The Mystery of the Abandoned House

 

I was curious about the old dilapidated house on the edge of our street. The house was quite old, made of red bricks and tiled roofs; the growing ivy suggested neglect. I hadn’t seen anyone who entered the building and it always captivated me whenever I walked past it. When I expressed my curiosity to my mother, she explained that it belonged to a retired army general. Apparently, he had left the house under the ownership of his sons before his death, but they hadn’t taken care of the house ever since he vacated it. This it had remained empty ever since. 

One day, I got the opportunity to explore the house. Both my parents were busy, and I somehow managed to slip out of the house unnoticed. As soon as I got out, I immediately went to the old house. The front gate was old and rusted, just like the lock. With one single push, the lock clicked open and dropped to the ground. I pushed the gate again, and it opened.

The front porch was littered with dust, weeds, and insects. I managed to dodge the obstacles and rewatched the door. It, too, creaked open as soon as I pushed it. The entire room was dirty and unkept. There was a sofa in the hall, but it looked as if it had been torn and had fallen over. There were several other upturned chairs and tables as well. I explored the rooms above, and each had its own array of peculiar items, strange devices, unknown gadgets, guns, weapons, and several more. Some of the open doors had wired outlines and shadows inside, and it spooked me out. I didn’t dare to enter those rooms. However, after a surprisingly short amount of time, I descended the steps leading to the ground floor, intending to go to the back door and return home that way. Just as I turned the handle of the old wooden door, something, a big great furry ball, lunged at me out of nowhere. It was a cat, a very thin, skinny cat. It whined loudly. At a close glance, I could see that it certainly didn’t look well. It had scratches and wounds all over its body, and I felt sympathy for it at once. I decided to bring it home. 

Even though my parents didn’t approve of my exploring the old abandoned house alone, they agreed to take care of the cat. In the following years to come, I grew very fond of Tom (for that was the cat’s name) and even though I decided never to enter that spooky house again, I was glad I did, because if I hadn’t, then Tom would never have become my best friend.

 Travelogue: A Spiritual Sojourn to Varanasi and Sarnath

My recent journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, was nothing short of transformative. This ancient city, nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges, is a confluence of faith, culture, and history. From witnessing the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti to visiting the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, every moment in Varanasi felt like stepping into a different era.

Arrival in Varanasi

We traveled to Varanasi by plane, and as we descended, the sight of the winding Ganges and the historic ghats below filled me with anticipation. Stepping off at the airport, I was immediately enveloped in an aura of devotion and bustling energy. The city's labyrinthine alleys, flanked by temples and vibrant markets, exuded an old-world charm. My first stop was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, recently rejuvenated as part of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project, stood resplendent, welcoming thousands of devotees. The chants of "Har Har Mahadev" resonated in the air as I joined the queue for darshan.

While praying in one of the temples near Kashi Vishwanath, I had a profound experience. As the priest was offering flowers to the deity, a garland unexpectedly slipped from his hands and landed around my neck. A shiver ran down my spine—it felt like a divine blessing, a sign that I was truly welcomed by the divine presence.

A Divine Experience: Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Morning Aarti

While the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat was mesmerizing, my most spiritual moment came during the morning Aarti. At dawn, I returned to the ghats, where the river appeared calm, reflecting the soft hues of the rising sun. The morning Aarti was more serene—priests in simple attire, performing the rituals with a quiet intensity. The atmosphere was deeply meditative, and as I watched the lamps flicker in the gentle breeze, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Unlike the grandeur of the evening ceremony, the morning Aarti carried a subtle, personal connection with the divine.

The Sad Plight of Manikarnika Ghat

Despite the divine aura of Varanasi, one place left a deep impression on me—Manikarnika Ghat, the city's main cremation site. While it is considered a sacred passage to liberation, the sight was sobering. The endless funeral pyres, the ash-covered surroundings, and the solemn chants of last rites painted a stark picture of life’s impermanence. Amidst the holiness, the ghat bore witness to the harsh realities of those who live on its fringes—the workers tending to the pyres, the destitute seeking solace in the embers, and the weary expressions of families bidding final farewells. It was a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death that defines Varanasi.

Excursion to Sarnath

The next day, I traveled a short distance to Sarnath, a serene contrast to Varanasi’s bustling streets. This sacred site is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, an imposing structure, stood as a testament to Sarnath’s historical and spiritual significance. The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, with its intricate murals depicting Buddha’s life, added to the tranquility of the place. I also visited the Archaeological Museum, which housed a rich collection of Buddhist relics and sculptures, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, India's national emblem.

Farewell to the Holy City

Before departing, I took a boat ride along the Ganges at sunrise. The city bathed in golden hues, with devotees performing their morning rituals along the ghats, was a sight to behold. The experience of Varanasi and Sarnath left an indelible mark on my soul—a journey not just through places, but through history, faith, and spirituality.

Varanasi, with its timeless charm and divine aura, is more than just a destination; it is an experience that lingers long after one leaves its sacred shores.

Journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon: A Travelogue on Bhutan

 

    Journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon: A Travelogue on Bhutan

Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a realm where tradition meets tranquility. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, this small kingdom boasts majestic landscapes, vibrant culture, and a deep-rooted spiritual heritage. My journey to Bhutan was nothing short of a mesmerizing experience, filled with breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and enriching encounters.

Crossing the India-Bhutan Border: A Journey by Road

My adventure began with a road trip to Bhutan, crossing the India-Bhutan border at Phuentsholing, the gateway to this mystical kingdom. As our Traveller approached the border, the contrast between the bustling Indian town of Jaigaon and the serene Bhutanese town of Phuentsholing was striking. The Bhutan Gate, an intricately designed archway adorned with traditional motifs, marked the entrance to a land where time seems to stand still.
The border crossing was seamless, thanks to the friendly officials and well-organized procedures. Stepping into Bhutan, the atmosphere instantly changed. The roads were clean, the air was crisp, and the architecture reflected the country’s unique cultural identity. The journey from Phuentsholing to Thimphu offered breathtaking views of verdant valleys, terraced fields, and winding mountain roads, each turn revealing a postcard-perfect landscape. My heart pounded as I am visiting a new country with people from all parts of India as ours was a group tour.

View of India from Bhutan

Exploring Thimphu: The Heartbeat of Bhutan

Our tour guide, Kelle Wangchuk, a cheerful and humorous person, made our journey even more enjoyable. With his witty jokes and fascinating stories about Bhutanese history and culture, he kept us engaged throughout our trip. His deep knowledge of the country, combined with his lighthearted approach, made every stop an exciting discovery.
Thimphu, the capital city, is where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern development. The cityscape is dotted with traditional structures, no skyscrapers or traffic lights in sight. At the majestic Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government, we witnessed the grandeur of traditional architecture, with golden spires gleaming under the sun.
A visit to Buddha Dordenma, a towering bronze statue overlooking Thimphu Valley, was a spiritual experience. The panoramic view from this vantage point was breathtaking, with the valley stretching beneath a canopy of clouds. In the evening, a stroll through the vibrant Thimphu Market offered a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, showcasing colorful handicrafts, traditional garments, and aromatic Bhutanese spices.

Paro Taktsang: The Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The highlight of our Bhutanese adventure was the trek to Paro Taktsang, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched on a cliff at 3,120 meters above sea level, this sacred site is shrouded in legend and spirituality. The hike was challenging yet rewarding, with pine-scented trails, fluttering prayer flags, and the distant murmur of waterfalls guiding the way.
With Kelle’s amusing commentary and constant encouragement, the trek felt less exhausting and more exhilarating. Reaching the monastery felt like stepping into a mystical realm. The tranquility and the view of the Paro Valley from this height were indescribable. The serenity within the ancient monastery, coupled with the sound of monks chanting, created a surreal, almost ethereal atmosphere.

A Cultural Odyssey: Festivals and Food

I was fortunate to attend a Bhutanese cultural show, a mesmerizing display of the country’s rich heritage through dance, music, and vibrant costumes. The performers moved gracefully to the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, their expressions narrating ancient folklore with elegance and poise. The colorful attire and the harmonious melodies created an enchanting atmosphere, leaving the audience spellbound.

No journey is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Bhutanese food, rich in flavors and spices, is a gastronomic delight. We indulged in Ema Datshi (chili cheese stew) and Momos (dumplings),  each dish reflecting Bhutan’s unique culinary heritage. Kelle, always full of energy, shared funny anecdotes about Bhutanese dining customs, making our meals even more enjoyable.

Visit to the Takin Preserve Center

One of the most fascinating stops in Thimphu was the Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal—the Takin. This unique creature, resembling a cross between a cow and a goat, is deeply rooted in Bhutanese mythology. Kelle entertained us with the legend of how the great Buddhist saint, Lama Drukpa Kunley, is said to have created the Takin by joining the head of a goat with the body of a cow.

Walking through the lush enclosure, we observed these rare animals in their natural habitat. Their calm demeanor and distinctive appearance made them a delight to watch. The center also serves as a conservation effort to protect these endangered creatures, and it was heartening to see Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its wildlife.

Bidding Farewell: A Heartfelt Goodbye

As our journey came to an end, I realized Bhutan is not just a destination; it’s an experience of a lifetime. It is a place where happiness is a way of life, guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. The simplicity, spirituality, and scenic beauty of this kingdom left an indelible mark on my soul.

I boarded my car back to the Indian border, my heart heavy with nostalgia and my mind brimming with memories of a land where time seems to stand still. Bhutan’s charm lies in its harmony with nature and its unwavering devotion to tradition. It is truly the Land of the Thunder Dragon, echoing peace and enchantment in every corner.

A special mention to our wonderful guide, Kelle Wangchuk, whose humor and kindness made this trip even more memorable. His jokes, wisdom, and infectious laughter ensured that Bhutan wasn’t just a place we visited—it became a place we felt at home.

