The air shimmered with an oppressive heat that felt almost suffocating to Veer. Each minute spent walking in this sweltering environment seemed to stretch into an eternity for him. He repeatedly wiped the sweat from his brow with his hand.
In contrast, Raju, accustomed to such relentless temperatures from his childhood, treated it like just another bright day.
"How much longer do we have to walk, Uncle Raju?" Veer implored, his voice tinged with desperation.
"We've arrived," Raju replied with a teasing grin.
Veer glanced up at the house before them. It was an ordinary two-story structure, painted a cheerful pink, yet the vibrant array of flowers surrounding it lent it a distinctive allure.
Raju approached the entrance and knocked three times. After hearing some shuffling from within, he stepped back.
As the door swung open, a venerable man in his sixties stepped into view, exuding an air of wisdom. He stood at an average height, his head crowned with a mane of white hair, and his forehead etched with deep lines that spoke of a life well-lived. A neatly groomed beard and moustache framed his face, adding to his scholarly appearance.
"Ram Ram Sa, Khan sir," Raju exclaimed, bringing his hands together in a traditional Indian greeting and bowing slightly. The moment inspired Veer to mimic Raju's respectful gesture.
"Wa alaikumussalam, Raju. What brings you to my doorstep in this sweltering heat?" Khan inquired, a look of curiosity crossing his face as he returned the greeting in his own manner, recognizing the familiar figure at his entrance.
Raju was on the verge of responding when Khan abruptly cut him off. "Oh, my apologies! Where are my manners? Come in, Raju; don't just linger at the door. Have a glass of water first," Khan exclaimed, stepping into the house to fetch some refreshments.
Raju barely had a moment to call out to Khan before he disappeared inside. "Really, you don't have to, Khan, sir," Raju murmured softly, his voice trailing off as he spoke to the fading figure of Khan.
The house's interior perfectly embodies the essence of a scholar. Books line the shelves, meticulously organized by genre and topic, creating a vibrant tapestry of knowledge.
A cozy rocking chair sits invitingly by the window, basking in the warm glow of natural light. Nearby, three large clay pots stand, from which Khan is drawing fresh water.
A charming wooden sofa complements the space, accompanied by a sturdy wooden table that anchors the room. The walls are adorned with an array of photographs and framed degrees, showcasing a lifetime of achievements.
As Khan entered the living room, he found Raju perched awkwardly on the sofa, while a young boy gazed at the impressive collection of books, his mouth agape in wonder.
"Enjoying the view?" Khan teased the boy, balancing a tray laden with refreshments.
Veer nodded enthusiastically, a bright smile lighting up his face.
"What a genuine lad," Khan chuckled, his laughter echoing as he playfully tousled Veer's hair. He then settled down across from Raju, gesturing toward the tray of snacks.
"Now, Raju, how can I assist you today?" Khan inquired, his expression warm and inviting.
"I'm not here for my own sake, Khan sir. My focus is on this young fellow," Raju replied, pointing at Veer, who seemed completely absorbed in his own thoughts, gazing intently at the impressive collection of books before him.
Khan looked at Raju, his brow furrowed in genuine perplexity. "How can I assist the boy?" he inquired.
Raju smiled and replied, "Let him ask you directly." He then called out to Veer.
"You had some questions, didn't you? The person right in front of you can answer them all. Go ahead, ask away," Raju encouraged, motioning for Veer to approach Khan.
As Raju spoke, a realization washed over Veer, reminding him of the purpose of his visit. Without hesitation, he launched into a flurry of inquiries.
"What is a radio? I heard a voice coming from it. How can there be a person inside? How can someone be so tiny? And why do you have so many books? Have you read every single one? Why can't I understand any of this?"
Khan smiled warmly and motioned for Veer to take a seat. "Come over here and make yourself at home," he said softly, indicating the inviting sofa.
Veer settled down next to Raju without hesitation.
"Let's start with your name. What do you go by?" Khan inquired, his tone calm and encouraging.
"Veer," the boy answered promptly.
"Veer, what a wonderful name!" Khan exclaimed. "Do you know what it signifies?" he continued, his curiosity piqued.
"It means courageous. My name means courageous, sir," Veer responded confidently, his eyes shining with pride.