DOG BLESS YOU-Version1

Dog Bless You 1st eBook edition The Impish Lass Publishing House Published: 2022 Copyright: The Impish Lass Publishing House Dog Bless You is a work of fiction. The names, incidents and characters portrayed in it are the product of the manifestations of the authors imagination and their personal experiences and opinions. Any resemblance with actual persons, living or dead is entirely coincidental. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without the written permission of the authors. It is the writers’ /poets’ responsibility to ensure that their WORK is free and clear of any counts of libel, plagiarism, breach of privacy or misrepresentation of facts. The Publishing House is not responsible for it. The writers can be challenged in Mumbai High Court in case of plagiarism. Cover page design Ms Neeti Parti © Copyrights Reserved

Contents MS ANAMIKA KUNDU Travails of Biscuit MS APARNA PATWARDHAN BHAT Our beloved princess MS R HARINI Precious MS HEMA NAIR Chocolate MS MADHURI GODBOLE O my God, my dogs! MS RADHIKA Julie lives forever MR RODMAN HENRY D’SOUZA Love at first sight MS RUPAL SHAH An ode to Oreo DR SANAM VASEEM SHEIKH Sheru MS SHEILA BHATTACHARYA Flash MS SMRITI AGARWAL IRRESISTABLE MR SOUMYA MUKHERJEE The Delinquent The Pup MS TARISHI CHAWLA Pet Peeve MR VIKASH GANGWAL May dog bless us all

MS NEETI PARTI For the love of Hobbes MS MEENA MISHRA Motiyaaaaa

A fun-loving person who also happens to be an English teacher, Ms Anamika Kundu loves to read, travel, listen to music, run half marathons, and play various sports. She has been privileged to travel across the country with her father and husband being officers in the Indian Army. Nurturing is her passion, be it her students or her garden. A warm and friendly person she states she has friends in every corner of the world. A voracious reader she loves stories to read or narrate. Her rich experience covers many educational boards from CBSE to IB curriculum. Even as she rejoices turning silver her enthusiasm to learn has not diminished demonstrating that age is just a number. She has successfully published her stories in a number of books and is an accomplished editor with the Impish Lass Publishing House. You can follow her blog : https://lifestrialsandsuccesses.wordpress.com/

Travails of Biscuit Marriages are made in Heaven they say! So are adoptions. The scrawny dirty puppy was found, maggot infested on the streets of Bangalore. The rescuers who had picked her off the street were looking for someone to adopt the helpless little pup, cause without proper care she would certainly die. One could only imagine the trauma and horror she must have undergone. Abhijit, an artistic and senior copywriter with an Advertising firm, came to know about it and stepped forward. He was a huge well built, macho man but with a tender heart belied by his Mixed Martial Art exterior. A pooch lover since his infancy, he had always had a dog at home. Ever since he left home to pursue his studies and later for his career, he would take care of creatures, which naturally gravitated towards him. A puppy or a kitten was routine, he even had a baby squirrel once. So, he was found highly suitable. From running around the vet, to nursing it 24 x 7 Abhijit left no stone unturned. Needless to say, she soon started fighting back herself and could not bear to be parted from the hero of her life. Thus, Abhi informed his boss, he would be getting the pup to office with him. She welcomed the idea! Being a creative place, it had a different style, but predominantly the environment was inclusive and welcoming. Slowly but steadily the scaredy little creature became a romping pup, the most

popular girl in the office. She won over not only all at work but even left an indelible mark on the visiting bosses. Soon she took over the office Instagram, with her pics being the maximum. Solo captures to friends posing with her. She quite enjoyed going to the office and being pampered silly. Abhi soon fell in love and decided to get married. Of course, being a pooch lover herself, Shilpa adored the little mite and spoiled her silly. Biscuit was growing into a tall Indie, lanky and lean, quiet to the core. Her world revolved around Abhi and Shilpa. But they decided to move to Singapore! Abhi was certain that Biscuit would travel with him, even though his friends offered to take care of her. In a country where, the pet is the first to be put up for adoption, given away or left to fend for itself, it was quite a surprise. There were a lot of formalities, tests, inoculations, paperwork, permissions etc etc etc and a month-long quarantine once she reached Singapore. They went through each and every requirement patiently, visiting Biscuit in quarantine daily for the time allocated. Timid and in new surroundings she became even closer to her human family if that were possible. She instilled discipline in Abhi, who would take her for walks, and for grooming regularly. They discovered parks for socializing and swimming pools to chill in, like proud parents venturing to help their baby make friends and overcome their anxiety. In the meanwhile, Biscuit won the heart of his extended family and became the cynosure of all eyes. Her eyes, pots of molten honey, sparkled with intelligence and her ears proved her sharpness. Always greeting her human dad with a kiss and a lick once he was back from work, she however stuck to her human mom for comfort. One day they were out at a park they had found out, which was pet friendly. She was off the leash as she never ventured far. They were pottering around, coaxing Biscuit to run around a little, when she heard some dogs. She panicked and ran for dear life. Abhi ran after her, calling out to her, and she presumed they were playing. She took to her heels and ran like an Olympian on a gold medal hunt. Soon she crossed the main road and disappeared. Abhi and Shilpa kept running up and down, through gorse and bramble, oblivious to the heat and scratches, but Biscuit was nowhere to be found. Their hearts brimmed with emotion as they knew how scared she got and would be terrified. For days they kept trying every trick in the book to locate her. Social media came to the rescue, when they were intimated, someone sighting a dog responding to her description. Abhi and Shilpa reached the site pronto and were able to reunite with her finally. In the next leg of their life, Abhi and Shilpa moved to Toronto. Thanks to the Pandemic there were numerous hurdles which cropped up. Sometimes countries were shutting down their gates to travel, while sometimes, the airlines were grounding to a halt. Finally, they found a flight to fly them, but it did not allow Biscuit to travel. With mixed feelings they bid her au-revoir, as the family would send her as soon as possible. Else she would go to her grandparents in India. The one who suffered the most was Biscuit as she didn’t understand why Abhi and Shilpa were not with her. She was stuck to Abhi’s beanie and Shilpa’s toy 24 x 7.

Soon, the Gods smiled and she boarded a flight to Toronto. And the family was united. Joy knew no bounds. They have a beagle puppy now to keep Biscuit company as they are busy with work and have little time to play! ANAMIKA KUNDU

Ms Aparna Patwardhan Bhat is a secondary school teacher of a renowned ICSE school in Mumbai and works as an editor for a publishing house in Mumbai. Over the years she has developed a passion for penning down her thoughts, memoirs and experiences. She loves to write short stories, anecdotes, poems and small articles. She owes it to her parents, family and all other acquaintances who helped her in various spoken and unspoken ways to develop this skill. In more recent times, she has been writing for various anthologies and has also been featured in several Facebook blogging portals such as Asian Literary Society, United by Ink, PenMancy to name a few. She has successfully edited and compiled an anthology, ‘The Impish Lass Requiem’ recently. OUR BELOVED PRINCESS

It was a warm day in the month of April 2009. After my long hours at dance class, I had just reached home and was enjoying my cup of tea. It was my birthday that day, but I was feeling gloomy since morning. Just the other day we had a small argument. My sons and husband were hell bent on getting a dog in our house, and I was totally against it. Just imagine we were living on fourth floor and five members. The room just starts and ends with few steps, to add on just a small kitchen to fit only two people, who could comfortably stand, a small bedroom just enough to accommodate two people with its furniture and a balcony converted into a small bedroom too. Totally the area of the house was just 525sq.feet. Off course, in a place like Mumbai, land of dreamers and doers, where place is a constraint and due to overrated real estate rates people adjust in small houses. But, an additional member in our house was just next to impossible. And on top of that a dog! Oh! Good lord! How was I supposed to adjust to this situation? Just a thought to this imagery gave me goose bumps. The harsh sound of the doorbell brought me back from my reverie. I was completely drained out and dead tired due to over exertion. I got up to open the door. The whimpering sound of a small puppy was clearly audible before, I could reach the door. There they were. The gang of three male members of my house with this little bundle. The very sight of this black Labrador, velvet furred puppy wrapped in a small cloth, kept within a cane basket with a red colour satin ribbon tied around its neck, made my eruptive volcanic upheavals inside me vanish. It was so cute with beautiful, big angelic eyes!!! I immediately felt a surge of warm feelings for this little pup. I welcomed it with love and adoration. It took a special place in our house. Now the question aroused, by what name should we call it? How should we toilet train it, and many more? All suggestions and references were discussed. I also got to know that it was one amongst a litter of ten pups born to a champion dog, it was the last one of the lot and had already overgrown. It was around five months old. There was a certain special thing about it, which my husband felt, when he went to purchase it from a certified dog trainer. All its brothers and sisters were given away and only this little pup was left. Sitting in a corner, within a small room whining. Nobody wanted to take it, as it had twenty one toes, one being extra on its right hind feet. Coincidently, 14th November was its birthdate, which is celebrated as children’s day.

