BENEATH THE DARKNESS
DIPAYAN CHATTERJEE 04/04/09
Legends
n myths. It’s what the world is made of. Every country n every culture has
their own mix of legends n myths, some really scary n some truly inspiring.
With the advent of science n technology, most of them have been explained
through detailed n thorough research, some found to be fake n nothing more than
mere hoax, and some found to be shockingly true. But still, some remain vastly unexplained,
shrouded deep in obscurity.
Mistipur, a small village situated in West Bengal, India…a
country known for their futile n excessive demonstration of religion and
superstition. Mistipur, a nice small pastoral village, with more cattle than
people, is infamous around the neighbouring villages for its own dark n unsettling
folklore. A grim legend that was affecting the trade of the village. None of
the neighbouring villages where interested in any kind of deal with the people
of Mistipur, be it cultivation, business or marriage, such was the power of
superstition in this great country. None of the villagers knew when or how this
dark myth was born, but they took it rather seriously, so seriously that none
of them even had the courage to find out the hideous truth behind it.
Sudipto finally had enough. His younger sister’s marriage was
fixed in the neighbouring village of kashinagar, but just recently it was
called off n the reason was the erroneous belief which was giving the village
an ever increasing dark n depressing reputation. Sudipto n his family felt very
humiliated due the incident. He vowed to find out the reality n end this god
forsaken myth forever. He was pretty drunk that night but still managed to
reach near the ill-famed pond. The pond, although small, was rather deep. It
was nicknamed as “mora-pukur”. Sudipto stood in front of it with a big fat cane
in one hand n a big knife, on the other. It was dark all around. There was not
another soul anywhere, near or far. The clear sky was getting covered with dark
red clouds, as a storm was brewing fast. Suddenly lightning struck n sudipto could
see the grim pond in its real avatar. The pond was covered with huge banyan
trees from all sides, which passionately leaned over towards the pond, the
piercing branches covered the surface of the pond like hideous monstrous claws,
n the strangling roots appeared as ghastly tentacles which hanged down like
‘suicidal hanging ropes’ above the surface of the water. The water surface was abundantly
covered thick with dead n fresh leaves alike, making it really hard to see
what’s underneath the surface. This place was genuinely creepy. Another
lightning struck out of no where. That’s when sudipto realized where he was
standing n how evil this place really was. Now he was scared. But still the
fact remained that all his pride n respect has been lost just because of this.
He slowly took a step forward towards the pond. He shouted out loud – “Come out
you filthy piece of shit!! Let me see what you can do to me!!! Come on!!! I am
not afraid of you!” Then he started to
hit the water surface with the cane. Nothing happened. It was still quite. Only
the wind blew strong. The sky was now almost covered with dark clouds. The
leaves of the trees around started rustling due to the strong wind, the tree
tops swayed swiftly n lightning struck from time to time. Sudipto now started
beating the water surface violently with the cane. The dead leaves on the
surface moved away n he could see the dark murky water beneath. He kept beating
till he got tired n gave up. The surface of the water rippled rapidly, but
slowly the dead leaves again covered the water surface. Finally sudipto was
frustrated n he threw the cane into the pond in a fit of rage. Suddenly he
heard a growl. He could see some bubbles forming up at the water-surface in the
centre of the pond. He was now petrified. His mind stopped working. He held his
knife firmly. The bubbles gradually started moving towards the edge of the
pond…towards him. Sudipto anxiously waited with his complete focus on the
bubbles. The water-surface started to move n became unsettling. Sudipto was
scared, but he was ready. Suddenly a lightning struck nearby n in the huge roar
of the thunder, sudipto lost his focus n looked at the lightning, and then he quickly
turned towards the pond. And in lightning speed something came out of the water
n all he could see was a set of huge sharp carnivorous teeth approaching him.
10
years later……………..
Puja
was really ecstatic to see the lush rustic n idyllic landscapes of Mistipur, as
she n her father drove through the village roads. Most of the villagers tried
to sneak n steal a look as they were curious to know who was inside the sleek n
luxurious car which they seldom get an opportunity to see. The car finally
stopped in front of a small house which was more like a shack. The residents of
the house came out to greet n welcome them while the eager villagers n lots of
village kids surrounded the classy car which they couldn’t even dream of
having.
Puja has always been a city girl. Even
though she was just 8 years old, she was always full of spice n had a feisty
attitude. So her father suggested her to spend her summer vacations at his
maternal uncle’s house which was in the amusing village of Mistipur.
Puja was excited n immediately agreed. So they were here. After greeting his
uncle n aunty, n his cousin brother, Pratim, n his lovely wife, Dipayan, Puja’s
father, handed them the innumerable gifts that he had brought for them. They
sat inside n chatted a lot, catching up with old times, while Puja was thrilled
just being in this lovely place. Suddenly 2 little kids entered, rather
silently. Pratim introduced them as his 2 sons, Chintu, 9 years n putu, 7 years
old. Puja was excited to see her cousins for the first time n instantly started
blabbering with them. Puja, chintu n putu became like close friends in no time.
The sun was setting on the horizon n it was time for Dipayan
to head back home. He was a wealthy businessman in the city. So he had to get
back to his work n most importantly, to Puja’s mother, who was waiting for him
at their home. Dipayan took a moment to appreciate the gorgeous sunset. He came
here after a very long time; n was really amused with the exquisiteness of Mistipur.
It was decided that he would come back after 2 weeks to take Puja back home n
in the meanwhile, Puja was told to call her dad every other day from the nearby
post office, which was the only place that could afford a phone. So dipayan
left promptly. Puja was tired due to the long journey. So in time, she finished
her dinner along with her 2 cousins n went off to sleep, with the excitement of
what was to follow the next 2 weeks. Her bed was beside a window through which
cool soft breeze came in n she could see the clear night sky filled with
twinkling stars n the moon shone bright.
Puja was the sweetest n loveliest
little girl, with a spunky attitude but with the most beautiful heart a young
child could have. Chintu was not far from his cousin either. He was the most
mischievous kid in the whole village, but was also very bright n intelligent.
But putu on the other hand, was a shy, fat
n plump boy who was expert in only 2 things….smiling n eating! Putu has always been
everyone’s favourite kid.
