Hazār Afsānah 14 - This is Love (این عشق است)

"This is Love; To fly toward a secret sky; To cause a hundred veils to fall each moment. First, to let go of life. Finally, to take a step without feet."
- Jalal ad-Din Rumi

It's time to let the flowers bloom and so, let me update you on the developments with Raiza. Tariq did not know why this beautiful orchid petal was crying and since she asked him not to stop singing, he paid heed to her request. At the end of the song, the sun had set and out came the chirps of the happy birds. The wind was strong and it blew wildly that evening, almost rocking frail Raiza off her feet. Tariq held onto her wrist and they both walked to the shade of a nearby Loor and Ma'abed (fig) tree. The tree was significant of an everlasting bond that was being created between Tariq and Raiza. This tree stood green against all weathers throughout the year. Tariq and Raiza knew that they were in love, a pure love, one that was safe from the expectations of a frivolous lady and the demands of a chauvinistic man.

They spent the rest of the evening under the tree and Raiza shared her secret. That she was the daughter of the Shah of Iran who was raped every night by her father's brother, Bahram unknown to her dear father. By the end of her story, she was in Tariq's arms crying bitterly over her past and Tariq held onto her, comforting her while stroking her hair. He whispered in her ear, "A bad wound can heal unlike a bad word. A broken hand can work unlike a broken heart. But a sweet tongue and kindness, can drag an elephant with its hair. Your time will come, you need to believe that the Gods are listening." Tariq and Raiza shared every little bit of their past with each other - that Tariq did not know his father, his mother was no more and all in all, he was just a lounge singer.

Raiza always felt that her father and she were poles apart in thoughts and action but they were more alike than two peas in a pod. She took Tariq with her in the morning to the palace in Khorramshehr where her father was residing currently. No one stopped Tariq as he was escorted by the princess herself. She walked into the darbar and asked for seclusion immediately. She had the Shah's attention now. She said, "Pedär (father), I have never asked you who my mother is. I have heard the vilest of remarks for not knowing her name. And I ask the same of you, to not ask me why, what or how but to accept that I love Tariq and am marrying him." The Shah was awestruck and for the first time, at a loss for words. He did not know what he was feeling - whether it was an unbelievable, red rage or a heart bursting with pride. And even though he knew that the right thing to do is to chide his little angel, he could not help but be proud of her for finally standing up for herself. He called on Tariq to take a walk with him in the palace courtyard.

A few hours later, the darbar witnessed an announcement by the Shah - The Wedding Of Shahdokht (Princess) Raiza to Zemindar Tariq Alizadeh was scheduled five days from now in the midst of the rose garden of the Shiraz palace. The Shah had traced Tariq's bloodline within hours and how and whence, none knows. He told Tariq of his father Taher and finally, he thought it was time to tell Raiza about her mother. One night before the wedding, the Shah took Raiza into his chambers. There stood Mali against the window, an ominous look on her gorgeous face. Raiza wondered what this conversation would be about when the Shah sat on his bed and signalled Raiza to come by his feet. He touched her head and said, "Raiza, you have always doubted my love for you and I have never found the need to validate it for you. You are my own kin, the heir to my riches and accomplishments. Can I love anything more than my own blood ?" Raiza seemed bewildered. What was her normally sane father talking about !? He continued, "Dokht (daughter), it is time for you to meet your mother. She is right here in this room. I hope you will love and accept her the way you have accepted Mali in my life."

Raiza was left bewildered. The chamber was dark, illuminated with the faint moonlight. She knew that Maliheh was in the room. Was Maliheh her mother ?! This is not possible... She secretly hated Maliheh for years. How can she now call her - Madär (mother).... Out stepped a figure from the darkness, a lady with nimble fingers and a quivering gait...... Was that Maliheh or someone else ???

A few more to go before Hazār Afsānah wraps up....

Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 13 - All That Glitters (همه می درخشن)

Taher Alizadeh was the Shurangiz player from the Harem who taught Ziavash how to strum the lute. Have you ever wondered why Taher never once felt enticed by the Fereshteh ? So many beautiful women from the corners of Persia, under one roof swaying their hips to his tunes and not once did he look at them with lust in his eyes ?

Taher was once the son of a rich Zemindar [landlord] on the outskirts of Shiraz. He grew up in the lap of luxury with many servants at his feet. He wasn't one to share importance with the material flamboyance of life and so unlike the rest of his family, he treated even the family servants with great respect. Since childhood, he played with the servant children and would encourage them to go to school with him. He would play the Shurangiz for these little children who would dance in circles around him. As Taher turned 16, he realised that he had developed an adulation for a young servant girl. They spent a lot of time together and the inevitable knocked on Taher's door. She was pregnant! Taher's father found out about this mishap and did what any father would. An elaborate amount was paid to the servant family who vanished come dawn. Taher was left devastated. He did not know why or where to his lady love had vanished. Not only did he lose his one lady love but also his little unborn dream. His mother spent a lot of time with him during this span. She told him that women outside the family were terrible creatures, they lured and enticed unsuspecting men, took away their youth and treasures; and then left them to rot and mend their grieving hearts.

Taher took his mother's teachings to heart. He took a solemn vow never again to fall into this trap of enticement. Hence, he never looked a lady in the eye ever again. He gave himself to his Shurangiz who would never leave him heartbroken. When Taher strummed the Shurangiz, all women stood transfixed. There was an air of ecstasy and the Harem swayed to its rhythm.

Meanwhile, a baby boy was born in Khorramshehr to a servant girl. He looked just like his father and so his mother retained his father's surname. Years passed and the boy grew more handsome. He was a lover, never one to doubt the way or wills of God. He followed his heart and his mind told him right against wrong.  Tariq Alizadeh was a gifted singer and in his free time, sang at an Arab lounge, "Azizam". He sang love ballads, Arab dance tunes as well as soulful music. His friends often coaxed him to quit singing and go out with them, sit around roadside cafes, smoke Shisha and eye young, beautiful Arab women. But Tariq was different. He did not appreciate objectifying women and was taught better by his mother. The baby boy was Tariq Alizadeh, son of Taher Alizadeh. 


Is it ironic that both father and son had a passion for music ? Or that both father and son preferred being alone ? Or that both father and son performed for an audience ...


Next week will open another secret door ... Hazār Afsānah is coming to a close .. I hope you are liking it thus far.


Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 12 - Pride Comes Before a Fall (آخر شاه منشی، کاه کشی است)

The Shah was talking a walk in is courtyard, a habit he was trying to inculcate. At this time, he heard screeching and loud screams. He ran towards the sounds and saw his beautiful princess, Raiza fall and crash into the earth. There fell Jaspar on top of her, hurting her even more. The Shah ran to their rescue and picked up his Raiza. He looked towards the skies to pray and there he saw ... A girl looking down on him .. At first, he wondered whether he was hallucinating out of sorrow and then he snapped out of it. He flew into a fit of fury. Had Dara pushed his princess ?


The Shah never showed Raiza or anyone his love (except for Mali). Deep within, he loved Raiza more than anything. She was the only link he had with her mother, the Shah's one true, precious love. It was the Shah that decided that all meals would be made as per Raiza's choice but no one knew of this. It was the Shah that ordered all upholstery to be Āreghoāney because it was Raiza's favourite too but no one knew of this either. That was the Shah. He never expressed himself to his family, he expected them to know. He expected them to search and find his love in the small things he did for them.

The Shah was all knowing. He knew that Dara was a girl from the day he first saw her. Dara's hairline had a widow's peak like that of Fari. And this hairline was rarely seen among Persian men. An old superstition led the Shah to believe that Dara was a girl. And so, when he saw Dara in a skirt he felt happy rather than angry about the lies. Dara was finally free, she did not have to live as a prisoner of multiple personalities. But that did not change the Shah's anger - Why did Dara push his baby down the tree ?!!? (Ironically, no one cared about Jaspar).

The Shah growled in a low, angry tone, "Get down now!" Dara swung down the ladder and fell at the Shah's feet. The Shah asked Dara why he pushed Raiza and Jaspar. Raiza was still unconscious while Jaspar knew that this was the only way to escape. He accused Dara and stormed off. Dara started crying and said, "Amoo jaan, I saw Jaspar drag Raiza to the treehouse. Jaspar wanted to hit me when the branch broke." The Shah saw the truth in Dara's eyes. He took Raiza inside the palace and called upon Doktur Khan. Raiza was bandaged in almost all parts of her body. She had lost her vision and spent days with a satin cloth wrapped around her eyes.


The Shah and Bahram had a huge showdown which resulted in Jaspar being sent to their outhouse in the Alborz mountains. A dagger had sliced the brotherhood of Bahram and the Shah again. First it was Sati and now Raiza. Why must Bahram always hurt the women the Shah loved dearly. The Shah started living at the palace in Khorramshehr while Raiza lived in the luxury of the Shiraz palace with the rest of the family.

Unknown to everyone, blind Raiza had a visitor every night. Raiza fought these unwelcome visits and tried to scream but now since the Shah did not live in the palace, no one paid heed to her. They thought she was crying in pain or for attention. Raiza's days and nights merged. She felt like she was in a continuous trance. During her sanity, she would think that Doktur Khan was drugging her but she never forgot that come morning, she felt used every single day. What traumatized her more was that she had lunch every day with the man who defiled her body. Amoo jaan she called him and he was known to the rest of the world as Bahram.

Raiza had a secret. She was lonely. Her eyes were always downcast and even though the world around her would give an arm and a leg to be her confidante, she did not feel like sharing the reason for her sorrow. Raiza often went to the cliff to lose her sorrows in the beauty that surrounded her. When she heard Tariq's melody about the Fields of Gold, Raiza's green eyes bore down the tears she had withheld for many years. She wanted to run freely in the field without fear of who knew what about her. She felt like she should share her secret with this stranger who sang from his heart. He would be gone in some time and would never be able to tell any more of her secret than what she revealed. And suddenly, it went quiet. Tariq stopped singing. Her heart sank as she realised that he would never sing for her once he knew her secret. He would never want to even look at her once he knew. But this was the moment, it was now or never. She either let the secret take her down with it or shared it with Tariq and set her soul free. Should Raiza share her secret ? What was so bad that she couldn't even tell a stranger ? .... It was that bad!

A new story will be told next week and it will be released on Sunday, 8 July 2012. Are you excited ? :)

Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah - The Character Map

Hope this helps - following are the characters:

1. Nader (Nadr) Shah - The Emperor of Persia also known as the Shah.
2. Raiza - The name means 'Rose'. The daughter of the Shah. We know not of her mother's origin.
3. Tariq - The name means 'evening caller' - the one who calls to prayer. The gifted singer at Azizam who fell in love with Raiza at first sight.
4. Mailheh - The name means 'beautiful'. She was the concubine from Saadi Street who served the Shah.
5. Ziavash - The owner of the most succesful Harem in Saadi Street. Maliheh was his most famous earner. Borne to a courtesan from Genghis Khan's darbar and a master performer of the Shurangiz.
6. Zeba - The name means 'a beautiful girl from heaven'. Little sister to Ziavash and hence, daughter of the courtesan from Genghis Khan's darbar. A mystery is revealed about her in Afsānah 9.
7. Bahram - The name means ' victorious'. He is the Shah's oldest brother and husband to four wives and father to four sons and two daughters.
8. Jaspar - In this context, the name means 'diamond'. Jaspar is Bahram's oldest son and Behrokh's first born.
9. Dara - In this context. the name means ' wealthy'. Dara is Bahram's youngest wife's child. A secret is revealed in Afsānah 7.
10. Behrokh - The name means 'prettiest face;. She is Bahram's first wife.
11. Khojassteh - The name means 'royal'. She is Bahram's second wife. A mystery unfolds in Afsānah 10.
12. Zahra - The name means 'bold'. She is Bahram's third wife.
13. Farideh - The name means 'precious'. Daughter of the Kurdish tribe chieftain and Bahram's fourth wife. She is also Dara's mother.
14. Sanaz - The name means 'full of grace'. She is Behrokh and Bahram's daughter.
15. Taher Alizadeh - The name means 'pure or chaste'. A Shurangiz player from the Harem. He taught Zia how to play the Shurangiz.
16. Azar - A concubine from the Harem who mentored Zeba and auctioned her to the highest bidder.
17. Sattareh - The name means 'star'. Nadr Shah's childhood love. A secret is revealed about her in Afsānah 10.

If you still are clueless about a character, drop me a comment on the blog post and I will give you the background :D

Hazār Afsānah 11 - When Fire Spreads (گسترش آتش)

Sorry guys !! I'm late again .... So from now on, keep checking the blog, it WILL be updated either on Friday, Saturday or Sunday!! 
Also, Coming Soon - The Character Map !! This will help you guys trace the different characters of Hazār Afsānah easily =D


Is it not uncanny that a woman's worth is measured by her ability to birth a son. Further more, what if she could not birth a child at all ?! Such was Khoja's dilemma. And thus was crushed Bahram's grand dream - to marry Khoja and have adorable Persian Baluchi children.