It was Saturday, when it was brought to our house. Trying to adjust to its new home and surroundings, it looked more sad and lost. But, my children were over excited and were always found fondling and playing with it. We finally christened it, “Princess” but, lovingly started calling her, ‘Princy.’ By now, I accepted the fact that we were six members in the house. For around twenty four hours, since the time she was bought home Princy did not eat or drink. We tried to give her dog packet food, milk, rice mashed in curd etc… Whatever we felt she would eat, we kept for her. I could feel she was missing some thing or may be was scared. Somehow by next day evening I tried to force her to drink water, with the help of a syringe. She reluctantly drank. After some time, I could see, she was feeling better. May be she was just dehydrated. I could feel the tension in her body and eyes subsiding. Eventually, days passed into months and years. She became the most lovable member of our family. Princy changed my whole outlook about pets. All dog instincts of alertness and eagerness in her were always all set. She was our ever ready battery of strength and positive charge. Her blind trust in all of us and undivided love and attention, which she would shower on us made us feel calming and soothing. Can you believe how a pet can affect the house atmosphere! The best stress buster ever! We never realised it, but knowingly or unknowingly she had become everybody’s darling. She would love to play with her favourite tennis ball, hide and seek and many more within the parameters of our home. Whenever music was played she would dance to the tunes in her own way. Moving and swaying along with us. I distinctly remember one incident, when we took her along with us to Kolhapur. First time she had travelled out of Mumbai and she adjusted to the situation and place so well as if she knew, we were on a holiday and would return home again. Her patience, blind trust, understanding and love for all of us was beyond any measures. Another trip to Alibaug was a memorable one. She was so thrilled to swim in the sea waters and run around on the golden beach, playing with my children. I distinctly remember that mischievous shine and irresistible twinkle in her eyes. She looked so adorable and captivating. A black fur ball moving happily over the golden sand. Never ever disobeying or showing tantrums. These certain nostalgic moments, just cannot be erased from our memories. She became like my shadow over the years. Every morning she was the only one who would give me company, while I would finish my morning chores of kitchen work. Sitting just outside the kitchen door, she would scrutinise everything ardently and acknowledge her consent, whenever I would ask her or talk to her. As a working mother I had to leave home early and would return by evening. My dear princess would be the only one, who would eagerly wait for me to return home. Seeing me back at home after many long hours she would become so ecstatic and bark asking me various questions in her dog language, every day, every time. The same set of expressions and concern was shown always. Oh! How happily she would dance and bark welcoming me, asking for more food or at times even ask to accompany me, if I am getting ready to go out. God alone knows how she would know, if any member of the family would

feel unwell or depressed, she would quietly come and sit near them, keeping her head on their feet. Our Princy was one of a kind, very special and caring! That’s loyalty and unconditional love! Princess gave a litter of eight puppies, out of which two expired, five were given for adoption and we kept her one pup. One more addition to our family. We named her Venus. A complete replica of her mother, but white in colour, more lovable and beautiful. Princess and Venus were adored by all children from our area and nearby locality. They loved to hang around with them and playing catch and throw had become a routine. Venus specially loves children and has a rather carefree attitude. Both relished Vanilla ice-cream and fresh chicken pieces. The last story from our famous epic, “Mahabharata” too signifies this aspect of faithfulness and unconditional love we get from a dog. The Pandavas were firm in their resolve to renounce their Kingdom and began the ascent of a Meru hill in the Himalayas as part of their final journey. Yudhishthira led the way followed by Bhīma, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva and Draupadi. A dog also accompanied them through their journey. It was the only one who remained with Yudhishthira till the end of the journey as a faithful companion and did not abandon him. Towards the end when lord Indra came to take Yudhishthira to heaven, the king denied to accompany him as the dog was not allowed. After which, the dog transformed itself into the God of Dharma and blessed Yudhishthira for his complete lack of selfishness and dedication to righteousness in all circumstances. And thus rose Yudhishthira to heaven in the chariot of Indra. I feel amazed at times, about how these lovable pets have brought a change in me. From a person, who was denying to keep any pet in the house, to keeping one more pup of my own dog, and now I am having a tom cat too, surprises me even now? What a transformation my pets have brought in me. Certainly, dogs are the only things on Earth that love you more than they love themselves. My beloved Princess is no more with us now. She has left us, with a big void, which cannot be filled. Learning from Princy’s various attributes such as patience and unconditional love for dear ones is an unforgettable lesson not only for me, but for all humans too. Also, not expecting anything in return, but just feeling satisfied by giving. This feeling can truly be justified with this perfect line, ‘Dogs are not our whole life, but definitely make our life whole, with their blind trust and endearing attributes.’ No wonder, DOG BLESSES US! APARNA PATWARDHAN BHAT

Ms R. Harini is a 16-year-old writer hailing from Tamil Nadu and currently residing in Delhi who believes in the power of writing to inspire, innovate and invent. Her works resonate her life and beliefs; also functioning as a medium to invoke social change. Raising questions and seeking out new tales of admiration and nostalgic joy; she seeks to open up a new window of discussion, emotion and creation.

Browny is a brown-black Indian Native dog; currently aged 7 as it quietly spends its days at a home in R.K. Puram. First spotting the dog in 2016 when it was two years old; a long time has passed as Browny became the light of our lives. Feasting on treats of all mirthful kinds; Browny grew into a confident and well-built canine; unrecognizable from the meek dog I once chanced upon. Browny continues to be our cherished treasure as it pounces on us every time we visit; a love that is eternal.

Precious (Poetry) Big glassy eyes compel me into submission as I drop in that snack, A little button nose sticking its way into every possible mischief, Scattered across the room are the loving remnants of endeavors, My mom shrieks for the carpet as brown hair rains down in torrents. I laugh in cherished remembrance as I look back to that little bundle, Not as little though; mirthfully gorging on dishes of every kind and place, I giggle as I recall my calculated steps of fear once back as I walked near, Only to realize that far from threatening; she was nothing less than adorable. An illusion swiftly shattered as her barks resounded with vengeance, Whenever a poor soul knocked on that cerulean door; in ignorant bliss, A vicious jealousy corrupted her as she glanced at any little furry ball, But despite her flaws she was an angel; her smooth coat gleaming in the sun. A halo descended whenever she was in desire; of food or loving cuddles, But her teeth bared out she stood once her restless senses tingled, Heartwarming friendships she struck as we all fell to her mirthful charms, Another member added to our close knit family as we all evolved in so many ways. Now stuck in my house; kilometers away from where she currently resides, I vividly imagine her long tail and wagging tongue as she sourced for the best biscuits, It seems as if in tribute I found two more lovely and shaggy souls that delight me, Browny, Griff and Choco; precious pieces of my soul and heart I so lovingly adore. R. HARINI

Ms Hema Nair is a passionate teacher by profession. Though her subject area has been Mathematics she has turned an author, writer and poet. She is enjoying this literary journey. She is also a trained classical dancer. She wants to make her country fully literate. In the above anthology she has represented her sister who is a dog lover. Her sister’s absolute devotion to the dog used to leave her spell bound.

chocolate was born on 15th of May and had five siblings. She was the third. The youngest and the last born was very weak and had to be rushed to the veterinary doctor immediately but on the way she died. My niece had naMed her ‘Lucky’. the way the mother protects her little ones has to be seen to be believed. The mother herself cuts off the umbilical cord with her teeth. Chocolate with her other four siblings remained with their mother for 40 days. Lucky was buried in the garden itself where their kennel was. Chocolate probably didn’t know it or did she? it is said that aniMaLs sense these things more than human beings.