This journey to Bhutan was not merely a travel experience; it was a soulful voyage, a discovery of peace and purpose.

The Midnight# Roar Mystery#

 The Midnight Roar Mystery

The vacations had begun, and I was brimming with excitement. My grandparents and uncle were visiting us, which meant the house was livelier than usual. However, my joy was slightly dampened by the fact that my brother was still at his boarding school and wouldn’t join us for another two weeks.

The day they arrived was filled with hustle and bustle as everyone settled in. Our house was small, and accommodating six people was a tight squeeze. My uncle, father, and grandfather shared the upstairs room, while my mother and grandmother slept downstairs. I was left to sleep on the small sofa in the hall.

The vacation was shaping up to be uneventful until a peculiar, funny yet terrifying incident occurred. It was a rainy night, and the clock struck 3:00 AM. The sound of raindrops tapping on the windows was the only noise, and everyone was fast asleep. Suddenly, a deafening roar shattered the silence, jolting my mother awake.

“W…what…was…that?” she stammered, her voice trembling.

The sound echoed again, louder this time, waking my grandmother. “Must be thunder,” she suggested, though her expression betrayed her nervousness.

“No… it’s not thunder,” my mother whispered shakily. “It’s coming from upstairs!”

I awoke to their whispered conversation, startled by their anxious tones. “What?! Is there a tiger upstairs?” I exclaimed.

“Shhh…” My mother grabbed a cricket bat lying nearby. “Let’s check it out quietly,” she said, her voice a mix of fear and determination.

All three of us tiptoed up the stairs, hearts pounding. As we reached the top, the roaring noise grew louder, reverberating through the walls. “It’s coming from their room,” I whispered nervously.

Slowly, I pushed the door open, wondering how my father, uncle, and grandfather could possibly sleep through the ruckus. The door creaked, and at that moment, the monstrous roar erupted again, shaking the very air around us.

We braced ourselves for the worst. And then… we discovered the source of the terrifying noise.

There, sprawled comfortably in their beds, were my grandfather, uncle, and father — snoring at the top of their lungs, each competing for the loudest roar!

We stared at each other in disbelief before bursting into uncontrollable laughter. My grandmother wiped the sweat off her brow. “At least it wasn’t a Bengal tiger!” she said, relieved.

“And,” my mother added, smiling at me, “now you have a hilarious story to tell your brother when he gets back!”

That night turned an otherwise boring vacation into an unforgettable adventure.

My dream invention

 My Dream Invention

Whoosh! I was flying in a car over the city. It was midnight and the Moon and the stars shone brilliantly and there was a light breeze in the air. I was enjoying the panoramic view of the city below. I could easily see the humongous skyscrapers touching the clouds. I even spotted people as tiny as dolls strolling the brightly lit streets. Ah, it was a wonderful moment. 

Instantaneously, I jerked awake. "It was a dream!” I gasped. I sat up sweating due to the heat. I decided to go back to sleep when a thought struck my mind. 

"A flying car!” I wondered. Can a dream become a reality? A flying car could just be superb. I thought that a fling car could be ten times better than an aeroplane. We could enjoy the view and the light breeze if we traveled in such a car. Oh, there was a lot of benefits. But could it be possible? Maybe, _I_ could invent the very first flying automobile! If I did humanity would be forever thankful to me. If I could invent such a car, then I needn’t bother about the traffic. Everybody gets late because of this traffic. I absolutely loathe them. But if I had a flying car, I don’t need to worry about being late for anything! I would be able to fly over all the commotion, smiling at the faces of the unfortunate and rather furious motorists. It was just like Aladdin on his magic carpet flying over the deserts of Arabia. I got carried away by my innovative but rather impossible-to-achieve ideas. I thought again (I did a lot of thinking), could I do it? Could I become the chosen one, the one destined to build the first ever flying car? I imagined that I had fulfilled my dream. People were giving me words of praise and showed their gratitude. It would be cheaper and more comfortable. I dreamt that I recorded the Nobel prize. Everyone was congratulating me…the greatest invention of all time…Trrringg… my alarm brought me back to reality… and traffic. I got to from my bed. I was more determined than ever to be the first person to design the flying car. Perhaps, if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to soar through the air with the filling car!!

#My Dream

                                 My Dream 

 

 

I wish to fly high like birds

Slither away on the blue carpet.

I can't express it in words

I will sit in my rocket,

Off to explore space.

Wish to walk an extra mile for mankind

Can I expect snowflakes?

Who can understand my mind?

Outer space is as wild as daffodils I guess

Or is it as cool as cucumber?

Who will pacify my inquisitive mind?

Many questions hovering around me,

I wish to ponder over and find answers to all questions that haunt me

I long for my space adventure which will come true at last,

I will surely blast........

                                                                                                                                              Samarth Nair

My expedition to Heaven on Earth #travelogue

 My  expedition to Heaven on Earth

Kashmir is famously known as the 'Heaven on Earth,' but very few lucky people have been able to experience its unparalleled beauty. It is said that one cannot call themselves a traveller if they haven't been to this stunning destination. My childhood was filled with visits to several incredible locations, and Kashmir was one of them. Come with me on a journey to this Land of Wonders.

