah

mail ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

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Inspiring Leadership

I found Bikash sitting in the dimly lit coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the hum of conversation around him. He was lost in thought, staring at his laptop screen as if the answers he was seeking were hidden in the pixels. I was looking at him standing in his front without disturbing awakening him from his deep thought. He seems to be at a loss in his thought and do not know what is happening around him with his eyes fixed on the laptop screen.

After a few quiet moments, he looked at me and lifted his eyes from his laptop.

I was waiting for him to speak and ordered coffee for both. He said sorry, as he thought it was his duty to order for his friend but he had been in a different world for some time in the last few hours maybe. He started-

The email had arrived that morning from his CEO, and its contents had turned his world upside down. He, Bikash Barua, a quiet and unassuming individual who preferred the comfort of background to avoid publicity, had been appointed as the leader of a team tasked with organizing the most extravagant music concert the city had ever seen. The time was too short and though he managed a lot of events, the music concert was something new for him.

As he sipped his coffee, a montage of doubts and uncertainties swirled in his mind. He was a meticulous planner, always more comfortable analyzing spreadsheets than addressing a crowd. Yet, here he was, entrusted the responsibility of managing a show that would draw thousands and leave no room for error.

The concert was just months away, and the team was a diverse mix of talents, each with their strong personal opinions and egos. They had been counting on a seasoned leader, leading from the front and not someone who had always been content to be a supporting player.

Taking a deep breath, Bikash closed his laptop and looked out of the coffee shop window. The bustling city seemed to echo his internal turmoil. He knew he had a choice to make – accept the challenge or let the opportunity slip through his fingers. The show must go on, as they say, and Bikash knows very well, about the difference between playing the game and leading the team from the front. It sets his leadership quality to not only managing a show but keeping the team spirit high while bringing out, new ways to uplift the team spirit and bringing them out from their Egos to get the best out of them. 

Suddenly, Bikash reopened his Laptop, replied to the message he received some time ago and confirmed his acceptance. I was just an onlooker of what was going on. He smiled and ordered two more coffees, relaxed as the decision was taken, and he would take the challenge and start right away. I know Bikash very well, he took some time to make such a major decision and when he decided to act, he became a different man altogether. He has his own working style, which raises the morale of the team without putting a lot of pressure on them so that the team perform comfortably, coming out with their ideas, and with a team meeting he decides how to go and who to do what. I Know Bikash is doing his job for his satisfaction and not for the money only and if he finds the matter will not give him a goosebump, he will not take it.

I was quite happy with Bikash and his decision to take the challenge. We enjoyed our cup of Coffee. Bikash is taking the job means, I am on duty right way as his secretary and friend.

Rajat Ch Sarmah

Mail ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

PART FIVE

The echoes of that fateful night lingered, not as distant memories, but as twisted remnants of a nightmare that refused to be forgotten. In the aftermath of the curse’s breaking, Manikpur bore the scars of its haunted history. The townspeople, though relieved, couldn’t shake the unease that clung to the air like a malevolent fog.

As days turned into nights, a chilling stillness settled over Manikpur. The once-revitalized library, now stripped of its spectral inhabitants, stood eerily silent. The investigators, haunted by the lingering shadows of that accursed night, found no solace in the newfound tranquillity.

Dipen, the self-proclaimed ghost hunter, was plagued by visions of the icy grip on his shoulder and the spectral faces that had tormented him in the library. Sleep became a battleground between nightmares and waking terror, each night a descent into a realm where the line between reality and haunting illusions blurred.

The other investigators shared their torment. The library, though freed from the curse, cast a long, foreboding shadow over their lives. Unsettling whispers echoed in their minds, and the oppressive silence of the night became a canvas for unseen horrors.

Santa, the young librarian whose curiosity had unwittingly unravelled the curse, felt a gnawing guilt. The ritual that had liberated the town had exacted a toll on her sanity. Strange visions haunted her waking hours, and the walls of the library seemed to close in around her, suffocating in their silent accusation.

One moonless night, the investigators found themselves drawn back to the library as if an unseen force compelled them to confront the horrors they thought they had left behind. The air hung heavy with dread as they crossed the threshold, the doors creaking ominously behind them.

