Houston, Texas,
1991
Kasturi had built a good life for herself in Houston. It hadn’t been easy—those early years were full of awkward introductions, strange food, mispronounced names, and the constant ache of being in-between worlds. But over time, she found her rhythm.
“That’s not going to work, Matthew,” Kasturi said firmly, her voice cutting through the chaos of the conference room. She tapped the papers on the table, her gaze steady. “We can’t promise resources we don’t have. What we can do is redirect funds from the community program in Queens. It’ll take some juggling, but it’s feasible.”
The room fell silent, all eyes on her. Even in the whirlwind of nonprofit chaos, Kasturi’s clarity was a lifeline. Within moments, she was sketching a solution on the whiteboard, breaking down the logistics with her usual mix of confidence and charm.
This was Kasturi in her element—turning problems into plans, skeptics into allies. It was no surprise that Winds of Change, the nonprofit she worked for, leaned on her in every crisis.
Whether it was strategizing for community programs or negotiating with international donors, Kasturi handled it all with a mix of confidence and charm that left people in awe.
Her life in Houston was a whirlwind of meetings, field visits, and coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions. She had built a life she was proud of—a life that allowed her to make a difference, to be free, to be herself.
But one Monday morning, things were going to change rapidly for her.
Kasturi was reviewing a rollout strategy for a Southeast Asia project when Karen, her boss, walked into the glass-walled room with a proposal.
“I’ve got something interesting for you,” Karen said, sitting across the desk. “We’re finalizing a new maternal health project in South Asia. India.”
Kasturi looked up, her pen pausing mid-note.
Karen smiled. “Delhi. It’s going to be big—we’re partnering with local organizations, setting up training modules, the whole thing. I thought of you immediately. You’d be perfect to lead this.”
Something shifted quietly inside her.
Delhi.
It wasn’t like she hadn’t heard the name in years. News, research reports, global calls—it came up often. But this was different. This was going back.
Kasturi nodded slowly, trying to stay focused. But even as Karen continued outlining the logistics, her mind wandered.
She remembered the last letter she wrote to Meena before life took over completely. The guilt that had faded with time, tucked away in the busyness of deadlines and early morning flights, now returned like a gentle knock on a long-closed door.
She hadn’t meant to stop writing. But between graduate school, the pressure to fit in, and then building her career, the letters just… stopped.
And yet, Meena had always been there, somewhere in the background of her thoughts. In the smell of wet earth after rain. In the rustle of a red scarf. In the sound of certain Hindi words spoken with a Bengali lilt.
Kasturi blinked, brought back to the present by Karen asking, “Is this something you’d be open to?”
She hesitated. “Let me think about it.”
PS: I’m participating in #BlogchatterA2Z
Cerebration 
Kasturi better not skip this opportunity to visit India AND make it a point to meet Meena and her family while she is there! I will be terribly upset with her if she does that! Glad to see both the girls have become successful professionals who love what they do.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for staying with the story all along!
LikeLike
I’m excited at the prospect of the girls (now self-made and successful women!) meeting again after so long but I have an unsettling feeling about this. I don’t know why
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am equally excited to unfold the future. Thank you for staying.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I just finished reading your post, Part 21: Unveiling New Horizons, and I have to say, it was both thought-provoking and inspiring. Your reflections on embracing change and stepping out of comfort zones really hit home for me. It’s so easy to get stuck in familiar routines, but your words reminded me of the importance of growth and exploration. I particularly resonated with your perspective on viewing challenges as opportunities for learning rather than obstacles. Your journey of self-discovery and the courage to pursue new paths is truly motivating. I also appreciated how you highlighted the significance of mindfulness and presence in every moment. It’s a gentle nudge to slow down and appreciate the now.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for your detailed feedback. I appreciate your continued support by staying with the story all along!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thinking about it? What? Why? Come on… I hope she agrees and board flight to India.
This was like a saffron in a gheer! Looks good, tastes good!
When communication breaks down, an icebreaker is needed to restore things to normal. I hope that happens. K&M should meet. Still, I worry about how their personalities, that have changed over time. I hope everything works out for the best.
All the best. Give us a positive ending, pleez!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like your last line, hehehe!!! Well, why is she thinking??? That’s a good question, just wait for tomorrow’s episode!!
LikeLike
“In the smell of wet earth after rain. In the rustle of a red scarf. In the sound of certain Hindi words spoken with a Bengali lilt.”
Does every friendship remember these? If yes, then the word ‘friendship’ will survive to the end of the world.
Pinki, you write flawlessly yet with a peace, hope and affection. I have become a big fan of your writing. Keep telling such stories to the world. Best wishes dear.
LikeLike
Your posts are so good that one just wonders what happens next. Kasturi should just connect back to India soon !
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ghar aaja pardesi tera des bulaaye re 😀
LikeLike