The usual schedule will be disrupted this week.

Check back on Thursday or Friday for a “Week Pack”, which will include Episodes 021 – 025.

Thanks for reading. Please enjoy the show.

Brandon Ingram

Utpatti – Episode 020

The next morning, a vehicle drives up to the front entrance of the Haveli and Pavan Sachdeva gets out of it. He takes his sunglasses off and looks around.

Pavan: Impressive.

He shuts the door of the car he was in and it drives off. He then makes his way to the front door and walks in. As he makes his way further into the Haveli he looks around and continues to be impressed by what he sees. Just then Magan Bhai walks out and sees him.

Magan: Excuse me, are you here to see someone?

Pavan: Yes, I’m here to see Netra.

Magan: Whom shall I say is here?

Pavan: Pavan.

Magan: Give me a moment, I’ll be right back.

Magan Bhai goes into the house and Pavan smiles to himself. Moments later Netra comes running out.

Netra: Pavan! Oh my goodness it’s really you!

She runs over to him and gives him a hug. He hugs her back and the two share a moment. Magan Bhai leaves them alone.

Netra: I knew you would come but not so soon.

Pavan: Do you know how stressed out you sounded over the phone?

Netra: Well yea but… Anyway, you’re here now. Come in, I want you to meet my family and then I’ll get you settled in.

Pavan: Ok.

They walk inside and make their way to the outer court.

Pavan: This is an awesome place by the way.

Netra: Beautiful isn’t it? It’s so old and full of character.

Pavan: I know.

Netra sees Veena walking towards the kitchen.

Netra: Kaki!

Veena stops and turns to look at Netra and her guest.

Netra: Kaki, this is my friend Pavan from New York.

Veena smiles instantly.

Veena: Well hello. It’s nice to meet you.

Pavan folds his hands before Veena.

Pavan: Jay Sri Krishna Aunty.

Now, Veena is impressed.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna.

Pavan: It’s a pleasure to meet the Kaki that Netra talks so fondly of.

Veena: Well it’s nice to meet you too.

Netra: Pavan just got in from New York, Kaki. He’s going to be staying with us for a few days, until the wedding.

Veena: Oh so you’re here for the wedding?

Pavan: Something like that.

Veena: Well good. Netra why don’t you show him around the Haveli, your mother’s a bit busy so I’ll inform her about Pavan’s arrival and I’ll ask Magan Bhai to set him up in a very nice room.

Pavan: Thank you so much.

Veena: You’re very welcome. Once you’re done looking around come downstairs, I’ll get you something nice to eat.

Pavan: Wow. It would be nice to eat a home cooked meal.

Veena: We have plenty of that.

They all smile at each other and Veena walks off.

Pavan: She’s really nice.

Netra: Everyone here is, that’s the problem.

Pavan: Ok then.

Netra: Do you have the stuff?

Pavan: Now see, I knew there was a reason you were happy to see me.

Netra: Oh come on Pavan. You know I love you but I really do need…

Pavan: Alright, alright, show me to your room.

Netra: You’re the best.

Pavan: I’ve been told.

The two of them walk off and as they do, Kalyani walks in from another end of the house. She’s on the phone.

Kalyani: What do you mean you can’t find anything on him? There must be something. No one has a clean record.

The person on the other end takes some time to explain some things to her.

Kalyani: Well then can’t we make something up? No scratch that. That’s not going to work. I’m going to have to figure something else out.

She hangs up and looks frustrated.

Rajkot – November 2010

Nakul is on the phone and he looks distressed.

Nakul: You’ve got to give me some time to figure this out. Don’t you understand how this could just ruin everything for the both of us? I’ve told you before that we should have been more careful. I’m trying to do what’s best for the both of us here so please let me think for a while.

He hangs up but still looks distressed.

Nakul: Damn it I should have anticipated this! We cannot have this baby. I cannot have this baby. But how am I going to convince her?

A day or so later… Nakul has met secretly with another boy from his college whose name is Devin Kumar.

Devin: It’s simple man; she needs to have an abortion.
Nakul: That’s what I wanted to talk to you about. I hear you’ve taken one or two girls through the process.
Devin: So this has never happened to you before?
Nakul: Nah man, I’m usually so careful.
Devin: Well I can take you to this doctor. He’s low-key and respects your privacy for a healthy sum.
Nakul: It’s a good thing I’m quite healthy then.
Devin: Cool. So when do you want to meet him?
Nakul: The sooner the better.
Devin: How about tomorrow?

The next day, Nakul and Devin meet with Doctor Varma. He’s a creepy old man who licks his lips way too much.

Varma: You boys play sports?
Nakul: I… uh…
Varma: I’m just asking because your friend here is regular of mine and if you intend becoming like him then maybe you ought to get into some sport or the other. I say this because this sport right here is a dangerous one. It’s not right the way those lives are taken away within these walls.
Devin: Doctor, I don’t think my friend needs a lecture on…
Varma: Of course he doesn’t and neither do you. This is me just rambling on, mostly about nothing.
Nakul: I know it’s not right.

Both Devin and the Doctor turn to look at Nakul.

Nakul: And I never intended this to be some kind of sport. I’m already wracking myself with guilt over what has happened I don’t need you making it worse for me.
Varma: Worse for you. Hmmm… And what do you suppose it will be like for the mother?

Nakul has no response. Neither does Devin.

Varma: Your minds will find a way to transform your guilt and you will reconcile with yourselves but the mothers, oh the mothers, they’re the ones who don’t sleep at night because they’ve felt life snatched away from within them. They refuse to believe they’re alive because a piece of them has gone missing, ripped apart. Miscarriages they learn to deal with over time because their mind helps them understand it was not their fault. But the women who lie down before me know the crime they’re about to commit and they go through with it anyway. Why? Because you wanted them to. Have I made you feel worse than before my dear boy?

Nakul looks disgusted. Devin is looking away. An angry Nakul leans forward and speaks to the Doctor through gritted teeth.

Nakul: If you despise the act so much then why is it that these so called crimes are committed at your very hands?

The Doctor leans in and his eyes meet Nakul’s.

Varma: Oh I don’t despise it, in fact I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to having a little pleasure in the act. But there is far more pleasure in making people like you despise it because then, one of two things happen. You either change your mind on what you’re about to do or you go through with it and end up despising yourself.
Nakul: You’ve successfully achieved the second possibility, now please, when can we get this over with?
Varma: January.
Devin: What? Isn’t that cutting it a bit close?
Varma: It’s the best I can do.
Nakul: What if I pay you more?
Varma: Oh I’m guessing you will in due time but that doesn’t mean I’m going to change the dates.
Devin: Look Doc…
Nakul: January is fine.
Devin: Dude are you sure?
Nakul: Positive.
Varma: January it is then.

Nakul and Devin stand up to leave and the Doctor stops them. He looks at Nakul with a sympathetic smile on his face.

Varma: Don’t be too hard on yourself kid.

Nakul rolls his eyes and walks out. Devin shakes his head in dismay as he walks out after Nakul.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

In Netra’s room she rolls off from the top of Pavan’s body and covers herself in her sheet. They both look spent.

Netra: Oy my goodness… That was awesome.
Pavan: Not bad for a guy who’s jetlagged huh?
Netra: Thanks Pavan, I really needed that.
Pavan: Hey, what are friends for?
Netra: It’s crazy that we can do this and not get seriously involved with each other.
Pavan: And that’s why we get along so well.
Netra: Yes well get some clothes on if you want to get along well with the rest of my family.

They both laugh and roll out of their respective sides to get dressed.

Pavan: So you’re really gonna go ahead with this marriage?
Netra: I guess so.
Pavan: Wow, so this Vinod Patel guy made that much of an impact on you.
Netra: It’s that connection Pavan, it’s crazy. I know I’m never going to feel that again with anyone. If he were alive I’d be kicking and screaming right now but he’s not.
Pavan: And so you’re going to commut suicide and join him.

They laugh again and Netra walks over to her window while Pavan fixes her a line.

Netra: It’s not like that. I’ve spoken to this guy. He seems nice. Not bad looking either.
Pavan: I’m sure. Can we still keep doing this after you’re married though?
Netra: Dude, it’s not like you live in India.
Pavan: This is true.
Netra: But if you’re ever down on holiday…
Pavan: I know whom to call.
Netra: Exactly.

He walks up to her and they high five each other. Then, Pavan looks out the window and sees a young woman walking to the main entrance of the Haveli.

Pavan: Ooh hot. Who is she?
Netra: Good question.

Utpatti – Episode 019

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Pratiksha Devi is in her room, on the phone.

Pratiksha: And now she’s already planning Netra’s wedding. Yes, Netra is getting married. I had a plan that would have worked out so well, but at the last minute, something went horribly wrong. But don’t worry about a thing, we will still have the last laugh.

She listens for a moment as the person on the other end of the line says something to her, then…

Pratiksha: We can’t act hastily. I’ve told you before, we have to wait for the right time and I have a feeling that the right time is not too far away. Just be patient for a while longer and then we’ll give Shakuntala exactly what she deserves. Are all your needs attended to? Is there anything else you need?

The person on the other end responds.

Pratiksha: Good, if you do need anything else then give me a call and I’ll sort things out. For now, be calm and remember, all in good time.

Meanwhile… At the office, Nitesh is lost in thought when he hears a knock on his door. He looks up and is surprised to see Veena there.

Nitesh: Kaki, come in.

She smiles as she walks in and sits down in front of Nitesh. She places a tiffin box in front of him.

Veena: You forgot your lunch.

Nitesh: Oh, right.

Veena: Is everything alright with you?

Nitesh: Of course. Why do you ask?

Veena: Well, ever since you heard about Netra’s marriage, you haven’t really been yourself.

Nitesh: You’re right. The truth is, I’m not comfortable with all this.

Veena: Why not? It’s all in your sister’s best interest.

Nitesh: I know and everyone keeps saying that but…

Veena: But?

Nitesh: Kaki, she’s still so young.

Veena: You were quite young when you got married Nitesh.

Nitesh: And look at what a façade of happiness I have to put up day in and day out.

Veena: Are you and Kalyani not happy?

Nitesh: We have our moments, good and bad but this is not about us. My point is, Netra just got back from New York and we haven’t even spent time asking her what she wants to make of the rest of her life. How is it fair to just spring this on her?

Veena: Nothing was sprung on her. I spoke to her about this and she had all the right in the world to say no. She didn’t.

Nitesh: Was she really given that option?

Veena: What are you trying to say?

Nitesh: I don’t get involved in the decisions that are made at home, I never have. But when it comes to Netra, I believe I do have a say and I think she’s being rushed into this.

Veena: You’re right, you do have a say as her brother. But your mother has the final say and she’s already made her decision very clear.

Veena smiles at Nitesh, touches his hand and stands up to leave. She’s almost at the door when…

Nitesh: Just because I don’t question what goes on in your lives doesn’t make me stupid or uninformed Kaki.

Veena stops cold and just stands there. She doesn’t turn around. Nitesh stands up.

Nitesh: Why do I get the feeling that this has more to do with Ma than it has to do with Netra?

Veena: What do you mean?

Nitesh: You know exactly what I mean.

Veena: I assure you I don’t.

Nitesh: I’ve known you since the day I was born. If you really didn’t know what I was talking about you would have said so to my face, not with your back turned to me.

Veena turns around at once.

Veena: Nitesh…

Nitesh: I’m not asking for an explanation and I’m certainly not asking you or Ma to stop doing what you’re doing. I know better than to get involved in matters that don’t concern me. What I am asking is that these matters be kept where they belong and that you find a way to not let them affect Netra’s life. That’s all.