Inside, the library appeared unchanged, frozen in a spectral limbo. The faint glow of the torches cast distorted shadows on the walls, creating an illusion of movement among the forgotten tomes. The investigators exchanged uneasy glances, their haunted eyes reflecting the collective torment that had become their reality.

As they delved deeper into the library’s depths, an otherworldly chill seeped through their bones. The oppressive silence whispered tales of unresolved anguish, and the air crackled with an unseen energy. The investigators’ breaths hitched, caught in a symphony of disquiet that resonated with the library’s haunted history.

Santa, guided by an unseen force, led the group to the room where she had performed the ritual. The atmosphere grew increasingly stifling as they approached as if the very walls recoiled at their presence. The grand chandelier, once a malevolent pendulum casting grotesque shadows, now hung in a frozen dance, its crystals glinting with a sinister gleam.

Suddenly, the torches flickered and died, plunging the room into impenetrable darkness. The investigators, gripped by an instinctive fear, fumbled for their flashlights, their beams revealing an unsettling sight. The ghostly apparitions, once freed, now lingered in the shadows, their hollow eyes filled with accusation.

A mournful tune echoed through the library, the distant strains of a piano playing in a long-forgotten chamber. The investigators, paralyzed by a mix of horror and disbelief, watched as the spectral figures approached. Unseen hands tugged at their clothing, and icy gusts whispered chilling secrets in their ears.

Santa started chanting again with a trembling voice, the professor was a very worried man. Dipen was looking at the going on silently. Suddenly Meena appeared all in white with her hollow eyes. tears coming out of her hollow eyes cursing Santa for all whatever she was doing. Suddenly with a bang, she disappeared with a wild sound, the whole library was vibrating. All hear clearly Meena was saying – I am leaving this place now forever Gradually her voice faded and the light of the building came back. All looking at each other in astonishment. Finally, the horror for Manikpur vanished into the thin air.

There was peace in Manikpur thereafter. People show their gratefulness to Santa, Dipen and Professor. people started coming back to the library and life gradually became normal once again.

Rajat chandra sarmah

Mail ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

Santa feeling the weight of the malevolence that permeated the Manikpur Library, sought the assistance of a local historian, Professor Arjun Rai. His reputation for uncovering forgotten histories made him the ideal ally in her quest. Santa meets the old historian with a white long beard and a thick cylindrical spectacle which is resting more on his nose. He asked Santa what had led her to the old man. Santa explained everything in detail what had happened till now and about the leather book and various indecipherable symbols in it. The old man listened to Santa very carefully without any question asked directly looking at her eyes. As soon as Santa completed her story, the professor said that he had read something about these happenings and agreed to work with her to solve the mystery. The two embarked on a chilling journey into the depths of the town’s past, unaware of the horrors that awaited them. Dipen was also becoming a part of the combined effort to solve the puzzle

The professor’s cluttered study, filled with ancient tomes and dusty manuscripts, became the nexus of their investigation. Santa, with trepidation, laid out her findings, the symbols and accounts of the malevolent spirits haunting the library. Professor Rai’s eyes widened as he perused the material, a mixture of fascination and dread etched across his face.

Together, they combed through the archives, unearthing forgotten letters and diaries that hinted at the town’s darkest secrets. The professor’s fingers traced the inked words of a letter from the 19th century, detailing a tragic event that had been systematically erased from the town’s collective memory.

The letter spoke of a grand celebration held in the library to mark the completion of a mysterious construction project. The townsfolk gathered with jubilation, unaware of the ominous undercurrents that lurked beneath the festivities. The celebration took a sinister turn as the clock struck midnight, triggering a series of events that plunged the library into a nightmarish abyss.

As Professor Rai and Santa delved further into the accounts of witnesses, they uncovered a malevolent force known as the “Eclipse Entity.” The entity, once dormant, had been awakened by the ritualistic celebration, its hunger for despair and sorrow unquenchable. The grand celebration had unwittingly become a summoning, opening a gateway to a realm of desolation.

The descriptions of the ensuing chaos were harrowing. Shadows came to life, twisting and contorting into grotesque shapes. Unearthly cries echoed through the library, and the air thickened with a suffocating darkness. Witnesses spoke of apparitions that bore the faces of loved ones, twisted into expressions of agony.

