Nestled amidst the picturesque Himalayan foothills lies the serene town of Kurseong, renowned for its myraid tea gardens. Among the many renowned estates, The Gupta Tea Estate stand out, a testament to the region's rich tea-growing heritage. The iconic estate is owned by the Mr. Mukul Gupta brothers. Om and Sohum his two sons, who despite sharing a common lineage, are poles apart in nature. Despite sharing a common lineage and upbringing, Om and Sohum are as different as night and day.

 Om and Sohum, born three years apart, were once inseparable companions, each other's confidante and source of support. Their academic pursuits were equally impressive, both excelling in their studies. While Om was a model of obedience and politeness, Sohum, as the youngest, was often indulged and pampered. His shortcomings were often overlooked by the family, and his philandering ways were a growing concern for their father. Despite his charm, Sohum's reputation as a playboy made him an undesirable suitor for many families, who were eager to offer their daughters' hands in marriage to the more reliable Om.

One evening, Sohum visited the Gupta Tea Estate, where he encountered a captivating young woman with jet-black, silky hair that cascaded down her well-toned hips. She was tending to a female worker who had injured herself while picking tea leaves. With her back towards the door, the young lady was applying a soothing ointment to the bruised area. "Hello, where is Munshi ji?" Sohum inquired. Without turning to face him, she replied, "He is at the plantation. You will find him there with the workers."

Intrigued by her presence, Sohum yearned to see her face and learn her identity. He couldn't recall having seen her before on his father's estate. Awaiting an opportunity to catch a glimpse of her, he remained patient, hoping she would turn around. However, the woman remained focused on tending to the injured worker, oblivious to his presence.

Sohum was consumed by curiosity about the mysterious woman. Afraid to ask his father, who would likely dismiss his inquiry, he knew he couldn't rely on Om for answers as he was currently in London pursuing business management. His parents, reluctant to have both sons leave at the same time, had planned for Sohum to travel after Om's return.

 Every evening, since their first encounter, Sohum would make the drive to the estate, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious woman. However, his efforts were consistently met with disappointment. One evening, on his return from the plantation, he saw Munshi ji, the plantation manager, walking towards his home. Offering a ride, Sohum seized the opportunity to inquire about the woman he had seen a few days earlier.

"Munshi ji, I saw a young lady in your office a few days ago. Do you know her? I haven't seen her since," Sohum asked cautiously.

"What is her name?" Munshi ji replied, curious.

"I don't know. I didn't see her face and couldn't ask. I only saw her from the back," Sohum confessed.

"Perhaps she's one of the female workers. We don't allow outsiders onto the plantation," Munshi ji explained.

The car pulled up to a charming white and blue gate. Munshi ji invited Sohum to join him for a cup of tea. Stepping into the modest abode, Sohum was greeted by a cozy living room with a wooden sofa and a bay window overlooking the lush green hills. A cool breeze wafted through the blue curtains, and the walls were adorned with wooden artifacts and an oil painting depicting a stormy ocean against a fiery orange backdrop.

Admiring the painting, Sohum asked who had created it. "Indu, my daughter," Munshi ji replied with pride. "She usually stays in the city, but she's visiting me for her vacation." Turning to his daughter in the other room, Munshi ji called out, "Indu, can you please bring two cups of tea for Sohum ji?"

A few minutes later, a young woman entered the room, carrying a tray of tea cups and cookies. "Meet my daughter Indu," Munshi ji introduced. "Namaste," Indu replied with a warm smile.

Sohum's heart raced as he recognized her voice immediately. "Oh! so it was you I saw the other day in Munshi ji's office," he exclaimed.

Indu blushed. "Sorry about that. I was giving first aid to a worker and was so focused. I didn't notice you."

Sohum had never encountered a woman like Indu before. She wasn't impressed by his charm or status, and this intrigued him even more. Her beauty, both inner and outer, captivated him. He realized that she wasn't someone to be trifled with and that he would need to approach her with sincerity and respect.