As the morning dawned, all 3 of them
quickly finished off their breakfast n went off to play. Chintu introduced Puja
to all his friends –Kanai, Gonai, Shyamoli, Pompy, Chumbok, and Radha!!! Chintu
was the self-proclaimed leader of the gang. The village school was closed due
to summer holidays n all they were going to do was just have sheer fun. Puja was
overjoyed to see the cheerful life in here. They played in the vast paddy fields,
swam in the big ponds n lakes, ran up to the train, moving fast, in the
distanced railway tracks, played football, hide n seek, tag in the vast open fields,
n before Puja could realize the day was over. The sun was setting. The sky was
all red n orange. It was stunningly gorgeous. There was a calm cool breeze all around.
The air was filled with sweet smell of flowers. There were cows, goats, cats n
dogs all around. She loved animals a lot. She even rode a cow for the first
time in her life. She never had such fun in the
city. Finally all of them were sitting in a garden with beautiful trees all
around n just chatted away. She liked her new friends very much n they were
also very interested in her n her city life. Before parting for the day she
gifted everyone chocolates which she had brought abundantly. Everyone was happy
with their gifts n thanked her. She was really very happy n silently said –
“thanks dad!” - inside her heart, for
bringing her here.
In the evening she joined putu n chintu in their studies
along with their usual mischief. Later she showed them her 2 favourite soft
toys which she brought along as, it were her favorite ones. Putu liked the soft
teddy bears a lot n they played with them for a while. Later they played ludo n
other local games, n Puja’s aunty, grandpa n grandma also joined in. It was
very amusing for Puja as there was no electricity in the village, n she was enjoying
the use of lamps n hurricanes for the first time. The soft light was very
relaxing. Finally it was time to call it a day.
The next day was going to be even more fun. Just as all three
of them came to the garden, which was the meeting point of the friends, a hard
green mango came n hit directly into chintu’s face. He instantly fell into the
ground. Puja was stunned n looked up at the trees from where the mango had come
n there was a monkey up there, jumping n laughing out loud. Chintu got up
quickly n said in anger – “that’s it you dumb monkey!! Its time....” The monkey
threw another bigger mango at him, before he could finish, but chintu caught it
this time n threw it back at the monkey. The monkey, in turn, caught the mango
n bounced it back to chintu, which directly hit him hard on the head before he
could react; n he fell down, again. The monkey jumped n laughed even more this
time. Just as chintu was about to get up, 4 more monkeys appeared on the scene
out of nowhere n started throwing mangoes which were aimed particularly at
chintu. Putu quickly yelled out to Puja – “RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!!” And they
started running fast. Chintu quickly got up n started running, but the mangoes
kept on coming like hand grenades. The hard mangoes hit chintu in the back of
his head n he fell down for the 3rd time. He hurriedly got up. Now
he was fumingly mad. Without wasting a second, he got up on a tree n started
chasing the damn monkeys. Puja couldn’t stop laughing at the sight of this
incident. She couldn’t even believe something like this could happen for real.
She asked putu about what was going on.
Putu explained that ‘Chukka’, the monkey belongs to ‘Shambhukaka’,
the big fat caretaker of a huge fruit garden. Apparently the garden belongs to
person who lives in the city n his business is cultivating high quality fruits,
mostly mangoes, n shambhukaka is the security guard of the garden. Chintu n his
gang always used to steal most of the mangoes from the garden n it was hard for
the guard to prevent them. So shambhukaka devised a devious plan. He brought a
baby monkey n trained him to guard the garden with his heart. Chukka was still
young n chintu was too smart. One day, chintu somehow convinced n tricked chukka
n stole most of the fruits from the garden n gave chukka only a piece of small
mango in return of the deal, while chintu n gang escaped with the whole bounty.
When shambhukaka saw chukka eating the mango, he thought chukka had become part
of the chintu gang n beat him a lot. Chukka was kept in a cage for a long
period of time without food, followed by an intense training programme, to make
him ferocious n prevent chintu. As chukka grew up, he vowed revenge on chintu n
formed his own gang of the dreadful monkeys, still trying to protect
shabhukaka’s garden.
As Puja was curiously listening to the story, suddenly chintu
fell on the ground from the tree above n chukka n his gang left away laughing
at chintu. Chintu slowly stood up, all red with anger n humiliation. Suddenly a
rotten ripe mango flew out of nowhere n hit his face. It got squashed on impact
n his face was covered in yellow slimy disgustingly stinky mango flesh. Puja again
broke out into laughter along with putu. Right then pompy arrived n started
laughing at chintu n asked – “What happened to you?? Were you eating the mango or
was the mango eating you??” – n started laughing again, n then said – “ooh!!
Chintu! You stink…bad!! Please go n have a bath.”
Chintu was feeling embarrassed n couldn’t
say much; just scratched his head n mumbled something which no one could get. Puja
realized at that moment, that chintu had a hidden crush on pompy, n a quirky
smile formed on her face. As chintu was still scratching his head, figuring out
what to tell pompy, suddenly a huge rotten pumpkin flew right to him n got
squished in his head n he fell down again. The monkeys laughed their hearts out
n pompy, Puja n putu also joined the laughter brigade. By then all of the
friends had arrived, laughing at chintu. Chintu finally stood up. The monkeys
quickly split. “I can’t take this anymore! This is it!!! Time for the final
revenge!!!” – Chintu murmured n laughed out loud, but no one found it funny. Instead
they started laughing at him all over again.
Thus a conniving plan was worked out. Kanai, gonai, chumbok n
radha led by chintu would form the team. Pompy, shyamoli n putu were still inexperienced
in climbing trees, n Puja didn’t even climb a single tree in her whole life.
Pompy wished chintu – “Good Luck!!” – n all chintu could do was smile n blush.
Now Puja was convinced that chintu had a huge crush on her. So the 5 of them
were ready for the final revenge on the monkey clan!
They were armed with sticks n stones n rugs for carrying the
stolen mangoes. They went into the garden silently n climbed fast into the
trees. Pompy, shyamoli, putu n Puja stood outside the garden n kept a watch for
shambhukaka & chukka n gang! Just as they started filling the rugs with
mangoes, suddenly the sky turned green, on closer observation, chintu realized
it was a cloud of green mangoes speeding towards them like plaguing locusts.
Before they could take cover, the mangoes started hitting them hard. It was
raining mangoes, hard green n rotten, n it hurt like hell!!! The chintu gang
took out their stones n mangoes and the war began. THE MONKEYS V/S. THE MANGO
THIEVES. Stones n mangoes were thrown like grenades from both sides with serious
casualties to both teams. Suddenly chintu lost his balance n fell into the ground.