MY NON-JUDGEMENTAL GUARDIAN I saw Chocolate the second day she was born in my brother’s house. Her mother was there protecting her pups. The first time I looked at her I fell in love with her and decided I will take her home with me. But the doctor said that only after 40 days the pups can be separated from their mother. After that I used to visit my brother’s house daily just to look at her. The pups were so tiny just as much as your palm. Sometimes the mother’s milk was not enough so for feeding droppers were used filled with plain milk without sugar. I still do not know the reason but doctors do not allow us to give sugar to dogs. It was such a delightful sight to watch. All five of them would want to be fed at the same time under the watchful and protective eyes of their mother. Since I had already booked Chocolate (she looked like dark chocolate, even her eyes had the chocolaty gaze) only four other pups needed homes. My niece who is an animal lover wanted to keep one pup as company for its mother. This meant they had to find owners for 3 pups. My niece though very young was absolutely adamant that she will interview all those who came to take the pups. She was never satisfied that they would take care of her precious pups. After rejecting quite a few she finally zeroed in on three families who were really dog lovers like me. In the meantime I wanted to know so many things about Chocolate. My niece who wants to become a veterinary surgeon told me about the birth of Chocolate. She said that two or three days before the birth, the mother just clammed up and no barking was heard from her. She kept looking for corners in dark area nosing around. Then finally she found a good place (she would not let anyone near her) and pulled some sacks and made herself comfortable. When she went into labour there was no sound unlike human beings. My niece was watching through the bedroom window. She started delivering one pup after another. She cut the umbilical cord finally with her own teeth. Really God’s miracles has no end. The last pup was born very weak and she died. My niece predictably was inconsolable.’ Lucky’ as she was named was brought to my brother’s house and buried in their garden itself. The mother must have sensed the loss because she would walk around that spot and sniff. The five pups followed her wherever she went and they snuggled up to her for warmth. It was truly a beautiful sight to see them all playing together and cuddling to their mother. After the prescribed forty days were over (I was just counting the days) I took Chocolate home. Since we were staying in a flat with my parents I knew it was difficult to convince them to keep Chocolate. At first my mother was totally against it. But after a few days she was the one showering love on her more than us. Pets are made that way. They have a way with them and they give you so much love and protection without expecting anything in return. My mother used to say that Chocolate will miss her more than her own children and grandchildren and it actually happened. Just two months after she passed away Chocolate too left us. Training Chocolate for the different needs though was a very tough task. But I managed to do it. It was a joy giving her a bath as she had such shiny skin and melting eyes. She used to start barking joyfully the minute my car entered the complex alerting my mother. My own kids would not be bothered. Mostly everyone in the complex knew Chocolate and some small kids used to call me Chocolate’s mom. It was hilarious. My sister used to stay very near our house. Though she had nothing against Chocolate she was not the type of person to take her in her arms and kiss or cuddle her. All that was reserved for her

grandchildren. She had a 6 month old grandchild who had just started crawling. When I used to visit her I would take Chocolate there and both of them would start playing with a ball. Chocolate would carry the ball to the baby as she was faster and put it near him very gently. Then the baby would throw it back at her. I am sure my sister was not very happy about the hygiene part but the baby and chocolate had a lovely time. Now I wish I had captured it on video. My sister never complained because she knew I loved Chocolate like my own child. The best part was she was very good company for my parents in their old age. Whenever I had to go out for long periods I was not worried because Chocolate was there. She had very short legs. Once I took her to the vet because she was finding it very difficult to walk. The vet said she was perfectly fine but she needs to reduce some weight as with short legs was not able to carry the weight. So walking both times was compulsory. She used to love going for walks, sniffing everywhere. Dogs do speak though they are called dumb animals. It’s just that we need to understand them with love and compassion. If we love them enough their every action speaks. When they are in pain, when they are happy, when are angry we can make out everything out by their demeanor. It just takes a little time and effort on our part. The minute I enter the house she would jump with joy and wave her tail nineteen to the dozen. My own children would not even be aware of my presence. Dogs are not our whole life because we have so many other responsibilities. But they make our life whole for them as we are their entire universe. They are the first to sense your joy or sorrow. When you are miserable they will come and lick your tears and warm you by staying close to you. They protect you more than your own people. They give you unconditional love AND THEY LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU LOVE YOURSELF. They will willingly give up their life for you. I knew a friend of mine who had an Alsatian named Terry. This friend had lost her entire family in a pandemic and her job too. She was willing to take up a job as a governess but no one wanted her to bring the dog with her. She was at her wit’s end. She used to keep talking to Terry all her problems. Her tiny flat was on the fifth floor. She had just turned her back on Terry talking to him for pouring out a glass of water when she heard a crash. She looked out of the window and saw Terry’s body. Was that Terry’s dog sense showing a way out of all her problems? I wonder. The worst thing of having a dog as your pet is that they have a short life. When my Chocolate was about 9 years old she started getting frequent stomach ache. She started refusing food. Unfortunately I had lost my mother just then and so for sometime thought she was missing my mother. But then we thought we should show her to the vet who suggested some scans and tests. Finally after going through all the reports we were told there was not nothing to do except let her go peacefully. In their language they call it ‘put her to sleep’. I was stunned and inconsolable. Finally I had to come to terms with the fact that if she lives she will be in agony. The pain will be unbearable. So for her sake I agreed. She used to love sweets but we were not allowed to give earlier. The day we took her to the hospital we gave her lots of ice creams and chocolates which she gobbled up. I was in tears. I wrapped her up in her favorite blanket and with a last kiss and hug

handed her over to the vet. I can never forget the look in her eyes. The vet assured us she will not feel any pain but if we do not put her out of her misery she will have a terrible life. Was this the right decision? I still do not know . HEMA NAIR

Ms Madhuri Godbole, born in 1955, is a graduate in History of Fine Arts, and in English Literature. She has a Masters and M. Phil both in English Literature. Experienced in the field of education for 30 years, she has worked as teacher, as lecturer in Junior College, and as a Head Mistress. She is known to be creative and enthusiastic. She has a penchant for writing and doing social service. She has written one poem and nine articles/stories for The Impish Lass Publishing House. She has been a prize winner at the National and District level of Inner Wheel Club for her article and poem respectively. Her mantra is, “Keep Evolving.”

Olive is two and a half years old and is black in colour. He looks stunning, weighing 50 kgs and is about 3 feet tall. His sparkling brown eyes, double coat with a silky feel, and his bushy tail wagging most of the time emanates positive vibes. He loves to go for long walks and enjoys running especially along with a cycle. He enjoys sumptuous meals, of his choice and loves to share them with other dogs too. He has an approachable demeanour, is friendly and intelligent. On the whole Olive is well behaved and has a pleasant personality.

