03 June 2025

Aftermath

It's been five years 
Since she died, and 
I haven't moved on.

Today is the last day 
Of Dashami, and 
I'm sitting here,
Wearing her Red saree 
and seven bangles
On each hand.

That's what the 
Tantrik said.

A Mandala made 
Out of Haldi and 
Kumkum. 
Soil from her grave 
In the middle with 
Limbu and Mirch-

After myriads of
Attempts, I invoked 
Her spirit successfully 
This time.

It was so good to
Hear her voice.
Her translucent body
Looked hot.

Everything was alright-
Till she sobbed and
Asked me in a 
Coarse voice:

Why did you kill me?

Readily, I threw on her
The enchanted ash 
To set her on fire.

The spirit, too, had to
Be killed to unlock 
The ancient treasure-

That's what the last
Page of the book,
Grandpa left me said.