Childhood Darling

Links: Hallucinations  Mystery Girl    Sea Queen    Comedy of Ghosts Inconstant Love 
           Close  Shave      Suspicion   Rise of Slum Boy  The Lame Panther  Legend of Snakes
           Farmland WitnessOfGhost Love At First Sight Childhood Darling

           Privacy Policy  About Me

 Childhood Darling

Chapter-1

Samir was born in Kolkata, one of the significant metropolitan cities in India. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal province, is also known as the “City of Joy.” Many prominent names like Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Mother Teresa are associated with this city.

He was also born in this vital city but did not belong to a prominent family. His father ran a grocery shop, which he inherited from his grandfather.

The income was just sufficient to feed his family. There were five members in Samir’s family, his parents, two elder sisters, and himself. They resided in their ancestral house in Shyam Bazar, and the shop was just near their house. His father mostly sat in the shop, and his mother remained busy at home cooking and cleaning the house and clothes. Samir sometimes sat in the shop; when neither of his parents was available.

His father never tried to expand the shop, but Samir dreamt of a more significant business, like Big Bazar or a Superstore. He had seen many superstores selling groceries, stationery, vegetables, milk, beverages, etc., and he dreamt of having a more significant business and earning a comfortable income. Unfortunately, the income from their shop could hardly fulfill their requirements. They remained just hands to mouth. Samir wished to have a luxurious life, like some of his friends. He dreamt of decent branded clothes, going to movies, good restaurants, enjoying five-star hotels, bikes, and cars.

Whenever, he was alone, he dreamt of becoming rich. His father, however, was a man of an outdated mentality and would never think of upgrading his business. Samir needed more money for his education, as well as personal expenses.

He felt his father was useless and hated him from the bottom of his heart.

His dad never liked him and was deadly against him; thrashing him on the slightest pretext was a regular affair.

Once, his father asked him what he wanted to become, and he replied that he wanted to own a mall. The impossible dream of his only son; infuriated him, and he pulled a cane stick and beat him black and blue until he fell.

His elder sisters also used to dislike their dad for his foul mouth and bad temper.

Samir saw him thrashing his mother, too, and hated him. He was a real villain in the house. The house was like hell to him.

His mother gave him some pocket money, but his father would only provide him with the college fee. He had already studied B. Com; and wanted to take higher studies, but his father could not support him.

His behavior toward him was like an enemy. His dad thrashed him frequently, so he hated him from the bottom of his heart. He often thought of running away from the house but thinking about his mother and two sisters; he could not get the courage to leave the house. His father’s behavior toward his mother was disgusting, so he could not go.

He was highly demoralized; and in an unfortunate situation, which was turning into depression.

One day when his father was beating him, he dared to snatch the stick from him; and hit him back. The cane stick hit his father on his head, and he was mad at him. He beat him like a mad dog until he collapsed.

His mother tried to protect him, but his father hit her too. Finally, his sisters somehow managed to save him and took him away.

His dad never beat his sisters because he considered them as Goddesses.

Samir’s elder sister Laxmi applied turmeric and sandalwood paste to his body.

“Why did you hit back, dad, Samir?” she asked.

“I hate him. He is cruel like a monster. How can he beat me? I am not a kid now. He does not beat you, sister, because you are a girl, and he considers you as Goddess,” he replied.

“Our mother is also a woman, and deserves respect and dignity like Goddess Durga and Kali, but he does not have any mercy for her. He has no right to beat mom. I am fed up and don’t want to stay with him anymore.” he growled.

Samir’s aspirations were significant, he was already an adult lad of 21 years, and he decided to leave the house; if he stayed longer, he would get mad. So that night, he could not sleep and kept thinking about something big.

"I would be rich. I will be a millionaire. I will prove that I too can become a big businessman. I will have lot of money, own house and cars," he kept dreaming.

Early in the morning, when everyone was asleep, he quietly slipped away from the house.

He boarded a city bus to Howrah Railway Station, bought a platform ticket, and entered. He sat on a chair and started thinking about his plan.

He was unable to decide where to go. He was lost in his thought, when an old man sitting beside him, asked where he was going, but he did not respond. "Where are you going, son? Did you run away from your house?" he asked again.

"Yes, I ran away because my old-fashioned and cruel father never listened to my advice for upgrading our business and beat me on the slightest pretext, so I left the house and came out to try a good job or business," he replied.

"What is your education, son?" the old man asked.

"I have done B. Com from Kolkata University and taken short trainings in computer," he replied.

" How much money do you have? Do you have an Aadhaar card and PAN?" he asked.

“I have hardly 500 rupees with me, but have Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voters ID card and driving license for a two-wheeler,” he replied.

“Look, son, I have a wholesale business of fruits in Siliguri. Would you like to work with me? Unfortunately, I have no kids or anyone to assist me,” he continued.

“I have a house, and we are only two persons, including my wife. If you work hard and revive our wholesale business, we can earn a minimum of Rupees two lacs per month,” he said.

“I will transfer at least 25% of the profit into your account every month, which will be approximately Rupees six lacs per year,” he concluded.

God is great, he thought, and consented to go with him to Siliguri.

The older man’s name was Mr. Prem Mandal. They boarded the Howrah Siliguri Inter-City Express train and reached there in the evening.

Mr. Mandal was very friendly and explained the nitty gritty of his wholesale fruit business. Samir had no experience in this business, but his qualification and aspiration gave him confidence to revive his old business.

He met Mrs. Mandal and greeted her, “Namaste, Aunty.”

“God bless you, son,” she responded, placing her hand on his head. 

She was a lovely lady who showed her love and affection to him.

He was allocated a medium-sized well-furnished airconditioned bedroom with a medium size bed, a table, and a chair. In addition, there was a well-maintained attached washroom. A television set was also fixed on wall. He was highly satisfied with the arrangement. 

Mr. Mandal took him to the nearby market and bought him a few readymade clothes and essentials for daily use.

Samir had a shower and put on a two-piece night dress. He felt fresh and was looking good. 

Aunty asked about his family, and he told her everything.

“Aunty, do you not have children?” he asked.

She did not reply; there were tears in her eyes. 

“Why are you crying, Aunty?” he asked.

She told him; they had a son, Gautam, who used to assist his father in running the business. Unfortunately, the local hoodlums were in the habit of demanding donations, frequently requiring a significant amount of assistance, which Gautam declined. A few days later, he met with an accident; while riding a bike and died from a brain hemorrhage.

“Aunty, please don’t cry; treat me as your son; perhaps God has sent me to serve you,” Samir said.

He had a good sleep after dinner.

The following day Samir went with Uncle Mandal to his wholesale shop. It had a large floor area of 2000 square feet, allotted by the Siliguri Regulated Wholesale Market. They opened the main gate and entered. There was no stock of fresh fruits; except some dry fruits. Samir noted down the available dry fruits and gave the list to Mr. Mandal. 

Mr. Mandal called the local distributor and ordered Apples, Pears, Pomegranates, and Mangoes.

The distributor sent a bill amounting to Rs.4,05,000.

 

Kashmir Apple                   2000 Kg @Rs.50 Rs.100000

Shimla   Apple                    2000 Kg @Rs.40 Rs.80,000

Pears                                    1000 Kg @Rs.30 Rs.30,000

Pomegranates                    2000 Kg @Rs.35 Rs.70,000

Malda Mangoes                5000 Kg @Rs25 Rs1,25,000

                                TOTAL:                             Rs.4,05,000 (Inclusive of GST)           

The distributor assured them; that the materials would be delivered by the next day. Mr. Mandal paid for the same online.

“How much should be our profit, Uncle?” Samir asked.

Please fix the selling price with a profit of @20% plus the GST.

Samir worked out the selling prices and gave the printout to Mr. Mandal.