The Eclipse Entity, drawn to the anguish of the townsfolk, fed on their deepest fears, manifesting them into grotesque illusions. The celebration turned into a nightmarish tableau of despair, and those who had once revelled in joy now found themselves ensnared in a labyrinth of horror.

In the depths of the library, witnesses recounted a spectral figure, known as the “Harbinger of Shadows,” emerging from the shadows to claim the souls trapped within the malevolent realm. The Harbinger, a spectral entity with hollow eyes, moved with otherworldly grace, snuffing out the light of hope wherever it went.

The professor and Santa exchanged uneasy glances as they pieced together the tragic events that had unfolded. It was a story of a town oblivious to the darkness that lurked within its own heart, a celebration that had become a conduit for ancient evil, and a malevolent force that feasted on the collective despair of the townspeople.

The more they uncovered, the more the lines between past and present blurred. Sarah felt a chill run down her spine as if the very air around them held echoes of the anguish that had once gripped the library. The forgotten history was a tapestry of terror, woven with threads of sorrow and malevolence.

Determined to confront the Eclipse Entity and put an end to the haunted legacy, Santa, Dipen and Professor Rai delved deeper into the forgotten rituals that had summoned the malevolent force. They uncovered an ancient incantation, hidden within the library’s depths, that held the key to sealing the gateway and banishing the malevolent spirits once and for all.

Their quest took them to the heart of the library, where the air hung heavy with a palpable malevolence. The grand chandelier, a relic from the ill-fated celebration, swayed with an eerie resonance, casting grotesque shadows on the walls. The symbols etched into the architecture seemed to pulse with otherworldly energy, reacting to the presence of those seeking to unravel the past. With whatever clues they gathered and joined the zigsaw, they decided to go again to the library.

As they recited the ancient incantation, the very fabric of reality seemed to tremble. The room darkened, and the temperature plummeted, creating an otherworldly chill that cut through their very souls. Whispers, a haunting chorus of voices from the past, echoed through the chamber, revealing the pain and despair that had lingered for centuries.

Suddenly, the shadows came alive, swirling and coalescing into a manifestation of the Eclipse Entity. The Harbinger of Shadows emerged, its hollow eyes fixed on Santa and Professor Rai with a malevolence that transcended time. The air crackled with an unholy energy as the entity sought to snuff out the last remnants of hope.

With the flickering light of the professor’s lantern and Santa’s unwavering determination, they pressed on, the ancient incantation guiding them through the spectral maelstrom. The Harbinger, sensing the threat to its existence, unleashed illusions of torment and despair, but Santa and Professor Rai pressed forward, their resolve unbroken.

As they reached the climax of the incantation, the very foundations of the library seemed to quake. The Harbinger convulsed its form contorting in a ghastly display of agony. The symbols etched into the walls glowed with an intense radiance, pushing back the suffocating darkness that had gripped the chamber.

In a final crescendo, the ancient incantation reached its zenith. A blinding light enveloped the room, casting away the shadows that clung to the library’s legacy. The Eclipse Entity howled, its malevolent presence dissipating like dissipating mist, leaving behind an eerie silence.

As the light receded, Santa and Professor Rai found themselves standing in the now-hallowed chamber. The grand chandelier hung motionless, its chains no longer swaying with malevolent intent. The symbols on the walls ceased their pulsating glow, returning the library to a state of solemn quietude.

The forgotten history of the Manikpur Library had been unravelled, its malevolent secrets laid bare, and the malevolent entity that had haunted the town for centuries banished. Sarah and Professor Rai, their minds burdened with the weight of the past, emerged from the library into the cold moonlight, knowing that the town could now rebuild, free from the shackles of ancient horrors.

The town once ensnared in the clutches of a malevolent force, could now begin the process of healing. Yet, as Sarah gazed back at the now-quiet library, she couldn’t shake the feeling that some echoes of the past lingered. The shadows of history, though banished, had left an indelible mark on the town’s soul. The Manikpur Library, once a haven for malevolence, now stood as a sombre reminder of the fragility of the boundary between light and darkness.

Rajat

24/11/23 , Guwahati

To Be Continued.

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mail Id : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com