पुरस्कार

Summary

The story follows Tapan, a new student at Gyanpeeth High School, who quickly gains a reputation as a troublemaker. He is physically strong and quick to fight, but only in response to provocation or injustice, often acting as a protector for the weak. Shortly after his arrival, a local merchant, Haren Mahajan, complains to the headmaster that Tapan led a group of boys to throw stones at his shop. When questioned, Tapan explains that the merchant cheats customers by using weighted bags and giving short measures. Tapan confronted the merchant, who responded with abuse, leading Tapan to retaliate with the stone-throwing. The headmaster punishes Tapan with five cane strokes. Later, Tapan attempts to tame a dangerous bull that has been terrorizing the area. He jumps on its back and tries to control it with a rope, but the bull charges into a classroom, causing chaos and breaking windows. The headmaster, furious, gives Tapan fifteen cane strokes and fines him twenty-five rupees, warning that further incidents will lead to expulsion. Despite this, Tapan is seen helping an elderly beggar woman carry her heavy basket home when she falls ill, while two classmates mock him. The headmaster witnesses this and sends the mocking boys away. Two weeks later, the headmaster finds Tapan tenderly caring for the same bull, whose leg has been broken by someone. Tapan explains that the bull has reformed since his earlier encounter and no longer harms people. He is treating its wound with herbal medicine, showing deep compassion for the animal. The headmaster is moved by Tapan's kindness. At the school's annual prize ceremony, a special award for best character is announced. Tapan's classmates mock him, suggesting he might win it. However, the story implies that Tapan's true character, revealed through his actions, may be recognized.