Mr. Mandal called all the retailers and informed them that the stock would be available tomorrow. He noted down their requirement. Almost the whole store was booked. Samir suggested that the idle supplies of dry fruits; should be disposed of at a 50% discount; since the expiry dates were nearing.

Samir had made a WhatsApp group of retailers and sent a message regarding a 50% discount on dry fruits.

There were huge requirements from all the retailers for dry fruits.

“Uncle, all our incoming stock has been booked, so why not order more materials from the distributors?” Samir asked.

“You are right, son. Please work out the requirement,” he told Samir.

“Uncle, what should be our daily sale, approximately?” Samir asked.

“I think it may be between four lacs and six lacs; however, we may target to raise it to Rupees ten lacs gradually,” he replied.

Samir prepared a tentative list of materials for procuring from the distributors.

At lunchtime, they closed the shop for one hour and went home.

Aunty had already prepared lunch. Samir enjoyed the yummy food and thanked her.

 

Chapter-2

Mr. Mandal praised the performance of Samir to his wife. She was glad to hear that Samir was a wise and good businessman.

They returned to the shop after one hour and called the distributors. Uncle told them that his requirement would be approximately Rupees one hundred and fifty lacs per month and hence to consider giving him an extra rebate of 2%.

The distributor agreed to give them an extra 1.50 % rebate on all purchases.

It was a hectic work schedule; to place orders, receive materials, sell to retailers, load and unload goods, issue bills to purchasers, and maintain cashbooks and stock accounts seven days a week without any holiday. Samir was a young, energetic, and hard-working person. The result was an excellent achievement; the total turn-up reached Rupees one hundred forty lacs at the end of the month. After adjusting all the expenses like rent, electricity, staff salary, etc., the monthly net profit came to Rs.12 lacs.

If the net profit were like this, Samir’s share of earnings would go up to Rs.30 lacs per annum. So, Uncle Mandal had made a reasonable proposition for him.

Mr. Mandal was very pleased with his ability to quickly grasp the business and deal with the distributors and retailers.

Next month Samir bought himself a Hero Honda Pulsar bike; and purchased good clothes and shoes for himself. He gifted a beautiful cotton saree for Aunty and, a nice shirt and trousers for Uncle.

Due to the excellent management by Samir, more and more retailers were on their customers’ list, and their monthly sales went up to Rupees one hundred and eighty lacs.

Samir realized that the business was on the right track; they were supplying the materials to the retailers; at an excellent rate; hence, the number of customers was increasing. Within a short time, their business had grown many folds, and Samir had to recruit more employees to handle the work smoothly. 

Mr. Mandal was delighted with Samir’s performance and authorized him to handle all the work independently. As a result, Samir bought two mini trucks to deliver materials to the retailers. This helped quickly deliver goods to the retailers and also generated income. In addition, a more experienced Tax Consultant was engaged to maintain and submit their monthly GST (Goods and Service Tax) return and annual Income Tax returns.

Mr. and Mrs. Mandal were already submitting their income tax returns. Samir also started filing his income tax returns through the same IT consultant. The IT Consultant guided them; in investing their money in good and safe mutual funds, share markets, and Bank Deposits.

Samir bought an excellent piece of cultivable land at a very cheap rate near the India-Nepal border.

The land was sold cheaply in an isolated rural area far from the town. It was suitable for tea plantations, or it could be developed as a tourist resort in the future. He had invested Rs.20 lacs only to buy the plot of land measuring 5000 square meters. This was a good investment by him; and would give him a good return in the future.

He constructed a boundary wall with brick, drilled a deep borewell, and made a semi-permanent farmhouse in the farmland. It was a beautiful place to spend some leisure time there.

During his first year in Siliguri, he made a few good friends. He was in the excellent book of the local MLA and MP.

Samir regularly gave donations to political parties; and became very popular with them. He had taken primary membership in the Popular Political Party and participated actively.

There was an international border with Nepal in Siliguri. So he visited the nearby town of Dhulabari in Nepal; and explored the local market there. He was amazed to see the vast markets selling varieties of foreign goods, particularly electronics products. You name anything, and it was available there at an excellent price.

One of his close friends, Raghu Ram, advised him to open a showroom of foreign goods; since there was a good demand for the same.

“Will you join the business?” Samir asked him.

“Yes, we can do it on a partnership basis,” Raghu Ram consented.

Samir applied for the import of goods from Nepal, and permission was granted to him by the Government of India.

Raghu Ram suggested; they import foreign goods officially from Nepal and simultaneously get some quantity through the couriers, who would collect materials from Nepal and smuggle them into Siliguri. There was no risk involved for Samir or his partner. This would be profitable; since they will not pay customs duty. The profits earned could be used for donations to political parties.

A prominent politician in the city inaugurated his extensive Showroom, where they sold genuine foreign goods per the Central and State governments’ approval and guideline. Raghu Ram looked after this business, and the sale was promising.

The smuggled goods coming through the couriers; were delivered directly to the customer’s addresses. This strategy was working well, and money started pouring in. Poor Samir was not poor anymore; he had already invested much in properties and real estate. Within two years, he was a millionaire and a person of status in the city. He was invited to all the critical events in the city.

The politicians trusted him and gave him significant works of infrastructure development. As a result, his wealth grew fast, and he was worth 100 million rupees within three years.

The wholesale business of fruits had also grown to rupees thirty million per month, the yearly net income was Rs.360 million, and Samir’s share was Rs.90 million per year.

A plant for non-alcoholic beverages was under construction on Samir’s land near the Indo-Nepal border. This business was on a 50:50 basis by Samir and Uncle Prem Mandal.

The point is that our Samir has become very wealthy by now; due to his hard work, sincerity, luck, and the blessings of Mr. Mandal.

Aunty asked him one day, “Do you not remember your family, Samir?”

“Aunty, I have remained so deeply involved in the business during the last three years; I did not have time to think about my family,” he replied with a sigh.

“I feel you should go to Kolkata and bring them here. You are a wealthy man now, and let your family enjoy a luxurious life,” she advised.

“Where shall I keep them?” he asked.

“Son, you have three flats in the town, and your farmhouse is also there; keep them anywhere,” she responded.

“Yes, Aunty, I respect your advice; I would go to Kolkata on Sunday,” he told her.

“How could I forget my family,” he thought, his eyes watery.

“How could I leave my mother and sisters in that hell-like house?” he wondered.

He was worried about them and wished; that they should spend a decent life now.

He could not contact them; since they did not have mobile phones. His father had a mobile phone, but he needed to remember the number.

Let me give a surprise to them, he thought and smiled.

He decided to travel to Kolkata in his seven-seater Maruti Suzuki Ertiga car.

 

Chapter-3

On Sunday morning, he was ready to leave for Kolkata. Aunty served him breakfast and gave him lunch in a hot case. He took the blessings of Uncle and Aunty; and sat in the car. The driver started.

It was after three years that he would see his family. Siliguri to Kolkata was about 580 km, and it would take about 12 hours to reach there, considering the traffic congestion in specific stretches.

He had left at 8 am, so he could expect to reach Kolkata by 8 pm.

On the way, the car stopped near a roadside restaurant. He gave money to the driver for taking food there; and ate his lunch from the hot case packed by Aunty.  

The time was 7.30 pm, and the car was entering the city limit of Kolkata. He was excited to meet his mother and sisters.

He passed through his father’s grocery shop and found it closed. He guided the driver and finally reached his home.

The house was quite old, constructed by his grandfather, a simple box type with wooden doors and windows. The roof slab was made of stone and plastered with limestone mortar. This old house had provided shelter to his family.

He asked the driver to park the car in an appropriate place and pressed the calling bell of his house. His mother opened the door and was amazed to see Samir standing before her; in a branded T-shirt, jeans, and a costly pair of Woodland shoes. She noticed the black color Maruti Suzuki Ertiga car parked opposite her house.

