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 3^rd 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 2^nd 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