He quickly sat up n found 2 huge, fiercely ferocious n foaming dogs standing in
front n growling. Chintu was dumbstruck! Apparently, shambhukaka had brought 2
dogs recently to drive off the thieves. Chintu slowly stood up. The dogs were
ready to bite him. He slowly took a step behind. He could hear shyamoli, pompy
n Puja scream out in the distance. Suddenly he bumped into something! He turned
around n Shambhukaka was standing there with a sick sadistic smile under his
big fat moustache n holding a big cane in his hands, looking more ferocious
than his dogs.
His teammates had fled the scene by then, along with the
stolen bounty. Chintu was trapped. Dogs in front, shambhukaka in the back.
Chukka n group had also assembled by then in that area n the monkeys were right
above his head on the branches of the mango tree, throwing stones and mangoes
at him. Suddenly everything seemed to have turned into slow-motion. Both the
dogs jumped at him with their teeth out, shambhukaka charged holding his cane
in hand, chintu rapidly jumped n grabbed the branch where chukka n the monkeys
were, moving out of the dogs’ n shambhukaka’s way! The dogs n shambhukaka were
approaching each other from opposite sides. The dogs landed their big sharp
teeth on the huge tummy of approaching shambhukaka. He screamed out loud in
pain n hit the dogs in the head, with his cane. Chintu pulled the branch with
all his strength n the branch snapped n broke, & all the monkeys, including
the big branch, fell on shambhukaka’s head, while the dogs where still
maintaining their bite on him. Chintu jumped with joy n hastily escaped the
garden.
His friends were awaiting him outside shambhukaka’s garden. Everyone
was filled with joy n they hailed chintu as their hero. Their revenge was
finally complete. As the sun was setting, they sat in their own garden, eating
away huge loads of stolen mangoes n fruits. All of them were completely filled up
n couldn’t eat anymore, but putu, being the smallest in the gang, kept eating,
more than every one else. After they returned home, Puja blabbered everything
to his uncle, aunty, grandpa n grandma n every one had a good laugh. Chintu n Puja
skipped dinner that night as they were still full, but putu was a different
story altogether!!!
The next day they just decided to hang out n skip playing, as
most of them were still tired from their monkey ordeal. Suddenly chumbok ran in
n spoke with pure excitement – “guys! I have great news! Shambhukaka has
finally got rid of the monkeys n the dogs. The garden is ours, all over
again!!!” – n everyone screamed out in joy. They chatted for a long time,
talking about their village n the city. They told Puja the various tales of
their village n the neighbouring villages. It was dusk by now, n they were telling
scary stories to each other, like the Haunted Haveli of the Zamindar, at the
far end of the village, who once lived here long ago. People claim to have seen
a shadow roaming inside the haveli. But Puja did not believe in ghosts.
Gonai
– “…..but it’s true!! Some people even say that the ghost of the zamindar now
lives as the hideous ‘beast of mora-pukur’!!” – told Puja convincingly.
Puja
– “MORA- PUKUR!!! What’s that??” – enquired.
Shyamoli
– “you don’t know about mora-pukur?”
Puja
– “no! What’s the big deal anyway?”
Pompy
– (to chintu) “didn’t you tell her about it yet?” –asked in curiosity.
Puja
– “about what?”
Chintu
– “my grandpa told me not to fill her head with these things!!” – quietly
replied to pompy.
Puja
– “what things? What are you guys talking about?” – She was now getting curious
n impatient as no one was telling her anything. – “come on guys!! Will some one
tell me what this mora-pukur is??!”
Chintu looked at putu n then at pompy n
softly nodded his head in approval.
Pompy
– “there is a legend in our village! Something all of us are warned about.”
Puja
– “what??” – being impatient.
Pompy
– “you know there is a bamboo field at the far west end of the village?”
Puja
– “SO????”
Pompy
– “we are told that there is a pond. A small but evil pond, the pond of
death!!”
Puja
– “oh! Mora-pukur! I get it!!”
Pompy
– “it is said that a strange mysterious satanic creature, a monster, most vile
n evil, lives in that pond. Nobody knows what it is or where it came from, but
they know only one thing…whoever goes near the pond, never returns!!!”
Puja
– “what! A monster?? That is so stupid!!” – giggled.
Chumbok
– “NO! It’s true!! It’s almost 100 years
old! None of us are allowed to go anywhere near it…ever!!”
Puja
– “how silly? & you guys believe all this?”
Chintu
– “we have to! A lot of cattle have been lost near that area n never found.
That creature even attacked n killed a few people too!!”
Puja
– what???
Pompy
– yes!! Once there were a group of robbers who looted a nearby village n hid
near mora-pukur. The next day only 2, out of 5, where found alive. They were
really petrified, saying that they were attacked by a hideous creature that
came from underneath the pond n ate 3 of their mates… alive!!!
Puja
– that is ridiculous!
Radha
– n then there was sudipto kaka! Once he went to kill the creature, but instead
the huge creature attacked him n dragged him inside the water. He some how
managed to escape with his life, but the beast tore his right leg apart. He n
his family immediately left the village as soon as he recovered.
Puja
– I just can’t believe all this!
Chintu
– Its al true! There are lots of stories like this. Till now, sometimes wounded
cattle are found, who were able to escape the creatures vicious attack!!
Puja
just couldn’t believe all this. She has never heard anything as outrageous as this.
She was thrilled n confused. They warned her never to go near the pond or even near
the bamboo fields which they used to call ‘BASH-BAGAN’. If she ever wandered in
there, no one would be around to hear her cry for help. It was almost dark by
now. So all of them went to their homes. Puja kept asking more about this
creature to chintu n putu n they told her whatever they knew. While they were
having dinner, Puja asked about this creature to her grandpa n family. Her grandpa
replied – “oh dear it’s just nothing! It’s just a made up story to scare the
kids n to keep them away from that area. It’s not a good place to be in. You have
to realize it’s not the city. Lot of bad
people roam around in the dark!”
Puja
– like robbers n dacoits?
Grandpa
– yeah! You’re a clever girl!
Puja
– then what about the attacks on the villagers n the cows?
Grandpa
– probably some wild animals! May be some wolf or hyena! There are quite a few
around here!
Puja
– really?
Grandpa
– “yeah! I was never too dumb to believe this non-sense. But these illiterate
villagers…”
Puja’s uncle, Pratim, interrupted his father – Baba please!!
– Then to Puja – “look dear! We don’t really know what it really is, but what
we do know is that something is there in that pond…something really dangerous. And
we think it’s smart to stay away from it n stay safe! Don’t you think so?