The Shah never forgave his brother. He knew that Bahram had played the right card at the right time to make sure Nadr lost Sati. But as is with any game of chance, luck can shine on anyone at any time. Years passed by with Nadr and Sati crossing paths in the corridor and not acknowledging each other. Khoja was furious with Nadr - how could he not fight for her. How could he leave her in the midst of this family dilemma and see her live with his brother every day as husband and wife ?! Was that how much Nadr loved Sati ?!

The Shah picked and chose his battles carefully. He knew that he could not have Sati. She was now Bahram's amânât. How do you put out an everlasting fire ? How do you stop an ever-present rain ? What would push back a permanent tidal wave ? How would the cracked earth come together again ? Nadr and Sati could never be together but their love could never be a closed chapter either. Through the purdahs and glances, Khoja still managed to steal a glimpse of the Shah and she knew this love shouldn't, couldn't and wouldn't die. Khoja knew of the Shah's passion for the Raqs Sharqi perfectionist - Maliheh. She did not like it one bit but how could she stop him. She wanted more than anything to share herself with him. But, how could she; she was married albeit unhappily.

Mali used to dance in the Shah's courtroom where everyone in the palace came together. Even the women would gather, their chadors wrapped tightly across their face and leaving their eyes uncovered to quench their thirst for freedom. Bahram was a loyal spectator. He loved the way Mali's hips swayed, it always made him spend the night with Fari (his fourth wife). After Mali's last performance, Bahram could hold it in no longer. He cornered her when she was on her way to change out of her seductive costume. He told her that he would guild her in gold for one night's acquaintance in his otagh (room). How fast does a sandstorm move ?! Mali spun on her heels probably faster and ran towards her changing room. Bahram was true to his blood, he must have what his heart desires. He ran behind her and latched the room shut.


There they stood, a look of triumph facing a look of aversion. The night was dark as it should be, but the moon was missing without an intimation. The trees swayed with vigour forced by the Wind God's fury. It seemed like something horrible would happen that night. And for Mali, it did. She had been in this profession for all her life but never had she been touched against her will. And here was the brother of her favourite man trying to unite with her soul against her will. By then it started raining angrily like the skies were crying because of the injustice. The night was long and painful and come sunshine, Mali was bleeding profusely and Bahram was nowhere to be found.


Mali stepped out of the otagh and limped her way to the kitchen in search for some food. At that moment, Khoja finished making Bahram's breakfast and stepped out of the kitchen. They locked eyes and Khoja knew that Mali had touched something that did not belong to herself. Mali hung her head in shame while Khoja searched her face for an inkling of an idea as to why Mali looked so haggard today. Within seconds, Khoja noticed a trail of blood on the floor. La! This was forbidden. She bellowed at Mali - "What have you done ? This is not meant to be seen by anyone but yourself. You have committed a sin and now .." Before Khoja could complete her words, Mali was on the floor unconscious. Khoja fell on the floor to lift Mali and check her health. At that moment, the Shah was on his way to his daily durbar. He ceased his pace. Was he hallucinating ? He saw blood, Mali on the floor and Khoja holding Mali's head. Had Khoja's love for the Shah driven her to kill Mali ?!?!?!?!

More next week my darlings....


Until then, Au Revoir.


Love,
S

Hazār Afsānah 10 - Only From The Heart Can You Touch The Sky !

We know the Shah as a powerful man, one who ruled over all of Persia successfully for many years. But every man was once a boy and so the Shah too has a story to be told.


The Shah's father wasn't a rich man but he wasn't poor either. They lived an adequate life and though they did not have fountains and pools, they had water to cleanse themselves before prayer and a prayer before every meal. In those days, these were great luxuries and so, by some means, the Shah might have always been rich. 


Across the mud road, lived a Goddess by the name Sattareh (means star). She had grey eyes and her eye colour would change basis her emotion. The Shah had grown up playing with her and these were times long before the veil and the abaaya became a norm. He would look at her golden face and light brown hair and ask himself, "Nader, is this what an angel looked like?" The entire street knew these children - Sati and Nadr, eminently because of the beauty they held close in their togetherness. They did everything together, from their meals to their bathing times; the colour of their clothes to the songs they liked. They were the perfect union in every way and every day, they loved each other more. Nadr would ask Sati how much she loved him and she would tell him to first count the number of drops in the ocean. Such was their innocent love!


It was summer and Nadr's oldest brother, Bahram had come home from his education in Britain. Bahram and Behrokh, his newly wed wife, had left for Britain some time ago. Behrokh was now pregnant and so she was brought home to be with her family. It was during this time that Bahram set his eyes on Sattareh. One evening, Nadr and Sati were having some Bastani from the street vendor when Bahram was walking to the mosque. He stumbled upon some rocks when his eyes set upon Sati's golden face. He went to the mosque and prayed that God must show him the way. When Bahram left the mosque, he found a marriage procession crossing him. This was a definite sign! He must marry Sati, he knew it. As the oldest son of the family, Bahram's every wish was a command. He told his father of this deep desire to marry Sati. His father knew that Sati belonged with Nadr and so he said that since Sati was a Baluchi, Bahram could not marry her.

With staunch opposition from his father's side, Bahram would never have Sati. Within a week's time, Bahram's father was no more. No one knows who sliced his heart and how no one heard any cries. To date, this remains a mystery and a Persian man knows better than to point a greased finger. Bahram went to Sati's father and convinced him to give his daughter's hand in marriage. Since her name would constantly remind  Bahram of Nadr, he re-christened her to Khojassteh (meaning royal). Bahram and Khoja were married twelve nights before the year's Rose Festival.


Nadr was on a pilgrimage to Qom and when he came back, he found that Sati was living in his home. Can you imagine the mayhem ?! Bahram met Nadr in the hallway and said, don't worry brother, you dream further than your mind allows you. Khoja is only beautiful, she is not a real woman!

That's all for now. More love soon.


Huggz,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 9 - The Young Should Dream (آرزو بر جوانان عیب نیست)

T'was my birthday and I couldnt update the blog on time.. Sorryyyyy :D

And this time shall be a continuation too.....