Nitesh grabs some files and walks out of the room before Veena has a chance to respond. She stands there thinking for a while and then she too leaves.

Back at the Haveli, Kalyani is walking towards the main entrance when Rajveer stops by to drop Netra back home. Netra gets off the car and walks inside. As she comes up the steps she sees Kalyani, who gives her a big smile.

Kalyani: How was your drive?

Netra: It wasn’t bad.

Kalyani: Netra, can we talk?

Netra: Sure. About what?

Kalyani: About… your sudden decision to marry Rajveer.

Netra: Oh, that. No I don’t want to talk about it Bhabi.

Kalyani: Netra please. I’m just trying to help you here. I don’t want you to have to sacrifice your dreams because you’re being… pushed to do so.

Netra: No one’s pushing me to anything Bhabi. I told you, this was just a wicked twist of fate. I can choose to fight it or give in to it and right now, I’m inclined to the latter. Excuse me, I’m going up to my room. I’ll see you at dinner.

Kalyani: Alright, but if you ever need to talk, I’m here.

Netra: Thanks Bhabi.

Netra walks away and Kalyani watches her.

Kalyani: Something has to have happened, but what?

She thinks for a while.

Kalyani: Who the hell cares about what happened! I’m more concerned about what’s going to happen. But how do I stop this wedding?

Kalyani takes out her phone and dials a number. Moments later someone picks up.

Kalyani: I need you to find out everything you can on a Rajveer Shastri, mother’s name Lalita Devi, I don’t know about his father but I need you to dig deep and give me a piece of dirt that can be used against him. Fast.

Meanwhile… Veena is on her way back to the Haveli when she receives a phone call.

Veena: Hello?

Rakesh: Veena?

Veena: Rakesh? Is that you?

Rakesh: Yes it is.

Veena: What a pleasant surprise!

Rakesh: That it is.

Veena: Where are you?

Rakesh: Actually that’s why I’m calling you, I’m in Rajkot right now and I thought of paying you a visit.

Veena: Oh my goodness that would be lovely. You can finally meet Shakuntala Bhabi face to face after all these years.

Rakesh: That would be nice, although it would be nicer still to see you after all this time.

Veena: Well then I shall expect you for dinner at the Haveli tomorrow night. Where are you staying? Do you need me to send you a vehicle?

Rakesh: Could you do that?

Veena: Of course.

Rakesh: Alright then I’ll text you the details and you tell me what time I’m to be expected and I’ll be there.

Veena: Ok then. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Rakesh: Fantastic. Till then.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna.

Rakesh: Jay Sri Krishna.

Back at the Haveli, there’s a knock on Nakul’s room door.

Nakul: Come in.

He says in his depressed tone. The door opens and Netra walks in. The two of them look at each other for a while and then…

Netra: Hello misery, would you like some company.

Nakul lets out a little smile and nods his head. Netra closes the door behind her and then jumps into the bed next to her brother. The two of them stare out into space.

Netra: What happened to us bro?

Nakul: What do you mean?

Netra: I mean a few days ago we were both really happy and now it seems like all that is gone. Like that happiness has been replaced by some ugly thing that’s eating into our lives.

Nakul turns to look at his sister.

Nakul: Wait a minute, are you trying to tell me that you’re not happy with this marriage.

Netra: Let’s just saying that I’m doing it more out necessity than want.

Nakul: Does this have something to do with that Vinod Patel guy?

Netra: Yea.

Nakul: What happened?

Netra: We met, we had an amazing time together, I felt this connection with him that I can’t even explain. It’s like we looked into each others’ souls and we had found each other at last. And now… now he’s dead.

Nakul: What?

Netra: I read it in the papers the other day. Although, it said he was a journalist and I wonder what sort of work he may have been doing for Mom and why hasn’t she even mentioned it.

Nakul: Well Mom doesn’t always discuss her work or her employees with us now does she. Besides, she doesn’t even know that you know Vinod Patel.

Netra: This is true.

Nakul: So this is why you said yes to getting married?

Netra is silent.

Nakul: Netra listen, this Vinod dude is not the only one you’re ever going to have feelings for. I’m sure there’s a lot more where that came from heading your way.

Netra: I’ve been with quite a few people Nakul. I’m telling you, that connection was something so strong…

Nakul: But it’s not the only one you’re going to make.

Netra: Maybe, but this marriage is something that Mom wants for me and the more I think about it the more I feel like it’s the right thing.

Nakul: How so?

Netra: Dude, she gave me absolute freedom my whole life. I’m the only girl in the family and yet she trusted me enough to send me away to New York to live most of my life independently, she didn’t even send you along with me for protection. She’s given me so much and every decision she’s made for me has proved right so far. So why should I doubt her now?

Nakul: You make a good case.

Netra: I know and it’s all to justify why I must get married.

Nakul: Chutki…

Netra: Enough about me, what about you?

Nakul: What do you mean?

Netra: I mean why have you been so silent these past few days. You hardly come out of your room, you hardly even speak to anyone. The other day when the Shastris were here Nitesh Bhaiyya was making jokes about me and you said nothing. Can you imagine that? My older brother was taking the piss out of me and my younger brother didn’t even laugh. You can have everyone else here fooled with your ‘I’m sick’ routine but not me. I know you. What’s up?

Nakul ponders for a moment on whether or not he should tell Netra the truth.

Nakul: It’s a little complicated. I don’t want to talk about it. Not right now anyway. Maybe some day soon but not right now.

Netra: But…

Nakul: And that has to be enough for now ok? Can’t you just take satisfaction in the fact that you were right and that there is something wrong with your brother?

Netra: I guess.

Nakul: Good girl.

Downstairs, Shakuntala walks into the outer court and looks around. She realizes that the house looks empty but she knows that most of her family members are at home. She thinks to herself…

Shaku: Why do I feel like there is so much I don’t know about my family? Why do I feel like each is keeping something from me behind closed doors? Why do we hide so much from the people we love? Why can’t we share with them our darkest secrets? Why can’t we tell them about our deep desires? Why can’t we show them our true emotions? Why? Maybe it’s because we’re scared. Maybe we think that by revealing the most intimate parts of ourselves, we might change the way our loved ones think about us. Maybe we’re frightened that we might lose those who matter the most if we take them down the roads of our lives that we choose to travel alone. But who am I to ask such questions? Me, with such horrible secrets of my own.

Utpatti – Episode 018

Netra wakes up in the middle of the night and finds herself in darkness. She realizes that this may be due to the fact that she cried herself to sleep earlier in the evening. She turns on her bedside lamp and then drags herself out of bed and to her cupboard. She goes through all the required steps and finally pulls out the little packet of cocaine. This is when she finds herself in a very unfortunate situation.

Netra: CRAP! I’ve got nothing.

She sits on the ground and leans against the foot of her bed. After a few moments of contemplation she looks for her mobile phone. Having found it, she dials a number, in New York. A few seconds later the call is answered.

Voice: Hello.

Netra: It’s me, Netra.

And on the other end of the phone we see a young man in his late twenties smiling from ear to ear. His name is Pavan Sachdeva. He is one of Netra’s closest friends and also her drug dealer.

Pavan: Netra, hello beautiful.

Netra: I’m good, well I’d be better if I had some Charlie on me right now.

Pavan: Well I’d be pleased to send you some, the only problem is you’ve gone half way across the world.

Netra: Pavan please, I really need this. Infact, I wouldn’t mind it if you were around here either.

Pavan: That bad huh?

Netra: Pavan they’re making me marry someone.

Pavan: What? Dude that’s insane!

Netra: I know. So what do you say? Will you come here and salvage the last few days of my life?

Pavan thinks for a moment and then…

Pavan: Ok, give me a few days, I’ll get there as fast as I can.

Netra: Thank you.

Pavan: Hey, what are friends for right?

Netra: Right.

They hang up and Netra smiles, wiping away her tears.

Rajkot – October 2010

Nakul and Dixita are lying in bed next to each other, naked, covered in sheets. Nakul looks relaxed but Dixita as a concerned look on her face.

Dixita: Nakul.

Nakul: Yea?

Dixita: I’m worried.

Nakul: About what?

Dixita: I’m late.

Nakul: I thought they weren’t expecting you back at home till…

Dixita: I haven’t had my periods.

Nakul is suddenly alert and sits up in bed.

Nakul: What the hell do you mean?

Dixita: This is why I’m worried.

Nakul: So how will you know?

Dixita: I guess I’ll get a test done in a few weeks.

Nakul: Few weeks? What do you mean few weeks?

Dixita: Look ok you need to calm down, I’m not sure and I need some time to figure out how to deal with this.

Nakul: Listen to me, if you’re pregnant…

Dixita: We don’t know if I am.

Nakul: But if you are then…

Dixita: Please don’t complete that sentence because as of now I may be falling in love with you and if this continues I don’t want to know your current answer to whether or not you want to have a child with me.

Dixita pulls the top layer of her sheet, wraps it around herself, gets up and walks away. Nakul looks distressed.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Rajveer Shastri is standing at the door of the Haveli when Magan Bhai approaches him.

Magan: Jay Sri Krishna Rajveer Beta.

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna Magan Bhai. Is Shakuntala ji at home?

Magan: She is, come in, I’ll get her for you.

They both walk in and Magan Bhai leads Rajveer to the lounge area and the latter sits down. Magan Bhai then leaves to call Shakuntala and moments later she walks in.

Shaku: Rajveer… How nice to see you. Jay Sri Krishna.

Rajveer stands up.

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna Aunty.

Shaku: Sit down Rajveer and tell me, what can I do for you?

They both sit.

Rajveer: Well actually, I wanted to talk to you about Netra.

Shaku: Alright.

Rajveer: You see Aunty, I’m not opposed to the idea of arranged marriage, I wouldn’t have come here to meet Netra if I was. But I do believe that it is important for two people to know each other before they get married.

Shaku: You’re absolutely right.

Rajveer: And so I’d like to ask your permission to court Netra, you know, take her out for lunch or dinner or just a drive where we can talk and get to know each other.

Shaku: That sounds lovely.

Rajveer: Then I have your permission?

Shaku: Of course. I’ll get Netra for you.

Rajveer: Thank you.

Shakuntala leaves and Rajveer looks happy. Moments later Shakuntala is outside Netra’s room. She knocks on her door and after a while she walks in. She sees Netra sitting by her window, looking out into the sky. Netra turns to look at her mother and smiles weakly.

Netra: Rajveer Shastri is here.

Shaku: How did you now?

Netra: I’ve been sitting here for some time, I saw him drive in.

Shakuntala walks up to Netra.

Shaku: Sweetheart, are you alright?

Netra: I’m fine Mom.

Shaku: You are happy with this marriage aren’t you?

Netra turns to look at her mother. For a moment she contemplates telling Shakuntala the truth. The moment passes.

Netra: It was unexpected but timely.

Shaku: What does that mean?

Netra: Just that sometimes life isn’t what you expect it to be but that doesn’t mean it can’t get better.

Shaku: Why do I get the feeling that there’s something you’re not telling me.

Netra: Let’s save that for another day Mom. Right now, Rajveer Shastri is here and I have a feeling you came upstairs to talk to me about that.

Shaku: Oh, yes I did. He, well… he’s here and he would like to get to know you better.

Netra: Well if he’s going to spend the rest of his life with me then he better.

Shakuntala smiles at Netra and she smiles back.

Netra: I’ll be downstairs in ten minutes. I just need to change.

Shaku: Ok.