Meanwhile, Om had returned from London. A dashing adult, he was quickly learning the ropes of his father's business. His honesty, dedication, and polite demeanour won the hearts of his business associates and the plantation workers alike. Fathers of young girls lined up to offer their daughters' hands in marriage to Om, but he was uninterested. He sought a life partner who would be his equal in every way, someone who would complement him and not simply be a trophy wife.

Despite his deep love for his father, Om disagreed with the old man's authoritarian approach to managing the estate. His father was known as a taskmaster, demanding unwavering obedience and respect from the workers. Fear, rather than admiration, was the driving force behind the workers' loyalty. In stark contrast, Om's demeanor was gentle and calm. His kindness and humility endeared him to the workers, who respected and admired his approach.

Om observed that many of the female staff faced challenges in maintaining regular attendance due to their childcare responsibilities. The government school was located at a considerable distance, and public transportation options were limited. To address these issues and improve the quality of life for the plantation workers' children, Om proposed establishing a school on the estate. His benevolent initiative garnered widespread praise.

"Munshi ji," Om declared, "I need someone to manage the school and teach the children. While the school may not have many students initially, I envision it growing in popularity and attracting children from other plantations. I aim to make this school affordable for all workers. Do you have any recommendations for someone who could take on this responsibility?"

After some deliberation, Munshi ji replied hesitantly, "My daughter, Indu, is a teacher. She currently resides in the city but visits me during her vacations. If you're interested, I could arrange a meeting between you and her. You can interview her and determine if she's a suitable candidate."

Om nodded in agreement, instructing Munshi ji to schedule a meeting with Indu on her next visit.

Om was engrossed in a conversation with one of his customers when a knock interrupted his thoughts. "Who is it?" he inquired, his voice echoing through the closed door. "It's Indu," Munshi ji replied, gently pushing the door open.

"Ah, please come in," Om welcomed her warmly. He looked up to see Indu, her ethereal beauty accentuated by a simple pink cotton sari. Her jet black hair was neatly tied in a bun, framing her delicate features. The sari elegantly draped around her slender figure, highlighting her curves. With a graceful gesture, she extended her hand for a handshake, which Om accepted with a firm grip.

Om eagerly shared his plans for the school, expressing his desire to expand the institution beyond the primary level to offer higher secondary education. To achieve this ambitious goal, he emphasized the need for a dedicated team of teachers and support staff.

Under Indu's capable leadership, the once-dilapidated school building underwent a remarkable transformation. With careful planning and resource allocation, she oversaw the renovation of the single-story structure, breathing new life into the neglected space. The revitalized school, now named Nav Shiksha, became a beacon of hope for the local community.

Recognizing the importance of holistic development, Indu ensured that the school provided not only free education but also nutritious meals for its students. This comprehensive approach not only nurtured their minds but also addressed their basic needs. Om, who had initially been skeptical of Indu's abilities, was pleasantly surprised by her efficiency and dedication. Impressed by her innovative ideas and strategic thinking, he began to trust her instincts and value her opinions. Gradually, the formal employer-employee relationship between them evolved into a partnership rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to the school's success.

As they worked together to improve the school's facilities, curriculum, and overall well-being, Om and Indu found themselves developing a deep bond. They realized that their shared passion for education and their common goal of providing opportunities for the underprivileged had brought them closer together. Over time, their relationship transitioned from that of employer and employee to a deeper friendship.

During one of their meetings, Indu casually remarked to Om, "Your brother Sohum is so different from you." The comment caught Om off guard. "How do you know Sohum?" he asked, puzzled. "He's been abroad for higher studies for three years. He'll be back soon."

Indu replied, "No wonder I haven't seen him in so long. While you were in London, Sohum and I became acquainted. However, I was hesitant and uncomfortable with him, as we seemed to have little in common."

Om listened intently, his expression turning serious. He tried to explain his brother's behaviour, saying, "Sohum is a bit of a ladies' man, but his flirtatious ways are harmless." He paused for a moment, considering his words carefully. "He's always been like that, even when we were younger. He's just a bit of a charmer, you know?"

