The Hall of Magical Mirrors

It was the Games period. Along with the other students, Riya headed towards the football field.

- Kusum Agarwal

A student said, "Hey, we forgot to bring the football." Pooja covered her mouth and giggled, "Why do you need a football when Riya is here!" Then, gesturing towards Riya, she said, "Come on, Madam Football!"

Everyone burst into loud laughter. As always, Riya felt ashamed and had tears in her eyes at being fat-shamed.

Ria was a very cheerful and well-mannered girl. She loved to dance and was a bright student. However, she was unhappy because she was overweight compared to other children in her class.

She often heard whispers and giggles behind her back on the space she occupied while sitting, the food in her lunchbox, the size of her clothes, or someone would laugh at the bicycle tyre flattening under her weight.

Though she pretended that the comments on her larger body build did not disturb her, from inside, her self-confidence shattered every time someone commented on her build. She developed an inferiority complex. She preferred to keep to herself most of the time and didn't enjoy participating in school events. She believed people would make fun of her if she went on stage.

She often skipped meals together for days and exercised for hours to lose weight.

However, all her efforts were in vain.

Riya's mother said she shouldn't worry much about her body shape. She encouraged Ria to focus on her health, studies, and other activities.

However, it was all futile. Riya remained unhappy and didn't like making friends with anyone.