Puja
– I guess!
Pratim-
good! Just don’t go near it. Ok?
Puja
– ok!
Pratim
– anyways I called your dad today n told him you were doing pretty well. He said
he was missing you!
Puja
– I miss him too. But I am having a lot of fun here…..
And they chatted while having dinner. That night Puja slept
beside her grandpa to know more about this creature about which she was very fascinated.
Her grandpa told her, that his father warned him about this creature when he
was just a little older than her. He was thrilled n wanted to find out the truth.
So one day he went to mora-pukur, all alone n he found nothing. The pond was
calm n quite, although the appearance of the pond was quite scary n creepy. So
he came back. But the next day, the villagers found a decapitated head of a
bull that apparently the creature had devoured. She fell asleep listening to
these creepy interesting stories.
The next day they went to play in the fields. The mystery of
the pond was looming large in her head. It was almost sunset n they were
playing hide n seek. All of the hiding places were known to everyone. So an
ingenious idea struck her mind. She went straight towards the bash-bagan, the
bamboo fields. It was a huge area filled with huge n thick bamboo trees. There
was no one around n the place did have a creepy feel to it. Puja smiled to herself
that no one would be able to find her. So she went deeper n deeper into the bamboo
fields. It was almost dusk now n she hid there for a long time, but no one came
to look for her. Assuming she had won, she decided it was time to get back.
Suddenly she heard the rustling of leaves as if someone or
something was stepping on the fallen leaves. She turned around n could see a
pond in the distance. It was a scary looking pond, covered with leaning trees
on all sides an appeared as if it was in the grasp of a monster’s claw. She
slowly walked towards the pond without thinking much. She stared deep into the pond.
Suddenly she saw some bubbles forming up on the water surface, moving the
fallen leaves from the surface. She could feel someone or something was watching
her. She looked even more closely. The sunlight was quite feeble. The bubbles
started to move towards her…very slowly. Suddenly chintu grabbed her from
behind n said – what’s wrong with you? What are you doing in here? I have been calling
you for so long, couldn’t you even hear me? Why the hell did you come here? Let’s
go …NOW!!!” – chintu grabbed her hand n quickly ran back to home. It was now
dark all over. Puja requested chintu – “please don’t tell anyone about this!”
Chintu
– don’t worry! I wont – replied halfheartedly.
Puja
– I saw something in that pond!
Chintu
– what??
Puja
– there was something in that pond! I know it!!
Right then putu also joined them. He had
come home earlier as chintu had sent him home n then went looking for Puja.
Putu
– you went to mora-pukur all by yourself?
Puja
– yeah! But don’t tell anyone
Putu
– I won’t! What did you see? Did you get to see it?
Puja
– No! But I felt it was there. Beneath the water! We have to go back there
again!
Chintu
– what? Have you lost your mind?
Putu
– WHOA!!! Hold on! What do you mean WE have to go back there??
Puja
– I need you guys to be with me. I know we can find out this creature n find
the truth.
Putu
– wait a minute!! I don’t want to find out anything. I am too young to die!
Chintu
– moreover what makes you feel such useless kids like us can find the truth
when grown ups have failed and died horrible deaths?
Puja
– I don’t know. But I just want your help! Are you guys with me?
-
“NO!!!” – replied both chintu n putu at the same time.
Puja knew she had to get back there but she couldn’t go
alone. After all she was just a little girl. She needed someone along with her.
After having their dinner she asked chintu nicely to go with her, but he was
genuinely not interested. So she decided to go with her 2nd best option.
She went n lied beside putu n asked him to go with her.
Putu – what?? Just let me sleep. Good night.
Puja
– please putu-mona! It won’t take long. Trust me!
Putu
– YAWN!! Good night!!
Puja
– I will give you whatever you want!
There was no reply.
Everything was silent.
Puja whispered into his ear – “are you awake?
Putu – keep talking, am listening!
Puja – I will give you all my chocolates. I still have a lot
left in my bag!
Putu now turned towards Puja n said – “what else?”
Puja – well I can ask my dad to bring more chocolates when he
comes to take me back home!
Putu – you CAN?? – asked in an unsatisfied manner.
Puja – I WILL! I will even tell him to bring sandwiches,
burgers, pizzas n pastries n chocolate cakes…
By now
putu was salivating like a starving dog. Both of them sat up n Puja kept
persuading putu
Puja - …n I will even tell him to bring chickens from KFC!!!
Putu – what’s that!!! – Now his greedy tongue was all out n
filled with saliva.
Puja – oh! Its just heaven. All I can tell you is, that it’s just…‘finger
lickin good’!!
Suddenly a blob of saliva fell from putu’s
tongue n into Puja’s hand n Puja was utterly disgusted.
Puja – EEEW!! Control yourself man. You will get everything,
all you have to do is say YES.
Putu – YES!! Yes!! I will go. I will go! – replied in total
excitement.
Puja – ok then. Let’s go!
Putu – huh??........NOW??! – asked out of shock.
Puja – yeah! – replied calmly.
Putu quickly lied down n turned to the
opposite side of Puja.
Puja – hey! What happened?
Putu – GOOD NIGHT!
Puja – but you just said you would come with me?
Putu – turning towards Puja – yeah I did! But not in this dark
spooky night! I MAY go in the broad day light when I can see everything
around…clearly!!!
Puja – but we have to go now! It’s the perfect time. No one
would even know we went to mora-pukur n the creature may come out to hunt n feed
at night!
Putu – what??? You mean it will hunt n eat us n no one would
even know?? - he was totally scared n quickly turned his back to Puja again.
Now Puja had only
one thing to play this game, to convince putu.
Puja – I will give you my soft toys….both of them!!! – said
very softly.
Putu turned around n smiled n Puja knew she
finally convinced the greedy little fat boy.
So they left the house very silently, taking only 2 flash-lights
n 2 sticks along with them. They walked through the dark village all alone. How
Puja wished that if only there had been electricity here like her home kolkata.
So they went along. Finally they reached the bash-bagan. It was looking really
scary in the dark of the night. Putu was scared out of his pants. He just held Puja
tightly n kept murmuring – “ram-ram-ram-ram” all the way. Puja was also scared
but she was determined to find the truth. They walked through the bamboo fields
very slowly. The bamboo trees looked like tall ghosts staring at them with wide
eyes. The moon was shinning bright n the area was well visible. Finally they managed
to come to the pond of death. The pond looked vicious n totally evil. There
were fire-flies n huge bats roaming above the pond increasing the spook-factor.