Netra goes to change and Shakuntala stares after her. She smiles and then sighs to herself.

Rajkot – December 1983

It’s early evening and Shakuntala is arranging the things in her little annexe when there’s a knock on her door. She tosses her cleaning cloth aside and goes to answer it. When she opens the door she is shocked to see Shailendra Suryavanshi.

Shaku: Boss? What are you doing here?

Shai: Can I come in?

Shaku: Of course.

He walks inside and looks around and Shakuntala is on edge.

Shaku: Um… please, sit down.

Shai: Thank you.

He sits down and looks around and then looks at Shakuntala.

Shai: Aren’t you going to sit?

Shaku: Not really.

Shai: Why not?

Shaku: Ok.

She sits down.

Shai: I haven’t seen you at work in a while.

Shaku: My father has been very ill and… It’s all been a bit crazy.

Shai: So I’ve heard. I’ve also heard that my mother is helping you with your finances.

Shakuntala starts panicking but she makes sure her exterior is calm.

Shaku: Have you?

Shai: I have. I’ve also come to know what conditions she’s brought you down to in order to accept her favor.

Shaku: I don’t understand.

Shai: You see Shakuntala, I’ve always loved my mother even though she’s always seen herself as my stepmother. But that does not mean I don’t know what she’s capable of. I’m aware of her every move and I know all about my father’s will and how it must be carried out.

Shaku: You do?

Shai: Yes, I do. You see, if my younger brother were half the man he could actually be, then I’d have no qualms about this little arrangement being carried out.

Shaku: What arrangement?

Shai: You know, the one between you and my mother.

Shaku: You know about that too huh?

Shai: I know a lot of things.

Shaku: Clearly.

Shai: Anyway, I’ve come to make you yet another deal…

Shaku: Please, let me stop you right there. I need to tell you something and I need you to hear me out.

Shailendra leans back in his chair, ready to listen.

Shaku: I don’t know what kind of games rich people play in their fancy houses with their massive bank balances, but I really don’t want any part of it. I was happy with my life. I was happy working for you, making an honest living. I don’t know why I had to be the chosen one for this distasteful mission that your stepmother is on but for some reason, my father’s life hangs in the balance and that has reduced me to becoming a puppet! I want to go back to my life and I want to continue living it the way I choose to and not the way someone else wants me to. So please… please leave me out of this.

Shailendra allows her words to wash over him and then leans forward to add his piece.

Shai: I know that this is an unfair place you’ve been put in right now but the fact is, there is no turning back. As you would have gathered by now, my mother is a very resourceful woman and she will go to whatever lengths she has to in order to see her plans through. If you want to go back to a normal life then I can give you one, I can give you better actually.

Shaku: What do you mean?

Shai: I know about my mother’s plans but she has no idea about me. There is a way for me to ensure that your family and your future is secure and also to ensure that you will never have to answer to my mother again.

Shaku: How’s that?

Shai: Accept my proposal. Don’t marry Bhalchandra, marry me.

Shakuntala is shocked to hear this.

Shai: You will then rightfully be the Badi Bahu of the house and not just because some stupid will said so. You will never want for anything again and best of all, you won’t constantly be caught in between cat and mouse games. I will require you to give my mother the respect she deserves as your Saas but whatever relationship you want to pursue with her beyond that, will be none of my business.

Shaku: Why would you even suggest this?

Shai: I’m a good man Shakutala, of that I have no doubt. What I am not, is stupid, and of that too, I have no doubt. If you marry my brother you’ll look forward to a lifetime of misery controlled by Pratiksha Devi and I get to spend the rest of my days as a servant of that household. If you marry me, on the other hand, you will get to live your life the way you want to, I’ll continue ensuring our company prospers and everyone will continue being happy, or at least pretending to be happy. So, what do you say? Do we have a deal?

Utpatti – Episode 017

Veena: Please have a seat.

Lalita Devi and her son sit down. Moments later Magan Bhai walks in with refreshments for the guests. Right after that, Nitesh walks in with Kalyani and they are followed by Nakul.

Shaku: This is my older son Nitesh Suryavanshi and his wife, Kalyani. And this is my younger son Nakul, they’re both older to Netra, of course.

Lalita: It’s such a pleasure to be here. We’re very eager to see your daughter. We hear she’s just come back from New York.

Shaku: She has, but I’m glad to say that even with all the years she’s spent away from here, she’s remained an Indian through and through.

Upstairs in her room, Netra places her secret nasal spray inside her right nostril and takes a hit. Moments later she feels a nice rush and begins to pack the spray away. Back downstairs…

Shaku: She’s very intelligent and has a lot of respect for her adults.

In Netra’s room.

Netra: Nobody gets to decide what happens in my life, but me.

Downstairs.

Shaku: And she is our sweetheart, you can imagine what a lot of love we’ve showered on her, considering she’s the youngest.

Lalita: Of course. Now we’d like to see her even more.

Shaku: Absolutely. Veena…

Veena: I’ll go get her Bhabi.

Veena leaves the scene and she doesn’t notice that Kalyani is smiling from ear to ear while Nakul looks as though he’s carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. Veena arrives at Netra’s room and knocks on the door before going in. As she opens the door…

Veena: Netra.

Netra looks up suddenly and then turns around. She looks a bit shocked but quickly recovers.

Netra: What is it Kaki?

Veena: They’re here, let’s go.

Netra: Ok.

Netra walks out of the room and Veena accompanies her downstairs. When Kalyani sees the two of them walking in her smile gets broader and she tries hard to keep herself in check. Netra sits down next to Shankuntala and Rajveer looks smitten. Lalita Devi is also very happy.

Lalita: Pretty as a picture.

Netra continues to look down.

Lalita: If you don’t mind Shakuntala Ben, I’d like to ask Netra a question.

Shaku: By all means.

Lalita: Netra, dear, you seem so vibrant and full of energy, are you sure you’re ready to get married?

Kalyani’s ears point to the heavens and her heart starts beating faster than it’s supposed to. She bites down on her lip and then looks around to see if anyone noticed her being overjoyed.

Netra: I don’t plan on giving up on my future because of marriage. But if we are all of that understanding then I have no objection to getting married either. I believe I’ll be able to manage work and home perfectly, that is, if I choose to work.

Everyone is smiling, except for Kalyani. Her smile has been replaced with an ugly frown and she can’t begin to understand the words that have just come out of Netra’s mouth. Shr thinks to herself…

Kalyani: What the hell is she doing? She was supposed to cause a scene and Lalita Devi gave her the perfect opportunity to do it. What’s going on in that head of hers?

Netra keeps staring down.

Lalita: You were right about her on all accounts Shakuntala Ben. I like your daughter and more importantly, my son likes her, am I right Rajveer?

Rajveer tries miserably to hide his smile but everyone sees it and they all laugh mildly.

Lalita: You see, my husband is out of town right now, I’ll have to speak with him first and then I’ll get in touch with you about fixing dates.

Shaku: Sounds lovely. I’ll be waiting for your call.

Lalita: Wonderful. You shall receive it soon.

Lalita Devi and Rajveer stand up and take their leave with the Pandit.

Netra: Mom, I’d like to go to my room now.

Shaku: What’s the matter darling? Are you not well?

Netra: I’m fine.

Nitesh: Let her go Ma, she’s probably all flushed inside now that she’s getting married.

Netra gives him a half smile and walks off. Everyone is smiling and unnoticed to them, Nakul leaves the place too. Nitesh, Veena and Shakuntala get lost in conversation while Kalyani keeps wondering how things went so wrong.

Netra’s Room – 20 Minutes Ago

Netra has just finished getting ready and she goes to her cupboard. She pulls out her secret bag and from within it, her nasal spray. She looks in the mirror and is livid.

Netra: How dare they do this to me? The nerve! Planning my wedding without even asking me what I felt about it.

She takes the nasal spray up to her right nostril and takes a hit.

Netra: Ahhh… Much better. I need something to help me deal with this situation.

She feels a mild rush.

Netra: I’m not taking this lying down. Just wait and watch how things turn out down there.

She puts her nasal spray away and closes her cupboard.

Netra: Nobody gets to decide what happens in my life, but me. Nobody tells me what I can or cannot do. I’m not going through with this wedding at any cost and I’d like to see them make me. I swear if they get in the way of my happiness I’ll…

She can’t think of how to finish that statement and so she paces about the room. Suddenly she sees the morning papers on her coffee table. It’s folded in half so she picks up the side with the headline on it and reads it.

Netra: What the… Bidding Farewell to Vinodh Patel, Our Brother and Friend. Vinodh Patel found dead at his own hands last morning… Oh my goodness. What? I… No this can’t be happening. This can’t be happening. Why would he take hi own life? Why would he do this to himself, to me! WHY!

Netra doesn’t know what to think and she just stands there staring into space. Suddenly there’s a knock on her door and…

Veena: Netra.

She drops the paper in her hand and turns around in shock. Unknown to Netra, the side she’s dropped the paper on has a photograph of the real Vinodh Patel, but she never sees it.

Netra’s Room – Present

The servants have just cleaned her room up for the morning, taking with them the paper containing information on Vinodh Patel’s death. Netra shuts the door to her room and falls on her bed in tears. She stays there crying for a long time and when she can’t take it anymore she goes to her secret bag and nasal spray. She tries to take a shot of it but finds that the stuff inside is over. This angers her, so she throws the bottle aside and opens another pocket within the same bag and pulls out a pair of socks. From within the pair of socks she pulls out yet another pair of socks. From within the second pair of socks she pulls out a little packet, filled with cocaine.

She spills a tad out on her bedside table, locks the little packet and hides it again. Then she pulls out a card and proceeds to cut herself a line. Once this is done, she rolls up a note and snorts the line.

She clears the rest of the mess up and then leans back in her bed. A few tears roll down her face but she ignores them and just allows herself to get hit. Moments later there is a knock on her door. She opens her eyes but doesn’t say anything. She hears a second knock.

Netra: Who is it?

Kalyani: It’s me, Kalyani.

Netra: Oh… come in Bhabi.

The door opens and Kalyani walks in. She closes the door behind her and proceeds to sit next to her on the bed.

Kalyani: Are you feeling alright?

Netra: Never better.

Kalyani: What happened downstairs?

Netra: What do you mean?

Kalyani: I mean, you were ready to say no to this marriage, so how is it that you’ve suddenly agreed?

Netra: Call it a wicked twist of fate Bhabi.

Kalyani: What? What are you talking about?

Netra: Before I came downstairs earlier, something happened, something that changed all my plans. And now that those plans have been changed I find it a pointless exercise to start a war with Mom when all she really wants to do is secure my future. So I did what I thought was best.

Kalyani: But…

Netra: Bhabi please. My mind is made up. I’d like to be alone now please.

Kalyani: Ok.

Kalyani stands up and leaves. When she walks out of the room the expression on her face changes to one of anger.

Kalyani: How dare this little bitch double cross me! Everything was going so well and now she’s ruined it! I have to fix this; I have to find a way to fix this. What could have happened that was so bad that Netra decided to go through with this wedding? Whatever it is I don’t care. All I know is that this marriage cannot take place. I won’t let it, I simply won’t!

She walks off in a huff. Meanwhile… Shakuntala arrives at Pratiksha Devi’s room with sweets.

Shaku: May I come in?

Pratiksha: Why bother asking when half your foot is inside the door?

Shakuntala smiles and walks in.

Shaku: I’ve come to share some sweets with you.

Pratiksha: At my age sweets can be deadly. But you already know that don’t you.

Shaku: Netra’s marriage has been arranged.