A young girl was snatched away from her brother and locked in a vault with no food. Days went by and she felt weak, after some time she couldnt even scream for help. Rats crawled all over and she felt some roaches on her back. When she felt a little brave, she would crawl around the vault hoping to find some kind of duct. Cobwebs began to trap her and time grew hazy until one day, she was rudely woken up with a splash of water. She was surrounded by the Fereshteh, one of whom was Azar (meaning fire). Azar liked this girl, she was innocent and naive and someone who could be trained well. Azar decided to mentor her and take her under her wing. They would spend night and day in the Harem hall where she learnt the twists and turns of the Raqs Sharqi. Azar nursed her back to health until the girl had a healthy, pink glow on her cheeks. Azar protected her, never let her into the sight of commoners and ensured she bathed in rose water once a week. Even a small cut on the girl's body was treated with utmost care. The girl asked Azar one day, "Why do you love me, Mother? I am not even your child!" Azar said, "Zeba, from the day they brought you out of the vault, you were my child. From now on, everyone will call you Maliheh because that is who you are. Beautiful." Zeba was confined to the top most floor of the Harem with Azar. No men were allowed here and so it was safe. She never stepped into the kitchen or danced in the main hall during day light. She was the unseen prisoner of the Harem.

(This image is of Shirin and is not related to Hazār Afsānah in any way)

In ten years, Zeba hadn't stepped out into the sun. And finally, it was time for her debut. Azar decided to invite bids for her and what an auction it was. All Harems in Persia bore witness to the grand celebration. Never before was such a price paid for an enchantress. Everyone spoke of Maliheh and her beauty. Jealousy ran rampantly; every man or woman, young or old, from Khorramshahr or Shiraz, Maracanda to Parthia wanted to see the beauty of Persia. The beauty that commanded the highest price ever paid for an evening with an enchantress.

Folklore quotes that she reigned not only the concerts and the hearts of the people but also the breath of the Emperor. A doe-eyed beauty with alabaster skin, lips as soft as the feather of a peacock and a sharp, straight nose which gave her angular features. Her fingers were thin and graceful and her body was curved and slender. She moved with the grace of a ballet dancer and broke the hearts of many with her every blink. The Emperor had fallen deeply in love with her and it is said that she wore real diamonds and emeralds gifted by him.

And so it came to be, Maliheh spent the prized evening with The Emperor of Persia - Nader Shah. And who else would pay such an exorbitant prize for a gift they never saw. Only The Shah could take such a chance.

Now you know who Zeba is :). But how would Ziavash not know her ??

Zia wanted to belong and so Taher took him under his wing. They moved from Shiraz to Khorramshahr which was Taher's native land. Zia followed Taher everywhere and imbibed his every routine. He even changed the way he dressed to match that of Taher's mature sense. The Shurangiz would melt under Zia's fingers, such was the training inculcated by Taher. Years passed by, Taher grew more serene and Zia was just the opposite. The scope for earning money through music was minuscule in Khorramshahr. It was time to introduce Shiraz to the magical tunes of Ziavash.

At Shiraz, Taher and Zia were no doubt beyond comparison with any other artist but how much money could a performer make ? No restaurants or clubs would take them and slowly they were heading towards Taher's old joint. Saadi street welcomed them and they went back to the beautiful threshold with the astounding Persian lamp. A knock and a gasp, Azar could not believe her eyes. She least expected Zia at the door with Taher. Taher was sent away from the Harem, so why had he come back ?! Why had he been sent away ? Another story, another time :). Azar panicked, would Zia recognise Mali ? The Fereshteh were overjoyed and welcomed Taher back. They knew that their nights would be more colourful now that they would dance to the musical melodies of these two gorgeous men.

Thank you for all the love and keep it coming. Look forward to your thoughts :D

Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 8 - No Good Deed Goes Unpunished (آمدم ثواب کنم، کباب شدم)."

Remember when Ziavash was told to leave his mum with the lady and take Zeba and get the ice cream from the marketplace .. Zia was angry ...

He was shocked by what he saw and knew that his mother was committing a sin. He took Zeba out with the intention of buying her some Bastani-e gol-o bolbol and got carried away by the sound of a Shurangiz (a type of lute). He walked with little Zeba in the direction of the Shurangiz until he reached a door on which hung an elaborate Persian lamp. The moment he crossed the threshold with Zeba, there was a loud clang! Every visitors entry into the harem was tracked. Zia walked on until he reached a large circular hall which hosted a massive gathering of Fereshteh (angels). This young, adorable, fair, brown hued boy was an immediate hit with all the ladies. They hugged and kissed him and asked him whence he came. In his childish slang, he said that he lived across the market side street. They asked whether he liked the harem and He said that he would love to live there!

As you know, men hold the post of prime protectors in any Persian household. This harem needed a man - a man who would lure innocent, young men into visiting the Fereshteh and at the same time, drive a chagoo through an unwarranted visitor. Gold trays of green grapes, blackberries and raspberries dared guests to take a bite like they were forbidden and yet tempting. All of this bore audience to the Shurangiz player - a young man who loved music - Taher Alizadeh (meanin pure or chaste). Taher never once looked up and he played with a passion for something - why did he not glance at the Fereshteh even once ? He had no interest in women. He might be interested in men, you say ? No! That was forbidden in Islam and Taher was a firm believer. Taher never felt a deep, passionate love for anything other than his Shurangiz. When ever the strummed the Shurangiz, he thought to himself how blessed he was to hear this sound that entertain the Gods.

(This is a famous Shurangiz player - Hossein Alizadeh.
He is not related to Hazār Afsānah in any way)

In the midst of all the bedlam, Zia got caught up with the Fereshteh. Time flew by and many more men entered the Harem. These men looked huge, bulky and for some reason, royal. They smoked shisha and chewed a weird substance that put them in some sort of trance. That's when Zia realised, he must protect Zeba. But where was Zeba ? He looked around, ran behind the pillars, to the balcony and still couldn't find her. He asked the Fereshteh and they told him to go to the main hall as they were getting ready for the night's performance. Zia ran helter skelter, up and down and still could not find her. He sat down and began to cry when Taher started playing the Shurangiz. Zia sobbed profusely for a while, then listened to the tune and followed the sound. It seemed like he too was in a trance with Taher.

Zia watched with the fascinated smile of a saint who has been granted his wishes by the presence of God, Herself. In disbelief, Zia watched how the men were playing with their beards, how their eyes twitched and to his curiosity, what were they chewing ? Taher took a short break and Zia ran up to him. He said, "Bar-a-dar (brother), I want to learn the Shurangiz from you. When you play, you remind me of my father's tunes. I don't remember his face, but I remember the tunes he played. But, man ghom shodam (I'm lost). I don't know my roots and I don't know where I am headed. At least, this way I will belong. Shoam mitooni ke komakam konid (Can you help me) ?" Taher said, " Ba man bia (come with me)" and took him to his quarter. Taher gave him a tiny Shurangiz and said "Music is not a language, digeh. It is the sound of your heart. Play what your heart pleases and how it wishes for you to play. It will sound right always."