The claw-like branches n hanging roots of the banyan trees looked even more
scary than every thing else. It was dead silent all over except for crickets
crying out loud. Both Puja n putu were scared stiff. They just stood there n
looked around the pond carefully moving there flash-lights around the pond.
Suddenly in the light of the torch, they saw something move. It moved fast n
went underneath the water. Puja could swear she just saw a part of a big ugly
tail go inside the water. Both of them were spooked beyond limit n just stared
at the water with their wide open eyes. The water surface still had adequate
ripples suggesting the presence of something big underneath.
Puja whispered – “did you see that??” Putu whispered back – “no!
I don’t want to see anything. I just want to go back home. Let’s go!!” Puja slowly
nodded her head in approval. Just as they slowly took a step behind, suddenly something
jumped out of the trees with its arms wide spread to grab them screaming out –
“AAAAHHHH!!!” It appeared to be a man like creature, with its head veiled in
some hooded cloth, only its eyes glowed in the moon light. Putu screamed – “AAH!!
It’s the ZAMINDAR’S GHOST!!! Run!!!” Both Puja n putu reacted instantly n ran
for their lives at the fullest speed they could run at. They just kept running
without looking back until they finally reached home. They were panting n
gasping for air, but both were glad they could get out of there with their
lives. Putu cried for a while, but Puja managed to calm him down n gave a few chocolates.
He ate them n calmed down n silently went to their beds. Puja lied down
thinking about what had happened n putu trying NOT to think about what had
happened.
The next morning they told everything to chintu about their
night adventure. Chintu was outraged. He couldn’t believe that even after being
warned, Puja put her n putu’s life in jeopardy for this foolishness. But when
they told him that they had seen a hideous tail inside the water n the supposed
zamindar’s ghost chintu also became a bit curious. Puja asked chintu to go with
her for just one time. Now she knew she would get a lot of answers in the light
of the day. But chintu was quite stubborn n refused her to her face. But Puja
was a smart girl too. She knew how to play her games well to convince people.
Puja-
if you come with me I will give you something really important!!
Chintu
– I don’t need your chocolate. Give them to that greedy little pig – replied in
anger pointing towards putu, as he WAS eating a chocolate that very instance.
Puja
– it’s more important than all that!!
Chintu
– what??
Puja
– a secret information!!
Chintu
– I don’t want to know your stupid secrets!
Puja
– too bad!! I knew how pompy feels about you!!!
Chintu
– what? Really? – now he was supercharged.
Puja
– yup! – she knew now he was hooked.
Chintu
– did you ask her about me? What did she say? – being very curious. His heart
was beating out of his chest.
Puja
– I didn’t ask her. She told me herself!
Chintu
– what she say?
Puja
– I will tell you as soon as you come with me to mora-pukur!!
Chintu
– forget it! You’re just lying. n I can just go n ask her myself.
Puja
– ok. Too bad for me! – Puja turned away n started walking. Chintu quickly ran upto
her n said – ok! I will go! But not because of stupid pompy. I will go because
of you.
Puja-
YA YA!! I know. – Puja just smiled.
So all three of them
went to mora-pukur once more, probably for the last time. Putu – asked why am I
coming along with you? Wasn’t it enough that I almost lost my life last night? My
part of the deal is over.” Puja just smacked him on the head n kept walking. They
finally reached mora-pukur. It was as scary in daytime as in night. It was all
quite all over. Only a few birds chirped. Chintu was holding a big thick stick
in his hands. All of them were anxious not knowing what they might get to see
in the pond. The water surface, covered fully with leaves, was calm. There
wasn’t much movement. All 3 of them just stood still, waiting for something to
happen. Suddenly chintu cried out –LOOK!! – pointing towards the centre of the
pond. Well camouflaged amidst the dead leaves, were 2 glaring eyes that stared
right into them. Only the eyes were visible above the surface. So they couldn’t
make out what they were looking at. They knew that THIS was the infamous beast.
Puja said quietly – Oh my god!! What is that??” Putu just stared in disbelief. Suddenly
something sprang right out of the banyan trees screaming out –“AAAHHH!!!” It was
the same man-thing they encountered last night, rather it was a man, wearing a
dhoti n kurta n his head n face veiled behind a big shawl covering his upper
body along with. The man spread out his arms, ready to attack n grab them. The
3 of them were stunned at the sudden appearance of this person. The man growled
hard, and jumped to grab Puja. Chintu swung his stick with all his strength n
hit the man on his head n he fell down to the ground. The man was knocked out!!
Puja, chintu n putu just stood n carefully looked at the man lying down. Chintu
slowly removed the shawl from his face, with the stick. The man had a thick
beard n long hair; his clothes were tattered n torned n dirty, as was his body.
There was a nasty stink coming from his body. He was in his mid-forties.
Suddenly the man opened his eyes n immediately sat up. The 3
of them quickly took a few steps behind, chintu ready with his stick, to hit
him again. The man slowly stood up n said in a coarse voice – “what the hell
are you punks doing in here??”
They just stared into the man’s eyes with curiosity n
caution. The man continued – “don’t you know you could die out here??” Still
the 3 cousins didn’t reply. They just stood scared. The man gave an evil look n
said – “leave…right now!!! Go back to your homes! Or else…!!!”
Puja
replied out of rage – “NO!! We won’t go back without any answers!!”
- “ANSWERS??
What answers do you want? The only answer you will get is the answer of death!!
– the ugly man replied.
Chintu
– “you can’t scare us!! Now tell us what’s there inside that death pool!!!
The man smiled wickedly. The creature still
watched from the pond, with only its hideous eyes visible above the surface.
Puja
– “I know there is no evil creature or monster in there!!! n I also know that
only you know what the real truth is!!
The man looked at Puja for a while n then
his total expression just changed in a moment. – look! Just go back to your
home. That will be better for you! You have no business here!!” – The man was
concerned for them.
Puja
– n what business do you have here?
Suddenly
the man’s eyes rolled over n he fell into the ground. Puja n chintu moved
slowly towards him n looked at him. He was in pain.
Puja
asked – “what’s wrong?? Do you need help??
The
man – its nothing!! It’s just that I haven’t eaten anything in the last few
days n I am really hungry n weak! Please I beg you to back to your homes. –
spoke very softly.
Puja quickly took out 2 chocolate bars from putu’s pockets,
which putu refused to, but Puja gave it to the man. Although it was minimal
food, but still it was better than starving. So the man gained a little
strength n sat in the shadows, leaning on a tree. The 3 of them stood infront
of him.