The driver brought his luggage. His mother asked, “Is this car yours?”

“Yes, Mom,” he replied. His mother hugged him.

“Why did you leave us, Samir? We were so worried,” she said.

“Your Dad fell sick due to the shock and has been bedridden since that time,” she continued.

“The shop remained closed, as much money went into his treatment,” she said, taking him inside.

He found his father lying in bed. He had lost weight and was looking skinny. He got up slowly from the bed. Samir hugged him.

“Sorry, Samir, I did not treat you well, son. But I always wanted your good. So please pardon me,” he said, the teardrops still rolling down.

His sisters came and hugged him.

“Did you not remember us, brother?” Laxmi complained.

“Hey, all of you, please listen. I got an excellent job in Siliguri. The owner of the wholesale fruit business Mr. Mandal took me to Siliguri and treated me like his family member. He offered me the job of Manager and shared 25% of his profit with me. I worked very hard, and by the grace of God, my life has changed dramatically. I have three flats of my own and also extensive farmland,” he told them.

“I have come to take you all with me. We shall be leaving at 6 am sharp tomorrow morning,” he announced.

His sisters called the driver and offered him sweets and tea. The driver said he knew a hotel nearby; where he would safely park the car and stay. Samir gave him money for the expenses, and he left with the vehicle.

His sisters asked him whether he had married.

“How do you expect me to marry; when two of my elder sisters are yet to marry?” he told.

“I will arrange your marriages, and then only I may marry,” he declared.

“If you have any boyfriend willing to marry, please tell me?” He inquired.

Both the sisters replied negatively.

“Ok, everybody, please pack your luggage and sleep early; we have to leave at 6 am sharp,” Samir told them.

His mother brought some snacks for him. 

Mother fed him with her own hands. There were tears of happiness in her eyes.

Samir felt terrible that his dad suffered after he ran away from the house. However, his mother was pleased to see her only son; return with great success.

His sister asked him many things about his life; since he left. Samir told them about meeting Mr. Prem Mandal at the Howrah railway station. And how he took him to Siliguri and the care which Aunty did for him.

“Hey sisters, please come here. I have brought some gifts for you,” Samir announced.

Both the elder sisters came to him. His Mom and Dad were also curious to know about the gifts. He opened his suitcase and took out a few packets. He had brought two sets of good quality salwar suits for both the sisters and gave them.

They were highly pleased. This was the first time in their life that they got such expensive garments.

He took out two cotton-printed sarees for his mother. She felt proud that her son was a capable person now.

“What about me?” his father asked.

“Dad, I have bought T-shirts and trousers for you. Please check for the size. If necessary, exchange within a week is permissible,” he said.

Next, he took out four smartphones and distributed them. Then, he asked his sisters to get four SIM cards from the adjacent Airtel Mobile Shop.

They submitted the requisite documents and got four SIMs. Then, Samir fixed the SIM in all the cell phones and waited for activation.

His mother and sisters cooked fish curry, mixed vegetables, and steamed rice.

“What about the shop, Mom? Are there any perishable materials?” Samir asked.

“Nothing is there inside. We sold most of the goods, and the remaining were utilized for us.,” she conveyed.

“After your father fell sick, there was no capital to run the shop, and we faced a terrible time. As a result, I had to sell almost all of my gold jewelry for his treatment and house expenses,” she said sadly.

“Mom, please ask our uncle (his father’s brother) to look after the house during our absence,” he told Mom.

“Shall we dispose of the house?” she asked.

“No, Mom, I intend to reconstruct a three-storied house here,” he said.

“What to do about the shop, son?” his dad asked.

“Dad, how much land is there?” he inquired.

“I think we have only about 500 square feet of land there!” he replied.

“We may dismantle the shop and expand it vertically to accommodate a Super Store or mall there,”

Samir replied.

His father was amazed to hear his proposal. He uttered the same recommendation for which he was angry last time; and had thrashed him badly.

He held Samir’s hand and said, “God bless you, son.”

“Please carry all the prescriptions, test reports, and medicines for Dad,” he reminded his sisters.

After dinner, all went to sleep. Samir slept in his sisters’ room.

He had bought a gold chain for his mom, which he gave her; she was highly pleased.

They were awake up to midnight and then fell asleep.

By 5 am, all woke up and started getting ready.

“What about the breakfast?” Mom asked.

“Breakfast at a roadside restaurant, Mom,” he replied.

The driver arrived before 6 am, and they loaded their luggage.

Samir sat in the front seat with the driver, his parents, and sisters in the middle and the last rows.

The AC was running, and everyone was comfortable in their seats.

Samir played an old melodious song and all relaxed.

The two sisters, Laxmi and Saraswati, explored their mobiles and took pictures. But, of course, all the SIMs were active by now.

The car was pulled to the left and stopped in front of a decent-looking restaurant. 

They preferred South Indian breakfast, consisting of Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, coconut sauce, and fresh fruit juice.

The restaurant had a sweets counter; Samir bought sweets for Uncle and Aunty Mandal.

They returned to the car, and the journey continued. Samir’s eldest sister Laxmi was a good singer and sang a melodious Bengali song.

“Sister, your voice is excellent; I would introduce you to one of my good friends, Surjeet; he is a renowned singer with a sound recording studio at Siliguri,” he said.

They had one more halt at Malda for lunch and then proceeded to Siliguri.

It was 6 pm when they reached Siliguri. Mandal Aunty and Uncle were pleased to meet them. They had prepared one room for Samir’s family and asked them to make a night halt there. His parents were also thrilled to meet Mr. and Mrs. Mandal.

Samir’s mother gave the sweets to Mrs. Mandal, which she accepted with grace.

Tea and snacks were served to all, after which they went to their rooms for rest.

Samir’s parents stayed in the room prepared for them.

The two elder sisters, Laxmi and Saraswati, preferred to stay in Samir’s bedroom.

Uncle Mandal informed Samir that the consultants for the Beverages Plant would be arriving tomorrow for some technical discussions.

“That’s good, uncle; we must try to complete the project early; to avoid price escalation,” Samir said.

Uncle Mandal appreciated his capabilities; for making prompt and sound decisions. His business had prospered many folds; since Samir took over the management. Due to his sincere efforts, the wholesale business's annual turnover reached Rs.360 million.

The beverages plant, once commissioned, was also expected to add a considerable profit. He was discussing with Uncle Mandal; when Aunty called them for dinner.

In the morning, Samir took his family to one of his flats on Sevak Road. The flat was cleaned well, and a Priest arrived to perform a unique Puja before they occupied the house. It took about one hour to complete the same.

Later Samir went to the market with his sisters; to buy utensils, dinner sets, tea sets, etc.

Other equipment, like a freezer, mixture grinder, oven, electric boiler, toaster, and air conditioners, were installed in the flat. They bought groceries and vegetables and returned.

Many of his local friends and party officials visited. He was a popular public figure now; and had good public following. The local people had demanded that he contest the upcoming Election for Member of the Legislative Assembly.

The Party President in charge of Siliguri, Mr. Narayan Das, called him one day and asked him; whether he would like to contest the State Election for Member of the Legislative Assembly from Siliguri Constituency.

“If the Party has faith in me and gives ticket, I would contest,” he replied.

“I have taken views from different sources, and your position is quite promising,” the Party President said.

“We shall formulate a campaign committee for this constituency. The committee will make a detailed campaign program in consultation with you,” he said.

 

Chaper-4

Samir and Uncle Mandal visited the Beverage Factory under construction and met with the consultants. They reviewed the progress of the work. The factory shed was already completed, and the installation of machinery was in progress.

