During today’s dance competition, the theme revolved around the essence of Shringara Rasa.
“Bet you, Amma,” Saundarya, the twenty-three-year-old Bharatnatyam dancer whose confidence and beauty knew no bounds, chirped. “There will be no participant to vie with my beauty. The coveted trophy is mine.”
“Ramani will be there. After the program make sure you finalize the engagement date with him. It was your father’s last wish to see you wedded to his sister’s son.” Her mother’s words elicited a frown on Saundarya’s face.
Despite Ramani’s noteworthy characteristics such as his tall stature, athletic build, and gentle demeanor, Saundarya continued to express disapproval of the potential union due to his dark skin tone and less admirable attributes.
Saundarya’s unparalleled beauty could not be disputed. Regrettably, her arrogance had clouded her sense of discernment.
Meanwhile, a romantic subplot unfolded involving Kalyan, the son of Saundarya’s dance teacher. He had just returned from completing his Master’s degree in the US.
Kalyan’s admiration for Saundarya blossomed. Love had sparked from both sides.
Saundarya rudely commented on the unfavourable appearance of Ramani when compared to Kalyan’s fair skin and attractive characteristics. “Ramani should meet Kalyan personally and realise the necessity of abandoning the pursuit of this proposal. I would rather choose to share my life with a man of Kalyan’s handsome qualities instead of continually feeling embarrassed while being with Ramani.”
Her mother’s beseeching words and her father’s dying wish didn’t seem to hold any value for the haughty girl.
Saundarya’s dance performance depicting Shringara Rasa was spectacular. However, an unforeseen incident occurred. As a result of a short circuit, a fire swiftly engulfed the stage. A burning wooden block fell on Saundarya, causing her to scream and lose consciousness.
Upon regaining awareness in the hospital, Saundarya felt a burning sensation on her face. As she touched her damaged face, a mix of flesh and blood, she cried out in agony.
Her mother and a friend of Saundarya were standing next to her.
“Are you looking out for Kalyan? He ruthlessly departed no sooner than he saw your gory injuries and your beautiful face dishevelled.” The friend informed as Saundarya’s eyes hovered around the room.
At that moment, Ramani entered and expressed his concern over the ill-fated happenings. Saundarya’s mother had contacted him earlier to dissuade him from pursuing the marriage proposal. She had to disclose the reason behind it.
He gazed at the weeping Saundarya.
“I wish to stand by you always.” Ramani earnestly held Saundarya’s hands.
“Why do you wish to waste your life with an ugly girl?” She wailed.
Ramani consoled Saundarya by assuring her of her perpetual beauty and significance to him, stating that he admired her charm and grace, which he believed would never fade.
“You will forever remain the embodiment of beauty in my eyes.” He spoke lovingly.
Saundarya squirmed at her imprudence and marvelled at Ramani’s generous spirit in finding beauty in her currently unattractive appearance.
That was true Shringara Rasa!
Published in an anthology called NAVARASA.