I was only four years old when I visited Kashmir, but a few recollections of the trip still linger in my memory.

On the first day, we were taken to the renowned Dal Lake, the heart of Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir. Its pure beauty left us all, including me, awe-struck. The clean water reflected the snow-capped mountains standing above the scenery of the beautiful landscape. Our boat ride across the lake took us to a grand houseboat, situated in the middle of this Kashmir gem. We were treated to a stunning view of the Dal Lake at sunset in our houseboat, a scene so beautiful it felt like out of a canvas—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. The following day, we journeyed to Gulmarg, a destination well known for its winter sports and activities.

The two-day duration we spent there was preceded by a blanket of snow and frigid temperatures on our arrival. Nevertheless, hospitality at the hotel quickly converted cold to warmth since we were given the world-renowned Kashmiri Kahwa—a perfumed, spiced tea that was yummy to our sense organs and braced us up. We climbed snow-topped mountains, with panoramic sights of the town below. We spent our days in exciting experiences of skiing and snowboarding. On the fourth day, we took a drive to Pahalgam, a hidden paradise for nature lovers. Our tour included a trek to Mini Switzerland, a summit with panoramic sights of snow-topped peaks.

The panoramic sights were nothing short of magical. Day two at Pahalgam, we visited two valleys whose names now escape me. Although the view was pretty, it paled in comparison to the vistas from Mini Switzerland. In our exploration, we also had Kashmiri Pulao, a rice dish with scents of spices and nuts that added a nice culinary flavor to our journey. Our last day in Kashmir was spent traveling to Srinagar, where we traveled to fertile orchards and the famous Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. The rich canopies, flower-filled with vibrant colors, and well-structured pathways were a real eye-opener as compared to what we were accustomed to, leaving us in awe of nature's beauty. Following six indelible days in Kashmir, we went to Jammu. Although less well known as a tourist destination, no trip to Kashmir is ever complete without visiting Jammu. We went to the holy Amarnath Caves and Vaishno Devi Temple, two mythic spiritual destinations, during our two-day stay. In the nights, we indulged in the unique flavor of butter tea paired with M&Ms—a balance of tradition and modernity at its best. Leaving Jammu and Kashmir after eight days was a melancholic one. I could not help but feel that there was still so much more to discover. However, I was reassured by the fact that we had extracted the maximum out of each and every moment, absorbing the panorama and the culture of this lovely nation.

Kashmir is a place that cannot be described. No picture or words can ever do it justice, and that's why we chose to visit it ourselves. I can confidently state that Kashmir is probably one of the most interesting places in India, a place that leaves an unforgettable imprint on the heart of every traveler.

#Midnight #Ghost

 My Second Book The Midnight Ghost in the haunted Castle

Dear all 

Happy to inform you that my second book is published by the grace of God.I take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you who has read my first book and has given me your valuable suggestions which meant a lot to me .Expecting the same for my second book also as I firmly believe no writer's can emerge without the support of readers.Your reviews suggestions criticisms all are welcome......

Midnight Ghost

Amazon US

Barnes & Nobles

World Without Trees

 World Without Trees 

Have you ever imagined a world without trees? This is a serious question to ponder. I have made a humble attempt to present my views through a story. These are the thoughts hovering around me when I saw my near and dear ones cut trees when they were planning to renovate their house. Are the trees an obstacle that will ruin the beauty of their house? 

 

"What a wonderful day today was!” I thought while getting into bed. I and my family visited a zoo. I hated jungles and forests, but still liked animals, so my family took me to a zoo. It was full of lush greenery and animals. 

I kept thinking about it before going to sleep. But the spell of sleep reached me soon and I was asleep dreaming about the kingdom of animals. 

I woke up quite early the next morning. I usually slept longer, but today it was different. I felt an air of gloom around me. I did not feel the usual fresh morning breeze. It wasn’t a pulchritudinous morning. I thought that something was erroneous. I looked out the window towards a forest that was nearby our village. But not a single tree was present! 

I was dumbfounded. Instantaneously, I ran towards the door, flung it open, and gazed at the spot where the forest was. But all I saw was barren land. No forest. No trees. I rubbed my eyes and looked again and again at the same spot but nothing changed. It was the same view. I ran towards the forest at full speed. 

By this time, some villagers had already gathered at the spot. One villager whispered to another, "Have the gods cursed us? Without water, we won’t be able to survive!”

"We should report this to the police right now!” said another. "What will we get from the police?” Someone from the crowd retorted. "We will only have the reporters and media here. We won’t get our trees back!!” 

Soon, just as expected, news spread all over the world, and wishing a few hours, the reporters and media were present. The police arrived before them. They asked a lot of questions to some of the villagers. 

Soon, it was late into the afternoon. I was feeling hot, sick, and exhausted, and began to suffocate. All the villagers felt the same. "It is the lack of trees,” one villager suggested. It felt as if there was no water at all. My throat was parched. I was feeling hungry as well. 