Pratiksha Devi raises a brow.

Pratiksha: Has it now?

Shaku: Just today. I expected to see you downstairs when the Shastri Family came over but…

Pratiksha: I chose not to be there.

Shaku: Anyway, I hope to see you more during the ceremonies that are to follow.

Pratiksha: Why do you bother with this game of charades Shakuntala? What do you plan to accomplish. If I haven’t made it clear in the past twenty six years then let me make it clear now; I hate you, and anything that makes you happy generally disgusts me.

Shaku: Then let’s just say I like seeing you disgusted and for that reason I will continue being happy and I find it my solemn duty to share that happiness with you, every bit of it.

Shakuntala places the sweets on a table and is about to leave the room when she turns around to face Pratiksha Devi again.

Shaku: Why do you insist on leading such a bitter existence?

Pratiksha: Why do you insist on existing?

Shakuntala controls her rising urge to walk up to her Saas and slap her.

Shaku: I hope you’re able to make peace with God and yourself before you die, it’d be shame to leave this world in your current condition, not even hell would accept you.

Pratiksha: Then I guess we’ll be roommates, wherever we end up.

Utpatti – Episode 016

When Shakuntala and Veena arrive downstairs for breakfast, Shaku is happy to see that all her children are present. She sits down at the head of the table and Veena sits at the other side.

Shaku: How are you feeling now Nakul?

Nakul looks first to Veena and then to Shakuntala.

Nakul: Much better Mom.

Shaku: You need to take more care of yourself.

Nakul: I do.

She then turns to Netra.

Shaku: Netra, your Kaki tells me that you’ve given your consent to have a suitor come see you.

Nitesh and Nakul look at Netra and Kalyani stops eating.

Netra: Yes I have.

Now Kalyani is shocked but doesn’t say anything.

Shaku: You don’t know how happy this makes me.

Nitesh: Isn’t this all a bit sudden?

Shaku: I know it seems like that but I only want what’s best for you sister. Besdies, saying yes or no will be completely up to her. She’s not going to marry anyone she doesn’t want to.

Nitesh: I sincerely hope not.

Netra: Don’t worry Bhaiyya. It’ll be fine.

Shaku: Now Netra, I don’t want you to see this marriage as something that will block your future plans. If you want to work after marriage or carry on with whatever dream you’ve planned for yourself then I will make that very clear to whichever family you decide to be part of.

Netra: Thanks Mom.

Shakuntala smiles at Netra and then smiles at Veena who nods at her. Kalyani on the other hand looks livid. Everyone continues eating and exchanging pleasantries and Shakuntala stands up when she’s done.

Shaku: Veena, call Pandit ji and tell him that we’ll be ready to accept people tomorrow.

Veena: I’ll see to it Bhabi.

Shakuntala and Veena leave the table shortly after. Nitesh leaves for work and Nakul stands up too.

Netra: Hey, where are you off to?

Nakul: To my room.

Netra: Still feeling sick huh?

Nakul: Yea well… kind of.

Netra: Do you want me to keep you some company?

Nakul: No, I’m fine.

Nakul leaves and Netra wonders if her brother is alright. Kalyani waits till everyone is out of earshot and decides to talk to Netra.

Kalyani: You’ve changed your mind about getting married have you?

Netra: Of course not.

Kalyani: Then what was all that?

Netra: I was trying to think of what to do when I remembered something you told me.

Kalyani: Oh?

Netra: I’m not letting anyone make plans about my life when I’m not ready to see them through. So I’ve decided to let them know exactly how much this upsets me.

Kalyani: How?

Netra: When the boy and his family come to see me tomorrow I’ll be the model daughter – until they ask me what I think of all this. Then I’ll tell them that what I think doesn’t matter because I’m being forced into this marriage by my mother.

Kalyani: But that could cause a huge problem.

Netra: I know. Let it. I don’t care.

Netra stands up an leaves the table while Kalyani leans back in her chair and smiles.

Kalyani: This is going to be very interesting.

Rajkot – September 2010

Nakul and Dixita are busy making out inside a car; they stop and look at each other. Dixita smiles and Nakul smiles back.

Nakul: What?

Dixita: Nothing.

Nakul: Are you sure?

Dixita: Yea… It’s just that, this is really nice.

Nakul: What? Making out in a car in secret?

Dixita: Yea that too. But you and me. I like this.

Nakul: I like it too. Aren’t you glad I found you?

Dixita: To be honest, I had my doubts.

Nakul: Seriously? So what? You thought I’d make a grand entrance like that into your life and then just leave you alone?

Dixita: Good point. Can I ask you a question though?

Nakul: Ok.

Dixita: Why do we have to keep meeting in secret like this?

Nakul: Secret? Don’t be absurd. We’ve spent lots of time together in public.

Dixita: But whenever we get intimate it’s always…

Nakul: I know. But the thing is, both you and aren’t ready for a serious commitment, we’re clear about that. Right?

Dixita: Yea of course.

Nakul: If you show your face at home then before long, questions will be asked. Who is that girl? What is she doing here? Are you two seeing each other? When do you plan on getting married? And right now, I don’t think I can deal with all of that.

Dixita: I see.

Nakul: Listen, Dixita, it’s not like I don’t want to be with you but I also don’t want to be rushed into something that I don’t wanna do. I hope you understand.

Dixita: I do. And for now, I’m cool with this too. It was just a question. So chill.

Nakul: This is why I like you.

Dixita: Then it’s high time you showed your appreciation. Now shut up and kiss me.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Pratiksha Devi is sitting in her room and lost in deep thought when she glances up at her television and sees something disturbing.

Pratiksha: What the hell?

Vinodh Patel’s picture shows up on screen. She turns up the volume with her remote control and then sits back to listen to the newsreader.

NR: … and investigations have lead to the conclusion that that renowened journalist Vinodh Patel’s death was indeed a suicide. His body was found inside his car, which was parked along the outskirts of Rajkot, early this morning. Vinodh Patel had been working for…

Pratisksha Devi turns the volume down.

Pratiksha: Suicde? Why on earth would Vinodh commit suicide? He was a happy man, leading a happy life and just on the verge of writing a story that could have changed his life forever. So why would he take his own life?

Pratiksha Devi stands up and walks over to her window. She stands there and tries to fathom how this could have happened.

Pratiksha: Could it be that… no, it’s not possible. If Shakuntala knew what was going on then she would have confronted me about it. But is it possible that she didn’t know about my involvement in it and knew Vinodh was writing the story? But how?

She realizes the flaw in her own question no sooner she’s asked it out loud.

Pratiksha: Of course… she’s got spies everywhere. She’s got people she’s paid off to do all kinds of things, lurking in all sorts of corners. Damn it! All my hard work, for nothing! I should have warned Vinodh to be more careful. But this isn’t over. This isn’t over by a longshot! This woman has been playing God for years, someone has to stop her and that someone… that someone will leave her too wounded to live and too sad to die!

The next morning at the Haveli, everything seems to be happening like clockwork. The servants are busy preparing food in the kitchen. The drivers are busy washing the cars. The members of the family are busy picking out their clothes, well some of them anyway. One or two of them had already decided what they would be wearing this day and it was nothing but a look of victory; especially Kalyani.

She sat before her mirror and put on her finest bangles. Nitesh walks out of the bathroom, he’s dressed smartly. He looks up at his wife and sees the glee upon her face.

Nitesh: You look so pretty when you smile. You should do it more often.

Kalyani looks at Nitesh through the mirror and just then he looks away and walks off. He’s about to leave the room when…

Kalyani: Nitesh.

He stops. She stands up and makes her way up to him. She stands behind him.

Kalyani: Thank you.

He turns around.

Kalyani: I know I’ve not been the best person to hang around lately; I certainly haven’t been the best wife. I’m sorry for not being the woman you deserve but…

Nitesh: Stop, please stop. I understand where you’re coming from, I really do. But sometimes, you worry me and I wonder if…

Kalyani: If what?

Nitesh: If… well… I really don’t want to have this conversation right now.

Kalyani: Fine, then we’ll have it later. All I want you to know is that I’m very happy for your sister and I hope she’s happy too.

Nitesh gives her a half smile.

Nitesh: Thank you.

He turns around and walks off. She returns to the mirror and sits down.

Kalyani: I’m not a bad person, I’m really not. But sometimes I find that a woman has to do what is necessary to keep her home fires burning. I’m sorry Nitesh, I’m sorry about what’s going to happen today but if this marriage takes place, you and I will be left with nothing. I’m doing this for us.

She takes a final look at herself and stands up to leave. As she does, we’re taken into Shakuntala’s room, where she’s also dressed and about to go downstairs. Her phone rings.

Shaku: Hello.

Vasudev: Jay Sri Krishna Malkin.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna, what is this number you’re calling me on?

Vasudev: Payphone.

Shaku: Alright, wherever you are, stay there. The SSP is back in town. He spoke to me with regard to the case and so far, everything has gone according to plan. They’ve bought the suicide story and the expose is not being published.

Vasudev: That’s great news.

Shaku: Isn’t it though? Well in any case, you should stay hidden for a few more days. We both know about your relationship with the SSP and what it costs me. I’d like to avoid all that for a while.

Vasudev: As you wish. But may I ask when you will want me to come out of hiding?

Shaku: Soon. Give it a week and a half.

Vasudev: Ok. Jay Sri Krishna.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna.

They hang up and Shakuntala walks out of her room. She makes her way downstairs and then looks around. She smiles, everything seems to be perfect. At this moment Veena walks in.

Veena: What do you think Bhabi?

Shaku: I think everything looks wonderful.

Veena: You think our guests will be swept away?

Shaku: If the décor doesn’t get them, Netra will.

They both smile at each other. At this moment, the Pandit walks in followed by a middle aged woman and a young man.

Shakuntala: Jay Sri Krishna Pandit ji.

Pandit: Jay Sri Krishna. I’d like to introduce you to Lalita Devi and her son Rajveer Shastri.

The groom and his mother walk in and fold their hands with greetings.

Lalita: Jay Sri Krishna.

Rajveer: Jay Sri Krishna.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna. I can’t wait for you to meet my daughter.

 

Utpatti – Episode 015

The following morning, Netra is in her room, brushing her hair, when there’s a knock on the door.

Netra: Come in.

The door opens and Veena walks in.

Veena: Jay Sri Krishna.

Netra: Jay Sri Krishna Kaki. How are you today?

Veena: I’m very well. And you?

Netra: As good as can be expected.

Netra turns to face Veena.

Netra: How’s Nakul? Is he feeling better?

Veena: I was just on my way to check on him but there’s something I need to talk to you about first.

Netra has a flashback.

Kalyani: Either way, I’m sure that either Mummy ji or Veena Kaki will talk to you about this soon.

Netra looks up at Veena and smiles.

Netra: What is it Kaki?

Veena sits down next to Netra.

Veena: Sweetheart… We’ve been meaning to ask you, what are your plans for the future?

Netra: Well it’s not been that long since I got back and I hadn’t really thought about it like that but… why do you ask?

Veena: Well, has the thought of marriage ever crossed your mind?

Netra: Not really, no.

Veena: Is that because you have someone in your life?

Netra: I wouldn’t say that, exactly, no.

Veena: Well, would you be opposed to someone who wants to ask for your hand in marriage?

Netra: Like an arranged marriage?

Veena: Well yes. But it’ll all depend on you. If you say no then…

Netra: Mom will just look for someone else.

Veena: Netra, your mother has your best interests at heart and…

Netra: Kaki, please, be honest with me. If Mom has made up her mind to go ahead with getting me married then there’s nothing I can really do about it is there?

