The Other Side Of Love - Chapter 2

 

Chapter 2

A New World at CBRI

Landing in CBRI at the tender age of eleven wasn't just about making friends; it was a pivotal moment that set the stage for meeting the love of my life, Pearl. This chapter dives into my initial experiences at CBRI, the vibrant community that embraced me, and the events that fostered a deep sense of belonging.

Suddenly, a solitary child for eleven years found himself surrounded by 64 houses teeming with kids, boys and girls ready for endless games and laughter. We lived in Scientist Apartment, a perfectly square haven no more than 80-90 meters across. For a kid like me, it was a dream come true.

CBRI boasted every facility imaginable for a high-profile government organization. Sprawling playgrounds, tennis and badminton courts, volleyball courts – the list went on. A community center housed indoor games like table tennis, carrom, and cards, catering to every whim. The official building itself boasted a grand auditorium, where movies and documentaries were screened in the early days. Trust me, it might sound ordinary now, but cinema in those days, especially in a small town like Roorkee, was a major event.

Beyond the facilities, a vibrant calendar of cultural events kept the community buzzing. Carnivals (affectionately called "FATEs"), kitty parties, potluck dinners, festival celebrations, flower shows, exhibitions, and stage performances – CBRI was a HAPPENING place. People from all over Roorkee flocked to witness the festivities, especially in Scientist Apartment, particularly during Diwali.

Diwali in Scientist Apartment was on another level entirely. It wasn't just good; it was one of the BEST, if not THE best, Diwali celebrations in the entire district. Celebrated with an unmatched zeal, passion, and enthusiasm, it was an experience impossible to surpass, not just in Roorkee, but arguably the entire state of Uttar Pradesh. THAT was the pinnacle of Diwali celebrations, an epitome of any festival celebrated. I'll delve deeper into CBRI's festivals later, including Janmashtami, Christmas, and Lohri, as they all played a significant role in my epic love story.

We moved to CBRI in 1987, the same year my brother arrived. He was a late entry into the family, born eleven years after me (ask my parents for the reason behind the gap!). While I secretly wished for a sister, I was undeniably excited to have a brother by my side. He was born by the same doctor who delivered me at Holy Family Hospital in New Delhi. It's fascinating how fate weaves its magic, bringing souls into this world.

One thing no one knew, including myself until my father revealed it much later in life, was that I wasn't their first child. My mother experienced complications during her first pregnancy, leading to a miscarriage in the third month. Later, defying advice and overcoming challenges, she conceived again, and I was born. And four years later, my soulmate, the girl who would change EVERYTHING in my life, entered the world. This is how God works, my soul and my soulmate were destined to come into this world, and they did. I worship and salute the time and day Pearl was born, a soul that defined my existence, gave meaning to my life, and became a reason to survive.

Moving back to 1987, while I don't have a specific memory of the day we moved into Scientist Apartment, I can confidently say that moving to CBRI was the BEST thing my parents or God could have done for me. Not just for the abundance of friends, but more importantly, for bringing Pearl into my life – a girl who would redefine my existence, give me a rebirth, and fundamentally change the course of my life.

Pearl, my love, she became the pinnacle of love for me. In my wildest dreams, I couldn't have imagined the incredible impact she would have on me.

Since we're starting from the beginning, you might be curious about my earliest memory of Pearl. With a four-year age difference, it seemed like a vast gap when I was 16 and she was 12. My earliest memory, I believe, dates back to when we were just kids. Being the elder one, she used to call me "Bhaiya." Cheesy, I know, but that "Bhaiya" eventually became her "Boyfriend."

Among the many functions held in CBRI was the hugely popular Durga Puja celebrated at the renowned Roorkee University temple. I have a faint, fleeting memory of that occasion and a few precious moments spent with my girl, my Pearl. However, I'll be honest, my most vivid memories of Pearl, the ones that truly sparked the flames of love, will be unveiled in the chapters to come. This chapter serves as a foundation, setting the stage for the incredible journey, the epic love story, that awaits.