OH MY GOD, MY DOGS! As I fondly remember my dogs, I smile with satisfaction for being enriched with dogs in my life. They have etched themselves on my heart, all having a story to tell. Way back in the early sixties,Moti, and Tipu used to be in my grandma’s house. They ran around huge courtyards. We as children loved to play with Tipu and dodge him. Old Moti was a happy tail wagger during the day, but wailed at night. Dogs of yesteryears were never cuddled or fussed over. We never had a dog psychologist to understand why Moti cried at night. Dogs then, grew on fresh air and some rotis.“Micky –Yoooh…” or “Tiipu ---Choooh…” is what they understood. “Haaidtt!” was used for shooing dogs away. Whereas strays of the present are treated with more concern and dignity. My dad had a transferrable job. Invariably, in every new house, one Tommy or the other would land up from nowhere, to eat and sleep at the door. We in turn enjoyed the pure presence of a dog around. After marriage, I shifted to a small town and befriended Ruff, our family watch dog, a semi Alsatian. Ruff’s peculiar habit of sitting exactly on the 5th step of our staircase left us awestruck. He was happiest looking suspiciously at passers-by, and chase bandicoots and cats. And to witness, impatience personified, one had to watch Ruff devour fast on his platter, and just rush for his walk. When he died due to old age, all of us were forlorn. My brother-in-law, although miles away had tears…. Later Rambo, a baby Doberman trotted into our lives. His principle was, ‘Live, Love and Bark’. Being extremely fond of my husband he strangely, expressed his love by giving barks after bark when my husband left the house, and again barked when he returned, thus making the entire neighbourhood aware of my husband’s routine. Rambo lived for 13 long years and towards the end became blind. One night during heavy rains he whisked out of the gate and could not reach back home. We searched for him helter- skelter, on roads and lanes, and advertised on cable TV. Finally, after four long months he was spotted near a slum. He was so excited to see us that he kept wagging his stub tail and barked with joy like never. We indeed felt rewarded to have earned his love. But the slum dwellers were not prepared to return our Rambo. They were all set to sell him. With their deal already finalized, we returned home sorrowfully without Rambo, consoling ourselves that dear Rambo was going to a new home. With Scotch, our German Shepherd, it was love at first sight. He followed me everywhere, like Mary’s little lamb. If the phone rang, he would speed to the phone and wait for me.He waited outside the Kitchen and the washroom too. Never had I seen such ardent adoration. He grew up to look regal, ran fast, and ate well. But to our misfortune we lost him at his early age of 3 three. His symptoms were either of a snake bite or food poisoning. Scotch’s death was a big blow to us. We brooded and pledged never to keep another dog.

Once on my husband’s birthday, my son-in-law gave a basket to him and wished him. Intrigued, my husband uncovered the gift, and was thrilled to see a Dalmatian pup. Though we were still in remorse with lingered memories of our earlier Scotch, this pup’s endearing and sympathy seeking expression touched us. We started cuddling and petting him. He became ours, as Scotch-2. We resumed, from Scotch the German Shepherd to Scotch the Dalmatian. Little Scotch the second grew up to be attractive with a white coat and black spots. People from far and near came to see the spotty member of our family. Scotch was sharp. With eyes shuttling from one person to another, he was only short of speaking. Each time I stepped out of the house I informed him with actions, and he would blink his eyes with approval. Delicate as good breeds are, this Dalmatian gradually developed a kidney problem. He found strain in urinating. A Vet in our small town gave him medication and injections, and finally directed us to the city Veterinary Hospital. Unfortunately, he died one night prior to hospitalization. Seeing him heave his last, was an unbearable nightmare. While I continuously chanted, Scotch stared with a tear in his eye, being aware of the eventuality. Finally, he gasped his last… with unbearable jerks…. My dejected grandson remarked, “Scotch the star of our family, has become a star of the sky.” Our present dog is Olive, brought by my son as a 40 days, GermanShepherd. We call him Olive, as he is blackish like an olive. I had performed aarti with a lamp, sprinkled water on his feet and welcomed him in the traditional manner. Initially he preferred to be carried, or sleep in the comfort of a small soft bed. A unique game that we played with him was, “OK? OK?” You babble softly to him, and he would be all ears. And if you asked, “Okay... Okay?” he would nod his head from one side to the other, for every “Okay?” Olive being a lover of music,lilting melodies are played to lull him. The moment the music is stopped he wakes up opening one eye, questioning, “Why has the music stopped?” He has a basket full of toys and loves to show them off, but being possessive, never parts with any. Olive loves to run in open spaces and be taken for long drives. If the car door is open, in goes Olive hoping to get a ride. He is very social. When guests arrive, he sniffs them all, and then settles down. He never looks gluttonous, but expects a sample after they depart. There are two people whom Olive worships, one is Bahubali his groomer, who massages, bathes, clips nails and gives him a haircut. Olive runs inside excitedly to announce Bahubali’s arrival. And the second is a young lady, his trainer and bosom buddy. They literally have cheerful tete e tetes. It is simply amazing to watch Olive’s full potential and sharpness coming to the fore “Olive! Olive!” the children of our Society go jumping around him pecking on his cheeks, and he in turn gives slobbery kisses with his wet nose. His play dates are sometimes with his cousin, ‘Yoda, a smart German Shepherd or with a groomed stray, called Ginger. In his two and a half years life span he has enjoyed being the centre of attraction on both his birthday parties, with him all dressed up in a t shirt and birthday cap. The invitees are children who

enjoy, and the neighbouring dogs, who have a fun and growling sessions with him. Thus, we ensure that his birthday has been a special one. What attracts people to him are his stately looks, which are typical of a German Shepherd. They stop by to admire him while he is walked. He looks huge, hence ferocious but is friendly and never the one to start a quarrel. His emotional facet strikes us, when he refuses to talk to us, if we have left him at the Shelter, and have gone for a holiday. And hearing loud discussions, or seeing someone cry, is not his cup of tea. He immediately comes,asking for an explanation and is satisfied only after he gets a reassuring pat, “Don’t worry Olive, not for you!” Every morning is a, ‘Good Morning’ session- He comes to get his hair ruffled from my husband, then gets petted by me, putting his paws on my lap. He beckons my granddaughter to accompany him for breakfast, and gives extra fast, tail wags when he sees my son and daughter- law. A typical trait of his is, waiting for the last member of the house to return and then retire for the day. He sleeps light,to bark on intruders if required. Secondly, he delights in gobbling homemade dog treats prepared with oats, pumpkin and chicken by my granddaughter. All said and done, amongst all animals, dogs are most adorable; gifts of pure love wrapped in fur. Dogs are innocent, intelligent, expressive and very much akin to human beings. They mature with age like us. They are friends and never betray. They are useful, mainly to guard the house. Childhood and old age find solace in a dog’s company. Depression and loneliness cannot exist with a dog around. A divine stabilizer that he is, he soothes during sorrows and heightens our spirits during joys. Man has a plenty to learn from a dog- -- Enjoy life. Stay alert. Attack a wrong doer or a thief. Stay loyal to your family. Learn your fundamentals during childhood. Follow instructions. Be grateful and value those who love you. Try to tolerate your enemies. Be affectionate to someone in despair. Express your happiness. In the end, what matters is- How much you loved, How gently you lived, How gracefully you let go of things, And your footprints on the sands of time. MADHURI GODBOLE

Ms Radhika Bhat is a 22 years old girl with a Master’s degree in English Literature. She lives in a town called Khopoli. She loves reading, writing poems, listening to music, and gardening. Radhika owns and runs a quotes page on Instagram - @writerwithinme_ . She is young, free minded, supportive, friendly and yet introverted. Radhika aims to publish her own poetry book someday. She has contributed to few anthologies and looks forward to contribute more. She is passionate about being an editor as well as a good poet. Above all, she strives to be a good human being.

Julie was a cute little Doberman puppy. She was born on 26th October, 2019, just a day before Diwali. She was literally a gift from God to us. Julie was the first puppy of her momma – Ruby. Her innocent face made everyone fall in love with her. She loved going on walks, chewing on her calcium bone, fighting with her momma, running around the house, getting pampered, keeping a watch on the neighbourhood, and many more things. She was enthusiastic, smart, active, and very naughty. Julie passed away and became an angel once again at the mere age of 6 months. Though Julie lived for a short span of time, she filled everyone with love..