Indu nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I suppose so," she replied. "But I've always been more drawn to men who are sincere and genuine. Sohum's flirtatiousness often came across as superficial and insincere to me."

Om was taken aback by Indu's candid assessment of his brother. He had always assumed that women would be drawn to Sohum's charm, but Indu's perspective was a stark contrast to his own. He realized that he had perhaps been too lenient with his brother, overlooking his shortcomings in favour of his superficial qualities.

As they continued to discuss Sohum, Indu shared a few more anecdotes about their interactions. She described how Sohum had often made inappropriate comments or tried to flirt with her, despite her clear disinterest. Om felt a pang of guilt as he realized that his brother's behaviour was not harmless at all. It was disrespectful and insensitive, and he had been too quick to excuse it.

Indu's revelations forced Om to re-evaluate his relationship with Sohum. He realized that he had been blinded by his brotherly affection and had failed to see him for who he truly was. As Sohum's return date drew closer, Om knew that he would have to confront his brother about his behaviour and demand that he changes his ways.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Gupta household was abuzz with excitement as Sohum, the prodigal son, returned from completing his business management studies abroad. As the family's darling, Sohum had always been indulged and pampered, his shortcomings often overlooked. Even his elder brother, Om, had been drawn into the habit of spoiling him.

Sohum's life had been one of privilege and ease. He had never known the value of hard work or the importance of gratitude. Accustomed to getting whatever he desired, he had developed a sense of entitlement, believing that the world owed him everything.

Despite his numerous romantic conquests during his time abroad, Sohum couldn't shake the memory of Indu. Her straightforward and independent nature had made a lasting impression on him, etching a deep mark on his psyche. As he approached the Gupta Tea Estates, his thoughts were filled with anticipation and a touch of apprehension. He wondered how Indu would react to his return and whether she would still remember him.

To Sohum's delight, he discovered that Indu was staying with her father and overseeing the operations of the school, Nav Shiksha. Eager to surprise her, he drove to the school the following morning. Indu was taken aback by his unexpected visit, but she greeted him warmly, a genuine smile spreading across her face.

Sohum could sense a change in Indu. She had matured significantly, taking her responsibilities at the school very seriously. She praised Om for his noble gesture in opening the school, expressing her gratitude for his dedication and commitment.

As he listened to Indu’s words and praises for his brother, a pang of anger and jealousy surged through Sohum. He had always been the centre of attention, the one who received praise and admiration. Now, it seemed that his brother had stolen his thunder, earning Indu's respect and admiration.

He believed that his brother was too naive and that Indu was merely playing a game, manipulating both of them for her own benefit. Determined to disrupt their growing bond, Sohum decided to sow seeds of discord. He took the help of Aakash, the head of labour union to spread malicious rumours about Indu. Sohum gave all the details to Aakash telling him how Indu flirted with him when Om was in London. This news reached the ears of senior Mukul Gupta and he told Om to terminate Indu and if required his father as well. Om told his father that he should not believe in these rumours as he knows under whose behest these rumours are spreading.

The tension between Om and Sohum had reached a breaking point. The family, witnessing the growing rift between their sons, urged Om to distance himself from Indu. They sought to arrange marriages for him with respectable business families, but Om was adamant in his refusal. His heart belonged to Indu, but he was uncertain about her feelings for him.

One afternoon, during a casual lunch conversation, Om mustered the courage to ask Indu a question that had been weighing heavily on his mind. "Will you marry me?" he inquired, his voice barely audible.

Indu, caught off guard, nearly choked on her food. She initially thought she had misheard him, but Om's intense gaze, filled with sincerity and longing, made her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She replied softly, "Will your family accept me? And what about Sohum?"

Om remained silent for a moment, lost in thought. Finally, he spoke, his voice filled with determination. "I love you, and I want to spend my life with you. If you believe in me, leave everything to me. I'll sort things out."

Taking Indu's hand, he repeated his proposal, his eyes filled with hope and conviction. Indu nodded, her heart overflowing with love and joy. Om pulled her into his arms, planting a tender kiss on her lips.

