Invitation by Anju Kharbanda, Translated by Dr. Chhavi Nigam

Knock, knock…!

“Who is there ? The door is open, do come inside.”

“Ram Ram, Chanda!”

“ Oh, it’s you? Ram Ram, Babuji! I just can’t believe that You have come here at our humble place”

“ Why dear, can’t I come here?”

“Of course you can Babuji ! It’s just that.. hardly anyone ever comes here willingly”

“So what. Well Chanda, I have come today bearing a happy news.. Here’s this invitation card for my son’s wedding.”

“what, An invitation card! For me? I can’t believe.. and that too for your son’s wedding?”

“ Thats right. See my son is getting married next month. And You all must come.”

“…!”

“Chanda, here are also some customary sweets to share the good news with ”

Taking the box of sweets in her trembling hands, Chanda teared up

“ people dislike when we usually show up at weddings or when a child is born. They often show displeasure and make faces at us. But you Babuji.. you are actually inviting us with such fond respect…!”

The rest of her words got stuck in her throat.

“Chanda, I have watched you for years, always blessing everyone with a noble heart.”

“…!”

seeing Chanda still speechless, babu ji continued gently

“Do you remember the day when my son was born? You rejoiced with us, practically turning the whole neighborhood upside down with your joyous celebration.”

“Yes! And you happily gave us our favorite customary gift too!”Chanda wiped her eyes smilingly. Babu ji continued

“With your blessings and good wishes, my son became a doctor. So now, you all must come to his wedding and bless newlyweds.”

“Why wouldn’t we come, Babuji? Of course we will! You have invited us with such honor and respect—how could we not come?”

As she spoke, tears streamed from Chanda’s eyes like the sacred Ganga and Yamuna.Her head bowed before Babuji in deep reverence.

Translated by Dr. Chhavi Nigam

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