JULIE LIVES FOREVER A dog is a companion that everyone should have. Life would have been joyless if there were no dogs around us. I was scared of dogs until I met my brother’s pet – Ruby. She made me love dogs more than I could ever love. On October 26th, 2019, we welcomed Ruby’s first puppy. It was a day before Diwali and she felt like a precious gift and a memorable blessing. We thought of many names to give her. One of them was Barky, suggested by my friend. After all the quest for searching for names, Papa gave her a very adorable name – Julie. She was often called Julya with all the love. Bhaiya called her by names like ‘Half Ticket’, ‘Choti’. I was very eager to meet Julie and to hold her in my hands. I always heard the stories of her mischiefs from Bhaiya and that just fuelled my desire to meet her. Finally, the day came. It was December 3rd, 2019, when I first met her. She was so small; just 37 days old. Her baby blue puppy eyes were hypnotizing me. Her brown and ginger colour, her floppy ears and the little docked tail, everything about her was so adorable. When I first saw her, she was sitting on the bed, playing on her own. Her presence was so refreshing and I loved her the moment I saw her. She easily came to me, sniffed, and started playing with me. It was the first time, I met a puppy so small. On the very first meeting, Julie owned my heart. I spent an hour or two with her; and in that period, I felt joy that seemed missing from my life for so long. I captured her in photographs as well as in videos. Those photos and videos are her loving memories. She played with her toy, she nibbled on my fingers, she barked in her cute little voice. Her every movement was mesmerizing. While Bhaiya clicked my pictures with Julie, she showered her love upon me with her sloppy kisses. After our first meeting, I met her only twice. But every moment spent with her was filled with love and joy. I heard many of her cute, funny stories from Bhaiya, such as - when Julie was running around the house, she fell in the rangoli; she was covered in rangoli’s colours and design. Another memory of her was when she was chewing on her calcium bone, it was all over her face. Julie used to sit on Papa’s rocking chair leaving one leg down. Julie was very naughty, and her perfect puppy eyes and face were enough for her to get away with anything. It was one day in April, 2020; I will call it the saddest one. At the time of the first lock down, on 21st April, 2020, Julie left us all at the mere age of 6 months. Just after she showed some signs of recovery after a month long illness, she left us forever. But who says she’s gone? Who says she’s not with us anymore? Who says Julie was mortal? Though she is not with us physically, Julie owns a piece of our hearts. Julie owns her place in our lives. I know, she’s watching us from heaven. She’s an angel now; she always was. Maa, Papa, Deepu, Bhaiya, her mommy – Ruby, and me miss and love Julie; we will always do. Julie is indeed immortal. Through our love and her funny, joyful and sweet memories, Julie lives forever! RADHIKA BHAT

Mr Rodman Henry D’souza is an Instructional Designer by profession, a runner, a blogger and fitness enthusiast by passion, for whom writing is a means to express his thoughts, emotions and feelings, an outlet for his creative imagination and a way to share something beautiful with the world.

Meet Harley! A beautiful rescue dog adopted by my cousin, Chantyl Daniels, a Dog Mother of three, who is part of a group in Dubai called Dogs In Dubai through which she gets to know of dogs that need rescuing or a forever home or a foster. You will never find a more loving, a more adorable, a goofier and a more special dog than Harley. harLey was with a faMiLy in abu dhabi that didn’t care Much for animals and was kept all day in a cage. A cage where he couLdn’t even stand up in! eventuaLLy this faMiLy wanted to sell him. A lady (an angel) saw the post and went to see him. She could not pay the exorbitant amount he was asking but managed to raise 2500 dhs. She finally managed to convince him and rescue Harley. He was initially adopted by another family. But the family that adopted hiM didn’t want hiM. She eventually brought him home and introduced him to the rest of the family and his sibLings, and the rest is history! we can’t iMagine our Lives without this beautifuL boy!! he’s her big cuddLe bug! a sweet polar bear!

Love at First Sight Our eyes locked the moment I stepped into the house. I looked into his beautiful, soulful eyes as he came sauntering towards me, his beautiful mane flowing in the air, his slender athletic figure on full display. Was it possible to fall in love with this gorgeous creature at first sight? But then was it really first sight? After all I had seen pictures of him before I met him in the flesh. So, would this still be first sight? Well, you could call it that, and if you don’t think so then that’s your perception. For all practical purpose, for me it was first sight. It was love at first sight. I somehow found myself falling into the abyss of his deep soulful eyes, the ones I could stare into for hours on end. This beautiful creature with those soulful eyes. And as he made his way towards me, I could feel my heart beating against my chest, skipping a couple of beats. I felt like a school child coming face to face with their crush. When he finally made his way to me, after greeting the rest of the family, I came down to him, hugged him and scratched behind his ears. He seemed happy to see me, but then he was happy creature who was more than happy to have visitors, unlike others. He loved the attention that was showered upon him, not wanting to share it, wanting to be centre of it all. So, when I began paying attention to his sibling he nuzzled his head, so I had to scratch and fuss over him only. Throughout the evening he enjoyed himself, alternating from playing fetch with the kids and snuggling between us, getting his belly rubbed. Giving paw when asked to, placing his head on our laps, giving us the soulful looks with his deep puppy eyes, hoping to get something from the sumptuous and mouth-watering spread prepared for the evening. He enjoyed all the attention. Posing for pictures and being fed, along with his siblings, having the time of his life. And in between it all he was showering his puppy love, slobbery kisses, putting his paw in my hand and his face on my lap, how you could not fall in love with him, how could you not resist his charm. He had me at hello! So, in the end when it was time to call it a night, he walked us to the door, and with the big soulful eyes bathe us goodbye, giving us a big look before he ran back to join his siblings, turning around as if to say see you soon. It was indeed love at first sight. RODMAN HENRY D’SOUZA

Ms Rupal Shah (b. 1968) graduated from Sir JJ School of Arts in 1989 and was awarded the SB Palshikar award for topping the university, she further went on to complete her Masters in printmaking from Faculty of Fine Arts, MS University, Baroda. Presently Head of Management at Chemould Prescott Road handling everything around exhibitions. Rupal is also a visiting Faculty at The Rizvi College of Architecture teaching allied/Basic Design ad art appreciation. Amongst her other achievements is ‘Tautology of Memory’ a solo exhibition of a single channel video projection based on Ajanta Caves, NUS Museum, Singapore, April-December 2012. She won the MV Dhurandhar price for her woodcut at the 98th All India Annual Fine Art Exhibition of the Bombay Art Society. An avid adventure and sports lover, has been trekking, rock climbing for 20+ years, and running marathons since 10+ years, passionate about nature, reading and travelling. She has been holding creative workshops for corporates and NGO’s. Over the years she has also been a freelance jewellery designer creating handmade artisanal jewellery.

Oreo is a 11 years 4 months old Chocolate Brown Labrador, he is a larger Labrador almost a head above the average members of the Labrador family. His size belies his temperament, he is the sweetest and gentlest, sensitive & friendly towards dogs and humans. Oh boy talk about being a foodie, he sure is one, whether he is drooling at microwave popcorn, or Paneer, or coconut water, or his chicken and rice or eggs! food is the magic word. He hates the sound of crackers and thunder. He senses when any of us are sad and will come cuddle up to us. Adores going for a ride in the car, his head sticking out catching the wind, his floppy ears flapping in the wind.