The following day, Om confronted his father with the news of his impending marriage to Indu. He expressed his deep admiration for Indu, highlighting her passion and dedication to the welfare of the underprivileged. He emphasized that she was the perfect life partner, sharing his values and aspirations.

His father was furious, utterly rejecting the idea. "How could you even consider this?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disapproval. "She's nowhere near the caliber of the girls I've suggested. She doesn't have a degree from a prestigious international university. I'm sure she's brainwashed you into this. Once the honeymoon phase is over, you'll realize your mistake."

Om's temper flared. "Papa, I'm marrying her no matter what," he declared firmly. "This is my life, and I should be the one making decisions. Indu may not have an international degree, but she's incredibly qualified. Her ideas and dedication have made Nav Shiksha a renowned school. I hope one day you'll realize that judging people based on their wealth and education is not a true assessment of character."

With tears in his eyes, Om stormed out of the room, leaving his father stunned and speechless.

Sohum, sauntering into the living room, noticed the tense atmosphere. "What's the problem, bro?" he asked innocently, twirling his keychain.

Om turned to face his brother, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm marrying Indu, and Dad is against it. But I won't let anyone dictate my life."

Sohum whistled casually. "This is serious. Don't worry, I'll talk to Dad. Congratulations! so when and where are you getting married?"

Om appreciated his brother's genuine concern and shared his plans for a simple court marriage, attended only by Indu's family and a few close friends.

"Hey, am I not invited to the wedding?" Sohum asked, a playful grin spreading across his face.

Om's expression turned serious. "Not after what you did to tarnish Indu's reputation," he replied sternly.

Sohum remained silent for a moment, contemplating his actions. "I was just following Dad's orders," he explained softly. "I'm sorry about it. If you and Indu have no issues, I'd like to attend your wedding. It wouldn't look good if there were no attendees from our family."

Om's heart softened. "We have no issues," he replied, embracing his brother warmly. "You're most welcome."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The wedding ceremony was a simple affair, held at the district court. Sohum drove Om to the venue, where Indu and her family were already waiting. They signed the marriage certificate before the lawyer, their hearts filled with joy and anticipation. Om slid a gold band with a tiny sparkling stone onto Indu's ring finger, sealing their union. After exchanging rings and garlands, they headed to a lunch party that Sohum had arranged for the newlyweds and their guests.

As they left the party, Sohum turned to Om, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Let's go home. I'm sure Dad will forgive and accept you and Indu."

Once they arrived at the Gupta Tea Estates, the newlyweds went to seek their parents' blessings. To their shock, Om's father greeted them with a cold, unforgiving demeanour. "Since you could get married without our presence, you definitely don't need our blessings," he declared. "But because you're my son, I'm giving you your share of the estate. Take this and do whatever you want with it. However, don't use the name Gupta Tea Estates, as I've disinherited you. After me, Sohum will be the sole owner of this estate. I've also terminated Munshi ji from his duties, and all his dues will be settled in due course."

Om and Indu were stunned by their father's cruel words and actions. They realized that Sohum had tricked them, promising to speak with their father and resolve the issue. Maintaining their composure, Om took the envelope containing his share of the estate and, holding Indu's hand, walked out of his father's home, leaving behind a legacy of betrayal and heartbreak.

The division of the estate marked a turning point in the brothers' relationship, sowing the seeds of discord that would blossom into a bitter rivalry. Om, the elder brother, inherited a smaller estate. He named it Morning Glory, renowned for its delicate white tea. Sohum owned the sprawling estate known for its premium black tea and he named it Golden Brew.

As the years passed, the Gupta brothers' ambitions continued to fuel their competitive spirit. Om, despite his smaller estate, focused on cultivating a niche market for his high-quality white tea. His unwavering dedication and innovative approach led to significant growth and recognition. Additionally, he ventured into the education sector, with Indu at the helm of Nav Shiksha. Under her leadership, the school flourished, gaining a reputation for excellence. The government even offered Om the opportunity to establish branches in other tea-growing regions, acknowledging his contributions to education and sustainable development.

