Transalation In English

“My husband never says anything to me.”

Every morning he makes tea. I give him the newspaper. He reads it. Meanwhile I place the towel and soap in the bathroom for him. He finishes the paper and rushes for his morning shower. I prepare his breakfast everyday. Ladiesfinger fry is his favourite dish. And sometimes if I happen to cook it with excess salt he never says anything. Today evening we'll go to India Gate. I'll have an ice-cream. Then some Punjabi chaat-bhalle. I'll get my snaps clicked too while boating, just like the heroine of the film Kashmir ki Kali. I want to learn driving. Today I'll tell him. I know he'll not refuse. He's never refused me for anything. After all it is he who has taught me everything. When I came here for the first time after marriage…I knew nothing. I soon learnt it all. Bank dealings, shopping, official work, everything. I've asked my husband many things, time and again. But he's never told me anything. I still can't forget that day in my life. My first night after marriage. I was hiding under my veil blushing. He came and sat in front of me. Just sat…without making a move. From behind my veil I could make out he was serious. I thought maybe I should make the first move. Feeling shy and full of hesitation, I picked the glass of milk from the table and took it for him. I stumbled and spilled the entire milk on his trousers. Terrified…I closed my eyes. But my husband never complained. Be it my birthday, our anniversary, on festivals, occasions…he gets me a gift without fail. He never stops me from doing anything. Never gets angry on me. It was Urmila bhabhi's sister's marriage. I thought the time was ripe. I demanded for a diamond necklace. By that day evening my neck was adorned with one. He has never said no to anything. He never says anything to me…never…not even a single word!

Issued in Public Interest