By the time I had a good meal, I heard many of our villagers leaving the village. 

Nothing unusual happened in the evening except that I felt suffocated. At night I switched on the TV. Then I heard terrible news!! The World…without trees!! I couldn’t believe it, but I had to. It was all over. The world was finished. It wouldn’t survive long. I closed my eyes, imagining the disaster the world would be going through. Suddenly I woke up from my uncommon dream. I frantically looked around. "It was a dream!” I realized it within a fraction of a second.

I thanked God that it wasn’t a real-life incident. But yes, I knew, understood, and realized the importance of trees. I guessed it was a message sent by the gods to remind us of the significance of trees and to show us the impact they would have on our lives if they disappeared from Earth.

By Samarth

                                                                INCREDIBLE INDIA

Patriotism is a sweet feeling. I really miss my country. I would like to express my love, feelings, concern, and attachment to my beloved country through this poem.

India my country my pride,

I can enjoy your beauty from all side

The gigantic snow-capped Himalayas

The mesmerizing ever-green forests

The cool breeze, the crystal-clear rivers

The fragrance of vivid flowers

 Well-known  majestic monuments

Make my country unique.

We all dwell in happiness,

There is no room for sadness.

 

India my country my pride,

Still looks like a bride

Unity is our strength

A courageous army is our wealth

Agriculture is our health

My country taught me moral values in depth

The warm hug of my country gives me inner strength

My prayers are there with you!!

Though I am miles away from my country, my love for you is everlasting,

My relationship with you is long-lasting.

By Samarth

The Clue in the Garden

 

The clue in the garden 

“Wake up, get ready for school!!!’’ My mother’s voice pierced through my dream. 

It was a brilliant morning on the roads of Keshav Nagar. The cool morning breeze freshened me. The sounds of the chirping of birds were like music to my ears.

It was a typical day for me. I prepared for school in less than an hour.  I met Ravi and he joined me when I walked down the asphalt toward my school.

The school was about a mile from our house. It required 30 minutes to arrive. The school was little and immaterial, yet it was set in an extensive and delightful open countryside adjacent to an equally beautiful forest.

 

 “Hello,” Ravi abruptly shouted.  I was blissful as I saw one of my friends Som, headed out to welcome us. “You are always late. But today you seem punctual,” I remarked as we strolled together to the entry of our school. We spoke as we journeyed through the colorful bazaars of our town. “Do you know? Our watchman reported that yesterday, something strange occurred,” Som informed us. “Really?! What is it?” I was curious. “Yesterday night, he had left his square shoes outside the school garden for some strange reason and went away. When he returned, he found his shoes were missing! He thought some mischief-maker was around and hunting for him. But he found no one. Our headmaster will not believe him when he hears the tale.”

We walked towards our school garden. It was the most gorgeous part of our school. As we walked, I witnessed one of our teachers, Mr. Ram, bent over a gathering of flower shrubs in a corner. He was accompanied by our school gardener.

“How can you explain this?” I heard the gardener ask the professor. “Must be some intruder,” the latter mumbled. Similarly, as they left, I and Ravi hurried to the spot. “This looks like footprints!” I exclaimed. When we questioned our teacher, he replied sternly, “Don’t interfere with such things. It may very well be some intruder who remembered to jab their nose in our school garden. You needn’t stress.”

But I was interested at once. A mystery! This thought excited me. I generally wanted to show my detective abilities and this was the ideal open door!

During recess, I went on an excursion to the garden. There, I investigated the footprints more thoroughly. They were presumably brought about by square-formed shoes, I contemplated. While I was examining, I noticed banana peels near the footprint. I saw a watchman mumbling while carrying a stick. I enquired what the matter was. He replied he cannot stay in his cabin during the night because of the monkeys from the nearby forest. He couldn’t have his dinner because the monkeys stole his banana. I felt pity for the poor watch who had to remain hungry throughout the night because of naughty monkeys.

My inquisitive mind began to think, “Is there any connection between banana peels and footprints?” I shared the same doubt with my friends they laughed and mocked me by calling me, Junior Sherlock Holmes.

Bell rang … “Interval finished!” my friend shouted He was like a villain to me who is disrupting my detective mind. “Next period is history,” my friend said in a sleepy voice. My history teacher stepped into my class with a big fat textbook. I was staring at the book, “How can this textbook enter into my small brain?” As usual, the teacher wrote a topic on the board ‘Evolution.’ She understood that half of the class consider her class as a lullaby so the teacher changed her mode of teaching. She asked: “Do you know why monkeys try to imitate human beings?” One of my brilliant classmates gave a very good response, “Monkeys have a close connection with human beings and they are our ancestors.”