Mukul Gupta, witnessing Om's success, felt a pang of regret, realizing his mistake in judging Indu. However, his ego, as stubborn as an old oak tree, prevented him from acknowledging his error.

Meanwhile, Sohum, having inherited a larger estate and established reputation, squandered his resources on extravagant pursuits. His insatiable desire for pleasure led him to indulge in late-night parties, gambling, alcohol, and even risky racing. His lack of seriousness about the tea estate and his unprofitable investments resulted in a decline in his market value. His arrogant and carefree attitude alienated potential business partners and made him an undesirable suitor for respectable families.

Nearly four years had passed since Om had last seen or spoken to Sohum or his father. However, news of trouble at the Gupta Tea Estate reached his ears. One of the workers reported sighting Sohum hiding behind a crumbling wall in a narrow alley near the frozen creek. A mob, armed with batons and sticks, was in hot pursuit, their rage evident in their frenzied movements.

Upon hearing this disturbing news, Om considered reaching out to Sohum. However, memories of Sohum's betrayal flooded his mind, causing him to hesitate. The thought of extending a helping hand to someone who had caused him so much pain was a bitter pill to swallow.

After few months, on one wintery night while Indu tucked their son Mohit into bed and went to the study to meet Om, she saw someone with an umbrella running towards their portico. “Who can it be?” she wondered. The doorbell rang and Om went to open the door. Om said, “I’ll go, it must be Aakash. He had called to say that there is something important which he wants to share.” Indu looked surprised and slightly uncomfortable. “What has Aakash got to do with you?” she enquired. Without answering Om went to open the door and entered the room with Aakash in toe. Indu gave him a curt nod and they sat down. From being the union leader, he was now Sohum’s trusted confidante. He knew that Sohum had a misguided sense of entitlement but felt a deep loyalty to him.

“I have heard that the estate is not in good shape and Papa is also not keeping well,” Om asked with a concerned look. Aakash replied in a serious tone, “there is a strike and everyone is after Sohum’s life. His playboy image has finally caught up with him,” Aakash replied.

Aakash continued, “about a year back, a female staff by name Malti was in charge of the female workers welfare. She lived in the estate quarters and every evening Sohum would take her out. He flirted with her the way he did with Indu. But unlike Indu, she fell for his charms. They started spending more time with each other.  One day Sohum informed that he has terminated her and asked her to vacate the house. After few months, your father got a letter blackmailing him with photographs of Sohum and Malti, pressurizing him for their marriage. Your father questioned Sohum and he said that Malti was harassing him and hence he terminated her. As usual, Mr. Gupta believed his younger son and forgot about the matter. But as you know, there is no smoke without fire, a news started spreading that Malti was pregnant with Sohum’s child. Sohum refused to accept this. Malti’s family alleged that Sohum gave Malti good amount of money to abort the child. Her brother came and instigated few workers who were against Sohum and they started the strike. Your father tried his best to hush up the matter. We all thought that the matter got closed. However, about a month back, your father received a legal notice regarding Sohum’s arrest. Malti had committed suicide after giving birth to a baby girl and her family wants a DNA test to be conducted. They are planning to put the child in an orphanage. Hearing this news Mr. Gupta fell from the sky. He immediately called Sohum and questioned him. As usual Sohum claimed innocence, but this time your father gave Sohum an ultimatum as he was fed up with him. He told Sohum that if he has not done anything wrong, he should do the test to clear the family’s name. Sohum thought that Mr. Gupta would hush up the matter as before and bribe Malti’s family so that they withdraw their charges. Instead, Mr. Gupta said that if Sohum does not do the DNA test, then he would have to forgo his shares from the estate. Mr. Gupta would either give it to you or sell the estate to the highest bidder. Your father wanted me to convey this message to you before he decides.” Om and Indu were speechless on hearing this. They had a whiff, but was not aware that it was so serious. Om decided to meet and talk with his father the next morning.