AN ODE TO OREO Year: 2010 Place: Domestic Airport, Santacruz, Mumbai, car pickup point. The silver-grey Indigo Marina cruised to a stop in front of me. While I saw Nihal at the wheel, my daughter Kaavya was in the backseat. While Nihal loaded my bags in the boot, I slid into the front passenger seat wondering, \"why is she in the backseat?\". Settling in I turned around, with the question at the tip of my tongue, but I stopped right there! I noticed not one but two pairs of eyes looking back at me!!! One filled with amusement, the other with curiosity. The amused pair belonged to Kaavya, but who’s were the other pair? As the question swirled in my head, the missing piece of the puzzle fell in place. The puzzle that was incomplete since the past four days, was now complete! The brown abyss, deepest of deep, doleful eyes that melted me for a few moments was this same curious pair of eyes that had stared back at me from my mobile screen, four days ago! At this point let me rewind just a little bit. As my plane landed on the tarmac at Delhi airport, my mobile was bombarded a flurry of photographs, when I switched it on. Here is the WhatsApp conversation that took place. Me: Who is this? Them: OREO! Me: Oreo, who? Them: Our new pet!!! Me (thinking to myself): Are they trying to pull a fast one on me? Me: No waaaaaayyyyyy! Them: But it is true! Then I got busy as we deboarded. I collected my baggage and headed to the hotel, pushing this to the back of my mind, focusing on the work I had come for. Now back to the Present. Kaavya, \"Mom, even before we dropped you off at the airport for your trip to Delhi, we had it all planne\".

\"And the adoption papers were in place”, Nihal added. Me, “And I did not even get a whiff of your plans!\" Kaavya (with a naughty smile), \"that was the plan!\" Nihal, \"As soon as we dropped you off, we headed to pick him up\". \"His brand new collar, leash, and a few toys were already in the car well hidden from you\", Kaavya said mischievously. “We picked him, and the first thing we did was send you photographs as a teaser\", added Nihal. So, the deed was done! We were now a family of four! Nihal drove through the evening traffic, I kept turning back with a cocktail of feeling, part curiosity, part disbelief, part anxiety. All the while Kaavya kept urging me to at least pat him on the head. Before long, we reached the building. Kaavya exited the car, and Oreo followed her to the lift and into the house, his Blue collar a stark contrast to his chocolate brown fur. How was he christened Oreo? Was not it obvious, as his fur is as dark brown as an Oreo cookie. We soon realized his temperament was as sweet, if not sweeter, than the cookie. Why, might you ask, this homecoming of Oreo so close to my heart that I need to pen it down? This is not just the story of us adopting a pet, its of an indifferent me turning into a passionate dog lover. This leads back to the time when Nihal had a scruffy dog, Mickey, who he had rescued from the streets. Sadly, Mickey passed away in an accident. One day he ran out of the family bungalow, which was on the busy S V Road, and got hit by a speeding car. Kaavya had inherited Nihal's passion and love for dogs. For each of the 12 years, the conversation before and on her birthday, was... Us: Kaavya, what gift would you like for your birthday this year? Kaavya: A puppy! Nihal: Ok, we will get one, once you are a bit older and can take him care of him. Me: NO WAY! It will either be the puppy or me in this house! Kaavya's wish did not change year after year, in fact her passion just grew deeper. On her 13th birthday she finally got her puppy, her companion. Her long-standing wish was fulfilled.

We hired a trainer for Oreo. We realized he was a sharp, quick and eager learner, obedient, naughty, and playful all at once. Over the years he won many a competition for his obedience, doggy tricks, and his looks. And as much as I had tried to ignore his presence, those doleful eyes wooed me, tugging at my heart. His head always cocked to one side, every time I was ate something, waiting eagerly for me to share it with him. Whether I petted him or not, he would follow me, quietly snuggling up to and curling at my feet, his fur like a warm caress. Every time I sat down on the floor, he would jump up onto my lap. All the beds became his domain as he would wiggle his way in between us. This brown teddy bear of a Labrador, has given us so many wonderful loving, caring moments and showing us what unconditional love is all about. I can never forget that he was so sharp that he knew our car horn every time I came home and honked for the gate to be opened. He knew this sitting at home, on the third floor, amidst the major traffic noise on S V Road. By the time I reached the door the first sight of Oreo was his tail wagging, to a dozen head nodding excitedly, his floppy ears in the air. Oh, the unconditional love! He loved car rides, The moment we say Chalo and he sees the car keys in my hand, he would be all set to run down to the car. And the moment the car moved, his would stick his head out, ears flapping in the wind, sniffing the cool air. How can I forget the sight of him standing like a human at Kaavyas room window staring outside at life? He was a huge lab and by the time he was all of 6-7 months old he could easily put his paws onto our kitchen platform and gulp down whatever tasty food was around! The space under the dining table was, and still, is his go to place, when he did something wrong, like chewing on my new and old shoes, when the sound of thunder and lightning or those loud crackers filled with dread. As I pen this, he’s all of 10 years 11 months and 23 days, old, with his 11th birthday is round the corner. Our gentle, happy, brown bear of a baby will be 77 in human years old, the oldest member of our family, but still our baby. With his unconditional love, he’s transformed me into a passionate dog lover to the extent that last year, during COVID times, my daughter brought home an abandoned indie pup. We took care of him till we were able to find him another loving home. If we had a bigger home, we were ready to add 'Casper', as the 5th member of our family. RUPAL SHAH

“A positive attitude can really make dream come true- it did for me” describes Dr Sanam Vaseem Shaikh best. She is a PhD in English Literature from JJTU, Rajasthan. She done her M.Phil from Alagappa University, Tamil Nadu. She has also completed her Diploma in School & College Management. She is a teacher by profession and writer by choice. She works in Anjuman-I-Islam’s Dr. Mohammad Ishaque Jamkhanawala Girls’ High School & Junior College. Being simple and down to earth, she always renders to do something good for the society. She believes that her work should speak more than her words. She has been associated with many National and International projects. She is one among all others editor of Impish Lass Publishing House.

Sheru is a street dog who was wandering near our building since two months old. The dog was being adapted by our neighbour and since then there was no looking back for him. He was given milk by one, the other offered him biscuits and the third one would bathe him. A cosy space was made for Sheru to rest and hence from a street dog, he became buiLding’s pet dog.

SHERU Ah! I was relunctant to get friendly with the dog. Everytime I saw the poor creature I used to yell at watchman to make him sit at the corner. Why the hell he’s roaming everywhere in the building. I was bit scared of the street dog being adopted. The constant barking of him would give be fit of frenzy and really would like to hit him loud but never did so looking at his innocence. The lockdown brought him close to me. No, No , don’t think I started feeding or cuddling him. Nope, not that, but I got more generous toward the creature. The beginning of the lockdown went without Watchman and during that phase our Sheru became our watchman. He guarded our building, he barked at every stranger and even bitingthose who didn’t pay heed to his bark. So much so is he into guardship that sometime in agressiveness he doesn’t spare our watchman who sleeps during duty hours. He is more than a guard , he seems more to be detective of our buiding and never allows other’s pet to come around or roam nearby. The number of rats increased and that lead the building to have a pet cat who will grab the mouse.To add to the comedy of our Sheru, the building became a apvilion and Sheru and Cat became wrestlers. The constant MEOOO and BHOOOOO could be heared. As the the number of mice decreased so the number of kitten was born, making it more and more difficult for Sheru to survive. It has become as if two enemies could not survive in the same sword and the result was all the kitten were gifted to those who aspire to take care and cat survived for few more months and bid adieu living behind her nostalgic memories for our Sheru to cherish. One day while coming back from house I saw another dog in our vicinity and inquired watchman “ One was not enough or what for society, that it brought another one” The reply which I received left me perplexed. He with due respect said, “ Madam, she is from another building and is girlfriend of Sheru” The romaance that started among them made me ponder about the emotions they shared. Even they have feelings and sensitiveness. They are being hurt and that live them disheartened. The more care you give to this creature, the more affection you receive without any ounce of money. A selfless love and attachment. Sheru has now become part and parcel of our building. DR. SANAM VASEEM SHAIKH

Ms Sheila Bhattacharya lives in Mumbai, with her family of charming free-spirited individuals. She has been teaching English for what seems forever. She seems to survive on daily dose of ‘theatre of the Absurd’ classroom drama, this provides her with both inspiration and a great deal material to work with – fiction, as you know, can never beat life in interesting coincidences! She loves all forms of literature, particularly the ‘snarky’ ones that tickles one’s mind and makes one smile.

