If you ever go to Benaras, do meet Ma.
On most rainy days you will find her sitting by the window of her study.
She loves reading stories. And having masala chai.
I call her ‘Ma’ because she treats me like a daughter.
People call her ‘Ma-d’; I don’t know why.
Maybe because she wears coloured saris, or because she loves reading books, or because she makes two cups of chai for herself every time, or perhaps because she lives alone.
Maybe…
Maybe people are jealous.
Jealous because Ma knows how to live.
Even though her husband and children are dead.
Great little character study in 101 words. Good job.
Thank you. You made my day!
I love this one, and I want to meet Ma!
‘Maybe’ the narrator is addressing ‘you’. 🙂
Thank you for such a lovely comment.
Maybe it’s more about Bernaras than Ma – in fact who is Ma? Is she Death? To have such an oasis of tranquility in the middle of pandemonium is paradoxical, and must be at the heart of the story.
Wow! That’s an interesting interpretation. Benaras is the place, as believed by many Hindus, where one can find salvation. So yes, Benaras is as important as Ma’s character.
I enjoyed this list with Ma.
Thank you. 🙂
In ancient India, a widow wearing coloured sarees were unheard of. Drinking Chai was associated with indulging in guilty secrets and a woman who loved books meant she had a mind of her own which threatened many. That’s why Ma makes such a fantastic character. Excellent story Anukriti.