8th Jan

Diary,

 Today, I had planned to meet you early. But once again it is 11 at night.   Couldn’t be free before this.  Actually something special had happened today. Afternoon, when I returned from college, house was on fire. Dad had arranged a surprise treat. He had purchased tickets for a theatre and was trying to convince Ma to accompany him. Possibly a strategic move!  Since that party episode, they were hardly talking to each other. Had he asked Ma in advance, she would have flatly refused. But once he had already arranged everything, there was a psychological pressure.

I could see her searching—searching for a convenient excuse!! But dad was fast.  As soon as I entered  he  ordered—“ Sanju you are already  formally dressed ;No need to change. Just have something light and get into the car. After the programme, we will eat out.”

I had accompanied them as buffer and was in lukewarm mood but somehow I liked the show. It was plain humour. A power crazy semi-cracked mother –in-law counseling  her daughter to keep a strict watch over her husband. In desperate attempt to give  her a slip the SIL was framing weird strategies and bungling at each step. Anup kumar was brilliant! But wonder of wonder, Dad found the authoritarian lady lovable! May be of all people he really deserved a MIL like her.  I strongly believe Dad needs somebody to out-shout him. Only then,  he would think twice before purchasing tons of fish and inviting his friends at odd hours. Strangely, while a chilling thought had entered my subconscious. Being my dads daughter, my fate one day would be sealed in an arranged marriage. I may also land into a dangerous MIL like Mrs. Pakrashi.

Someone  may order me “ Bouma! It is high time to change your habit. Visiting your parents place so often does not look well for a newly wed. I think you should pay more attention to cooking rather than reading those useless story books!” If she blocks my free expression—my music and friends--- what will happen then? Will I be able to survive without these? If I  choose  my own MIL, would it  be very unfair ? At this age of women’s liberation?