Dastaan Jo Likhun

Ch 7. Frayed Edges

___________ Context __________

I have used gif images, just like above, to aid in storytelling, so please read through the texts to get the subtext.

Context: In Hindu shraadh [funeral] customs, when a person passes away, their final rites are performed by their next of kin, specifically their son / brother / cousin. They have to shave off their hair, mundan, as a symbolic representation of shaving off all burden and be mentally and physically free to perform the rites; also as a sign of respect to the departed soul. 

This is in continuation with the end of Gen2, when Kartik &̶ S̶i̶r̶a̶t  died, and making one half of gen3 characters orphans. Without the guidance they so desired, deserved. 

Trigger warning: Mentions of phobias.

Note: Some decisions have the power to alter multiple lives. Always in a domino effect so keeping that in mind, this chapter wraps up multiple questions at one go and is crucial for laying a foundation for a grander picture. Lots of internal monologue, and inner thoughts of people close to the main characters explained. So please follow along and enjoy!

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Time: 6:07 am

Buzzzzzzz!

'So cold!'

The feeling of cold metal, buzzing off his hair as he sat silently. Trying to keep his somber expression intact, as he felt cold sweats running down his neck. He wasn't prepared for this.

'Gudgudi [tickle] horahi hai!'

It was getting so hard to focus... as he felt his buzzed off hair falling down his shoulders. 

'So itchy!'

Trying to scratch his back, to get to the piece of hair that was poking him through his ganji [camisole vest], but he was wacked by the naun [barber who cuts hair only during shraadh], to sit still.

He looked at him irritatedly with his lips pursed but complied none the less. Tolerating the growing itch. He wanted to scrape off his skin. Maybe only then he would feel relieved.

Well that was a lie... he was relieved this morning, when the doctor gave them the much awaited news. His sister was out of danger. She would be alright!

He smiled a hopeful smile, complete contrast to the state of mourning he was in... supposed to be in.

To be honest, he was trying very hard to control his chuckle. Pinching his lips between his teeth and trying not to let one slip out. 

The reason, Mr. Potato Head Vansh. His cousin who was facing him looking like a caricature as he got his own head shaved off in solidarity. 'So funny!,' he thought as a snort slipped out.

He tried to cover it up with his palm, faking a sniff but he was caught red handed. Vansh's furious red eyes making him more funny than scary. 

Another snort slipped out.

"Kairav, tu kya bada has raha hai!," he whispered in irritation. "Khud bhi cartoon hi lagra hai." 

A chuckle slipped out this time.

"Matlab ap agree karre ki ap cartoon lagre... hhhahhaha!," his hearty laugh made Vansh reluctantly smile, but he quickly covered it up. The place or environment contradicted their mischief.