The total cost of the project was Rs.20 million. Mr. Mandal had already paid Rupees eight million to the consultants cum contractor, and they asked to release another eight million now to bring all the machinery to the site. The balance amount of Rs.4 million will be released after the successful completion and commissioning of the plant.

Samir and Mr. Mandal had a 50:50 partnership in this project.

Samir told Mr. Mandal that the Popular Party was considering giving him a ticket from the Siliguri constituency, and he needed his support and blessings.

“Samir, I have treated you like my son, and our blessings are always with you,” Mr. Mandal said.

“I would finance you Rs.10 million for the election campaign. Moreover, we can manage to mobilize support from our retailers. You already have the goodwill of the local people and the Popular Party; hence you have an excellent chance to be victorious in the coming election,” he continued.

“The local business community desires a good public representative, and you will get support from almost everyone. However, we have to commission our beverage plant well before the election to have comfortable funds in hand,” he concluded.

“When is the election, son?” Uncle asked.

“Within six months, uncle,” Samir replied.

The Party President, Siliguri Mr. Narayan Das, called Samir for a meeting in the Party office. He had constituted a Campaign Committee to assist and guide Samir. He introduced Samir to the members of the committee.

Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari, an active senior member of the Party, was selected as the lead campaigner for Samir. But, first, he was asked to say a few words.

He praised Samir for his good and helping nature. He said that Samir was a very social and humble person; who was helping people in need and had many well-wishers and followers in the city. He was in touch with people of all localities and received a positive response in favor of him.

The business community was also in favor of him. Being a young guy, he could mobilize the youth’s support. The Youth Wing of the political party would play an important role. The need of the hour was to hold public meetings in all the localities and with the leaders of the Youth Wing and business communities.

The Party President also spoke about Samir. He said that Samir came from an impoverished family but was a successful businessman in the city due to his capabilities. He was a down-to-earth man, ever willing to help people in need. He was an active member of the Popular Party, and they had decided to field him from Siliguri Constituency for the Member of the Legislative Assembly.

Slogans were raised by the crowd,” Long Live Samir Ranjan.”

Samir was asked to address the gathering. In his address, Samir stressed on fulfillment of the basic need of good roads, water supply, free education of children, subsidy on electricity, free houses to people below the poverty level, accessible medical facilities for the poor, generation of jobs, pension to an economically weak section of society, improvement of bus services and introducing the metro railways in the city.

He would try to increase budget provisions to improve town roads and drainage systems.

He said he would try his best to improve the city’s services and meet the public; whenever they needed him. Any public complaint will be attended to promptly.

He expected the local people would give him a chance to serve them.

In consultation with Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari, Samir fixed a meeting of the election campaign committee in his farmhouse the following Sunday. Since this will be the 1^st meeting of the committee, he would serve lunch for all the members and invitees.

He purchased 100 nos. of plastic chairs and ordered a few wooden tables for serving buffet meals. Arrangement for water purifiers was also necessary, so he installed two numbers of R.O. and a double door freeze.

About 80 party workers and officials were expected to attend the meeting, so he engaged a caterer to provide lunch for 100 people. In addition, he invited Mr. & Mrs. Prem Mandal and some of his close friends to the forum. He also requested that his parents and sisters be present.

He had good relations with the local newspaper reporters, and he invited them to cover the meeting. Support from the newspapers and TV was very crucial for publicity.

Finally, the meeting day arrived. Samir was surprised to note that all together, 180 people came for the meeting. Samir talked with the caterer, and he said that it was not a problem. He would manage food for all the people present.

He introduced Mr. & Mrs. Prem Mandal and his family members in the meeting. This gave an excellent impression to the party workers and the public.

The simplicity of Samir and his family had a good and positive impact on the party workers, the public, and the press reporters.

The salient points of the meetings were as follows:  

1.  Every locality of the constituency shall have a minimum of five key persons; for approaching the voters and campaigning. These five persons would decide the names of polling agents for every polling booth and forward the same to Samir for further action.
2. Samir will start visiting all the localities per the schedule prepared by Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari. A note of all his visits will be maintained by Samir as well as Mr. Shakti Ranjan. Campaigning will go in full swing after the Party’s manifesto is released      A brief note about Samir, his assurances, and his party’s Election manifesto shall be prepared and printed in English, Bengali, and Hindi. These pamphlets should be distributed to every house. 
3. Phone numbers of each house should be obtained for sending digital messages
4.  Campaign for joining the party, mainly the youth, was essential and required action
5. A list of all the critical public meetings should be prepared with names of speakers, locations, times, and duration in consultation with the Party President. Furthermore, efforts should be made to invite the Star Campaigners.

Samir remained busy with his businesses and political activities given the ensuing Election. As the election was nearing, his activities increased.

The Party had already committed to giving him a ticket for contesting from Siliguri Constituency, and hence he had started the campaign in full swing; to ensure his victory. He visited every locality systematically and found positive responses from the public.

The Election Commission finally notified the election date, and his party announced the first list of candidates, where his name was included.

He met the Party President and thanked him. He said that the feedback for Samir was excellent. The local people had indicated their mood by attending his election meetings in large numbers. In addition, the newspapers covered all of his appointments and gave positive feedback about him.

Mr. Prem Mandal was a local man of Siliguri and knew many influential people, and he was also campaigning for him.

There was a meeting with the Youth Wing of his party. The youth wing president informed him that they were working relentlessly to mobilize votes in his favor and needed more money to bear the expenses for transportation and food. So far, he had already given Rs.5 lacs to the youth wing, and they needed another Rs.5 lacs.

Similarly, new demands from all the groups were pouring in, and he needed to settle it fast. Samir met Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari and discussed the matter with him. He told him that the total expenses might go up to Rs.20 million and that he should try to arrange the fund.

Samir met Uncle Mandal and discussed the matter. He assured him to donate Rs.100 lacs, and Samir should spend Rs.100 lacs from his fund. Another Rs.100 lacs may be mobilized through the local business people.

 

Chapter-5

A closed-door meeting with prominent business people was held in one of his flats. It was a gathering of about thirty persons. Samir had arranged a good party with drink, dance, and dining. The arrangement was grand, and the total commitment to the donation was Rs.200 lacs.

The business people had great faith in Samir; and wanted Samir to win the election, do something good for the area, and support the business community.

There were many public meetings to be held, and some of the business people committed to bearing the expenses of making stages and sheds during public meetings.

The transporters offered trucks and buses to carry the people to the meeting venue. It was a very successful meeting, where the business community openly supported him and assured their help.

The pre-dinner drinks flowed like water, and they enjoyed dancing to the live music.

A lovely young girl and her group of artists sang, and the people danced. Then, there was a break for a few minutes, and the lady singer approached him.

“Hi, Samir, do you remember me?” she asked.

Samir looked at her and tried to remember, but he failed.

“It seems I know you, but why can’t I remember!” Samir uttered.

“Think; think properly; you know me very well,” she stared at him and smiled.

She came close to him and held his hands.

“Can’t you remember me?”

“Sorry, I am unable to recollect,” he replied.

“Ok, let me give you a clue,” she said.

“You have two lovely sisters,” she said.

“That’s true,” he admitted.

“Their names are Laxmi and Saraswati,” she continued.

“That is right,” he agreed.

“Your house is in Kolkata, Shyam Bazar,” she said.

“I am so sorry; it seems you have forgotten me totally,” she said and returned to the dais disappointed.

Samir was looking at her. He had seen her, but where?

The girl started singing a sentimental romantic number:

 

“I woke up dreaming of my love,

And walked on a lonely path,

The roses that you plucked, were they not for me?

For loving you, I carry blame unnumbered.

 

I could not sleep at night; without thoughts of you,

Does love teach us of our destiny true?

Is it a river that flows without end?

Or a cloud that sails with pride but never descends?

 

Does love bloom nameless on a hilltop bright?

Or is it meant for another, out of sight?