Flash was the happiest and the most independent dog in the world. He came to us almost fully grown, shedding his puppy fur all over our carpet. He lived a full life chasing lizards and climbing trees. However, his best moments were lying on his back on freshly cut grass and staring at the blue sky and fluffy clouds. He understood three languages – English, Bengali and Yoruba with completely fluency that shocked everyone. He lived to a ripe old age of 15, when we said goodbye to him, as he could not move without groaning in pain. His mortal remains are buried in the lush green plains that he loved so much, with a beautiful rose bush to mark his grave.

Flash Nostalgia is a thought with butterfly wings; it travels the map of your life, flitting and hovering over memories that bring a smile to your face and a strange churn to your stomach...this time it floated across many decades to rest on the delicate wet nose of my childhood friend, philosopher and guide- Flash, and of course I smiled... I wonder where he is ... is he surrounded by tall sturdy green savannah grass swaying in the gentle breeze where he can flop down to watch grasshoppers? when I meet him, will he let me lie on the grass next to him and watch the fluffy white clouds float by? I don't remember the day, but I do remember the excitement, when he leapt out of the car, bounded around the drive way and out onto the road with his tail waving like a victory flag! We ran after him, calling out , offering enticements and threats with various tones of desperation; he suddenly stopped, sniffed the air and decided that would like to live with us! He trotted back, wagging his tail and walked into our house and hearts- that was Flash's first day at home and that was his independent personality! He fitted in perfectly with our chaotic lives in lush green Lagos, Nigeria. We had picked him up from an animal shelter. Our choice had been immediate as Flash had squeezed himself out of his enclosure to rushed up to us, waving his victory tail at us- we knew right then, that he was ours and we were his, forever. His shiny black coat of soft short fur gleamed with a patch of pure white on his chest, that flashed as he jumped about enthusiastically exploring the world around him, hence his name, Flash. The shelter owner had found him, a lost and whimpering puppy looking for his mother. Six months of love at the shelter had turned him into this happy explorer, who we wanted in our lives. His health card defined him as mongrel/ mutt, but like the ancient seers of the world who rose above all definitions, he too rose above it all, to become our family philosopher... He would put his nose between the security grills and stare at the clouds going by, while in deep thought, contemplating where he would stick his nose and what would he do with what he found. My relationship with him was deep and layered, much like his sleeping rug that my mother had created for him using layers of old duvets, blankets and soft fabric of worn-out cushion covers - it had a myriad of subtle nuances- beginning with an anxious fear of a child unsure of how to talk to her new friend which quickly changed to calm comfort of a quiet companionship of kindred souls. His soft nose on my knee and paw tapping on my leg under the table, to remind me that sharing food is the best way to stay connected or curling up next to me as I sulked at being grounded indoors by mother. But it was the outside world that Flash clearly was the master of. He strutted around with confidence of an army general, only to suddenly crouch between the tall grass that would camouflage him and pounce out at me like a leaping shadow, gleefully wagging his tail and slobbering all over me – it was a game he never got tired off, much to the annoyance of my wounded ego! It was here, in this verdant and colourful world of butterflies and delicate grass

flowers that Flash taught me life lesson in the most gentle and compassionate way; he taught me, that Nature’s laws are fair, just – yet, ruthless if not followed! The Grasshopper incident, as I refer to it, happened one November afternoon, when the dry harmattan wind blowing fine dust from the north, The harmattan was wind that journeyed its way across the Sahara, bringing with it many interesting things that a young aspiring naturalist like me wanted to capture, particularly pale green grasshoppers that swayed delicately on the silken grass flowers that they gobbled up. It was a time to go grass hopper hunting! Flash and I embarked on the hunting trip equipped with a plastic jar and a thin stick. Flash watched me intently, his ears cocked up and headed tilted to one side as I carefully stalked my prey and then in a quick fluid movement, I let my hand spring out from behind the grasshopper to catch it, much like a frog catching it prey with its flicking tongue! Flash was so excited; he yelped and did a celebratory dance in round circles every time I popped a grasshopper into the jar. We were doing great work and soon there were about a dozen of them in the jar. They humming and buzzing and trying to get out as I held the jar up against the pale gold light of the evening sun. Flash bounded over to watch, sniffing the jar, listening to the flutter their wings as they pushed against the jar to reach the sunshine outside and then he began to whimper- it was a soft whimper to begin with but it grew in intensity. I was worried that he had hurt his paw treading on a piece of sharp stone, as I checked his paws he turned over on his back and nudged at the Jar, licking the cover and whimpering even louder. I was puzzled, I picked up the jar and opened it, wondering whether he wanted some of the grasshoppers to play with. The grasshoppers jumped out and flew away as soon as I unscrewed the Jar cover, Flash happily chased them along while I stood aghast! All that good work, those beautiful specimens all gone in a moment! Then he did something amazing, he stalked up to a tiny bright yellow butterfly and nudged it; the butterfly fluttered away and Flash chased it, without attempting to ever catch it … I chased after him, calling out his name, he stopped abruptly, turned his happy, lolling tongue face towards me as I panted to catch up and then he turned to show me the bobbing butterfly- his message crystal clear, Nature loves freedom and a true naturalist allows Nature to be free! – There were no more jars of specimens after that for me, instead there was a great deal of sketches and notes from quiet observation. It was his profound attitude that left such indelible marks on my young mind that even today, I think twice before I swat an unwanted bug. Ofcourse, I will never forget the day of our misadventure that might have cost us dearly! Exploring the rambling back yard, was our favourite past time. The moment my mother went off for her afternoon siesta and chat with her friends, flash and I would slip out of the kitchen door, armed with a stick, to investigate the interesting ecosystem of our garden that extended into scrub land. This particular day was no different …we sneaked out; Flash ran wildly through the undergrowth; I followed, looking behind my shoulder to see whether anyone was watching! As I walked along, swinging my stick along the gravelly pathway I noticed an ant hill that seemed to have grown overnight! Fascinated and puzzled, I decided to check it out, drawing lines around it with my stick and calling out to Flash, but it was all so different…

Flash ran up, eyes glowing red, baring his teeth, frothing at the mouth and growling … I was terrified, screaming for help, I stepped backwards, only to have Flash run behind me growling … I just stood there sobbing loudly, horrified to see my best friend circling me with an intention to attack me! My mother arrived, her face pale with fear, I reached out my hand to her, hoping she would be able to pick me up- but Flash rushed at her growling … we instinctively stepped back and then we saw it … a thick slithering brown – black mottled rock python gracefully moving from under the ant hill onto the over grown grass pathway, its flicking tongue testing the air! As it disappeared into the dense grass, Flash began to wag his tail and woof with joy rushing up to us for a pat on the back for his bravery. My mother hugged him close muttering prayers, while I ran to get his favourite biscuits, That evening, when we told my father the story, Flash woofed along and wagged his tail, telling his story and how he had been a hero, we laughed and celebrated him. Years later, crippled with arthritis and in acute pain, Flash watched the doctor carefully inject him with what would be his last injection. I hugged him and sobbed, as I told him he was my hero, he whimpered in agreement, gently licking away my tears, closing his eyes to sleep forever. SHEILA BHATTACHARYA

An active leader, associate editor, author, parenting and teacher mentor, Ms Smriti Agarwal is an award-winning early childhood educator since the year 1995, who has been associated with best schools in a leadership role. A multifaceted and talented individual, she has completed various courses and certifications in diverse fields like ‘Theatre in Education’, ‘Advertising and Public Relations’, ‘Art of Living’, ‘Script Writing’ and ‘Behaviour Sciences’, apart from her educational pursuits. She was the founder director of her own studio called ‘Creative Colony’ in New Delhi, which grabbed eyeballs of NDTV and Star Plus channels. Writing is a love for her which won her an award from Scholastic India for writing on the topic 'The School of my Dreams'. Her published work includes numerous articles in educational journals/magazines, articles and stories in anthologies. She is an autodidact, and believes that ‘Education never ends.’ Smriti has attended as well as conducted multiple courses in different areas of Early Childhood Education. Recently during pandemic, in 2020 she completed the research-based Level 5 award in education leadership for ‘Health and Social Care for Children and Young People’s Services’ with CACHE (Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education) (U.K). Her motto in life is ‘One who dares to teach must never cease to learn’.