Suddenly a thought flashed through my mind. I yelled, “I got the culprit! I understood whose footprints there are! They are the watchman’s ancestors!” The whole class turned towards me. My teacher screamed, “Are you dreaming? Whose ancestor? What are you talking about?” I was like a comedian to my classmates but I was contended that I have given life to my History class My headmaster who was hiding behind the window watching the happenings in the class suddenly entered. All stood up. My headmaster was having the patience to listen to me. He asked me, “What were you talking about?” I explained that I found out about the continuation of the incident which happened in the garden. My teacher was very restless and she was looking at her watch as she knows my nature very well and it will take one period full for me to explain her Evolution lesson.

 My headmaster’s curious looks inspired me to explain my findings. Like a hero, I started explaining. All eyes were staring at me. I felt overwhelmed I began, “A monkey from the forest stole the banana of our watchman. While moving back from his cabin he saw the watchman’s shoes and as monkeys have a tendency to imitate humans, he tried to wear the shoes and was walking through our garden munching bananas.” I heard someone from the crowd uttering, “Wonderful work! You’ve solved it!”

“Did it happen like that?” While moving back to my class I was doing self-introspection.

This incident inspired me to be an actual detective in the future. And indeed, the future did have a lot of plans for me!! I was soon indulged in many more mysteries and this one was my very first!! 

By Samarth

 Winter

The chilled weather, the frozen surroundings dreams for a fresh day inspired me to write this poem…

The dew drops adorned my window, 

When I was lying low, 

I was cuddling under my bedspread, 

I was blessed enough to have my delicacies spread.

I saw the birds shivering, 

Are they complaining?

Oh…. No, they are enjoying the chilled weather, 

I saw them shaking their feathers together, 

They found shelter under the tree, 

Where they can enjoy the fresh air for free, 

The sky is missing the bright rays of the sun, 

As The Sun is a latecomer because… 

for him winter is fun!! 

For every creature winter is rejuvenating, 

I can understand what they are communicating. 

I wish I were a bird to fly high in the chilled air, 

I wish I were a tree to decorate my hair, 

With green and white dotted hair bands, 

I would welcome winter with open hands, 

Because winter is exciting, 

And all the more fascinating. 

And when it would pass by, 

I would say ,"Winter, goodbye!”

By Samarth

Ghost in the jungle

 

Ghost in the Jungle

Are you afraid of ghosts? Do you think that ghosts really exist? This was from my own experience. Those who are courageous enough only should read this….

 

I was enjoying myself. It was the holidays. Me and my family going to Wayanad, enjoying the forest breeze and the cool rain on the way to our destination, which we all loved. I remember a scary incident that took place during our journey which makes me shiver at the thought of it.

 

I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape around us and wanted to take a break from the journey to enjoy the cool morning air.

We stopped nearby a dark landscape with an even darker forest.

We agreed to take the proof of the wildlife present there, but after the spine-chilling incident I went through, all I thought of the forest was darkness and danger.

 

We were entertained by the amazing wildlife existing in the forest and I was so absorbed in it that I was separated from the others. I walked aimlessly in the forest, completely lost now, calling and shouting for help.

 

It was at least two hours later that I realized the real danger I was in. It was afternoon and the forest was getting darker and darker, and I was beginning to feel that nobody would find me.

 

I was really afraid now, as it was nearing evening. Suddenly, I saw a dark shadow moving towards me in a ghostly manner; those were the most horrid seconds, the rustling of leaves made me feel that the leaves under his feet are crying for a new life. I rushed forward full of darkness everywhere. I got little courage to open my eyes and look at that figure. I took a deep breath as I understood that the figure was far behind. I was wondering whether it was a ghost. I again curiously observed. Oh… my God! The ghost was having a pot belly. The pot-bellied couldn’t walk fast he needs to do some work out to chase human beings my mind whispered. I closed my eyes and started praying to Lord Ganesha as he is also having the same figure. I thought he is the right person who can save me. My grandmother used to say that when we are in trouble, we should chant the mantras of Lord Ganesha. He will come and help us, so I thought maybe God came to rescue me. The smell of perfume tickled my nostrils I was like a statue closing my eyes and chanting mantras. I was accustomed to a similar aroma. Ghosts started using perfumes…. I was anxious to see who was near me. I slightly opened my eyes gathering full courage and a firm belief that Lord Ganesha will be there with me. I yelled that was my uncle who came in search of me. He was gasping for breath, ‘Why were you running? I couldn’t chase you!’ I smiled but I didn’t reveal to him about the pot-bellied ghost and Lord Ganesha. I thanked God for saving me.

 

And so, I escaped from the danger of the forest and I must say that it was a very narrow escape I also believe that it would never happen again, never, as I have taken an oath to not visit any forests in my entire life because this was a perilous adventure, the one that nobody wants to experience it again.

By Samarth 

             Soothing Music Of Nature

 

The sun is sparkling in the sky,
The birds are singing when they fly.
The trees are nodding their heads,
They are silently agreeing to humans instead.
The crops are thirsty and  eagerly waiting for the rain,
Nature should understand its pain.
It is in nature that beauty of world unfold,
It is worth more than the gold.
Put all your concerns behind,
Allow nature to loosen your mind.
This is nature's excellence!!!!

