“Dear N,
As I was reading your dissertation in the train, I could not help but wonder about this strange connection we have over written words. And yet here we are, pouring our soul into this limit set by the institution! But having said that, it is a real joy and pleasure to read. I dare say you might surpass a lot of the local writers here if you do decide to take up the pen. Another great arsenal to have in your portfolio.
Thank you for inviting me, and many others into your space. It must have been a really difficult decision to make, but a necessary one. Does this affirm/reaffirm your faith? I do not know. Does it make the less trodden path you are about to embark on firmer? I can give you no answer. Does it give you solace and peace at the end of the day? Perhaps. But I do know this. You will become stronger in your own right. Not because I’ve said it, but because you’ve already did. You thanked for my inspiration in the letter. It is I should be thanking you instead. For courage, for love, for freedom.
Your sincerely,
C”
Un petit chat noir (2019)
A short story about dreams, hope, and freedom.
untitled (how to make palek paneer)
Ingredients
Red onion
Ginger
Garlic
Tomato
Green chili
Spinach
Cottage cheese
Dried fenugreek
Dried cumin
Dried coriander
Garam masala
Tumeric
Ghee
Heavy cream
“Do you know what is this?”
“Oh yes! Its ghee, animal fat. Does it make the palak paneer better? ”
“Makes it taste better. And makes you fat!”