Now, the question is - where is Zeba ? Was she kidnapped ? Why did she not raise a ruckus ?

Another thing is that there is one more Alizadeh you have been acquainted with previously. But I will tell you who he is only when the time is right. Until then ........ Bedrood Khoshgel Mardom (Goodbye beautiful people) !!

Love,
S

Hazār Afsānah 7 - The wolf in sheep's clothing (شيم سابل رد يگرگ())

This time around, I will continue the story of Dara, Jaspar and Raiza. Let me take you back to my old post.

Bahram (the Shah's oldest brother) had four wives - Behrokh (means prettiest face; Jaspar's mother),  Khojassteh (means royal), Zahra (means bold) and Farideh (means precious). Farideh was Bahram's youngest bride. The Kurdish tribe's chieftain had only one daughter, the apple of his eye whom he named Farideh. All of Afghanistan wanted Farideh and the chieftain protected her until he found a suitor in Bahram, the Shah's brother. Farideh was a beautiful, young girl with rosy cheeks who yearned to please her husband. She knew she was the youngest bride in the family, the other wives might not like her at first glance, her husband had already been with three other women at least. However, Farideh was not one to lose hope. She was known for stealing hearts of good men which included her father. With the will of a tigress looking for prey, she made up her mind. Bahram would be her ardent admirer before the next Rose festival in Shiraz.

Within days, Bahram was Farideh's devotee. Fari, he called her, cooked the best food, made the best bed, cleaned the best rooms and sang the sweetest. In the privacy of their room, Bahram told Fari that she was also the most graceful dancer he had ever laid eyes on. Every day was a battle of conquest for Fari. She competed with herself to better everything she did. To create a new lasting impression than her previous, successful attempt, Fari was slowly but steadily driving herself to insanity.

Within two months of their Aghd (wedding), Fari was pregnant. Bahram proudly proclaimed that Fari would have their most handsome son. He decided that his son will be named Dara (means wealthy). Fari prayed to the Gods for nine months to give her a healthy baby. And at the end of nine months, the Gods blessed her with just that - A healthy baby girl! During Fari's pregnancy, Bahram was with Behrokh arranging their daughter's (her name was Sanaz) marriage. The midwife knew that Bahram would be beside himself and might even cast away his young bride. Fari could not lose the only possession, she ever truly sought. The midwife gave Fari a suggestion that changed the course of Dara's life.

Have you heard of 'Bacha Posh' ? It is a common practise in Afghanistan - a land rampant with war among tribes. Having a daughter could be a disadvantage with men running about high on their hormones alone. In such places, families often dressed their daughters as young boys from a tender age. There is a perceived notion that having a bacha posh in the family would ensure that the next pregnancy would result in a male child.

Fari decided that Dara would be a 'bacha posh'. And so, from the day Dara can remember,  everyone referred to her as  Pesar (boy).  When you are moulded at that age to think like a man against your natural growth, can you even imagine the impact ? Dara began thinking like a man, he would draw his eyebrows thicker every morning just to match the traits of other men.  No one knew of Dara's secret except his mother and the midwife. The midwife passed away in a riot and now the soul survivor of this secret was Fari. 

There was a small situation though. You know how children develop crushes.... Dara developed a crush too..... on his playmate..... Raiza. But was this unforeseen ? If you force a girl to think like a man, would she fall in love with a man or woman ? What is acceptable ? He would follow Raiza everywhere and secretly watch as she bathed in her pool. He even wore Āreghoāney to attract her attention. He would be her shadow from morn till night and in his sleep, think of a lifetime with her. Such was his love for Raiza. A true love, a pure love - one untouched by the politics of growing up.

And now, here was Dara standing in her blouse and skirt, true to her form, practising her jig when Raiza and Jaspar waltzed in. Dara used to practise her dance in the tree house all the time. She knew that at night Jaspar brought some strange women there but during the day, it was a safe place. When Dara saw the shock in Raiza's eyes, he knew it was over. Raiza would never love him. Dara was brought back to reality by Jaspar's ferocious growl - Bas-ast!!!! He gripped onto the branch and roared like a lion. In his anger, he managed to break the branch of the tree. Thereby weakening the branch below on which rested the ladder to the tree house. The branch below snapped. AAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, thudddddd!!! Who was it ??? Who shrieked ? Both Raiza and Jaspar had fallen. Who survived the fall ? Dara ran to the door and looked down, there stood the Shah gazing up at Dara, the girl!

Sorry this one is 24 hours late. Promise to be on time next week. Tell me what you think though :D

Love,

S

Hazār Afsānah 6 - Anger Has No Eyes (درادن مشچ مشخ) !!

Mali's chagoo had mercilessly sliced through someones heart. The amphitheatre erupted in chaos. Everyone ran hither thither, shishas were broken, food strewn everywhere and doogh oozed out of every nook and corner. A few minutes hence, there was a hushed whisper and no other noise. The Shah's commanders had come to examine who was murdered that evening. The inspection began to find the heart with the loudest shriek.....

Enough about Mali and the Shah. Let me tell you about Raiza's childhood.

Raiza, as you know, was a lonely child. She spent days wandering through the palace in Shiraz. She found solace in meandering through the many rose gardens that Shiraz held in her crown. She had a favourite place in the palace - the lamp room. Here, she smoked her shishas, drank mint tea, read books and practised Reqah (a type of Persian calligraphy). The palace also hosted the Shah's brothers and their families. I'm sure you are wondering 'How big is this palace' and I would love to tell you more about it but perhaps, another time :)

Bahram was the Shah's older brother - they were born 10 years apart. He lived in the lavish ambiance of his brother's palace with his four wives, four sons and two daughters. His favourite child was his oldest, Jaspar, the boy with blue eyes and blue blood. Jaspar was twelve years of age when he realised that he embraced a deep, churning hatred for Raiza. Like the colour of a brightly lit flame - Na'arenji (crimson). She was the apple of everyones eyes and the palace chef was advised to cook her favourite meals everyday. Jaspar's reasons for hating her were different. It wasn't her beauty or that his parents loved her more. The Shah did not have a son and as such, he was next in line to rule the Kingdom. If Raiza got married before his crowning, the scales of balance might tip against his favour. 

Lately, he felt like he was growing up, sprouting a moustache and some hair on his chest. Dara, his little brother always pulled on his hair and Jaspar thought it was time to either get rid of Dara or the hair. Dara was also Raiza's precious. She played with Dara whenever she had a chance. Jaspar felt like a man, a strong one at that. At a height of 6'3, he was definitely towering over the rest. He often felt the urge to be with a woman and would think against it. Being an orthodox believer, he would tell himself that "Ahriman" (the devil) was trying to distract him from his focus - the throne of Persia. Ironic again, because the Ahriman was ruling Jaspar since a long time - since the thought of hating Raiza has sown its seed or since the time he wanted to murder little Dara.