Veena: That’s not true.

Netra: Alright then, let’s for a moment assume I said no, right now. What would happen?

Veena goes silent for a while and then…

Netra: That’s what I thought.

Netra turns away from Veena and looks at the mirror.

Netra: If there’s a family that would like to come see me, then I’m not opposed to it.

Veena: Are you sure?

Netra: As sure as can be.

Veena stands up with a smile on her face.

Veena: Your mother will be so happy.

Netra: That makes one of us.

Veena: Netra…

Netra: It’s alright Kaki, I know she only wants what’s best for me.

Veena smiles, touches Netra’s head and walks out. Netra looks at the mirror and raises a brow.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – April 1989

It’s Nakul’s first birthday and there’s a pooja going on in the Haveli. Soon as the pooja is done, Shakuntala hands the baby over to Veena. Nitesh, who has just turned four, comes running in and sits on Shakuntala’s lap. Veena smiles down at Nakul.

Veena: He is so precious Bhabi.

Shaku: He is, isn’t he? Look at his tiny hands and legs. Look Nitesh, look at your little brother.

Veena: I wish I could I have a child of my own.

Shaku: So why don’t you?

Veena: I don’t know Bhabi. We’ve been trying but… maybe it’s not meant to be.

Shaku: Well, don’t be disheartened. Besides, I’m going to need all the help I can get with these two boys. I want you to be like a mother to them.

Veena smiles at Shakuntala.

Veena: I think I like that idea very much.

She looks down at Nakul.

Veena: You and I are going to be very good friends one day, yes we are. Your Veena Kaki will take care of you and make you food and dress you up and spoil you, yes I will.

Shakuntala laughs.

Shaku: Be careful not to spoil him too much. We don’t want to him to end up like his Kaka.

The two women look at each other and laugh heartily. Then Veena turns her attention back to Nakul and kisses his forehead.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Veena walks into Nakul’s room and finds him still sitting in bed. She walks over to the foot of the bed and he sees her standing there.

Nakul: Kaki…

Veena: Don’t say a word. Just listen.

Nakul purses his lips.

Veena: I’ve tried to understand how all this happened and as much as I’ve wanted to blame this horrible incident on your carelessness I realize now that the mistake is mine. I should have been more strict with you. I shouldn’t have spoiled you so much because in so doing I let you believe that human life was worth nothing.

Nakul: That’s not…

Veena: I’m not done talking!

Nakul cowers in his corner.

Veena: I’m going to bury the memory of what you’ve done together with that girl and your unborn child but I’m going to need something in return from you Nakul.
Nakul: Anything.

Veena: Very well. I’m going to need you to turn your life around starting right now. You will pay more attention to your studies, you will show more responsibility in all you do and you will learn to respect the boundaries that I set for you henceforth. Do I make myself clear?

Nakul: Yes.

Veena: Do I make myself clear?

Nakul: Yes.

Veena: Good. Now get out of bed, wash yourself, try and look decent when you come downstairs to join the rest of the family for breakfast. You can skip college today but when you’re done with breakfast tomorrow, you will be out that door. Got it?

Nakul: Yes.

Veena: Now move.

Nakul gets out of bed and makes his way to the bathroom. Veena shakes off the mood she’s in and leaves the room to take care of the rest of her work. Meanwhile in Shakuntala’s room, she’s just about to go downstairs for breakfast when her phone starts to ring. She looks at the screen and is surprised to see the SSP’s number. She picks up.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna SSP Sahab.

SSP: Jay Sri Krishna Shakuntala Ben.

Shaku: You’re back in Rajkot are you?

SSP: I just arrived last night, which is why it was troubling to be at a crime scene this morning.

Shaku: Oh dear, what has happened?

SSP: A well renowned journalist at one of our leading newspapers has committed suicide.

Shaku: That’s rather disturbing news. But I’m more disturbed about why you’re sharing this information with me.

SSP: Odd isn’t it? You see the journalist, Vinodh Patel, was working on a story about you.

Shaku: Me?

SSP: Yes, it seems he was on a mission to expose you and your secret affairs.

Shaku: And what secret affairs might these be? Nothing involving you, I hope.

The SSP goes silent for a while.

SSP: In any case, we’ve discovered evidence that proves he was doing all this at the behest of someone else.

Shaku: And what makes you say that?

SSP: We found a letter in one of his drawers at work. We don’t know who wrote it but this anonymous friend of Patel’s had thanked him for all his help in writing this story about you. Patel was also paid a large sum of money to have this story published; the money was transferred into his bank account last morning.

Shaku: Oh my goodness, that’s terrible.

SSP: Our investigation leads us to believe that the man had a conscious call somewhere down the line. We’ve deduced that Patel found himself in a sticky situation. Until this incident he’d been the model journalist. But the weight of selling his profession for someone else to use as his or her vehicle for vengeance may have been too much for him to handle. He couldn’t not publish the story because that would have meant more troubles for him and he knew that going through with it meant living with this flaw in ethics for the rest of his life. So he did the only thing he can do, he killed himself.

A moment of silence follows.

Shaku: Well I’m… I don’t know what to say.

SSP: There’s nothing you can say but I’m calling you to give you a warning.

Shaku: Warning? What warning?

SSP: The deposit made in Vinodh Patel’s bank account was done so discreetly we can’t find a lead. But we did check his phone records and we found an interesting pattern of numbers. In fact, when we found his body, his cell phone was on his person, and he’d received two more phone calls from yet another number that fits this pattern.

Shaku: What pattern are you talking about?

SSP: We believe that whoever was paying Vinodh Patel off to write this story wants to remain anonymous and that’s why he or she used different numbers to communicate with Patel all the time. There seems to have been a lot of communication going on, we’ve tried tracing the numbers but they’re all pre-paid SIM cards. There’s someone out there who wants to get you, so if I were you, I’d be careful. And for the sake of all of us, I think it’s best if I stayed away from the Haveli for a while too.

Shakuntala breathes a huge sigh of relief and smiles to herself.

Shaku: I think that would be wise too.

SSP: Alright, I’ve done my duty by informing you, please be careful.

Shaku: I will. Thank you very much. Can I ask what will happen to the story?

SSP: It won’t see the light of day. Jay Sri Krishna.

Shaku: Thank you, Jay Sri Krishna.

They hang up and at that moment, Veena walks in.

Veena: Bhabi, breakfast is ready.

Shaku: That was the SSP on the phone.

Veena: He’s back?

Shaku: And he’s already found Vinodh Patel’s dead body.

Veena: And?

Shaku: The plan worked perfectly. The letter we placed in his drawer at work, the money we transferred into his bank account, everything lead the police to believe that Vinodh Patel committed suicide.

Veena: Mission accomplished then. I should inform Vasudev.

Shaku: Yes do that. But there is something else Veena.

She turns around and Veena looks curious.

Veena: What Bhabi?

Shaku: The SSP connected a series of phone calls that had been placed to Vinodh Patel to be a part of this whole incident. Now we know that the letter and the money was our doing. But if the SSP is right, then there really is someone out there whose been helping this man write this story.

Veena: What?

Shaku: Think about it. Everything in this Haveli happens so discreetly, what would prompt a journalist to go out of his way to dig deep into our walls and discover our secrets.

Veena: So there’s someone out there who wants to cause us trouble.

Shaku: There seems to be.

Veena: Well then we need to find out who it is.

Shaku: That we do.

Veena: Shall we go down for breakfast?

Shaku: Yes let’s.

Veena: I have some good news for you. I’ve spoken to Netra, she’s ready.

Utpatti – Episode 013

Veena makes her way back into the living room and she sees Magan Bhai standing close to the dining room. She walks up to him and speaks loud so that everyone hears her.

Veena: Magan Bhai, please take Nakul’s food to his room, he isn’t feeling too well and will eat there.

Magan: Of course Sethani.

Everyone looks up at Veena.

Shaku: Veena… What’s wrong with Nakul?

Veena: Nothing too serious Bhabi, he just has a fever.

Shaku: Obviously, the boy doesn’t take care of himself.

Veena: I’ve laid into him enough. I’ll talk more to him when he’s feeling a bit better.

Shaku: You spoil him too much Veena.

Veena: I’m realizing this ever so slowly.

Shaku: Really? How so?

Veena: Never mind all that, Bhabi, we have other matters to attend to.

Veena nods her head slightly and Shakuntala realizes what they must do.

Shaku: Excuse us children. Your Kaki and I have important matters to take care of.

Netra: It’s ok Mom. I’m gonna go check on Nakul in a bit and…

Veena: No…

Everyone turns to look at Veena.

Veena: I mean, he needs to get some rest and I know he won’t do that if the two of you get around to talking. So let him sleep a while and you can talk to him later.

Shaku: Listen to your Kaki, Netra.

Netra: Alright.

Shakuntala stands up and together, she and Veena leave the room. They make their way up to Shakuntala’s room and shut the door behind him.

Kalyani: Netra, why don’t you and I go do some shopping today?

Netra: Oh that would be lovely Bhabi. I’ll go get ready.

Kalyani: Alright.

Netra leaves the room as well and Nitesh stands up to leave for work.

Nitesh: I’m leaving for office as well.

Kalyani: Alright, have a nice day.

Nitesh: Kalyani…

Kalyani: Yes?

Nitesh: Well… thanks.

Kalyani: For what?

Nitesh: For showing so much concern towards Netra and making her feel like she’s at home.

Kalyani: She’s your sister Nitesh, if I don’t take care of her then what sort of a Bhabi would I be?

Nitesh: I’m glad you think that way. I’m off. Jay Sri Krishna.

Kalyani: Jay Sri Krishna.

Nitesh leaves and Kalyani smiles to herself. Meanwhile… In Shakuntala’s room…

Veena: Everything has been carried out according to plan so far Bhabi.

Shaku: Good. Then tell Vasudev to carry out his part of the plan tonight.

Veena: I will.

Shaku: As soon as Vinodh Patel is out of the way I’m sure all of us can breathe a little easier.

Veena: Yes Bhabi. Is there anything else you need me to look into?

Shaku: Not for the moment.

Veena: Alright then, I have some things to take care of as well, I’ll speak with Vasudev and keep you posted on the progress.

Shaku: Ok.

Veena is about to leave the room when…

Shaku: Veena.

Veena: Yes Bhabi?

Shaku: I haven’t seen Ba since yesterday.

Veena: I saw her last evening before dinner but she hasn’t come out of her room since then.

Shaku: Do you think she’s feeling alright?

Veena: I’m not sure but I’ll find out.

Shaku: Ok.

Rajkot – August 2010
Nakul is at a restaurant; he has his eyes set on an attractive young woman who is sitting across from him. She’s with another girl who stands up and makes her way to the bathroom. Nakul uses this opportunity to make his way to the girl.

Nakul: Is this seat taken?

Girl: Yes.

Nakul: Doesn’t look likt it to me.

He sits down.

Girl: Excuse me but if you don’t leave right now…

Nakul: Look, it’s going to be at least ten minutes before your friend comes out of the bathroom. I’m just here to help you while away the time.

Girl: Lovely. Well I guess I’ll just have to find myself another table then.

Nakul: Please don’t inconvenience yourself on my account.

Girl: I wouldn’t have to if you weren’t already doing such a fabulous job of it yourself.

Nakul: Fiesty.

Girl: Arrogant.

Nakul: Interesting.

Girl: Not one bit.

Nakul: Nakul Suryavnashi, nice to meet you.

