A Tale of Two Contests

A fictional narrative based on incidents from the childhood of Swami Vivekananda.

- GITANJALI MURARI

“Swarn didi,” Naren raced into the courtyard, “where are you?” Swarnmoyee came out of her room, “What’s the matter, Naren?” “There’s a needlework contest at the handicraft fair tomorrow…why don’t you participate?” Swarnmoyee’s face lit up, “I would love to!”

“There’s a boxing match too,” Naren grinned, “we both can try our luck.”

After breakfast the next day, brother and sister set out for the fair, the former swinging boxing gloves in one hand, the latter carrying needlework materials in a bag. Making their way past several stalls, they at last spotted the sign Needlework Contest For Young Ladies outside a large tent. “I’m a little nervous,” Swarnmoyee confessed after registering herself. Naren laughed, “You’ve got nothing to worry about, didi…I’ll see you as soon as my match finishes.”