|| THE PURPLE HEARTS ||

7. Blow of Words

Omkara found himself in a constant battle between his artistic aspirations and his family's insistence on joining the business like Annika. Despite his efforts to explain his passion for art, Tej remained adamant, seeking another man to support the family business. Omkara yearned to delve into the world of painting and sculpture, to explore the depths of art that brought him immense pleasure.

The silence of nature was his inspiration, offering lessons that resonated deeply within him. While he was the most sensible person in the family, possessing both youthfulness and maturity, his family members struggled with impulsive decisions and anger issues. Omkara maintained a calm demeanor, concealing his disappointments behind a charming smile.

Dadi found Omkara sitting alone in the garden, deeply engrossed in his sketches. She called out to him, and as they settled into nearby chairs, she took notice of his beautiful sketch of Lord Krishna with Balarama. 

Caressing the paper with admiration, she asked, "Are you missing Shivaay, Om?"

He laid his head on her lap, finding solace in silence, and said nothing. Dadi, understanding the turmoil within him, began to share her wisdom. "Life is just like a poetry puttar... the more the poet brings out his innermost emotions, the more beautiful the poem becomes." Omkara listened intently, waiting for her to continue.

"The more you express, the more beautiful the art becomes. Just like that, the more you talk your heart out, the better you'll feel," Dadi continued. 

"You are so talented, puttar, and some people might not see that. Don't waste it for someone else's desires. Understood?"

Omkara stared at Dadi, contemplating her words. 

"What if I failed, Dadi?".

"Then you will try again. Failure should never affect you, just as success should not define you. Keep on going to find your way."

 Her words lingered in the air, offering Omkara a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainties surrounding his artistic journey.

***

"Dad, mom...", Om called them as he entered their room.

Tension hung thick in the air as Om entered, preparing to share a decision that had been weighing heavily on his heart. Jhanvi greeted him warmly, asking if he needed anything, but Tej was more direct, eager to know Om's decision.

"Actually, Dad... I don't want to join the office. I just want to—" Om began, his voice filled with the apprehension of what was to come.

"You just want to waste your life in some useless paintings," Tej interrupted sharply, his frustration evident.

"See your brother! See him, he is going on achieving the world, and look at you....look... talking all nonsense!" The room echoed with Tej's disapproval.

"Tej, please calm down", Jhanvi said trying to hold his hands.

"How could I calm down Jhanvi, this clown here is talking all nonsense and do you want me, me to calm down", he shouted at her.

"At least listen to him once please", Jhanvi pleaded.

"What do you want me to listen! I'm not hearing anything from him other than a yes!".

Frustrated and feeling unheard, Om mustered the courage to speak up. "Dad, please! I'm not a toy you play with. I'm a man, just like you. I have my own interests and ambitions."