When A Superstar Commits Suicide

By Pragya Roy

"Superstar Akash Mallik has committed suicide. His body was found unresponsive by his manager this morning. It is being suspected that he died by drug overdose...but we can only confirm that after an autopsy. For now the biggest breaking news is that the Superstar Akash Mallik has passed away at 33........."

The news was flashing on the Television spreading a wave of discomfort to the entire household, who were chaotic just a minute ago living by their excessively normal day. The Mother, the 28 year old son, the 21 year old daughter along with the house-help in her late 30s had their eyes glued to the screen watching the news, as every other day before getting on with their respective works.

"Duniya bhar ka paisa, phir bhi aatmahatya" the house-help comments as she chuckles not so sadly.

"Money is not everything Didi, bahot takleef mein raha hoga" the 28 year old interjects.

"Still Bhaiya...this is plain stupidity. He had such great career, had family and friends. He could have just gone to anyone with his problems and if family is not understanding enough, he could go to a professional therapist. They are literally equipped and trained to deal with people like him. So much money, he could have gotten best of the treatments and help." The girl looks towards her brother as she finishes and is taken aback seeing a few tears in his eyes. She gestures towards her Mother who notices that as well and switches off the Television.

"Lets not watch all this early morning...Anand beta don't overthink. He will be in a better place now."

Anand nods as a few tears scroll down his cheeks and he hides his face wiping those tears away. The entire household was aware of Anand's sensitivity so they couldn't let him be alone, Maanvi moves a bit on the sofa and hugs her brother lightly, caressing his head as lovingly as she could. Anand's sobs only got worse as he kept mumbling something inaudible.

"Babu kya hua? Aise nai karte na. I will pray for his soul during my puja. He will be in a better place now."

Anand shakes his head in denial as he forms words through his sobs "I feel...so guilty. I...I watched his inter...interview last night. And I...I.. I was feeling so jea..jealous of him. He sounded so smart, so well versed and had so many dreams. I was so envious and wanted his life.." He bursts out crying as his mother hugs him letting out a tiny tear herself.

By Pragya Roy