Bhootbaba and Baalushahi

For his summer break, Cheeku rabbit went to his grandfather's place in Boongidhar, located in the Garhwal hills. There, he befriended Blacky bear.

- Kumud Kumar

One day, Blacky took Cheeku down a winding path along the hillside. They crossed an iron bridge built over a river. And just up a little hill was a sweet shop. “Cheeku, all the sweets here are fresh. Jena fox makes fresh baalushahi, jalebi and shakkar pare every day. Today, I'll treat you to some baalushahi,” said Blacky.

As soon as Cheeku tasted the baalushahi, he exclaimed, “Wow! Blacky, the baalushahi tastes amazing. I love it!”

“It's made from pure desi ghee. Not only are they delicious, but they're also great for your health,” Blacky said, flexing his strong muscles.

“Wow, Blacky! Then I must eat lots of baalushahi made from desi ghee,” Cheeku said with a laugh.

Cheeku ate to his heart's content, but his craving was still not satisfied.

The next morning, Cheeku wanted baalushahi again. He went to Blacky's house, but Blacky had gone to work in his terraced fields. Now what was Cheeku to do? Cheeku decided to go eat baalushahi on his own, and so, without telling anyone, he left.

He noticed that even though it was peak summer, this morning the hills were covered with dense clouds. Some clouds had even descended into the valley. Still, he couldn’t resist the temptation of the baalushahi, so he kept going.

As soon as he began his descent, it started drizzling. By the time he reached halfway down, strong winds brought heavy rain. Lightning flashed and thunder roared. Now what would Cheeku do?

He spotted a cave ahead. Cheeku thought the only way to escape the rain was to take shelter inside.

As soon as Cheeku entered the cave, he screamed at what he saw, “Ah... eee... eee... a g-g-g-ghost?”

He tried to run but fainted out of fear. When he regained consciousness, he hesitantly opened one eye and saw the ghost taking care of him.

Cheeku shut his eyes again in fear. His heart was pounding wildly. By now, he had completely forgotten about the baalushahi.