Kaju Or Barfi

Ancient post-diwali norm consisted of people with deep dimples celebrating the light that they’ve birthed the previous day. Modern post-diwali norm consists of the same, just a pretty change of terms. People with no utter value obscure the pollution they’ve birthed the previous day. They no longer buy sweets because they have a patent idea where to spend their pocket money; Air Purifiers! Just like that, Happy Post-Diwali!

Before we begin with a brisk of ranting and oodles of aggression about Pollution, I decided to not think about Pollution this year because, guess what, it shoves nothing but pollution in my brain too. So after inhaling a long breath of unhealthy air, I present to you my vintage crises due to the following characters.

*The Bestie aka The Chatter*

When a friendly and eerie family settles in your living room with quiet a bit knowledge about the latest tourist destinations and politics, you spot The Bestie with your eagle eye. The one with the widest smile and unpolished shoes. They rest their backs on the sofa while you present Kaju Ki Barfi. For apparent reasons they don’t start the conversation, the old aunty does. They splash their eager plea to take over through mind activity and then they double-splash their hunger to speak. They chat about everything, from the grocery shop nearby to the western countries’ political issues. Dolefully, at the very last, you have to call the clinic and order medicines for headaches. Don’t fret, The Bestie will pay for it!

*The Officer aka The Not-So-Hungry*

In earlier days, eating was normal. But now if you pick two ladoos you are considered as too hungry. On the other hand, if you don’t clench any ladoos at all, you are considered insolent. Thus, before galloping the seventy ladoos which are juggling in the mind The Officer first glances at their wife and then back at the tray.

‘I’ll take the kajus instead.’ The Officer thinks. The wife nods. Ladoos remain uneaten.

*The Interior Designer aka The Wanderer*

The Interior Designer’s vision goes with their kids' slow touching of the decorative items. They adjust their saree before the homeowner (the inviter) tells their kid to be careful. Then The Interior Designer begins with the new shop in the old market and laughs uneasily.

‘This candle stands, we have it too. But maybe in gold colour. Gold looks so stunning, you know.’ The Interior Designer says and then gets up and touches the referred item. Then begins walking towards the next.

All like the beads of a lamp; hanging in the same universe with different fantasies.

*Gratis Bonus

XYZ: Enters the lift without a mask.

Looks at me strangely.

Me: Feels uncomfortable and adjusts my mask.

XYZ: Pulls out a handkerchief and brings it closer to the mouth.

My mind: Seriously? Want to blow candles with that one?