Girl: Dixita Dutta, not pleased one bit.

Nakul: Nice name.

Dixita: Remember it.

Nakul: Why? Will I be screaming it later?

Dixita: Probably, when I run you over with my car.

Nakul: I’m gonna leave now.

Dixita: Just like that?

Nakul: Yep.

Nakul stands up to leave.

Dixita: Seriously?

Nakul: Yea.

Dixita: You walk over here, waste my time, ramble on some random rubbish and then you leave?

Nakul: Your friend’s coming back from the bathroom, I told you, I was only here to help you while away the time.

Nakul smiles at her and turns to leave.

Dixita: Wait.

He stops.

Dixita: Do you still remember my name?

Nakul: Depends, do you remember mine?

Dixita: I’ve got a thought on how we can find out.

Nakul: Oh yea?

Dixita: Yea. Find my number and give me a call, I promise I’ll pick up.

Nakul: And will you say my name then?

Dixita: I might even scream it later.

The Suryavanshi Haveli – Present Day

Veena walks into her room and shuts the door. She then walks over to her cupboard and opens it. She starts pulling out her clothes one by one, placing them on her bed as she proceds to empty almost the entire cupboard. Finally, when almost everything is out, she begings rearranging the cupboard and as she does, she starts trembling. When she’s almost done with putting everything back, she falls to the floor in tears.

Veena: What am I doing? Where is this all going? How did we end up like this? Everything we’ve done in the past, we’ve done for our children, for our future. But now, our future is turning out to be as bleak as the present. How are we to change this? What am I going to do?

Veena’s conversation with herself is cut short when her phone starts to ring. She looks at the screen, it’s Vasudev. She wipes away her tears and picks up, her tone is back to normal.

Veena: What has happened?

Vasudev: It’s all taken care of. The body’s been disposed of.

Veena: Good. Very good. Now, pay attention, it’s time to talk about Vinodh Patel.

Vasudev: Oh, is it time to carry that out?

Veena: Yes, it is time. The job has to be done tonight. Every other part of the plan is in place.

Vasudev: Excellent. I guess I’ll pick him up when he steps out of his office then?

Veena: Yes. Make sure everything happens in his vehicle.

Vasudev: Understood.

They hang up and Veena leans her head against her cupboard and starts crying again. Later… Kalyani and Netra are in the backseat of Kalyani’s car. They’re returning from their shopping spree and both are engaged in deep conversation.

Netra: That was so much fun Bhabi.

Kalyani: I’m glad you enjoyed it.

Netra: I’ve been meaning to buy new clothes for quite some time now.

Kalyani: But why wait till you came here. I would have thought you would have bought loads of new things in New York.

Netra: Well shopping there is fun, but for some reason I like shopping at home more.

Kalyani: I suppose your time must have been spent in other ways while you were in New York right? I mean going out with friends, studying, partying, spending time with your boyfriend…

Netra: Oh no, no there was no boyfriend.

Kalyani: Really?

Netra: Yes really.

Kalyani: I’m impressed. Most young women who are given the kind of freedom you were given would find lots of ways to abuse it.

Netra: Well… There are other ways to abuse your freedom Bhabi.

Kalyani: Such as?

Netra: I’d rather not get into it.

Kalyani: Fine by me… Wait a minute. You said there was no boyfriend, does that mean there is one now?

Netra blushes and looks away.

Kalyani: Oh my goodness is there?

Netra: No… not really.

Kalyani: Oh my goodness you like someone!

Netra: Well kind of but I don’t know…

Kalyani: Oh that’s so lovely. But… oh…

Netra: What?

Kalyani: Nothing.

Netra: No, come on Bhabi, what is it?

Kalyani: I think you should talk to your mother about this Netra.

Netra: I can’t talk to her, I’m not even sure I know what I have going with this guy. We’ve spent time with each other only once since I got here.

Kalyani: Oh dear, this is bad.

Netra: Why is it bad?

Kalyani: Because I know something and… and well…

Netra: What is it? What do you know?

Kalyani: Netra, if I tell you what I’m about to tell you then you have to swear to me that you will never let anyone know that you found out about this from me.

Netra: You have my word Bhabi.

Kalyani: Netra, I’m serious. If Mummy ji were to find out that I told you…

Netra: No one is going to know that you told me anything.

Kalyani: Ok fine. The other day, when all of you were out, I overheard Mummy ji and Veena Kaki speaking with a Pandit.

Netra: About what?

Kalyani: It was… well… it was about your marriage.

The color drains out of Netra’s face.

Netra: My what?

Kalyani: Now calm down.

Netra: They’re planning my wedding behind my back.

Kalyani: Obviously they were going to talk to you about it but…

Netra: When? While the Kanyadaan was happening? How dare they even think of something like this without consulting me first? And here I was all ready to plan my new life back home. Don’t they have any respect for what I want?

Kalyani: You really need to calm down ok.

Netra: What do I do about this Bhabi? I know Mom, she always gets what she wants. One way or the other she’s going to spring this on me and she’ll probably use Veena Kaki to do it and then, I’ll have no choice but to say yes.

Kalyani: That’s where you’re wrong.

Netra looks at Kalyani with a mildly confused look in her eyes.

Kalyani: You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.

Utpatti – Episode 014

Netra and Kalyani have made a stop at a coffee shop. Netra looks as though she’s in deep thought and Kalyani looks at her intently.

Kalyani: Are you alright?

Netra: I don’t know Bhabi. If what you say is true then…

Kalyani: Remember what I said. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.

Netra: But what else am I supposed to do? You know how Mom is. She always gets her way and if she’s decided that I must get married then I suppose that’s what’s going to happen.

Kalyani: Netra, listen. Mummy ji only wants what’s best for you.

Netra: If she wanted what was best for me then she should have asked me about it first.

Kalyani: I understand that all this is very difficult to grasp. But you must think rationally.

Netra: I thought I was thinking rationally all this time but this is crazy!

Kalyani: One thing is for sure, no one is going to make any plans without consulting you first.

Netra: Consult me or tell me what to do?

Kalyani: Either way, I’m sure that either Mummy ji or Veena Kaki will talk to you about this soon.

Netra: Then what?

Kalyani: Then you tell them what’s on your mind. If you don’t want to get married then say no.

Netra: What makes you think they’ll even ask me in the first place?

Kalyani: Please Netra, you know your mother better than that. She may have taken a decision concerning your life but she’s not going to move forward until she knows that you are aware of it.

At this moment, a wheel that had remained dormant in Kalyani’s head suddenly starts turning.

Kalyani: I mean it’s true that no one respected you enough to ask you about this before they started groom hunting but surely, they will speak to you before the groom actually comes to see you. They’d have to know your answer before that, imagine what would happen if they didn’t tell you anything and you had to wait till the groom’s party came home to see you. What a surprise that would be? What would it do to your mother to have you turn down a proposal that she’s hell bent on seeing through? No, she would never let it come to that. Of course they’ll talk to you before. Then, if you don’t want to go ahead with it, all you have to do is say no.

Netra listens to everything Kalyani is saying but doesn’t utter a word.

Kalyani: But promise me, promise me that you won’t say anything to anyone about what I’ve told you today.

Netra: I promise Bhabi.

Kalyani: Thank you. You know I only want what’s best for you.

Netra: I know.

Kalyani: Come now, adjust that beautiful face of yours, it’s high time we started heading back home.

Netra: You’re right.

They both stand up to leave. Netra walks towards the car first and Kalyani follows with a big smile on her face. Back at the Haveli… Veena comes downstairs and looks around.

Veena: Magan Bhai.

A moment later, Magan Bhai comes running out.

Magan: Yes Sethani?

Veena: Have you seen Ba today?

Magan: No I haven’t.

Veena: What about her food? She wasn’t down for breakfast or lunch.

Magan: She usually sends for me, but she hasn’t today.

Veena: She’s not in her room. Go outside and check if her car is there.

Magan: Yes Sethani.

Magan Bhai goes outside and Veena looks thoughtful. A few moments later Magan Bhai comes back inside.

Magan: Ba’s car is not in the park.

Veena: I see. Alright, you may go now.

Magan Bhai leaves and Veena pulls out her phone. She calls Pratiksha Devi’s cell but there is no response.

Veena: Where could she have gone to and when?

Later that evening… Vinodh Patel walks out of his office and makes his way to his car. He opens the door and gets inside. He’s about to start the engine when he sees Vasudev sitting in the backseat, holding a gun up to him.

Vinodh: Who the hell are you?

Vasudev: Shut up and drive.

Back at the Haveli… Netra and Kalyani return from their shopping spree. Netra heads straight to her room, locks the door and proceeds to pull out her secret bag. She takes out the nasal spray from inside it quickly gives herself a hit of what’s inside it. She then falls back on her bed and inhales deeply.

At the same time Kalyani walks into her room and drops all her bags in a corner of the room. She then sits before her mirror where starts taking all her jewelry off. She looks at her reflection and smiles broadly.

While this is happening at one end of the Haveli, at the other end, Veena is standing outside Pratiksha Devi’s room, trying to figure out where her Saas has gone and why. She tries calling Pratiksha Devi on her cell again but finds she can’t get through.

In Nakul’s room, he looks at the food that’s been on his writing table the whole day. He hasn’t moved out of bed at all. His eyes are still full of tears and he can’t seem to calm himself down. As he continues to tremble, his phone starts ringing. He looks at the screen and sees that it’s Pratiksha Devi calling. He wipes away his tears and picks up.

Nakul: Hello?

Pratiksha: How are you feeling now?

Nakul: I don’t know Moti Ba.

Pratiksha: Are you ready to carry things through?

Nakul: It turns out I don’t have to.

Pratiksha: What? What do you mean?

Nakul: I told Veena Kaki about what happened. She told me she’d take care of it.

On the other end of the line Pratiksha Devi looks furious.

Nakul: Are you there Moti Ba?

Pratiksha: Yes, yes I am. I’m just relieved that Veena has the situation under control. Tell me one thing, did you tell her about our little chat?

Nakul: I didn’t.

Pratiksha: Good. Let’s keep it that way. She’s probably already stressed out about the whole thing. We don’t want her concerned with who else knows about this secret of yours.

Nakul: I understand. When are you coming back home?

Pratiksha: Immediately.

The scene shifts to Vinodh Patel’s car. Vasudev is still in the backseat with the gun in his hand. Vinodh Patel is almost in tears. The car is parked in a deserted area.

Vasudev: So you see, that’s why you need to hold this gun to your head and pull the trigger. Unless of course you want to go home tonight and find your family with bullet-holes all over their bodies.

Vinodh: Shut up!

Vasudev: That’s what I thought.

Vasudev wipes the gun free of his prints and then hands it to Vinodh Patel.

Vasudev: Here you go.

Vinodh Patel looks at the gun and then at Vasudev. After a long pause, he finally takes the gun. Vasudev pats him on the back.

Vasudev: That’s a good boy. Now I’m going to get out of this car and walk ten steps in that direction. When I take the tenth step, I would like to hear a nice big bang from this end. Got that? Ok. Oh and if I were you, I wouldn’t try anything funny. I’ve got people who’ve got their guns aimed at your family right now and the only way they’re going to back down is if you pull the trigger.

Vasudev smiles at Vinodh Patel and then gets out of the car. He shuts the door and starts walking away. Inside the car Vinodh is trembling in fear. He realizes that these are his last moments and that there’s no way out of it.

At the Haveli, in her room, Shakuntala looks out of her window and sees the nightfall.

