प्रेम के आंसू

Summary

The story begins with a description of a boy with curly, wavy hair, a face like a white lotus, and blue eyes reflecting an unknown pain. This boy is Kiraṇ, the five-year-old son of Anant from his first marriage. Anant is a doctor, well-regarded in the city, and is about to marry Sarayu. Sarayu is troubled by the thought of immediately becoming a mother to a disabled child, feeling she is going to Anant's house as a servant. Kiraṇ was not born disabled; he was a healthy, beautiful child who deeply loved his mother, Śuśīlā. He would constantly stay by her side, playing and laughing. However, Kiraṇ suddenly fell severely ill with fever and convulsions. A doctor assured them his life was not in danger but warned he might become disabled. After the illness, Kiraṇ could not move his legs and later lost his ability to speak. He learned to crawl but remained mute, only uttering "Mā̃" in an indistinct voice. Śuśīlā was devastated, growing increasingly sorrowful as she watched her son sit alone, gazing at the sky. She understood his unspoken pain and desires, which deepened her own suffering. Her health deteriorated, and she eventually died, leaving Kiraṇ alone. After her death, Kiraṇ became even more withdrawn, searching for his mother everywhere. Anant, though he loved his son, was busy with work and unable to give him enough attention. The family, including Anant's mother, father, sister, and younger siblings, sympathized with Kiraṇ but could not actively engage with him due to his muteness and disability. Surrounded by comfort and people, Kiraṇ remained isolated and sad. The story ends with the prospect of Anant's second marriage, which he fears will further traumatize the boy.