Is it like, an evening star that fades away?

What is love called? I still don't know to this day.

 

Have you forgotten your love from childhood's past?

Or does it still burn brightly, a flame that will last?

Love's mysteries may never be fully understood,

But still, we search; and strive for what is good.”

 

Samir remembered her now. She was his best childhood friend, Rupa. They studied together in a school, and she was a frequent visitor to his house in Kolkata. They were very friendly and liked each other. But she disappeared suddenly; when Samir was in class eight.

He did not know where she had gone and felt unfortunate and missed her. They were innocent and good friends only. It was after ten years that destiny had brought them together again.

He stood up and went to the dais and called her by name. Hearing her name from Samir’s mouth, she was happy to note that he had not forgotten her. She was still alive in his heart. She wished to hug and hold him tight but could not get the courage to do it in front of many people.

Samir took the microphone from her and announced that Rupa was his childhood friend, whom he was meeting after ten years. People were happy to hear about this coincidence and clapped.

He made Rupa sit beside him, and they dined together. After dinner, he took her to his apartment. Rupa said that she stayed at Alipurduar with her mother. She was a professional singer and was specially invited to perform today. Everyone in the family was delighted to see her after so many years. The naughty young girl Rupa had bloomed into a beautiful flower and looked superb.

Laxmi and Saraswati took her to their room. Samir also followed them.

“I thought you had forgotten me totally,” she told Samir.

“I was so sad when you left Kolkata; without informing us,” Samir replied.

“You were my best friend, and I was so sad and missed you badly. I forgot you gradually; since I got busy with my studies; however, your memories remained in my heart. God has given us a chance to meet again,” he stopped and looked at her sweet face.

“You don’t know; through what situation I have passed through. We were true friends, and being young, we were very innocent. However, some of our relatives and neighbors talked ill of us, so my parents separated us, and we came to Alipurduar and settled there. My father is no more, and I earn money as a singer and look after my mom,” Rupa explained.

“Hey Rupa, do you still like and love Samir?” Laxmi asked her.

“Yes, I like him very much. He is still my best friend, and I love him,” she replied.

“Will you marry him?” Laxmi asked.

“I like him too much. When I was younger, I did not know; what love was. But now I can say I love him too much and would marry if he desires,” she replied.

“God is Great. He allowed us; to meet again, and I will not miss the chance. I would love to marry you, Rupa,” Samir declared.

Laxmi and Saraswati went out to their mother to convey the good news.

Samir and Rupa were left alone in the room. Rupa hugged Samir and kissed him. They were so happy to meet again and held each other; until Laxmi and Saraswati returned to the room with coffee and sweets.

“Celebrate this memorable day by feeding sweets to each other,” Laxmi said.

Samir fed her a piece of Sandesh (a sweet), and she also reciprocated.

Samir’s mother came to see her. Rupa touched her feet to show respect. Samir’s mom blessed her and told her to spend the night with them. Rupa and her troupe were to return to Alipurduar the next day.

Samir invited them for early lunch the next day before leaving Siliguri.

Rupa put on a sleeping suit provided by Laxmi, and they all chatted.

The night was beautiful in the company of old friends and especially Samir.

Rupa proposed that Samir engage her troupe for a performance in the election public gatherings meetings to entertain the public; this would be an excellent strategy to draw a bigger crowd.

The charges would be very competitive if he arranged accommodation and food for the members of her troupe. The matter was discussed during lunch the next day, and a good deal was finalized.

“Hey, Samir, one of our members is a good song composer, and he can write some fantastic lyrics for your election campaign. Please give us your election manifesto and materials for the composition of the lyrics. We shall give you the sample, and once approved, CDs in bulk will be supplied to you,” she explained.

“Thank you, Rupa, for the excellent suggestion. I am sure this will be useful for better campaigning,” Samir replied.

It was decided that the group would be given a tentative schedule of large meetings; where they would perform. Payment would be made as per mutual understanding.  

Mom had prepared typical Bengali food items rice, dal, vegetable curry, fish curry, and fish fried with rasgulla.

Finally, it was time to leave, and Rupa was ready to go. However, she looked sad; hence Samir decided to see her off to the railway station.

She sat beside him in the car and held his hands, leaning on his shoulders. Samir told her not to feel sad; very soon, she would get to come to him for performances.

“Yes, that’s true. You take care of your health. I will pray that you should be victorious in the Election,” she said, holding his hands.

They reached the New Jalpaiguri railway station; Samir dropped them off and returned home. He had too much work today. A big consignment of fruits was arriving today from the distributors, and he would have to supply the same to the retailers; after making the bills and challans.

He was supposed to meet some businessmen to collect donations and meet Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari to finalize the dates of public meetings.

His Farmhouse was converted to his election office, and all the concerned officials attended the office regularly.

He had entrusted his sisters to sit in the wholesale shop, receive the fresh stock from distributors, and prepare the bills and challans.

The cashier received all the money, deposited it in the bank, and maintained cashbooks and accounts. Laxmi and Saraswati were doing good work, relieving his pressure.

Samir had already filed his nomination in the office of Election Officer, and it was accepted. The election was to be held on the 15^th of December, and the campaigning was in full swing.

Rupa’s music group had already finalized the lead music for Samir, and it was a big hit. The public liked the music, inspiring them to vote for him. A new leader for the new generation of youth and an activist; for the all-round development of the area was a big hit and was being played in every nook and corner of the city.

Rupa’s music troop performed in all the public gatherings; the party officials gave special lectures to boost the morale and faith of the public.

There were requests for live music from Rupa, a famous singer, and all the gatherings were huge and reflected the public support.

The non-alcoholic beverages from Samir and Mandal’s factories named “Sameer” were already flooded in the market, and the response was excellent. Samir served the drinks in meetings free of cost as the manufacturing cost was nominal. Further, the public accepted it, and Samir started earning good profits. The brand name Sameer for the beverages gave a free advertisement to Samir.

The people of the opposite parties were very jealous of Samir and were trying to harm him. There was an attempt on his life, but he was lucky to escape. This incident united all the pro-Samir voters and generated more robust support for him. 

The Government provided him with more robust security, and the newspapers covered him daily.

They projected him as a brave Hero, and the attackers were named cowardly. The music performance in his public gathering was another topic, where they cast him as a lover of music, art, and culture.

Some newspapers interviewed the famous singer Rupa and wrote a good reviews about her and Samir. The reporter asked her; how she knew Samir, and she replied that she had known him since school; he was a brilliant student and ever-ready to help others.

These reviews and interviews made Samir more and more popular among all the contestants.

A reporter asked her; whether she loved Samir, and she replied wisely.

“Yes, sir, I do love him; because he is a loveable person, and not only me; everybody loves him.”

The reporter published it with many spices on the newspaper’s front page, which drew much public attention and publicity to Samir.

The youth wing and the party were also promoting him constantly. The election was hardly seven days away; when Samir was suddenly kidnapped.

 

Chapter-6

He was returning after campaigning in a remote area; when a group of insurgents from another state stopped his car, the driver did not stop and tried to run away, but the insurgents made blank fire from the front. The driver tried to go in reverse, but there was fire from the backside too.

Samir asked his driver to park the vehicle and came out with his Personal Security Officer. But unfortunately, they were overpowered by the enormous insurgents and taken inside the forest.

They asked for his introduction, and he told them; he was a public leader and was moving in connection with the election campaign.

“Ok, sir, that’s fine. Just pay us Rupees two lacs, and we shall release,” their leader said.

“Brother, I have no money, and due to the election, I am exhausted and broke,” he replied.

“Nothing doing; you have to pay Rs. two lacs, which is final,” the leader demanded.

“Who is at home?” he asked.

“My old parents,” he replied.

“Ok. Here is a paper; please write a slip to your parents to arrange Rupees two lacs and send it through the driver,” the leader said.

