Some of the stars were once here, some of them are still here, and the wardens say some of them may come here anytime.I am Dileep and I have confessions to make. I am not an actor. But I am linked to films like the hundreds of my brethren who rush into the 'theaters of war' on release days to secure a first-day, first-show seat. The balconied ones call me a front-row yob. I give them two hoots. To say that I love films is an understatement. I admire films, the heroes and the astonishingly lavish settings. I am deeply in love with the tremblingly thin heroines who can hide behind a straight line or a lamppost.
I am unkind to those who try to get my vantage place in the queues to secure tickets. We trade punches, as the practice is, and I mostly win. Regulars know the prowess of our gang and they usually don't meddle. They are used to our superiority. Novices try out their luck, mostly ending up in hospitals. The police do pick us up, especially when the theater guys call them in. But, after all, life is a boxing ring where everyone is a Mike Tyson. You punch hard to survive.
Now, I am in here. Many others are in here too. It is generally fine here. There is a film screening every week and you have an assured front-row seat. There is no scuffle for tickets. In a way, I am starting to like this, especially this weekly cinema show. Some of the stars were once here, some of them are still here, and the wardens say some of them may come here anytime. Anyhow, it is as exciting as it gets. It would be great to share cell-space with a star.
Stars are good people as against popular misconception, the senior prisoners say. They simply shine down on you. It is my wish to share cell-space with a star, for it was my childhood dream to share screen space with one. I go to the Vinayaka temple on the prison premises to pray for that day to come. The rules forbid us from cracking coconuts to propitiate the gods. These rules are insane. So, I have asked my folks back home to crack coconuts for me.
The cracking of coconuts will swing divine will in my favor. This will cause an alignment in the celestial realm. My lowly stars will align with that of the lucky stars of an actual star. This will pave way for the cell-share meeting I have been dreaming of for years. I like my stars, both celestial and real life.
Also to say, this cell here is a wonderful place to think up something. Cell phones are not allowed though some sneak it in. But I prefer it without cell phones and Internet. You can contemplate your next move in peace. You get your food in time. I should say my best thoughts come to me in solitary confinement. Trust me.
(This is a work of fiction that is loosely based on 'real' events)
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