Hidimba-The forest maiden

17

Years passed, summers passed, passed were the days of love

Came the days of betrayal, war and blood lust

For you I survived,

But you never came fulfilling your promise

You left me like a toy

'Ghatotkacha hold the sword a little tight,' I asked him. my son was nearly twelve years old. It was now time to teach him the ways of a warrior. I would teach him the ways of a warrior.

'Clash your swords with mine' I said and he did. he was strong, strong like his father. he had his eyes while hair belonged to me. My golden son from a golden father.

'You are not teaching him the right way' a man's voice came from behind us Sahoo came towards. He had aged a little. his waist had been thickened and beard unkept. He never practised his great asset of swordsmanship.

'So, you are going to tell me how I teach my son 'I said

'Yes of course you are teaching him the basics, start with the fighting part 'he said looking at me

'I am a splendid sword fighter; I will teach my son the way I want. Now get out of here'

'So much anger. Let us have a duel'

'Challenge accepted'

I fought with same intensity like I did when the Manav's attacked my village. I have practised every day since it happened. I wanted to be stronger and independent. No man to help me. I wanted to be the master of my own.

He wore out. His thickened waist had a toll on him and I prevailed.

'Nice duel 'I said with smile that of a champion 'now let me do my work'

'You won'