Shaku: So many people say they’re afraid of the dark, but so many of them use the darkness to hide things they don’t want others to find. Like the dangerous habits that have become part and parcel of their lives. The vicious motives that drive them to do the unthinkable. The ugly truths that haunt them in their sleep. The sneaky conspiracies they set in motion just to get what they want. I should know, I’ve cowered in the darkness most of my life, waiting, hiding, watching, looking for the slightest bit of light that would set me free. But no. Every problem increases the need for more lies and deception. I know I’m safe for as long as the night is here but I know, I know that no night lasts forever. The light that I so eagerly wait for will come when the day breaks and on that day, as free as I will be, I will also be destroyed. So what should I do? Pray for more darkness or insist on seeing the light that will be my undoing? What a dilemma, what a dilemma indeed.

Outside her window, Shakuntala sees Pratiksha Devi’s car drive in. Moments later, Pratiksha Devi gets out and walks towards the Haveli. Shakuntala wonders where her mother-in-law has been but allows the thought to pass through her without giving it too much energy.

Back at the deserted area, Vasudev has taken the ten steps that he promised Vinodh Patel he would take. He stops walking takes in a deep breath of fresh air. A second later we hear a gunshot and Vasudev smiles to himself. He then continues to walk away and behind him, in the car, we see Vinodh Patel, dead. Not long after, Vinodh’s phone starts ringing in his pocket. It rings for a while and then stops. Then it starts ringing again. And it stops.

On the other end of the line, we see that it’s none other than Pratiksha Devi who’s trying to get in touch with Vinodh, obviously to inform him about the change of plan. Only, what she doesn’t know is that everything she’s worked so hard for within the last year was lost when Vinodh lost his life.

Pratiksha: Why the hell isn’t this man picking up? Something is not right. I can feel it. He was expecting my call, he knew I would speak to him this evening. Even though I call him from a different number every time, he still knows to wait for my call, so why didn’t he pick up?

She turns her phone over, opens the back cover, pulls out the battery and then the sim. She then destroys the sim and breathes deeply.

Pratiksha: It’s a good thing I’ve never called him from the same number twice. But what on earth could have happened?

And across the Haveli in Shakuntala’s room, she gets a call from Vasudev.

Shaku: Jay Sri Krishna.

Vasudev: It’s done. Vinodh Patel is no more.

Shaku: Good. Now, you might want to disappear for a few days until this whole thing blows over. The SSP will be back in town soon and I don’t want you to be around when he gets here.

Vasudev: What about the story that Patel was working on? Don’t we have to find a way to get that?

Shaku: The story will stay where it is, but I assure you, it will never be published.

Vasudev: How can you be so sure?

Shaku: I’m as sure about that story as I was about Vinodh Patel committing suicide. Jay Sri Krishna.

Shakuntala hangs up and looks back out of her window into the night. A while later, Veena goes back to Pratiksha Devi’s room and finds her there.

Veena: There you are.

Pratiksha Devi looks at Veena and raises a brow.

Pratiksha: It’s considered decent to knock on a door before walking into a room.

Veena: It’s also considered decent to let your family know your whereabouts before you disappear on them.

Pratiksha: I wasn’t aware anyone cared.

Veena: I doubt anyone does. But we do have a responsibility.

Pratiksha: Is that right? Well then by all means tick me off your list of things to do for as you can see, I’m about to tuck myself into bed, safely. Or would you prefer to do that for me?

Veena: Your sarcasm is uncalled for.

Pratiksha: My dear, you are uncalled for. Please leave. I’ve had a long day and I’d like to get some rest now.

Pratiksha Devi turns away from Veena and the latter shakes her head in dismay as she leaves the room. When she’s gone Pratiksha Devi breathes a sigh of relief.

Pratiksha: These two women have made living in this house so difficult for me. I have to find out where Vinodh is, he has to come through. One way or another, I’m going to take back what’s mine. Just wait and watch!

Utpatti – Episode 012

Pratiksha Devi and Nakul are in Nakul’s room. Nakul hands Pratiksha Devi a piece of paper.

Nakul: That’s the address of the clinic. I told the doctor to keep the body there until I could figure out what to do.

Pratiksha: What did he say?

Nakul: He told me that he could give me time until tomorrow night but that was it.

Pratiksha: Alright… Don’t panic. I’ll take care of this.

Nakul: Moti Ba… If Mom finds out…

Pratiksha: Your mother is not going to find out anything, do you understand? Now go wash yourself and get some sleep. I’ll handle this.

Nakul: I’m really scared.

Pratiksha reaches out and hugs him.

Pratiksha: I know you are… But don’t worry; we will soon make all of this go away.

Not long after, Pratiksha leaves Nakul’s room, goes to her room, collects a shawl for herself and makes her way downstairs. She looks around carefully to see if anyone is watching her. No one seems to be in sight so she slowly makes her way to the secret entrance of the Haveli and goes out. Once on the other side, Pratiksha Devi manages to wake one of the drivers up and leaves the Haveli. While in the car, she takes out her phone and makes a call.

Pratiksha: Jay Sri Krishna, sorry to wake you up at this late hour but this is very important.

Rajkot – May 2010

Pratiksha Devi sits by herself at a secluded corner of a hotel lobby. She sips a juice, which she holds in one hand and looks through the paper, which is in her other hand. Shortly after a man interrupts her. He is in his late thirties, wearing jeans & a t-shirt and glasses.

Man: Excuse me, are you Pratiksha Devi?

Pratiksha: Yes I am… Are you Vinodh Patel?

Man: Yes I am.

Pratiksha: It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr. Patel, please, have a seat.

Vinodh Patel sits across from Pratiksha Devi and adjusts his spectacles. He then folds his hands together and breathes deeply.

Pratiksha: Mr. Patel, as I told you on the phone, I’ve been reading your work very closely and I’ve come to admire your style. You strike me as a man who’s unafraid to voice the truth, a rare quality among others of your profession.

Vinodh: Mrs. Suryavanshi, I appreciate the praise but I’m sure you didn’t arrange this meeting between us just to tell me how great you think I am.

Pratiksha: Of course not, I could have written you a letter to tell you that.

Vinodh: Precisely. So what is this meeting about?

Pratiksha: As it turns out, Mr. Patel, I have a story for you.

Vinodh: What kind of story?

Pratiksha: The kind of story that will make you a legend.

Vinodh: I don’t care about becoming a legend Mrs. Suryavanshi, I only care about unmasking those who pretend to be legends themselves.

Pratiksha: Well then, what is your take on the legend that goes by the name – Shakuntala Suryavanshi?

Vinodh Patel leans back in his chair, then he gives Pratiksha Devi a half smile.

Vinodh: You want to give me information that will help unmask the deeds of your daughter-in-law?

Pratiksha: Is that so hard to believe?

Vinodh: Well, not really… It just seems like you’re taking a Saas-Bahu battle to another level here.

Pratiksha: Mr. Patel, what goes on behind the closed doors of my house is none of your business, however, if that business is hurting innocent lives then you do have a duty to expose that truth, do you not?

Vinodh: And what do you get out of all this, Mrs. Suryavanshi?

Pratiksha Devi leans forward.

Pratiksha: The satisfaction of knowing that justice has been served.

Vinodh Patel leans forward.

Vinodh: For those innocent lives, or for you?

Pratiksha Devi smiles at him.

Pratiksha: I had a feeling I was going to like you from the moment I met you. I wasn’t wrong. Here’s the deal Mr. Patel, personally, I will not provide you with any information with regard to Shakuntala’s work but I will, however, give you all the leads you need to build your own story. Once you’ve done this, then you can judge for yourself whether or not this is some domestic squabble or if there is actual potency in what I’m offering you.

Vinodh: Sounds fair enough.

Pratiksha: Two things you need to remember. Communication between you and me will happen under extremely confidential conditions and I don’t want my name appearing anywhere, in anything that you write about. Understood?

There is silence for a while and then Vinodh Patel adjusts his spectacles again.

Vinodh: Understood.

Just Outside Rajkot – Present Day

Two cars are parked side by side in the still of the night. Not too far away from the cars, two figures stand face to face in conversation. They are none other than Pratiksha Devi and Vinodh Patel.

Vinodh: So she died during the abortion?

Pratiksha: Yes.

Vinodh: And he just left her there?

Pratiksha: Yes.

Vinodh: What about the girl’s family?

Pratiksha: I don’t think they know anything about it yet.

Vinodh: That’s horrible.

Pratiksha: I’ve shown you many horrible things that have happened at the hands of my family in the past year, this is not the worst of them and you know it.

Vinodh: But this is the first time you’ve given me any sort of information that has lead to one of Shakuntala Suryavanshi’s children.

Pratiksha: True. As you can see, the next generation is all set to take off when the current one steps down. This will continue to happen until someone stops them and that someone, is you.

Vinodh: I’ve begun to worry about that.

Pratiksha: How so?

Vinodh: An informant of mine has gone missing. It’s been a few weeks since I last heard from him and I’ve started to worry. Shakuntala Suryavanshi is a resourceful woman, how do you know that she doesn’t already know what’s about to happen.

Pratiksha: If she knew about you then we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now.

Vinodh: So how do you plan to bring this girl’s death out?

Pratiksha: I have a plan, but it’s not solid yet. The doctor in charge of the abortion has given Nakul until tomorrow night to try and dispose of the body. I’ve assured him that I’d handle the situation.

Vinodh: But then how…

Pratiksha: I’m one step ahead of you. You see, all I have to do is disappear from Rajkot for one or two days. I plan on calling Nakul in the morning and telling him that I had to leave the city urgently due to a personal problem and then I will instruct him on how to dispose of the body.

Vinodh: WHAT? But…

Pratiksha: I’m not done. Once I’ve instructed him on how to carry things through, I will call you and tell you exactly what I’ve told him and at the same time, I will make an anonymous call to the police and inform them about Nakul’s whereabouts. The police will catch him red handed and you can have the first stab at the story. This can be the opening you’ve waited for all this time to finally publish your story about Shakuntala and all her dark deeds.

Vinodh: But when the questioning starts, you will be implicated too…

Pratiksha: Don’t worry, I’m very good at covering my tracks and Nakul will never rat me out.

Vinodh: You must really hate your Bahu.

Pratiksha: Just as much as you love your job. Wait for my call.

Pratiksha walks back to her car, gets inside and Vinodh watches as her driver takes her away. Moment later, he goes to his car and leaves.

The next morning at the Haveli, everyone is at the breakfast table save Nakul and Pratiksha Devi. Shakuntala sees Nakul’s empty chair and is instantly angry.

Shaku: This boy is never going to learn is he? Did anyone hear him come in last night?

No one around the table says anything and Veena decides to break the silence.

Veena: Why don’t the rest of you carry on with breakfast. I’ll go check on Nakul.

Shakuntala shakes her head and everyone else continues to remain silent. Meanwhile… in Nakul’s room, he’s wide awake and still in shock. His phone rings and he looks at the screen.

Nakul: Moti Ba.

He quickly hits the answer button.

Nakul: Moti Ba… what’s happening?

Pratiksha: Nakul, I need you to listen to me very carefully. I was on my way to try and solve this problem of yours last night but an old family friend was in desperate need of some help and I had to leave Rajkot immediately.

Nakul: WHAT? You mean you aren’t here?

Pratiksha: No, but don’t panic. I will tell you exactly what needs to be done alright?

Nakul: But Moti Ba…

Pratiksha: Hush now and listen to me… I want you to wait until nightfall and then go to the clinic. Get the body from there, load it in the boot of your car and take it to our old factory down St. Mary’s Road. No one except for the security guard will be there. The back entrance of the factory leads to an old crematorium. You will find a man named Keshav who lives there. Give him some money and ask to use the crematorium, tell him that he can’t be around until you’re done. Burn the body there and get out as fast as you possibly can.