The
man slowly enquired – “what makes you feel there is no evil creature in here?
Why do you want to know the truth?”
Puja-
I just want everyone to know the truth n break out of this silly superstition!!
– replied.
The
man – you are a brave little girl. n so are your 2 friends. I knew there was
something special about you, when you came here in the dark, last night.
Puja
– thank you! Now will you tell what’s really underneath that dreadful pond?
The
man – fine! I will!! You got me. But it’s a long story.
So the 3 of them sat around the man underneath the shade of
the tree. A cool calm breeze was blowing; n somehow the 3 of them were that not
much scared anymore. The man introduced himself as ‘Kalu”.
Chintu promptly said – “my father once told
me about you!! The villagers think that you are an insane person! A mad man
under the evil influence of this creature. They say that you have made a deal
with the evil being to bring it flesh n in return it won’t eat you. We are told
to stay away from you!!!”
Kalu chuckled! – “these villagers are really
funny!! ‘Influence of the evil creature’? Hmm. Atleast they did one good thing,
told you to stay away from me.”
Puja just looked blankly at kalu. Then kalu started to
explain –“Long ago, a Zamindar used to live in this village. He owned all of
the neighbouring villages. He was a good man n took good care of his people. He
was quite wealthy, in all terms n the villagers were also happy to have him as
their leader. But everything soon changed, when the British came over n took
control of the villages. The zamindar n his family was forced to leave the
village n was never heard of, ever again….”
Suddenly putu cried out – “I knew it’s the zamindar’s ghost
that haunts the pond!!!”
Kalu smiled softly – “No my little friend. It’s no ghost!!
The zamindar had an exquisite collection of wild animals in his back yard, his
own personal zoo. Everything was there, from tigers, lions, to leopards n
elephants. He loved them a lot n took good care of them. But when the British
took over, they hunted n killed all the animals. It was their prized sport. My
grandfather was in charge of looking after all the animals, so when the British
started their plunder, the zamindar secretly gave 3 baby crocodiles to my
grandpa n asked him to save them. The baby crocodiles’ mother was hunted down by
the British. He was their only chance of survival. Everything in the zamindar’s
family was ruined. My grandpa was very loyal to the zamindar, he respected him
more than anything, and he worshipped the zamindar as his ‘Anna-data’, his god!
So he vowed to protect the baby crocodiles with his life. He hid them from all
the villagers as they would have panicked n killed the carnivorous crocodiles.
So he searched for a good place to keep the crocodiles away from everyone’s
eyes n finally he found this pond. This was a deserted place all along.
Everyone avoided this place as dacoits n robbers used to hide in the nearby
areas. My grandpa trained the crocodiles well n took good care of them. But
eventually, only one of them survived. He named her ‘Sita’.”
The 3 of them just sat n listened curiously.
He continued – “It was him who started this rumor, but only
to keep the villagers away n the crocodile safe. He never intended to give
Mistipur a bad name. It was only due to the legend of the creature, no one came
around…ever! N finally when he was too old he handed the responsibility to my
father. My father also respectfully accepted his father’s wish n took care of
the crocodile with his heart. When me n my brother were your age, we started to
help our father in this. We used to feed big fishes n chicken n meat to sita.
We loved her a lot. She was part of our family. There were days when even we
used to stay empty stomach, but we never let sita starve, so that she wouldn’t
attack anyone. But she did used to hunt. It’s in her instinct. She hunted all
the cattle that would stray near the pond. She hunted bats that gather in huge
number in these trees. But we fed n trained her well, never to attack any
human. But the fact is she is a crocodile. When provoked, she attacked without
hesitation. She did kill a few robbers n thieves, n attacked a few villagers. It
was not possible for us to guard her all the time. But still it was in our
control. But when my father died, my brother tricked me n sold all our land, cattle
n our house n went to the city. I was left here alone, without any money or
food n stuck with a big croc! Once even I thought of going away leaving sita
here. But how could I? She was my best friend. It was my duty. I couldn’t let
my father down n risk the lives of the villagers. So I stayed back. Had no
work, so I started to steal fish from the lakes n ponds, steal chickens n goats
from the villagers homes n I managed to survive n keep sita alive…till now!!!”
All of them just sat quite n listened, and
then Puja spoke up – “what do you mean?”
Kalu
– Sita is very old now. She is around 95. She is becoming weak n ailing & I
can’t do anything about it. I guess it’s her time. But what hurts me the most,
are the punk village kids who come n agitate her, they throw sticks, garbage n
plastic stuffs in the pond. I try to scare them off, but I can’t stop them
anymore. She has lived a constrained life; we have always kept her controlled. All
I want is for her to die in peace.
Chintu
- why don’t you speak with the villagers? I am sure they can do something about
it!
Kalu
– “It’s not so easy kid!! Long back, my father once thought of explaining
everything to the villagers n ask for their help as it was getting very
demanding for us to take care of sita, both financially n physically. But he discarded
the idea, when the people brutally killed a wolf that had accidentally wandered
into the village once. After that, he just knew in his heart that the villagers
won’t share his point of view. They could never willingly let a carnivorous
beast live in the same village as them. They could never risk the lives of
their family n children, just because we considered a huge crocodile a part of
our family. Instead, he feared that, once they found out, they would kill sita
immediately n if required, they would kill us too. So we kept the secret to us
n continued with the grim legend. Sita was important to us. We just couldn’t
afford to trust the villagers n risk her life like that.”
Kalu just put his head down n tears flowed from his eyes. Puja
was very sad seeing this. Few moments later kalu stood up, smiled n said –
would you guys like to meet my best friend? The beastly creature of
mora-pukur?”
All
3 of them stood up with a glow in their face n their eyes wide open. Kalu told
them to be cautious n maintain their distance, n then shouted - “Sita!! Sita!!”
- a few times n whistled. Slowly the water surface started to move n ripples
formed, n rather slowly, out of the murky water n the dead leaves covered
surface came out a huge fat ugly head. Sita finally came out of the water. The
3 of them were amazed n stunned at the same time. Sita was a huge crocodile
around 18 feet with a huge bulky body n a big fat tail. Sita opened his mouth
wide staring at kalu n made a ‘hissing’ sound, kalu softly said – Sorry dear. Don’t
have anything now!”
Puja
asked – Is she hungry?
Kalu
replied - I guess so!”