Samarth Nair
 

 The Harmless Kidnapper

 

The sun didn't forget to set that day. The birds were flying back to their homes after a day’s hardworking. I felt that my mind was craving for bread and eggs. I rushed to the kitchen and my mother was as usual, busy doing the household chores. I shared my idea about bread and o eggs .She told me to buy the essentials from Jim's shop . When I looked out I found that night was capturing the place, but the strong instinct for bread and eggs forced me to agree to go to shop.

Though the shop was nearby , I was running. When I reached there I saw four middle aged men standing outside the shop and as usual , enjoying gossiping. When I peeped through the door of the shop, I heard a very deep voice "What do you want? "It was our shopkeeper who hardly smiled. I stamped and said bread and egg. While he was packing it, I just overheard What the people were discussing.

The tallest man was the first one to speak. "It happened yesterday. Two people were there. They came in a van. The second one continued, "It was about this time. The stout man also commented on his views. “They always  target children. “ The calm man was finding fault with parents. He said, " I will blame parents who are allowing children to roam around during night time.”

From the bits of conversation I understood they are cooking a kidnapping story. The thought itself made me frightened. Suddenly Jim  interrupted, "Take this, your bread and egg". Suddenly he stretched his hand thought he was going to give a hand shake ,but I was wrong. He was asking for money. I paid the amount and slowly moved to my house.

The stories which the narrators were narrating were there in my mind. I felt that someone was coming behind me .I held the packet tightly  in my hand without even caring that the egg was there in my hand. I increased my speed but  the man was still behind me. I thought about running but couldn't as I felt that my bones and legs are not functioning..

Within a fraction of a second I reached my home. Once I felt that I was safe and I regained my courage to turn back. I saw a familiar smile in the thick darkness. Oh!! It was my brother. He was laughing at me. "Why were you  running? ”He enquired. "I didn't see that you are behind. ”"How will you see ? you didn't turn back?"" But why didn't you call me"? "I saw that you were shivering like a withered leaf and I was sure that you would throw everything on the street and run away.”

The delicious aroma of bread and eggs tickled my nostrils .Me and my brother were there to have it. While munching our delicacies He asked me, "By the way why were you running?" Though I was a little bit shy, I told the truth I thought that was a kidnapper .My brother couldn't control his laughter .'You got another thread for your new story right?” I smiled and said "Yes....The harmless kidnapper".

Written by Samarth Nair

https://sites.google.com/view/samarth-nair-the-buddingauthor/

Dear readers 

We are happy and excited to inform you all that we have just released our new book ....

MYSTERY BEHIND THE LOST CROWN.

Samarth Nair

It's an ADVENTUROUS story in which THREE DETECTIVES solve a MYSTERY behind a lost crown. The story is a suspense thriller which will evoke curiosity in the readers. The characters in the story are inquisitive-minded people who always face the CHALLENGES positively. The coordination among the characters and their BRAVE attitude to face the obstacles in front of them is remarkably portrayed in the story. The story is written in 14 chapters in which each and every chapter has its own relevance. The climax of the story will surely make the readers spellbound as it is totally an unpredictable ending.

Thank you for extending your wholehearted support for our blog We expect the same for our book also. Please  READ ENJOY AND WRITE REVIEWS.

Blue Kite

Dear readers

 Have you ever flown a kite? I was blessed with such an opportunity and I used to watch the beautiful kite flying in the sky without any restrictions even though its end is held by me. I feel our life is also like this. God has given us the freedom to fly as high as we can but we should always keep in mind that he is the one directing us. He is the one holding the thread.

                        The blue kite

Whoom Woosh, the blue kite

A terrible wind was the enemy.

It took my kite up and up to the sky,

I watched my kite breathlessly,

I saw my kite fly. 

I couldn’t hold the thread properly,

The wind snatched my kite dreadfully. 

I was terribly upset. 

My father tried to change my mindset. 

He said we have set it free.

“See it is flying above the tree!”

So watch out if you see a blue dot upon the sky. 

It is surely our blue kite which made me cry . 

Written by Samarth Nair

#Story #Humour

 

Dear Readers

Do you like humorous stories? Enjoy a humorous as well as an adventurous story from the land of scenic beauty!!!! 

The Memorable Elephant Ride

It happened two years ago. We went to Munnar, a land of scenic beauty. I felt that I could sit for hours and enjoy the green tea garden and the chilled climate. As in every story, there is a villain. Here the rain took the villainous role. It was drizzling throughout so I thought my whole trip was going to be a disaster.

One sight fascinated me, I saw people riding on elephants. Somehow, I managed to convince my father and finally me and my mother on an elephant, father on another; our dream came true.

 ‘It would be great fun!’ I thought when we clinched on the elephant's back. I felt that I am sitting on a dark rock as it was standing still without even exhibiting the slightest movement.  ‘How obedient he is!’ I thought because he was following the instructions of the mahout. Since it was drizzling, we had to carry our umbrellas. I held our umbrella. Me, my mother, and the umbrella with the elephant were ready to move, GET SET Go….

 Suddenly We heard a melodious song. We wondered from where.