One evening, Jaspar was getting ready to make his daily visit to Saadi street when he saw something that caught his breath. A girl with the body of Ak-ana (Persian Goddess) and the walk of a dainty deer. This little breath of fresh air walked by the fountain in a white gown and purdah with the blue moon light creating an imaginary halo around her. Jaspar had to have this Goddess. He ran towards her and pulled on her purdah from behind. Out fell her auburn hair and she twirled in shock. It was Raiza - the Shah's dainty daughter. "Bas-ast Digeh! Mano tanha bezar" (Stop it! Leave me alone) she screamed. Jaspar was shocked, did he just feel a spark for Raiza ? He grabbed her by the arm and took her behind the palace. His tree house was the safest place where no one would look for Raiza and it could be secured with a large steel lock too. He dragged her up the ladder by her beautiful, auburn hair and kicked open the door. Raiza yelled and screamed but of no avail. No one came to protect the daughter of the Shah. There stood a little girl dressed in traditional Persian attire looking at herself in the mirror.

No one was allowed to enter Jaspar's tree house. It was the privilege presented by the Shah to the oldest son in the family. The one similarity between Jaspar and Raiza was their love for lamps. The tree house too was decorated in lamp of different types. But this little person in the tree house had broken in. This person was an infiltrator and for its worth, looked vaguely familiar. Raiza and Jaspar let out a gasp! It was Dara who stood there dressed in jewels from head to toe. He wore a jewelled head band and a gold coin strap on his hips. His beautiful skirt was a fuchsia pink and with it, he wore a lime green blouse. What shocked Raiza and Jaspar was that Dara's lime green blouse exuded the build of a woman !! How was that possible ? Raiza played with Dara everyday. How would she have not known that Dara was a girl!

If you want to know about a particular character in Hazār Afsānah, do drop me a comment. I hope you are liking these snippets :) Until next Friday .....

Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 5 - Āreghoāney Mezeh Hā (The Purple Taste)

"I know I usually update this blog on Friday but here's a treat for the rest of the working week :)
- Swati."

Maliheh loved the colour purple (Āreghoāney). Whether it was her room, the bedspreads, the chandeliers, the shisha, her make up or her clothes; Āreghoāney was her colour of choice. The Shah had decorated her room in the palace in Āreghoāney and bought her gold embroidered slippers in the same colour. That was how much he loved her. But he often wondered whether she loved him as much. Whether she lusted after his power or she wanted more money ?

Another person loved Āreghoāney. He was the son of a courtesan who entertained at Genghis Khan's darbar. They say he had shifty, enticing eyes which pierced through in its brown hue. With shiny black hair that tumbled in waves, he looked like a true Aryan. Is it not ironic that he was born to a courtesan ? His great love for music made him a master of the Shurangiz (a type of lute) and when he played, time came to a standstill. The world seemed like it stopped breathing and everything had frozen in time. The birds sang in tune and the wind added to the quartet. The peacocks danced and the rain descended its taps to match the same tune. His childhood was taken away from him, filled with insults, taunts and unwanted fondling. He grew up before time to take care of his sister and his mum. In Persia, the men of the house are expected to take care of their home irrespective of whether they are man or son or how many women the family hosted.

On a beautiful day, his mother asked to speak with him. She told him of how they did not have enough money to buy groceries or meat to even make kashk-e-bademjan. It was time for someone to step up. The home needed food to survive and it was his responsibility. She asked him to go to Saadi street and find a good man who would like to spend some time with her. She said she expected no lesser than a pouch of gold coins. And so he set out to find a good man. He did not know why a man would give his mother a pouch of gold for some time spent together. But he knew he had to feed his sister and that his mother had found a way out which was actually his responsibility. He walked up and down Saadi street and finally found a good looking man. He looked like an Aryan and felt like he was looking in an aged mirror. He told him of the proposition and the man took some convincing but agreed. They walked to his home where the stranger saw his sister. He stopped in his tracks and leered at her. He did not like it, this stranger was making lewd expressions at his sister. He ushered him towards the sitting area and his mother stood there covered in a shawl. She asked him to close the door behind him and leave her with the stranger.

How could he leave his mother alone ? His sister ran to hug him and he held her close. Abruptly, he heard the clink of anklets. His sister and he peered through a crack in the door. What he saw shocked him!! There stood two women dressed in their Āreghoāney bare minimum with coin studded hips moving to the rhythm of an inaudible tune. They both were dressed in traditional Āreghoāney Raqs Sharqi costume. He couldn't believe his eyes. He had just brought home a man. Where did the man go ? And who was this woman with his mother ? And why were they wearing Āreghoāney ?

At that moment, his mother turned and saw them peering through the crack in the door. "Ziavash !!" She screamed - "Take Zeba and go get some Bastani-e gol-o bolbol (Saffron and rose flavoured ice cream) Now !!"

Let me know what you think of this Afsānah!

Much love,
S

Hazār Afsānah 4 - Raiza's Forgotten Story .....

Everyone wants to know more about Raiza..... So here's a little bit about her....

Raiza had never known poverty or greed. Always content with what she was given, she was completely unlike her mother. Her mother she never knew, and her father never had time. Sattareh he called her when her name was Raiza. She told herself that this was because she was the star of his eyes but many said that it was because she reminded him of Sattareh. Who is Sattareh, you ask ? That's a long story, one that I will tell only with time.

Raiza was tall, as tall as a bamboo tree one might say as t'aarof. With beautiful auburn hair and slender hips, Raiza was definitely an exquisite surprise for tired eyes. Her eyes were a deep shade of green like that of the turquoise waters of the sea. Encompassed in the shape of a fish, her eyes alone would make a man stop in his tracks. Alabaster skin covered her face and was sprinkled with a few freckles that only added to her beauty. High cheek bones and her rosy, luscious lips were the envy of many women in Shiraz. She wore rose oil from the famous red rose gardens of Shiraz. This summoned her arrival to all onlookers who tidied themselves to be in the presence of the princess.

