Theendary

Uma was not in good mood yesterday. She was getting angry with many things.

Yesterday morning, Vasu called me ( Vasu, I hope you remember, is Uma's father). He wanted her to get back to him, as his wife is not well (Uma's step mother). I talked to Vasu for some time, and then called Uma to talk to him. She got wild. "I don't want to talk to anyone. If Kunjamma (that's how she calls her step-mother) is not well, she herself should take care. I am not their servant to take care of anyone". She didn't take the phone, and walked away. I tried to calm her down, and told Vasu on the phone " Uma's not here right now... may be somewhere outside.... I'll ask her to call you later". Vasu hung up the phone.

I went in to the kitchen, looking for Uma. But Remani was there in the kitchen, cooking something. "Where's Uma" I asked Remani. "I don't know Chettaa.. (that's how Remani calls me) , but she was with you now". I didn't respond, and went in to her room. There she was, on her bed. I sat on the bed beside her.. She was looking very tired and weak. I asked her "What's wrong Uma ?".

"No.. Nothing Maamma.. I am not well" she told me in a weak tone. "Tell me what's wrong.. I'll get you the medicine.. Or, shall we go to a doctor ? " I was tensed.

"No..No.. I am alright.. I'll be Ok by tomorrow.. its like that everytime.." I got a clue. I smiled and looked at her dress. She was wearing a short paavada and shirt. ...  She tried to stop my hands.. and nodded her head. "Oh.. its no time to play Maamma.. This's the periodic ritual... I've my theendari.."

I said "OK.. take rest.. tell Remani to take care all.. . tell me when you are feeling better.." and I went out.

Yesterday, I had a lot of work in my office. Being busy for almost all the day, I couldnot keep a track of Uma, and her health. In the evening, I called Uma in her mobile (that's strictly for my private calls.. and is so confidential.. ). She said she is alright. I've asked her to instruct Remani to stay back, and be with Uma.

I reached home by 7.30 pm. Remani was in the sitout, and she did all the routines. Even before asking Remani, she said, with a smile (you know why !) "Uma is fine. She is taking her bath". I didn't respond to that clever comment, and went in to my room.

I've not told you about the Theendari. Theendari (തീണ്ടാരി) is the malayalam word for the monthly "Periods". Uma used to have her (theendari) periods regular, but she is very tired over those three or four days. ............

Ok..fine.. if she likes that, let it be so.. Isn't it ?

I've decided to take her to a doctor, for any possible solution to her tiredness and off-mood during those days.