One Wish Before I am Dismissed

In the line of duty

- Anuj Jain

I have vivid memories of my village in the Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh, India, where all the villagers used to watch the popular Republic Day parade held at Rajpath, Delhi. At that point in time, there was a single screen for the entire village. That ninety minutes of patriotism was so fulfilling for every Indian, never had I thought that I would move out this place. I remember the dusty old roads leading to the huts and brick houses covered with grass and hay. We had a single ration (Kirana) store, enough to satisfy the wants of about seventy humans that inhabited the small place. Water needs were fulfilled from a well located about seven miles from the main village. The well was dug during the era of the Mauryas and hence was an ancient and sacred one. I often accompanied my mother to bring back cold water in wooden pitchers.