He had no option but to write the slip.

They warned the driver not to report to the police; if they wanted to see him alive.

The driver moved with the vehicle for Siliguri. He told the insurgents that he would return in the morning; since cash may not be available at night.

The kidnappers took Samir deep inside the forest. There was a temporary camp; where he was brought and gave him a chair. Samir took his seat. They brought a bottle of water for him.

“Sorry for the inconvenience, sir,” the leader said.

“It is fine for me, brother. I belong to a low-income family and live a very simple life,” Samir replied.

“Sir, you have two options for dinner. First, you may eat the dinner we cooked; alternately, we may buy food of your choice from roadside restaurants,” the leader said.

“I would like to take whatever you cook,” Samir replied.

“Brother, which organization you belong to?” Samir asked.

“Sir, we belong to the All-Assam Tribal Liberation Force and enter Bangladesh to train cadets from different points. It may be from the Assam Bangladesh border, Meghalaya Bangladesh border, or West Bengal Bangladesh border. Our tribe is available in all the three states, and according to our convenience, we enter from any point as our high command recommends,” he explained.

“How can you move with the weapons? Do the inter-state checkpoints allow you to carry arms?” Samir asked.

“We have an understanding with them,” he laughed and avoided a clear reply.

Samir kept talking to him. He was keen to learn about their lifestyle.

It was hardly 9 pm, but it appeared very late at night in the dense forest.

Dinner was served, and he sat with them. They had served rice, chicken curry, and fried fish.

The food was all right, but the situation could have been better. How can you relish eating when you are a captive?

After dinner, all slept in their sleeping bags. A sleeping bag was given to Samir too. It was the month of December, and it was pretty cold.

He tried to sleep, but he was not sleepy. He kept thinking about his parents, sisters, Prem, Uncle, and Aunty.

He was not scared of these terrorists; but worried about the election. He wanted to get away from these terrorists.

He was awake almost the whole night and could sleep early morning, around 4 am. At 5 am, all the cadets started getting ready. He was the last person to go to the toilet. They had given him a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel. He brushed his teeth and wiped his face with the cold water of the streamlet nearby.

He was served tea and biscuits. The sun was rising, and the temperature was soaring.

The leader came to him with a few men and shouted at him.

“Where is your driver? Why did he not return?” the leader charged him.

“Do you trust him? Will he run away with the money?” he asked.

“Cool down, brother. He will come and won’t run away,” he replied.

“What is the time now?” Samir asked.

“10 am now,” he replied.

“The bank will normally start functioning after 10.30 am,” Samir said.

“My parents do not have money; they would probably approach someone in the morning. The bank will start functioning around 10.30 am. They may get cash by 11 am and then travel to this place.  All these are time-taking matters, and I cannot assure you of the exact time, but we can expect someone by 12.30 pm,” he explained to them, and they were convinced.

Around 11.30 am, he heard a Cuckoo’s sound from the roadside. The leader stood up and responded by making a Cuckoo sound twice. There was a response in Cuckoo’s voice twice.

The leader told Samir that some people had come. Then, he left hurriedly and asked Samir to stay.

Samir could hear some people talking, but the voice was unclear, and he could not understand; what they were talking about. Hence he was tense and waited for the leader.

The leader returned after a few minutes and told him that the deal was finalized, and he would be released. He asked him to follow. Samir walked behind him, and he could see two persons; one of them was Prem Mandal, and another one was Shakti Ranjan Adhikari.

The leader of the insurgent group shook hands with Samir and asked him to go. He warned him not to report the matter to the police.

Samir walked quickly towards the highway, where his car was waiting. His PSO was also standing there. He sat in the car with Prem Mandal and thanked God for saving him from the clutches of these terrorists.

The driver drove fast towards the city.

Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari, his political adviser, told him the kidnapping had resulted in substantial public sympathy in his favor. All the newspapers were flooded with his pictures and comments from the public. He was trending on Twitter and Facebook, drawing enormous sympathy in his favor. He was taken to the party office, where a press briefing was arranged.

The media people in large numbers were waiting for him. As soon as he reached, there was a massive competition to take his photographs.

The Party President addressed the media and announced that Samir had been released safely and without any harm by the insurgents.

The press reporters were eager to listen to Samir and requested that he brief them about the incident.

                Samir said he was stopped by a group of insurgents on the Guwahati Siliguri highway about 20 km from the town. They were in large numbers and overpowered him and his PSO. They demanded ransom for his release and forced Samir to write a letter to his parents to send money through the driver.

He was treated well and had to spend the night with them. He slept in a sleeping bag after the dinner. In the morning, Mr. Prem Mandal, his business partner, and Mr. Shakti Ranjan Adhikari, an active party member, came and negotiated with the Leader of the insurgent group, and he agreed to release him without any ransom money. The Personal Security Officer of Samir was also released unharmed.

“Do you have any questions?” Samir asked the media people.

The reporter from Siliguri Daily asked, “They wanted ransom money, so how and why did they change their stand?”

“I had elaborate discussions with the group leader at night time and discussed their organization. I was informed that poverty and unemployment were the main reasons for the armed struggle. I persuaded them to surrender and join the mainstream. There was ample scope to address their demands. Moreover, armed struggle was leading to the death of innocent public and the members of insurgent groups,” Samir replied.

“It was my persuasion, which they took seriously,” he said.

The people clapped on hearing this, and the party people raised slogans in favor of Samir.

“Long live Samir Ranjan”

“Victory for Samir Ranjan”

The press briefing was over, and it was time for light snacks.

During high tea, Samir was surrounded by the media people. They asked many questions to him. One interesting question was regarding the dinner which was served to him.

“Sir, can you elaborate on the dinner in captivity?” a press reporter asked.

“They gave me two options. Either to have them cook or buy from a roadside restaurant. I wanted to learn what kind of food they take, so I agreed to take dinner cooked by them. It was well-cooked rice, chicken curry, and fried fish, which was tasty!” he replied.

“Sir, you had Personal Security Officer from the police department. Did he not try to open fire on them?” someone asked.

“They were in large numbers, and I had only one person with a gun. My PSO was brave, but it was not wise to use a weapon. That would have been fatal, so I asked him not to use the gun,” he informed them.

Samir returned home. His parents and sisters were worried about him.

He touched the feet of his parents and took their blessings.

“Mom, Dad, and sisters, please do not worry; I am all right. I was treated well, and no ransom was given to the kidnappers,” he said.

“I got to shower and sleep for a few hours,” he said.

He took breakfast and tried to sleep. He told his sister to receive calls and note down; if there was something urgent.

He had not slept well last night in the forest and needed to rest. He woke up after a few hours; when someone massaged his head. It was so soothing; enjoyable.

He opened his eyes slowly and found Rupa sitting before him.

“When did you come?” he asked Rupa.

“I learned about the incident last night and came to see you. Moreover, our troupe is to perform in your upcoming public meetings for the next two days,” she said, still massaging his head.

Laxmi came and told Samir there were calls from the police department and a few newspaper reporters. The Party President, Mr. Narayan Das, wants you to call him.

Samir got up and dialed the Police Department number. The Deputy Superintendent of Police; received the call.

“Mr. Samir, is it the fact that you were kidnapped last evening on the Guwahati Siliguri highway?” DSP asked.

“Yes, it is a fact,” he replied.

“Was your PSO present with you? Did he not perform his duty properly?” the DSP asked.

“I have no complaint against the PSO. It happened because the insurgents were in large numbers and they had sophisticated weapons. If the PSO would have fired a single shot, we all would have been killed,” Samir said.

“Did you pay any ransom to them?” he asked.

“No ransom was paid. My party’s leader talked with them and convinced them that no ransom could be paid to them. And I should be released immediately,” Samir informed.

