The Night of Stars

-by Rati J.

It was a Sunday night award function. The lights sparkled like stars everywhere. Red carpet was spread on the floor. Cameras busy in capturing style and posture, attitude and reactions. I was nominated for the Best Writer and was sitting on the chair assigned. No one recognized me as I was a new comer or maybe because I was dressed very simple. Then I saw some of my old classmates dressed so well like fairies. They flaunted their beauty gracefully. How stupid to come here so casual! I thought. So I quickly got home on my scooter to dress well.

I told my mom to make a good hairstyle. I was busy in my makeup. After all I had to look beautiful… Did I really mean beautiful? May be presentable, or respectable, or just writer? I had so many feelings mixed up in my heart but all were undefined. Was my life changing or taking just a turn? Was I able to manage this all? I had many questions running simultaneously in my head and felt the answers scattered.

At last I finished making myself ready and looked in the mirror from top to bottom. It was unbelievable. I was surprised at the sight of mine… I looked at myself and had a very positive sensation. My eyes glittered and ear rings sparkled.

I thanked my mom and god for this life and set out with full confidence. While my driver drove me to the function, I was preparing myself to talk on the cameras. I was going to experience it for the first time. I entered the function in my gorgeous car and then got down on the red carpet. Cameras and media were rushing towards me calling my name and asking me about my book. I was overwhelmed by the treatment and respect I got. I felt as though I had caught something I was longing for since long time. So I went gracefully and sat on the chair assigned to me and was now waiting to hear the result.

The name card of the winner was opened. My excitement rose up, eager to hear. The lady opened her mouth but before that a tune started ringing. Everyone was clapping hands but I missed the name due to that tune. I looked at the stage but saw no one receiving the award. Maybe it was me, I thought but then the music started piercing in my ear much louder than before. I covered my ears with my hands as it was being played again and again and this time, something felt much familiar and ‘YES, I KNOW!!!’ I said loudly and got up from my chair very fast that a big camera flashed on my face… Managing to look around, I saw a window and my phone ringing on the table beside.

I grinned widely and chuckled!