Puja
quickly took out 2 more bars of chocolate from putu’s pockets. Putu was now
really furious as he didn’t like sharing his food, be it man or crocodile. Puja
quickly unwrapped the chocolates n threw them into sita’s wide open mouth. Her
jaw quickly snapped close n she ate the chocolates. Puja hoped that sita would
like them. Kalu made some hand gestures n shouted – ‘SITA!’ a few times again n
she quickly got back into the dirty n now polluted pond. Kalu kneeled down to Puja,
chintu n putu n softly said – “guys I would request you to keep this a secret. Please
don’t tell anyone. Sita’s life depends on it!”
Chintu
promptly replied – you can trust us! – n smiled
Kalu
smiled – thank you!!
Puja
– no! Thank you!!!- replied back.
All
of them smiled n the 3 of them came back home with a weird feeling of joy in
their hearts. They didn’t say anything even to their family.
But Puja was feeling very uncomfortable. It hurt her to see
kalu’s suffering life n his love for sita. She knew she just had to do something
about it. She kept thinking all night n finally she knew what to do.
The next morning she went to the post
office along with her Pratim uncle n called her dad. She slowly whispered
everything on the phone to her dad n said – dad, please… I need your help!” Dipayan
replied he would see what he could do n would get back to her as soon as he
could find a solution. Puja got back n eagerly waited for her father to do
something.
In the meanwhile, they played with their friends n went to
meet kalu n sita n they even brought food for sita n kalu, but still Puja was
waiting for a solution. In the meantime Dipayan tried his best to something. How
couldn’t he? Puja was his life. He could do anything in the world to see his
baby girl smile n fulfilling her wish, meant everything to him. He tried to
contact the zoo authority n also the forest n wildlife department. But either
they were not interested as it was a really old crocodile or they were just
postponing the whole matter which was just an excuse for not wanting to help.
Dipayan tried hard but none of the Govt. Authorities nor the private NGOs were
of any use.
A few days later, a man from the post office came n informed
Pratim that Dipayan will reach here by tomorrow. Hearing this Puja became very
happy. She knew her dad had found a solution. So she waited eagerly along with
chintu n putu. The next day dipayan arrived in his car early morning along with
a truck loaded with materials n a few people. Dipayan went n told Pratim n his family,
everything about the crocodile n the fact that Puja wanted to help sita. Everyone
in the family was initially shocked to find out the truth, but once they knew what
dipayan had planned, they eventually supported him fully. Dipayan finally went
to Puja, took her in his arms n said – “So you never stop? Do you?”
Puja
just smiled. Dipayan continued – “I tried hard but no one wanted to help. So we
are going to do this on our own.”
Apparently Dipayan contacted THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY n
they immediately offered to help. So the plan was to build an enclosure, an artificial
pool, for the crocodile which would have clean water & adequate food n
would be properly surrounded by metal bars n wires on all sides, making it
completely safe for the crocodile as well as for the villagers. This was partly
funded by Nat Geo n partly by Dipayan.
Kalu was stunned n surprised, when dipayan n Puja told him
everything. He was beyond happy! The Nat Geo people quickly got down to work. But
by then the word had spread around the village. All the villagers were really
angry n mad. They couldn’t believe kalu n his family had made a fool out of
them for so many years. It was because of them, the village of Mistipur
had to suffer a grim reputation. So many lives were adversely affected just
because of their foolishness. The damage had already been done, for a long
time, n the villagers had suffered a lot. It was time for payback. The
villagers’ were not going to forgive kalu so easily. It was all his n his
irresponsible n ignorant family’s fault. All of the village men, full of rage n
revenge in their heart, mobbed to mora-pukur where dipayan n his relatives were
present along with kalu n the Nat Geo people, who were trying to capture the
crocodile safely.
The heated villagers had assembled in a huge crowd holding
big canes n knives in their hands. They immediately attacked kalu n started
beating him with canes, dipayan n pratim tried to stop them n save kalu, but it
was not so easy. While the Nat Geo people tried to save the crocodile, as the
villagers also attacked sita, by beating the water of the pond with the canes n
forcing sita to come out so that they can kill her. Dipayan n pratim got into a
fight with the villagers trying to save kalu, n at the same time a group of
villagers started to pour huge amounts of kerosene into mora-pukur. They
brought fire-torches n were going to burn the pond along with sita in it. The Nat
Geo people tried to stop them, but they were also beaten by the villagers. Puja
stood horrified n screamed asking them to stop, but no one cared. In the midst
of all this commotion, sita suddenly jumped out from underneath the dark water
in lightning speed n opened her mouth wide, ready to attack anyone who would
come near her. She growled n hissed out loud. Everyone immediately reacted out
of instinct, n all of the villagers took a few steps behind instantly n
everything was calm within a moment. The villagers were scared stiff. Kalu
quickly got up n went near sita.
He was bleeding from his head. He tried to stand tall, put
his hands together n begged to the villagers of Mistipur – “PLEASE!! Please! If
you want to kill me please go ahead. But please don’t hurt her. I know me n my family
have hurt you a long time, but we never intended to harm anyone. We just wanted
to protect this innocent life.”
Puja quickly ran upto kalu n stood beside him. Tears came
down her beautiful eyes. Chintu n putu followed along with dipayan n pratim.
Kalu continued – “I can realize each n everyone of you are
upset n angry, n its all my fault, for all the damages that you people had to
suffer, I am responsible for all that. But what is sita’s fault in all this?
Please I beg you, I beg all of you, don’t hurt her. Take all your revenge on
me!!!” – He spoke softly n kneeled down. Tears kept flowing from his eyes. Sita
just lied calmly behind kalu.
Someone from the mob shouted in anger – “NO WAY!! The damn
crocodile has to die!!! We CANNOT let it stay with us n kill our children!! We WILL
kill it!!
Puja promptly replied out of rage – “WHY?? Why is your life
more important than hers? Just because you are a man n she is an animal? Huh?”
No one replied from the crowd. Everyone was quite. They could
see the truth n innocence in Puja’s eyes n the love in kalu’s heart.
Dipayan held Puja’s hand firmly, n softly
spoke out to the raged mob– “Look, this crocodile has stayed here for so long n
she seldom hurt anyone. She is a wild animal n dangerous. I agree. But she
never attacked any villager until she was provoked. She could easily go in to
the village n hunt n kill your kids. It’s very easy for her. It’s in her blood.
But still she never did. Kalu n his family has sacrificed so much for this animal.