Dusty was a high spirited, absolutely white, soft furred Pomeranian dog with an innocent face and expressions of a naughty lovable infant. Highly emotional, playful and inteLLigent he was the appLe of everyone’s eyes. he was an adorable pup, with small jet-black eyes, perfect pink ears and awesomely cheerful disposition. He never barked unnecessarily and never bit anyone. He loved everyone around him and received a lot of pampering in return. An animal if you say, he was not as he taught us humans how to love unconditionally, be patient, not be judgemental and be there for anyone who needs emotional support. A noble soul who enriched the lives he touched. Love him forever.

‘IrresIstIble’ The small, white, soft bundle jumped out of a basket and took my heart away. A little Pomeranian puppy scurried around like a ball of white wool. Pure white, tiny pup with small, penetrating, moist black eyes, which could make one fall in love with him instantly. The small black wet nose, standing ears (pink from inside), small pink tongue and the little furry tail, were so perfect, you could have mistaken him to be a soft toy. He felt like one too when cuddled. It came as a gift from my cousin’s house who petted his parents and they had a litter of puppies, which were unmanageable in a single household. Hence, they thought it is best to gift them to the other children of the family. One puppy came to us and along came a dilemma, as my mom hated pets. She was a woman who prided on her house to be spic and span, all clear of any dust, everything kept in assigned place and was obsessive about her kitchen garden and bonsais. She had a notion, that a pet would be pooping, littering, tearing away things and will prove to be a nuisance. My younger brother Chotu and I were very keen to keep the puppy. We tried everything possible for two children aged seven and five to persuade mom to allow the puppy in the house, but in vain. Mom called the cousins who had sent the puppy, but even they could not take him back. Now, mom was a good-hearted spiritual lady, who could not leave the little baby on the street to die. So, finally, it was decided that the puppy will travel from Delhi to Calcutta (at the time in 1980’s, it was still not renamed as Kolkatta) to my nani’s house as they had a big garden, more people and it was a better suited house for a puppy to grow. Chotu and I used to spend all our summer vacations there, but still wanted the puppy to be in our house and not in nani’s house. Seeing no option, we finally gave in as, at least this way, we get to play and be with the puppy for two months every year, rather than the other proposal of just giving it away to some random foster home who will be ready to adopt the little bundle. So, my entire family of four and one puppy in a basket boarded the Rajdhani express and off we went to Calcutta. The entire journey was made extremely exciting with the little furry ball playing and peeping out of the basket, attracting all the other passengers, especially children and Chotu and I feeling a sense of pride that it was ours. On reaching nani’s house, the old nani, being my mom’s mom, was not really happy with the thought of having a puppy in the house, but could not help it as mom was more dominating and my youngest maasi (just three years older than me) adopted the bundle of joy immediately, as I told you earlier, it was very easy to fall in love with the adorable furry ball. Then the name came – ‘Dusty’. Why Dusty? Only because of the train travel making him dusty, his pure white glistening fur was now slightly brown. Also, as soon as he landed at my nani’s house, he was so excited to see the big garden that he rolled in mud, scratched the earth with his tiny feet and it definitely looked like he loved mud and dust. Dusty was a part of the family from my mom’s side now (though my father would never agree to that..lol!). Dusty turned out to be a very intelligent and a highly emotional being. On our next visit after a year, he was already trained to shake hands with visitors, fetch ball and newspaper, know when and where to go to relieve himself in the back garden, remembered people and the height of joy

was that he remembered my bro and me from last year. The moment we entered the front porch he came running, jumped all over us and licked us everywhere. By the time we reached up to the bedroom on the first floor to meet nanu, we had wet faces and clothes full of dog hair. During that trip and in the many consecutive ones, as I spent time with Dusty, I got to know him much better, though it was a task to spend time with him as he was always in demand. Nani’s house was always filled with children (cousins, friends, neighbours etc) and Dusty was a favourite. He never barked unnecessarily, had the sweetest demeanour, played like a team mate and was always fun to have around. He never bit anyone too. A complete sweetheart. The most pampered member of the family had grown to be two years old and had preferences and choices which will befit a Richie Rich kid. He will not eat ordinary mangoes, but only Alphonso in the summer season. If you have it and do not offer him, he will sit in a corner with a sulky face, a face that can melt any stone hearted person. You will sacrifice that one mango in your hand to feed him first. Lap, lap, lap…there it goes …all gulped down within seconds and then the same look again, with a cuteness and appeal which made us feel guilty if mangoes were over. Dusty was an over emotional soul and he could sense feelings, emotions, turmoil, sadness and happiness before anyone else in the entire household. If any member of the house was feeling low or sad for any reason, he would be the one, not to leave their side and sit, lick and do his antics till the sad soul smiled. He could not bear to see anyone ‘blue’. With a ball or a cushion, he was a pro fighter, would not let go however hard you may try. Then came the small throaty grunts and growls, claiming the object as his property and threatening to bite the trespasser, but all in vain. Everyone knew that he was too loving to bite. Chotu always gave him a hard time, with him he had to retire sulkily in a corner admitting defeat as Chotu was his match in stubbornness and fight. Whenever Dusty fell sick or would not eat well, my nani would also go on hunger strike. She used to feed him by her own hands. Each bite of roti dipped in milk used to go from nani’s hand into his mouth or else he will not eat. He never had food from his bowl. He was always fed like a child. He was the baby of the house. My nanu, also had the same fatherly feeling for him. You know the one, where he was appreciated when he behaved like good children, but when he jumped on nanu’s bed or pulled on his dhoti with his teeth, he used to get one whack of the rolled newspaper, sending him under the bed with a pitiful face and small noise. Sure enough, one of us will come get under the big four poster bed and pull him out to pamper him to make up for the soft blow. The little ball of fur was growing with us each year, but we never realised that his life span is lesser than us. Dusty lived at nani’s house from his baby days till he was a full-grown handsome twelve years old and then there came a day when he left us for his heavenly abode. The news came over a phone call from Calcutta and left us heart broken and in tears. The next vacation, at nani’s house was not the same. ‘His’ presence was everywhere, in every nook and corner, though no one was jumping or running around, there was no sharing of favourite treats like mangoes, chocolates or ice creams, no one was snatching the ball, cushions or towels and there was no wet face or fur covered clothes as we came up to meet nanu. But we could see him relishing an Alphonso mango in the big veranda, holding the mango in his paws and tearing the skin of the mango with his teeth. The mango will slip and move away from him, and in a hurry

to hold it tight, he would pounce on it with all might making the pulp and the seed slip further away from him and we would all laugh. What a sight! It was still vividly visible to us. As we went to the nearby market, we could see him begging for an ice cream with both paws on the counter and a pleading look to the shopkeeper, which always earned him a small cup of chocolate ice cream or a Cadbury. We will find his hair sticking on some cushion covers, his smell was in some towel in the bathroom, his collar, bowl and bed still lay in a corner in my maasi’s room, and his memories stayed in each one’s heart. There was a big void and this void was never filled. We could never replace Dusty with another pet. SMRITI AGARWAL