The next day, Om went to meet his father alone. As he was driving through the long winding roads towards his house, he remembered his father’s harsh words and attitude when he went to seek his blessings after marriage. Brushing aside his thoughts, he entered through the gate and found his father waiting impatiently for him. “I am so proud of you Om,” was Mr. Gupta’s first sentence on seeing his estranged son. They both got emotional and hugged each other.

Mr. Gupta said, “I know I do not deserve forgiveness for what I have done and said to Indu. But, if possible, please forgive me. I always had high hopes from Sohum. I listened to him and gave you smaller share. I always ignored his mistakes and gave him preference over you and today I am facing the results of my action. I know Sohum is the father of that child and I have to face God someday. Please consult Indu and if she is willing, then please adopt the baby. I will think that I washed a part of Sohum’s sins, if I can give legitimacy to that unlucky soul. Also, I would like you to be the owner of the entire tea estate.” Mr. Gupta was speaking in between sobs. Om did not know how to react and he held his father tightly, consoling him like a child.

Om shared his father's desire to adopt the baby girl with Indu. Initially, Indu was hesitant, torn between her own desires and the complexities of adopting a child born out of such tragic circumstances. However, after careful consideration, she decided that they would adopt the baby.

She told Om, “We will adopt the baby. The baby is not at fault for the wrong doings of her parents.” Om’s chest swelled with pride on hearing Indu’s words. He held her close to his chest and kissed her head, whispering, “you make me fall deeply in love with you every time. I am so glad that I listened to my heart and married you.” Flirting with him, she said,” we always wanted a girl and destiny planned it differently for us.”

They got the baby home. It was a somber affair and Mr. Gupta came to bless the baby and express his gratitude towards Indu. He apologised to her for his misbehaviour. Mohit was happy to have a baby sister and he acted like a doting older brother. Mr. Gupta, also handed over his will, giving Om the complete charges of the tea estate. Mukul Gupta disinherited Sohum from all his property and also asked him to leave the house.

Sohum did not expect this from his father. He was terribly ridden with shame and guilt when he came to know that Om had adopted his daughter. He wanted to have a glimpse of her but could not muster enough courage to meet them. He sent Aakash to Om’s house to get a picture of the girl. Indu was furious on hearing this, “how dare he ask for her picture? He couldn’t be an ideal son, nor brother or a father. She is our daughter now and if he has the courage, he should come personally to see her.”

Aakash delivered this message to Sohum. After much contemplation, he went to their house. Om and Indu gave a cold welcome. On Indu’s lap was a baby girl. Chubby, fair skinned with dark brown eyes and soft tender curls. Sohum stretched his arms to take her. Her eyes resembled Malti’s. Taking her in his arms he wept inconsolably. He begged for forgiveness to Om and Indu and thanked him for adopting his child. He promised Indu that he would never come and meet them again.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Years rolled by and Sohum seemed to have vanished without any trace. The shadows of his past began to haunt him, as his so called friends avoided him like plague. Reduced to near penury, Sohum relied on occasional financial assistance from Om, who never met him in person.

 Sohum, now a shadow of his former self, had lost his charm and was prematurely aged. Years had passed since he had last visited this place, where he had once sought refuge from a frenzied mob. Today, Aakash brought him here. As he approached the creek, he saw the same dilapidated cottage, now even more decrepit than before. "I remember the precise moment, crawling behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the frozen creek," he thought. "That was a long time ago, but it's wrong what they say about the past. I have learned about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out."  

Lost in his thoughts, Sohum was startled by the sight of Om, Indu, and a young girl approaching him. "Meet our daughter, Tara," Om announced. "She turned eighteen, and we felt it was time to reveal the truth to her. We wanted her to hear it from us rather than from others. She has been eager to meet you, so we asked Aakash to bring you here. We didn't want to invite you home."

Tara looked at Sohum with a neutral expression. "Because of you, I got such wonderful parents," she said. Her words pierced his heart, leaving him staring at her with a blank expression. A chill ran down his spine. The events of his past were not as distant as he had thought. They haunted him every moment, no matter how deeply he buried them. The past, it seemed, could never truly be forgotten.