Oh! It was Mahout's ringtone. He was talking to his friend. My umbrella slipped and I tried to hold it firmly. It tickled our obedient elephant’s neck and it started to move. I was wondering what had happened. It was like reflex action as we have studied that we have to stand up when we see elders while elephants had been taught that if someone is tickling his or her neck, he/she has to walk.

The elephant slowly moved away from its master and started walking in the opposite direction. We screamed loudly for help but no one paid any heed as others who were enjoying their ride on other elephants were also screaming, but there is one difference between our scream and their scream: ours is out of helplessness, and for them, it was out of excitement.

What an irony! Now the same sweet voice of nature turned to be a turbulent wind for us as we ourselves didn’t know when our elephant would stop walking. We turned to mahout and stretched our hand to him but he was fully engrossed in the talk.

The elephant was slowly moving towards a tea shop. Curiously, I asked my mother who was praying loudly, ‘Mom, I hope the elephant needs tea. See, he is heading towards a tea shop.’ A villager was munching a banana and was standing outside and was enjoying the rain. We understood that the elephant was moving towards that villager. We shouted loudly: ‘Move away from there. The elephant is focusing you!’ Suddenly, he started running, his movement was as fast as the wind, but still, the elephant didn’t stop.

At last the mahout realized that we were nowhere to be seen and he came running towards the elephant, shouting in Malayalam, ‘Hey where did you go?  My mother was very angry and shouted at the mahout but he gave a very prompt reply: ‘Madam, you had your food but the elephant didn’t. He was feeling hungry so please buy bananas for him otherwise he won’t move from here.’ At last we bought bananas for the elephant. He had eaten to his heart’s content and obediently walked with the mahout and we were just like victorious warriors returning from the battlefield.

 

‘What a strange but fun ride!’ I said to myself. Indeed, it was a great ride and I could add another adventure in my Adventures of Munnar.

Written by Samarth Nair 

#poem#nature

 Dear readers

We are usually admiring the beauty of flowers,but have you ever thought the feelings of a flower.What I felt is that like human beings every element in nature has feelings which they are trying to tell us. If you observe nature you will also feel the same.

Flower

The dewdrops gave a refreshing morning for me,

The birds sang melodious songs for me.

The tunes of wind made me dance,

I was adorned with bright colored caps.

I was proud of my looks.

Gone are those days,

When I enjoyed swaying in the wind.

Now that, I am weak and about to wither,

I have no visitors, neither birds nor dewdrops.

I am about to fall and I am afraid.

Those who admired my beauty will stamp on me.

Written by Samarth Nair

A Horrid Night #horror #suspense thriller#scary

 Dear readers,
Have you ever been alone at midnight? I know that you are brave but there are some who pretend to be brave, Can you judge in which category I am after reading my story😊.

My sleep got disturbed. I heard a phone call. My father in a sleepy mood picked up the call. He was in a panic mood I could read from his face that something had happened. I heard him saying to my mother that ‘Get ready we have to go to the hospital as one of our relatives is admitted there and he is in a serious condition’. I was about to get up from my bed rubbing my eyes, but he said ‘You can sleep we both will go and will come back fast’.

I looked at the clock. It was 12 midnight. That figure made me frightened. I tried my level best to go with them but in vain. They went. I was all alone. There was thick darkness everywhere, the whole world was sleeping except me. I felt thirsty as my throat got dried up, but I couldn’t go to the kitchen. Then someone from within me murmured: “You are a brave boy, come on, you can do it!’’ somehow I gained some courage and went to the kitchen. I saw one bottle of water extending a sweet smile to me. I was happy as I didn’t need to spend more time in the kitchen. I grabbed the bottle and hurried to living room. Suddenly I felt someone who caught me from behind.

A shudder of fear ran down through my spine. I stammered ‘Who is that?’ But it didn’t respond. I screamed, begged and cried and asked it to leave me, but I felt that it was catching me even more firmly. Suddenly I felt that I was in a giant wheel and within seconds I was in the floor.

 I heard a knock at the door, I heard a familiar voice. It was my mother. I couldn’t recollect what had happened. I opened the door. My mother stared at me. ‘what happened to you?’ ‘Someone is there in the kitchen and he caught me. I replied …’ My mother interrupted, ‘What happened to your T Shirt? ‘It is torn. That person did this. He was catching me from behind I gained my strength and pulled forward so this happened.’ My mother rushed to the kitchen. I shouted, ‘Maybe he might have escaped as he knows that I am a brave boy.’

After a while I heard my mother laughing loudly. ‘I caught the person,’ she said, ‘If you want to see please come, me and my father who was standing beside me rushed to the kitchen. When we reached there, she pointed to the door handle ‘See, this one held you from behind. I was not ready to accept. ‘How can you prove that?’  ‘Look, your shirt’s torn piece is here’… she said.

My mother and father were laughing at me, but still, I was not convinced.  Yet now, that question haunts me: Who was the one who had caught me from behind? It remains a mystery to me.

Written by Samarth Nair