Next, he called the Party President. He was happy that Samir was released without any hassle.

 

Now he was free. He checked his diary and checked his schedule.

Today was the 9^th of December, and the Election was scheduled for the 15^th of December. Therefore, the campaigning would stop from 13^th December.

There was a public meeting on the 10^th of December at Siliguri town, where the gathering was expected around 50,000. Another crucial public meeting was in the village of Roop Nagar on the 12^th of December. In both groups, the Rupa’s Music Troupe would perform.

Rupa was sitting in Samir’s room.

“How are you, Samir? I heard about the incident; early morning and was worried about you. How are you feeling?” she asked.

“Thank you, Rupa. I had no problem. The insurgents did not target me. It was just a coincidence; that I encountered them and got caught. They were good people; and released me without any ransom,” He replied.

“I could not sleep last night and felt a slight headache. You have massaged my head, and now I am feeling good. Thank you, Rupa,” Samir continued.

“Why do you say thanks? I used to massage you; when you fell sick in your childhood,” she said with a smile.

“I enjoyed your massage. So why did you stop?” he told her.

“I did not stop. You moved away from me for using the phone,” she said promptly.

Laxmi and Saraswati were listening to them and smiling.

“We are going to our room. You give him a good massage,” Saraswati said and left with Laxmi.

Samir and Rupa were left to chat.

“Your song has become very popular; and made me popular, too,” Samir said.

“It was for you, my lover. So, I sang from my heart and felt happy; you liked it.” 

“You love me a lot, isn’t it?” Samir asked.

“Yes, I do love you. I missed you, cried for you, but you forgot me,” she said contemptuously.

“I was in great pain; when you left Kolkata suddenly. I missed you badly and diverted my mind towards studies,” he replied.

“Moreover, I was amateur in understanding love. I did not forget you. You were always in my heart, hiding somewhere; that’s why I remembered your name,” Samir tried to explain.

“You are too amateur; you can’t even lie properly,” she giggled.

“You are correct dear Rupa. I was an amateur boy, but now I understand the meaning of love,”

“I dreamt about you sometimes. I am so happy to meet you,” Samir said.

“Is it? How much do you love me?” Rupa asked.

“I love you a lot,” he said, pulling Rupa towards him and kissing her cheeks.

Laxmi knocked at the door and came in; to call them for lunch.

The dining table was loaded with varieties of dishes. All five members of the family and Rupa sat together around the oval-shaped dining table.

Samir’s mom was happy that he returned safely from the clutches of the insurgents. Another reason for her happiness was Rupa, who would be her daughter-in-law soon.

Chapter-7

Samir met the Party President, Siliguri, Mr. Narayan Das, as he desired. He welcomed Samir and embraced him.

“Good evening, Samir. Your popularity graph has gone very high; we are sure; you will win the election with a very high margin. However, I worry a little about your safety; since the other parties are very jealous of you. Therefore, you must be careful and keep some bouncers with you for protection,” he said.

“I am not saying something will happen; it is just a precaution. If you want, I can give you some contact numbers,” he wrote down a few mobile numbers on a piece of paper and gave him.

“Sir, if you know someone, please call him, and we may finalize,” Samir said.

“Let me try,” he said and dialed a number.

“Hello, is Shera there?” the party president asked.

“Shera speaking, who is calling?” Shera asked.

“This is Party President Popular Party, Narayan Das,” he replied.

“Good evening, sir; how are you? Shera greeted.

“I want to give you an urgent job. Can you come to my house?” he asked.

“Sure, sir. I will be there within 20 minutes,” he replied.

“Ok, I am waiting,” he said and disconnected.

Exactly after 20 minutes, a 6 ft tall, tough guy entered.

“Shera, he is Samir, a candidate for MLA for Siliguri constituency. The election is on the 15^th of December. His field is so strong that his opponents may try to create problems for him. So please guard him against any untoward incidents,” he said.

“Sir, you know me well. I will sacrifice my life but will protect him at any cost. That is my guarantee,” he said.

“What about your charges, Shera?” he asked.

“I will charge Rs.10,000 daily plus transport, accommodation, and food,” he replied.

“Samir, please engage him for one month. Everything will cool down once the result is announced,” the president said to Samir.

Samir agreed. He asked Shera to report the following morning and gave him his address.

The prominent candidates from other parties were holding a meeting in a five-star hotel room.

Their leader addressed the gathering.

“Dear friends, as per reports, the position of Samir Ranjan from the Popular People Party; is perfect and trending in social media. We tried to kidnap him yesterday through an insurgent group, but he was released today. His simplicity and good nature influenced the insurgent group, and they released him.”

“The public has decided to support the PPP candidate Samir Ranjan, and none of us will win; because of this situation. Under the circumstances, I propose to eliminate him. What do you all say?’ He asked.

“Eliminate…. Eliminate………Eliminate,” all the participants shouted.

The party started with whisky and marijuana.

The final draft for execution was discussed and finalized under the influence of liquors and marijuana.

 

On the 10^th of December, there was a meeting in Desh Bandhu Park. Shera arrived in the morning by 8 am at Samir’s house. They went to the venue of the meeting.  The crowd was more than 50,000. Rupa’s music group performed well. The crowd was shouting slogans in favor of Samir. Samir and the Party President were presented with a bucket of flowers. Party President spoke highly about Samir and requested the public to vote for him.

Other leaders also gave lectures and praised Samir. Finally, Samir spoke and talked about his association with the local people and assured them that he would try his best to improve the infrastructure like roads, water supply, electricity, development of new markets, parking places, schools and colleges, and medical facilities.

The crowd was very supportive, which indicated extraordinary support for him.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks from Mr. Shakti Ranjan. The arrangement was excellent; police and volunteers efficiently managed the crowd.

The Popular Party members met in the Farmhouse of Samir and chalked out a final program and the agenda for the next meeting in Roop Nagar on the 12^th of December.

 

Chapter-8

On the 12^th of December, it was the last public meeting at Roop Nagar, and the local people were very supportive. The crowd was about 10,000, and it was said that 100% of voters were pro-Samir. They distributed light snacks and beverages to the people. The music troupe performed their best, and the locals were enthusiastic about Samir’s success in the poll.

Rupa sang melodious songs, and the people danced. The local tribal people presented a cultural program, which was well appreciated. Samir and others were also requested to join the villagers in the dance. Rupa and other singers went amid the lovely fans and sang many songs.

Samir and a few other leaders were taken to a nearby house for lunch. The locals were in a perfect mood. The ladies served food to them. Everyone was very happy; because it was the last public meeting, and there would be no election campaigning on the 13^th and 14^th of December, as per notification by the Election Commission.

It was time to disperse. Samir thanked the leaders of the villages for making an excellent arrangement. It was 5 pm, and the weather was cloudy. Samir walked toward his car, followed by Shera. Suddenly there was the sound of gunfire. Shera had seen someone taking out a gun, and he pushed Samir down. A bullet had hit Samir, and he was lying on the ground.

There was a big chaos; people were running here and there, and the gunmen were still firing at Samir, but the car in the middle, had acted as a shield. The crowd, without fearing, grabbed two shooters. They were four but two of them managed to escape.

Everyone was shocked. Shera and Rupa promptly loaded Samir in the car, and the driver rushed to Apollo Hospital. Rupa was very nervous. Samir said in a feeble voice that he was ok; and that she should not panic. Rupa found the injury was in his left arm, and blood was oozing. She quickly tore her stole and tied it to his bleeding arm.

Shera was watching the road, and the driver drove the car quickly to reach the hospital. Shera called the Party President, Mr. Narayan Das, and informed him about the incident. He contacted the Apollo Hospital about the incident and requested them to be ready with all necessary arrangements.

The police arrested the two gunmen, recorded their statements, and looked for the other two goons who escaped the crime scene.