However, Raiza was lonely. Her eyes were always downcast and even though the world around her would give an arm and a leg to be her confidante, she did not feel like sharing the reason for her sorrow. Her father was the Shah who was always in the presence of eternal beauty; be it the queens of harems or nearby fiefdoms. She missed her mother, the lady she did not know. Raiza often went to the cliff to lose her sorrows in the beauty that surrounded her. The entire kingdom knew that when Raiza danced, the Gods were in audience. She danced to express and not to impress. The Raqs Sharqi was a genetic gift to her and she had mastered the Bandari dance as well. But no one knew that Raiza could sing and she sang like the whispering dew that fell on the leaf when no one was watching and yet cooled the thirsty vine.

When she heard Tariq's melody about the Fields of Gold, Raiza's green eyes bore down the tears she had withheld for many years. She wanted to run freely in the field without fear of who knew what about her. She felt like she should share her secret with this stranger who sang from his heart. He would be gone in some time and would never be able to tell any more of her secret than what she revealed. And suddenly, it went quiet. Tariq stopped singing. Her heart sank as she realised that he would never sing for her once he knew her secret. He would never want to even look at her once he knew. But this was the moment, it was now or never. She either let the secret take her down with it or shared it with Tariq and set her soul free. Should Raiza share her secret ? What was so bad that she couldn't even tell a stranger ?

 

I know you are eager to know what's next but...

"There is no great achievement that is not the result of patient working and waiting ....

- J. G. Holland."

Until next time my darlings ....

Love,

S.

Hazār Afsānah 3 - Only a Knife Knows What Goes On In The Heart Of A Pumpkin :)

Since I have been incessantly harassed about what happens next, here goes ...

Ziavash was the owner of the Harem and Mali's Koskesh (hustler). He always had a dear eye for Mali and was exhilarated on receiving the scroll. This meant killing two birds with one stone. Not only would this stir a deep malice in Mali for the Shah but also give the other concubines of his Harem a chance to win affluent customers. He went out onto Saadi street and bought new clothes and jewellery for all the women in his Harem.

Mali eyed the gown Zia bought for her carefully. It covered too much she thought. How would she steal the hearts of all the men present if she was covered from head to toe ? Out came the scissor and she cut off the arms of the gown, deepened the neck and back and shortened the hem of the skirt. This now looked like a Heart Stopper's gown.

The evening drew near and the Harem was a mad house of half dressed women running around in an effort to look their best. The palanquin bearers arrived and out poured the most beautiful women in Persia. Dressed in the finest grandeur and equipped with their most graceful charm, these ladies not only attracted glances from the men around but also the women who forgot how to hold the chador when they laid their eyes on them.

The Amphitheatre was laden with flowing white shamianas and shishas. Doogh (traditional Irani drink) and chelo kababs (rice and kebab) were the order of the day and everyone bustled around to satisfy their palates. The trumpets were sounded and in walked the Great Shah and his entourage. The music filled the air and it seemed like the birds sang in unison to welcome the great evening. The wind bellowed and the women walked onto the stage one by one to showcase their most anticipated moves. Hours went by in anticipation of Mali, the crowd started chanting her name and the Shah, himself, was now eagerly waiting to see his beloved.

All of a sudden the music came to a halt, there were three gunshots in the air and everyone looked around in trepidation. The sound of anklets graced the air and Mali glided onto the stage with coins studded on her hips. The music began with chimes and Mali stunned the audience with her rendition of Raqs Sharqi (belly dance). She swayed her hips for 45 minutes before coming to a halt. Out of nowhere she grabbed a chagoo (knife) and flung it into the air.

A loud shriek emerged from the crowd, the knife had ended someones life....

There will be more soon .. Keep reading :)

Love,
S.

Hazār Afsānah 2 - Build Bridges Instead Of Walls and You Will Have A Friend :)

So where did I leave you ? Oh yes, when Tariq met Raiza.


Did I tell you about the scenery when he first set his gaze upon her ? It seemed like this was part of Mother Nature's vicious plan - for Tariq to finally fall in love. The waves a beautiful colour of turquoise like the green of an emerald mixed with the blue of a loving sky. One could bear witness to the sea world living its life while looking up at its audience on the cliff. The skies wore the cloak of blazen orange and pink like it had a mind of its own. The trees on the cliff swayed in their green gusto and the grass paid homage in the direction of the sun. It was the season of spring and the trees bore fruits and the grass were laden with their jewels.
Set in the breathtaking city of Khorramshahr, this cliff was the meeting point for many a lonely soul.


Let me introduce you to Raiza, the ravishing daughter of Nader Shah - the Shah of Iran. No one knew about the personal life of the Napoleon of Persia. He was a man of many words when it came to protecting The Kingdom but till date, no one knows who Raiza's mother is. Legend has it that the side outlet of Saadi Street was an area of great shame from where Raiza's mother hails. Overflowing with destitute women who were abandoned by their husbands or lovers, they sold their mind, soul and body for means to get by their gruesome lives in the Harem.


The Shah was a great lover of song and dance, quite contrary to Islamic beliefs. He hosted a concert every Saturday evening to commemorate the last day's devotion and the onset of the weekend. The entire Kingdom came together in the amphitheatre next to the Palace in Shiraz. Folklore quotes that Maliheh (means beautiful in Farsi) reigned not only the concerts and the hearts of the people but also the breath of the Shah. Mali, he'd call her; had the eyes of a deer, alabaster skin, lips as soft as the feather of a peacock and a sharp, straight nose which gave her angular features. Mali's fingers were thin and graceful and her body was curved and slender. She moved with the grace of a ballet dancer and broke the hearts of many with her every blink. The Shah had fallen deeply in love with her and it is said that she wore real diamonds and emeralds gifted by the Shah. These jewels are now treasured in the basement vault of the Central Bank at Ferdowsi Street, Tehran.


One evening, the Shah felt mischievous. He sent his messenger to the Harem with a scroll that read:


"Never has Persia seen a carnival; I will bring it true,
To make this a night to remember, I am inviting you.
Bring with you, your finest jewellery and your moves of sway,
Tomorrow will decide who reigns my heart on this very day."


Maliheh read this scroll with great interest and set it to fire. She was humiliated that the Shah would want to witness the sway of other women. The time had come to plot and plan, the Shah had outgrown his huge shoes and Maliheh knew how to make sure he stumbles.

Eager to know what happens next ?! Ill be back soon, love.


Bittersweet,
S

Hazār Afsānah 1 - Green Greener Greenest :)

“Growing up is never easy. You hold on to things that were. You wonder what's to come. But that night, I think we knew it was time to let go of what had been, and look ahead to what would be. Other days. New days. Days to come. The thing is, we didn't have to hate each other for getting older. We just had to forgive ourselves... for growing up.”
- The Wonder Years.