Their main concern was to protect you people, the villagers of Mistipur. WHY
CAN’T YOU PEOPLE REALIZE THAT? They were not irresponsible dear friends. The
fact is they were VERY responsible. How
many of YOU could do what kalu n his family did, just to save a damn animal?
How many of YOU could be so selfless? Huh? I know I can’t sacrifice my whole
life like this!! But at least I can help him in what he is doing.”
- “But what about our suffering? All these years we had to
suffer so many losses, just because of this damn idiot (pointing to kalu). We
can’t let this go so easily.” – shouted another villager.
Dipayan continued – “Look, I can very well understand how
each n every one of you feel. Even I wont let my daughter live in a place were
dangerous animals roam free. But the fact is, what has happened in the past is
already gone. No one can come n change that. Killing this innocent animal is NOT going to heal your pain n suffering, which
you had to undertake for all these years, instead it will only prove how narrow
minded n back-warded all of you truly are. Please try to understand. We are
here to change all of that. We need your help n support. We, ALL OF US, can
change the future for ourselves, our children n for this crocodile. Please just
hear me out.”
Everyone listened carefully while dipayan n the people from Nat
Geo explained their plan for sita to them. It went on for a long time n it took
a lot of convincing, but finally, the village chief, along with every other villager,
gave their mutual approval for the project. Everyone one on sita’s side, just
took a long breath of relief. Even though he was still bleeding, kalu hugged n
thanked dipayan n his whole team for their efforts n for standing by him.
Everyone was hurt, but they were finally happy.
The people of Mistipur apologized to them for not
understanding their vision earlier. They appreciated kalu’s determination n
love for the crocodile n had finally forgiven kalu. Finally they thanked Puja,
for her courage n the truth in her heart. A little girl did what none of them
could do in such a long time, they could never find the courage to go beyond n
find the truth as they were so much involved in their superstitious life. At
last the dark veil was lifted from their eyes. Dipayan took Puja in his arms n
said – “We did it dear!! I’m really proud of you!” Puja just smiled back n
hugged him.
The next day work on the project began all over again. With a
little effort n kalu’s help, the experts from Nat Geo, captured sita n put her safely
in a cage for the time being. A few construction workers were also brought from
the city. So they quickly got down to work too. It was planned that mora-pukur
would be cleared off n the artificial pond would me made in the exact place. It
was a time consuming project. The filthy pond water was sucked out; the dreadful
trees were chopped off n construction for the artificial pool started. Days
passed, n the work went on. The villagers also lend a hand in construction. Chintu
n gang also helped. Sita was kept properly in the cage in the meanwhile, well
fed n medicated.
After 3 more days the artificial enclosure for the crocodile
was finally complete. It was surrounded by a beautiful garden all around, which
was a part of the project also. The whole village joined in n it was time for
sita to be introduced to her new home. The enclosure was pretty big n really
nice. Everyone was happy, but amongst all of them, kalu was the happiest. He
had never thought a day like this could come. Tears formed in his eyes along
with a smile on his face, as he watched the Nat Geo guys release sita into the
enclosure. Sita immediately checked out her new home n kalu just knew deep in
his heart that she was truly happy. Kalu took Puja in his arms n said – “I
don’t know how I could ever thank you! You are an angel who came n changed mine
n sita’s life. You, my lovely child, are godsend. I can never think of paying
you back…ever!”
Puja blushed a bit but
she felt very happy n proud as she had made kalu n sita happy. Dipayan watched Puja
from the distance n he couldn’t stop smiling. Puja quickly ran over to her dad
n into his arms n said – “you are my hero dad!!” – n kissed him on the cheeks. This
moment made it all worth for dipayan.
Everyone in the village was happy. The village chief, along with
a few villagers, came n expressed their gratefulness to dipayan n pratim n his
family. The village brought special gifts for Puja, chintu n putu, without
whom, the village would have still lied under the darkness of superstitious
folklores. Kalu was given a new job, as the caretaker of sita n he would be
paid monthly wages by Nat Geo. They would also come once a month to checkout
the physical n medical condition of sita. It was mutually decided by the
village people that a fee of Rs.2 will be charged from those who came to see
sita which will be considered as sita’s welfare fund. There was a cheerful commotion
all around the village and for once it was a real celebration n not a vague
religious one.
The next day it was time for Puja n dipayan to head back
home. Puja, putu and chintu n all his friends were present at sita’s enclosure.
The enclosure was named “MORA-PUKUR 2” n a sign board hanged above. Kalu was
looking very decent after being shaved n cleaned. He wore a new dress, an
uniform. He looked very good. Puja smiled at him.
Kalu softly said – “I wish I had a daughter like you! Take
care sweetie. I will miss you a lot.” - Puja
gave him a hug n a kiss on the cheeks.
Chintu n putu were really sad as she was going away. Puja
slowly whispered into chintu’s ears – “pompy really likes you!!”
Chintu
screamed with joy –“what??? Yes!!! Pompy likes me!!! Ya ha!”
He quickly turned around n pompi was standing behind him. He
blushed, he smiled n he scratched his head. Pompy smiled back.
Putu softly told Puja – “if only you were my own sister, we
could have had so much fun all the time!! I will miss you!!”
Puja held him tightly in his arms n said – “if I was your own
sister I would have made your life a living hell!!”
N both
of them laughed out loud.
Puja then told him – “I am your own sister idiot. N you are
my sweet ‘motu hyangla’ brother!!!” – Then she handed her a bag n asked him to
open it. Putu opened the bag n it was full of chocolates n sandwiches n what
not. Putu just gave a smile n without wasting time started eating. Apparently
dipayan had brought the bag full of goodies on Puja’s request especially for
putu.
By then a long queue had formed outside sita’s enclosure.
Apparently people from neighbouring villages had heard the story n came to see
sita. Finally the grim n repulsive reputation was lifted from Mistipur. Puja
saw Kalu busy, managing the huge crowd. At that moment everything just seemed
perfect n Puja was really very happy. Dipayan came from behind n said –“its
time to go home princess!”
Dipayan n Puja said their goodbyes to everyone n boarded
their car. The Nat Geo people n the workers had left earlier. Everyone was both
sad n happy n before leaving; Puja promised chintu n putu that she will be back
in the puja vacations n will solve the mystery of the Zamindar’s Haunted Haveli.
Chintu n putu just smiled back at her n waved her good bye!
Dedicated to the
inspiring memory of ‘STEVE IRWIN’.
THE END.
Copyright: © 2009
DIPAYAN CHATTERJEE