Rupa informed Samir’s sister about the incident.

The Deputy Commissioner in charge of the Election came personally to the hospital and talked to the doctors. He inquired about Samir’s family.  Shera told him that Rupa had already conveyed this to his sisters.

Samir was taken straight to the operating theatre. Rupa, Laxmi, Saraswati, and Samir’s parents arrived at the hospital and were waiting outside the OT. Party President and many party leaders came after hearing this unfortunate news.

Samir’s supporters in large numbers had arrived there and were highly agitated. 

Police struggled to control the agitated public, demanding capital punishment for the culprits.

After two hours, the doctors came out from the operating theatre and informed his family; that operation had been done successfully, and one bullet was extracted from his left arm.

They said he was out of danger; but weak due to blood loss. He will be transferred to the Intensive Care Unit and may have to remain in the hospital for three days.

A strong police force was deployed in the hospital for security reasons.

Shera had a very minor injury and was given first aid. Rupa appreciated Shera for saving the life of Samir.

The kingpin was a local politician; trying to flee from the city; however, he was caught by the police and arrested. The police investigation was underway, and his other associates would also be charged.

After the surgery, many people had gone, but Samir’s family and Rupa were still waiting. They wanted to see him when conscious. But the doctors on duty informed them that it was impossible to see him at night, so they should return and come in the morning. Only one or two close persons may wait there; for any emergency.

Shera said that he would be in the hospital for security reasons. Samir’s parents and Saraswati went back. Rupa and Laxmi would stay there.

They told Shera to take dinner in the canteen and that they would go after he returned.

In the morning, the senior surgeon; told Laxmi that one unit of blood O-Positive would be required. Rupa said that she was O-positive and would donate the blood. Laxmi agreed.

They were allowed to see Samir in the ICU. Rupa went first. Samir was looking so weak. He did not speak but just smiled to see her. She came out and contacted the nurse on duty. The nurse gave her the slip; and asked her to donate blood to the Blood Bank.

Laxmi and Rupa went to the blood bank, where her blood was cross-matched, and she donated blood.

Samir’s mother and Saraswati came and replaced Rupa and Laxmi.

Laxmi took proper care of Rupa. First, she gave her fruit juice and breakfast and asked her to sleep. Then, Laxmi briefed her father about Samir’s condition and informed him that Rupa donated blood. He thanked Rupa.

In the evening, Saraswati informed Laxmi and Rupa that Samir’s condition improved after the blood transfusion. Rupa felt better. She cried for him. She told Laxmi; she wanted to go to the hospital, but Laxmi stopped her as she might need rest after blood donation.

At night Laxmi and Saraswati stayed in the hospital. Finally, on the 14^th of December, Samir’s condition was much better, and the doctors said he would be released on the 15^th of December; however, he needed to rest for seven days. So Samir was released early morning on the 15^th to enable him to cast his vote.

Rupa accompanied him to the polling booth along with Shera and his PSO. Voting had just commenced, and Samir was the first to cast his vote and return to his house. Shera sat like a member of the house; and was very vigilant about people entering his room.

Samir’s mom was very grateful to him for saving Samir’s life. She treated him like a family and looked after him well.

Shera did not allow anyone to see Samir as he knew that Samir was still weak and needed complete rest.

Polling was peaceful, and turnout was high. In the exit poll, the TVs predicted Victory for Samir and Majority for the Popular Party.

Party President; Siliguri, Mr. Narayan Das, and Shakti Ranjan Adhikari, Popular Party leader, had already congratulated Samir for winning the election.

In Samir’s bedroom, Rupa and Laxmi sat and looked after him. Samir learned that Rupa had donated blood for him.

“Hey Rupa, we already have blood relation,” he said smiling.

“Our relationship existed right from childhood,” she said with a cute smile.

She sat close to him and fed him lunch. Laxmi was looking at the faces of the Childhood Lovers. They were a perfect match, made for each other.

“O, God, please grant them everlasting love and happiness,” Laxmi prayed.

Due to his closeness with Rupa, Samir was in a good mood and happy. He had regained strength, and recovery was fast.

The next day was fixed for the counting of votes. His polling agents were reporting to him the vote counts. The total valid votes cast was 2,20,000, and he got 1,60,821.

Samir won the election by a significant margin. 73.10% of votes were cast in his favor.

Samir had to go to the counting center, and after the result was declared in his favor, he was garlanded by his supporters and went in a procession to the Party office. People were beating drums, and the supporters were dancing. The Party President congratulated him, after which he returned home.

Shera was constantly with him. When he returned home, there was a big gathering of supporters in front of his house to meet and greet him. He was loaded with garlands. It was a big day for Samir, and his family was also pleased. The media people surrounded him and took pictures.

Samir announced that dinner would be served to all the party workers, police, and media at his farmhouse. The caterers had already cooked dinner and were serving to the people. It was a great day; when all the party officials and workers were in the mood to celebrate the victory. They had worked hard for Samir’s success, and it was natural that they deserved celebration and parties.

Samir also reached the farmhouse with his family members, Uncle and Aunty Mandal, Rupa, and others. He addressed the gathering; thanked and congratulated the party officials, volunteers, the public, and media for their active role in making him victorious.

The enjoyment increased to a great height; when Rupa sang the most popular election campaign song. People danced to the rhythm of music, and the media recorded videos and pictures. In addition, the TV channels streamed live programs.

Samir was delighted, remained with the crowd, and boosted their morale. His family, Rupa and Shera, joined them in the dinner and returned to their apartment. Samir needed to rest.

On returning home, he found many supporters waiting in his house to meet him. Samir talked with everyone and then retired to his room as he was tired and needed a rest.

Shera did not leave him alone; he followed him everywhere and decided to stay with Samir 24 hours a day until all the culprits were caught and put behind bars.

Rupa would also stay with Samir until he recovered.

Laxmi’s marriage was settled with Samir’s friend Surjeet, a famous singer having his own sound recording studio, and the marriage was solemnized on an auspicious day.

Samir’s mom was satisfied with Laxmi’s marriage and desired Samir, and Rupa should also get tied in the nuptial knot. Saraswati was not yet ready for marriage while pursuing her law degree. Hence Samir need not wait for her. He was an MLA now and needed a life partner to look after him.

Rupa and Samir were married with great fanfare in Siliguri, and Samir got a berth in the cabinet, holding the charge of Roads and buildings. Samir got an opportunity to serve the people and worked sincerely to improve roads, flyovers, bridges, footpaths, and parking areas in his constituency and throughout the State.

Samir was holding a big post in the cabinet of ministers. Saraswati, Laxmi, and Surjeet looked after all the businesses of Samir and Prem Uncle, and achievement was good. Hence a share of the profit was given to them, and the businesses kept growing.

Samir and Rupa enjoyed the love, bliss, and blessings of the people and ever lived a happy life. Their house in Kolkata was well-planned and reconstructed beautifully. The shop was demolished, and a three-storied building was constructed and given on rent to a big Super Market chain.

It was the dream and idea of Samir, who thought to achieve something big and succeed. He did not deter from his path, despite his father’s obstructions.

We all can become rich; if we have good ideas and the sincerity to work. We also must learn to help people in need, if we have resources.

The following quotes by Napoleon Hill and Suze Orman are well applied.

“All achievements, all earned riches, have their beginning in an idea.” —Napoleon Hill

“What’s keeping you from being rich? In most cases, it’s simply a lack of belief. In order to become rich, you must believe you can do it, and you must take the actions necessary to achieve your goal.” —Suze Orman

Disclaimer: This story, or any other story posted on this Blog/Web site, is entirely a work of fiction. Names, characters, and incidents portrayed in these are the work of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to the actual person/persons, living or dead, events localities is entirely coincidental.

GO TO TOP