Every once in a while, we traipse into memories that make us who we are today. It could be a song, a poem, a verse, a phrase or even a silence. Here's to a song that reminds me of one of my favorite couples. The song goes like this:

"Will you stay with me, will you be my love

Among the fields of barley

We'll forget the sun in his jealous sky

As we lie in the fields of gold"

This is a story about Raiza and Tariq. 

Tariq was a lover, never one to doubt the way or wills of God, he followed his heart and his mind told him right against wrong. While Raiza was a free spirit. She did exactly what she wanted, when she wanted and with the people she wanted to be with. Tariq was a gifted singer and in his free time, sang at an Arab lounge, "Azizam". He sang love ballads, Arab dance tunes as well as soulful music. His friends often coaxed him to quit singing and go out with them, sit around roadside cafes, smoke Shisha and eye young, beautiful Arab women. But Tariq was different. He did not appreciate objectifying women and was taught better by his mother. 

One evening, Tariq drove to his favorite place in all of the city, a cliff overlooking the Persian Gulf. He sat there singing 'Fields of Gold' until he heard a girl ask, "Why did you stop?" He set his eyes on the girl and was at a loss for words. Had he ever seen anything more beautiful ? Like the moon has stepped down from the sky to speak with him ....

More on this story, in my next post.....

S

If Only !!

by Swati Pillai on Sunday, 02 November 2008 at 14:42.

The phone rang and It was Him .. A Mental note to bar his calls .. I picked it up and he said he needed my help ..

I thought it was just one of those days when Rizwan wanted money for his sick, disgusting needs .. To inject himself and lie in a pool of himself until someone sympathized and cleaned him up and put him on his bed .. I hung up on him .. The same old filmy thingie .. Hello , Hello , I cant hear u rizaaa !! n plat .. hung up ..

Newspaper next day " Rizwan Mohammed, Son of Oil Merchant Mohammed Bros., found in his pool with froth dripping out of his mouth " with a ghastly pic alongside ..

I knew him since i was in 10th grade as an acquaintance, the handsome boy with the dishevelled brown hair, the awesome clothes and the lady's man. Back then, I wouldve given an arm and a leg to be his best budd .. Not so much later ..
We grew up together .. he always took care of me .. kept away the big bad bullies .. he'd say "She's my girl" and he loved me like his very own sister .. the love i never received from my own brother was fulfilled by this guy who just breezed into my life .. We would hang out every day and talk into the late hours at nite .. Id sit on his bike and he's take me around wid pride .. He showed me what the city was outside the sheltered arms of my parents .. He taught me how to stand up for myself and fight for what's right .. In the darkest of nights, He was my brightest star .. We would sing hindi songs and embarrass our friends .. he would drop me to college sometimes and pick me up as well .. He was the brother i never had .. My protector , My shade .. What ever i dreamt of in my brother ..
I went to his house one day .. i found his pent house unlocked and in a mess .. which was completely unlike him .. and then i saw Him .. wide eyed and crazy like he couldnt control himself .. Veins popping out of his arm as he injected himself .. a growl of an animal and then a sound of relief .. i watched in horror wishing he would breathe .. He saw me n tears stung his eyes .. "Na betaa .. Koi na" he cried .. I was too stricken .. Abu uncle came .. He sat me down n told me that this happened everyday .. Abu uncle brought me coffee and sat by my side .. Rizwan realized what he had done and from me, he tried to hide .. I just stared into his bloodied eyes and screamed into his face .. Do u wanna shame your family and also number ure days ? "Nah baba" he said to me .. "This is all I have .. How else will i pay for all the love i never had .." His dad was always busy and his mom he never knew .. But he went to the mosque every friday and to his faith he stayed true .. He never got the love he deserved and never knew how to ask .. He never thought it right to let people know his heart of glass .. was shattered and hopes abolished of every little dream .. Because he was all alone even when he sat by me ..
I knew what he did was wrong .. so i bid good bye and came back home .. I spoke to the skies at night and asked them what to do .. I got my answer in a heartbeat that I must never let him do .. That which i felt was wrong cos I loved him dearly so .. My Protector, My Shade, My big Bro .. I yelled at him whenever I knew he was doing wrong .. But he thought i was a broken recorder singing the same old song ..
We drifted apart slowly when hearts grew further away than distance .. But we knew if he called me and said he needed me, Id be there for him that instant .. But i knew he would never call .. The male ego never does .. To call a woman who left your side and never said it but bid you good bye ..

And then one day, I found out from a common friend that Riza dint have money any more .. His father had stopped the flow when he heard about my fears .. Abu uncle had told him what happened and his father withdrew with shame .. He said he had no son who had blackened his name .. And so Riza was borrowing hoards of money from anyone who would lend a penny .. His Pride, Ego, Self esteem, All dust in front of money .. And he called twice since and asked me - Beta do u have any to spare .. I got mad at him and yelled "Riza dont u dare !!"

And so i detested his calls .. My Bro .. My Protector .. My Shade ..

And now he's with the stars .. Shining down brightly on me .. But where was I when he needed his Sister, His protection , His shade .. I was cowering in my cowardice away from the brother I had made ..

This is not for you to know that I repent every single day .. This is for u to know that u do have a say ..

To help the life of those you love when u know its goin down da Drain ..
We have all lost ones we love dearly and this is no different .. Its the same Pain ..
Would u wanna look back and say Oh God What Was The Gain ?


My dear Riza .. I think of u every 30th of last month .. I know I wronged u .. and Im So Sorry ..

If Only Riza, Id answered your call .. If Only ..

I Love You .. My Protector, My Shade .. And Most Of All, Alwayz- My Bro !!!

I Love you and I Miss you,
Beta ...

The Einführung !!!

A sweet friend of mine was deeply saddened by the fact that I have a privatised blog. Being a fiercely private person, I am uncomfortable sharing my personal thoughts on a mysterious forum.

At the behest of this loving girl, I have decided to create another blog. This one will include stories and the whims of my imagination. Arati (the loving girl) and I share quite a few parallels. Hailing from similar Malayali families, we both are born on the same day of the same month of the same year, just ten minutes apart. We often complete each others sentences and conclude songs the other is humming.

Also, Prathiba Meenakshi has been my confidante for the past seven and a half years. We share a common love for every little thing that is Middle Eastern. The music, the  people, the landscapes, the culture, the clothes (not burqas, manteaus, hijabs, chadors or abaayas) and of course, the hummus, mint tea and shishas. I am quite sure all my stories will include an element of the Middle East and so, it will also touch a part of you, Pebby !!

I hope you don't get too bored reading this, but if you do, feel free to visit Prathiba's blog and rant about your feelings there ;)

Spreading smiles,
Swati.