Nakul: I don’t know if I can do this Moti Ba…

Pratiksha: It’s the only way dikra!

Nakul: But…

Pratiksha: I don’t want you to get into any trouble and mess your life up because of one mistake you’ve made do you understand? Are you there?

Nakul: Yes…

Pratiksha: Good… now do exactly as I say and everything will be alright. I’m going to hang up now… Remember everything I’ve told you.

Nakul: Alright…

Pratiksha hangs up and Nakul sets down the phone and starts to cry again. At this point, Veena walks into his room.

Veena: Nak…

She sees him in this condition.

Veena: Oh my goodness Nakul. Are you alright?

Nakul doesn’t say anything and Veena runs to his side.

Veena: What’s the matter? What has happened? Talk to me.

Nakul: I don’t know what to do Kaki. I don’t know what to do!

Veena: What has happened? Tell me what has happened?

Nakul: I’ve done something horrible and I don’t know how to fix it.

Veena: Tell me what it is.

Nakul catches his breath and then he relates his tale to Veena who listens aghast. He leaves out the part where he told Pratiksha Devi about this and also about how she called him and instructed him on what to do about the situation.

When he’s done talking Veena stands up and wipes her brow of the perspiration that’s settled in.

Veena: I will take care of this, but once this is over, then we will talk.

Nakul: Kaki I…

Veena: Shut up Nakul. I said we’ll talk when this is over.

She says this not even looking at him. She pulls out her phone and dials Vasudev’s number. It rings and he picks up.

Vasudev: Jay Sri Krishna Choti Malkin.

Veena: Listen and listen carefully. We have an urgent situation that needs taking care of.

Veena explains everything that needs to be done to Vasudev and then hangs up. She turns around to face Nakul who looks like a frightened mouse on his bed.

Nakul: Kaki, please let me explain, I…

Veena: I have to make sure you are safe for now but when I know you are, we will talk.

Utpatti – Episode 011

Nakul sits outside an old building. His face is covered in his hands and his body trembles, almost as though he were attempting to dig himself a hole in the ground on which he sat. The air is cold around him and the night emphasizes the streetlight that illuminates his state. His phone rings in his pocket but he doesn’t hear it, he doesn’t even feel it vibrate. It rings for a while and then stops. It starts to ring a second time. It stops again. Nakul is simply not contactable.

On the other end of the line Veena, who’s been trying to get through to him, hangs up. She shakes her head.

Veena: Where could this boy have gone and why isn’t he home yet?

She turns around and to her shock, she sees Kalyani setting the table for dinner.

Veena: Since when does Kalyani ever set the table for anything?

She walks over towards the dining area and stands by one of the chairs looking stupefied.

Veena: Kalyani?

Kalyani: Yes Kaki?

Veena: Are you feeling alright?

Kalyani: Actually I’m feeling quite fine Kaki. Why don’t you go freshen up, I’ll call everyone down for a dinner in a little while.

Veena: Well, everyone isn’t home yet.

Kalyani: I spoke to Nitesh, he’s on his way. I can’t get through to Nakul though. I wonder if he’s gone to college.

Veena: I’ve been trying to get through to him myself.

At that moment Nitesh walks in.

Kalyani: Oh you’re home. I thought you’d be a while longer.

Nitesh: I told you I was on the way.

Kalyani: Yes you did, I just didn’t expect you to be so close by. Give me your things.

Nitesh looks surprised. He exchanges a look with Veena.

Kalyani: I’ll go leave these in the study for you. You go upstairs and have a shower. Dinner is almost ready.

She smiles and walks away. As soon as she leaves the area Nitesh turns to Veena.

Nitesh: Is she feeling alright?

Veena: Your answer to that is as good as mine.

Nitesh: I’m not going to waste this rare opportunity to be served by my wife, I’m going to shower and change, see you in a bit Kaki.

Nitesh turns to leave.

Veena: Nitesh, wait.

He stops.

Veena: Have you spoken to Nakul all day?

Nitesh: Not really, no. Why do you ask?

Veena: Well I haven’t seen him from around this afternoon and he didn’t pick up his phone once since I tried to call him.

Nitesh: I’m sure he’s out with some friends. He should be back home any minute.

Veena: That child is becoming more and more irresponsible. I have to have a serious chat with him.

Nitesh: Do you really think that’s going to work?

Veena: In the past I would have said no but now I can’t take no for an answer. He’s not a kid anymore. He has to learn that his actions have consequences, if not on anyone else then on his own life.

Nitesh: I don’t think Nakul is going to be ready to change just because one of us asks him to Kaki. That’s kind of a decision that he has to arrive at on his own accord.

Meanwhile… Nakul has made his way to his car and is opening the door when he decides to take his phone out. He looks at all the missed calls from Veena and then realizes how late he is. He quickly wipes away all his tears and gets into the driver’s seat. He then starts the car but soon starts crying again.

Back at the Suryavanshi Haveli, everyone except Pratiksha Devi has come down for dinner and Kalyani is busy serving. As she moves around the table Shakuntala gives Veena a strange look and Veena shrugs her shoulder. Nitesh however is enjoying all the attention his wife is getting and all the attention she’s giving him.

Shaku: Kalyani…

Kalyani: Yes Mummy ji?

Shaku: Shu vaat che? Are you feeling alright?

Kalyani: Why does everyone keep asking me that?

Shaku: No specific reason, you just seem like you’re not all there.

Netra: Don’t be silly Mom, she looks fine. Bhabi, come sit with us.

Kalyani: Let me serve you first.

Netra: We can pass the dishes around Bhabi, come sit.

Kalyani: Alright.

She sits down as she’s told and joins the rest of the family for dinner.

Netra: Mom, why doesn’t Moti Ba join us for dinner, or breakfast or lunch for that matter?

Shakuntala and Veena exchange looks and then Veena smiles brightly as she answers Netra’s question.

Veena: Your Moti Ba likes spending time in her room. She loves being surrounded by all the memories of times gone by in this Haveli and at this age, that’s probably the best thing for her. She feels as though she no longer as any responsibilities because we’re there to take care of things.

Shaku: Right… And she prefers eating in her room, so we’ve decided to give her the space she needs.

Netra: Ok.

Shakuntala then makes eye contact with Veena and motions for her to open a topic with Netra regarding the question they want answers to. Kalyani notices this exchange.

Veena: So Netra, are you enjoying being back home?

Netra: Of course Kaki, I missed everyone so much. I’m so happy to be back.

Veena: And what about New York? Don’t you miss it there? I mean you spent so many years there, surely there must be things about that place that you miss. The hustle and bustle, the fast paced life, the people, your friends, your…

At this point Kalyani starts coughing and then pretends as though she’s getting choked.

Netra: Oh goodness… Have some water Bhabi.

Netra passes her a glass of water and Kalyani drinks it fast.

Kalyani: Thank you… I’m so hungry I was just eating too fast.

Netra: Are you ok?

Kalyani: I’m fine… but… I was wondering… where’s Nakul? He’s usually home by this time.

Shakuntala looks around the table and suddenly there’s a look of concern on her face.

Shaku: I assumed he was just in his room, I didn’t know he wasn’t home.

Veena: He isn’t Bhabi.

Shaku: Well where is he then?

Veena: I don’t know, I tried calling him many times but there’s just no response.

Shakuntala pulls out her phone and dials Nakul’s number. After a while she hears a ring tone. At the other end of the line, Nakul raises his head from the steering wheel and looks at his mother’s number flashing on the screen of his phone.

Nakul: Shit!

He picks up and tries to talk as normally as he possibly can.

Nakul: Hello?

Shaku: Nakul, where the hell are you?

Nakul: Mom, I had to do something really urgent and…

Shaku: Unless you accidentally found your way to college for once I don’t consider anything else you have to do urgent. So, wherever you are, get your act together and come home this instant!

Nakul: Yes Mom.

Shakuntala hangs up and looks annoyed.

Shaku: I don’t understand that boy.

Netra: Don’t be mad at him Mom.

Shaku: How can I not? Do you have any idea how much I spend on his education? And he lets it all go to waste. For goodness sake Netra, he’s older than you. Look at the difference between the two of you.

Netra: We just have different strengths and weaknesses I guess.

Nitesh: But in Nakul’s case he has more weaknesses than he does strengths and unless he’s willing to do something about it, we really can’t expect anything to happen.

Kalyani: Give your brother a break Nitesh. He’s still young.

Netra: Exactly.

Nitesh: But he won’t be young forever. He needs to learn to take care of himself; we’re not going to be around to pick up after him forever. I just hope that by the time he learns his lesson it won’t be too late.

While this conversation takes place at the Haveli, Nakul is driving back faster than he should. He’s still crying, still trembling and still nervous. He takes a few uneasy bends and almost crashes twice or thrice. However, after a long and unpredictable drive, he makes it back to the Haveli in one piece. By the time he walks inside, everyone is done with dinner and all seem to have retired to bed. He looks around and makes his way to the south end of the Haveli, where he believes no one will find him. He sits next to a fountain that has the statue of an Apsara in the middle of it and continues to cry.

At this point, unknown to him, Pratiksha Devi is taking a stroll through the Haveli and she sees Nakul in his condition.

Pratiksha: Nakul, in tears, most shocking. That boy hasn’t worn anything but a smile on his face since the day he was born. What could possibly be the matter with him now?

She reluctantly walks up to him and sits down next to him. Nakul doesn’t even realize that his grandmother is next to him until she touches his shoulder and he almost jumps right out of his skin.

Nakul: Moti Ba… I’m sorry I didn’t hear you come in…

He attempts to hide his face long enough to wipe away his tears.

Pratiksha: What on earth are you trying to do Nakul? Your tears are the reason I’m here and now you’re trying to hide them away from me. Look at me… Look at me.

He stops and looks at her.

Pratiksha: I’ve known you since the day you were born. You’ve grown up before me, under this very roof. I’ve never known you to cry, not even when you hurt yourself playing. So what has reduced you to tears today?

Nakul: I’m not crying…

Pratiksha: Nakul… I’m your grandmother, I’ve raised sons before you and I know when something is wrong with one of my children. So tell me, what is the problem? What has gone wrong?

Nakul turns away and then he stands up. He puts his hand to his head and looks beyond frustrated. Pratiksha Devi stands up as well and makes her way towards him.

Pratiksha: Talk to me Nakul, I’m here to listen.

Nakul: Moti Ba… I…

Pratiksha: Shu vaat che dikra? What’s wrong?

Nakul: I’ve done something terrible.

Pratiksha: What have you done?

Nakul: I… I’ve caused the death of an unborn child… my unborn child!

Pratiksha Devi’s eyes widen in shock but Nakul isn’t done dealing her the blow. He turns to face her and then says…

Nakul: And I’ve caused the death of that child’s mother!

Now Pratiksha has been given the complete picture and all she can do is stand there with her hand over her mouth. She then pulls herself together and turns Nakul to face her.

Pratiksha: Who else knows about this?

Nakul: I don’t know I…

Pratiksha: Think hard Nakul, who else knows about this?

Nakul thinks for a moment and then looks to Pratiksha.

Nakul: The doctor at the abortion clinic.

Pratiksha: Who else?

Nakul: That’s all.

Pratiksha: Alright, then listen to me very carefully. No one else is going to find out anything about this, do you understand? We’re going to find a way to fix this.