He is my sir”

                 

My short story no 2

  “He is my sir”

Author -;

Prof. Dr.Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, WBMES (Retired) Ex Retired Professor,and Head Dept. of Pathology department, Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine, 108,C.R.Avenue, Kolkata -700073, West Bengal, india

Department of Health and Family Welfare (WBMES wing), Government of West Bengal

Equivalent officiating Rank ,he was retired -: "Special Secretary " to the Government of West Bengal

Post retirement posts he served -:

Ex- Principal / Dean of JMN Medical College, JMN Educational and Research Foundation, UttarPanchpota, Chakdaha, District- Ranaghat ,West Bengal, India, pin 741222 (now under 1rst LOI of NMC New Delhi ; affiliation with WBUHS)

 Ex Professor and Head of Pathology Department JIS School of Medical Sciences and Research ( under JIS University , Nilgange, Agarpara, 24 parganas North ) jagacha 

santragachi, Howrah District, West Bengal pin 7111302( under 1rst LOP of recognition of NMC, New Delhi)

At present ( since 19.12.2023 to till date)

Present Principal / Dean of Krishnanagar Institute of Medical Sciences , Bhatjangla, Palpara more , Krishnanagar, District -Nadia, West Bengal , India 741101( a upcoming UG private company Medical College under WBUHS affiliation) 

Kim krishnanagar@gmail.com

Email profpkb@yahoo.co.in

prof.pranab@Gmail.com (lessused)

Copy right 

Belongs primarily to Prof. Dr. Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya under strict Copyright acts and laws of Intellectual Property Rights of World Intellectual Property Rights organisations ( WIPO) , RDF copyright rights acts and laws and PIP copyright acts of USA 2012 where Prof Dr Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya is a registered member . Please Don't try ever to infringe the copyright of the manuscript to protect yourself from criminal offences suit file in court of law in any places of india and by civil law for compensation in few millions US dollar or in pounds or in Euro in any court of laws

                     He is my sir”

In the heart of Krishnanagar City, West Bengal , a new private Medical college was blossoming from 2023, its walls still fresh and the scent of paint lingering in the air. The responsibility lied with Debraj an Mtech and Mr Suprakas . There are others: Souvik, Nishan , Rajesh, krishnendu, ushashi, swadhin ,som, soumya, koyel, Supriya , sayandip and many vibrant youths contributing in different executive posts. The Morning sun streamed through the small windows of the Human Resources department, casting a warm glow over a cluttered desk piled high with papers. Ankhana celebrated 39 birthdays, known popularly as “Ankhi “ to her colleagues, sat there in the HR manager chair , tapping her pen against her notepad. Her brow furrowed in serious concentration, she was an imposing, dominating figure in her tailored suit, exuding as if an air of suprimo authority that was both respected and same was feared by subordinate staffs of the institute 

 _“Madam, do you have a moment?” Riya, a junior HR staff member, peeked in hesitantly.

 _“Make it quick, Riya,” Ankhi replied, her tone crisp. “I’ve got a meeting with the new appointed CEO at one Pm.”

 Riya shuffled so nervously at her pitch. “I just wanted to discuss the onboarding process for the new facultIes I think we might need—”

 _“Need? Oh Riya ! We need more efficiency, not more paperwork,” Ankhi interrupted, her voice rising slightly. “We can’t have delays. Get it sorted out.”Her voice sharpened," What is Krishnendu doing here now? Has he completed the salary sheet of this month for staff and faculties? .

 Riya nodded and retreated, leaving Ankhi to her thoughts. She glanced at the clock, feeling a ripple of anxiety. The new CEO, Pinak, was known for his aggressive strategies to bring his faculties and staffs here and a conspiracy going for displacing her chair too, and Ankhi had already clashed with him with her strong ego and her disrespect over the directions he wanted to take the college.

 “Knock, knock!” came a jovial voice, cutting through her thoughts.

 Professor Falgun, the first appointed principal of this medical college, from December 2023, entered the room with a warm smile on his lip ‘ “Good morning all! Hope everyone and everything is going frantastic “ His presence was always a welcome distraction for Ankhi. He stood 5 feet 1 Inch , a bit short, lean structured, very simply dressed with, his silver hair framing a kind face that held much wisdom and patience.He is a world famous scientist won 09 university medals, 16 Lifetime achievement awards and 23 others awards with CV of 89 pages -a famous pathologist in abroad and national besed a well-known teacher at doctora level in pathology , but a toughest examiner too .

 _“Welcome sir, & good morning!” Ankhi stood up from her chair, adopting a more congenial tone. “Just the person I needed to see right now.”

 _“Is that so?” “why? “he replied, leaning casually against the doorframe. “I thought you were too busy with your ‘efficiency’ plans.in fact you are always busy with your works for faculties appointment ,position, attendance here “

 Ankhi felt a red blush creep up her cheeks. _“I’m managing sir. Just dealing with some… personnel issues.”

 _“You mean with Pinak our new CEO ?” Professor Falgun raised an eyebrow.

 _“Precisely sir. He’s already trying to impose his wrong ideas and strategy without consulting me at all. It’s infuriating! Is that not sir? ” Ankhi ran a hand through her hair,a sense of frustration bubbling beneath her composed exterior.

 _“Have you talked to him about it?” Falgun asked, tilting his head slightly. “A conversation might help ease the tension.and situation”

 _“Talk with him sir?” never sit? I shall talk with that idiot, you mean it so sir knowing everything he joined? Ankhi scoffed. “He has no respect for the HR department. Not for me .He sees me as an obstacle to his plans. The institute will suffer in the future one day. I predicted that and you remained blind to him.you adore him sir?

 _“That’s not true madam,” Falgun said gently. “You’re of course a vital pillar of this institution. But you have to meet him halfway. You can’t expect him to understand your perspective if you don’t share it.”

 Ankhi sighed, her shoulders slumping. “I suppose. It’s just… I don’t want to lose my control for that stupid person. He is Ravana.I should slap two people here if I could . Him and his right hand krishnendu. They are against me to management and complaining always”

 Falgun stepped closer and sat on a chair, his voice low and reassuring._ “You won’t lose control, Ankhi madam. You have more power than you realise. Just remember why we’re all here—”

 _“To provide the best education for our students,” Ankhi finished, a spark of determination igniting within her.

 _“Exactly.” Falgun smiled, a warm glow enveloping the room. “Now, about that meeting…”

 As the two of them walked down the corridor, Ankhi’s mind raced. She admired always Falgun’s easy confidence; he was the kind of man as leader who inspired her work, loyalty by constant appreciation and by submitting him to her. The thought of confessing her feelings—more than admiration—twisted her stomach. But she couldn’t afford distractions, not with the stakes so high.

 One pm in the conference room. “Good afternoon, everyone!” Pinak’s voice boomed as he entered the room, cutting through the camaraderie. His presence was always commanding, and everyone straightened in their seats. “I hope you’re ready to make some changes around here.”

 _“Changes? What changes? ” Ankhi muttered under her breath.she can't tolerate Pinak as CEO of this medical college.Neither Pinaks voice 

 _“Let’s start with the faculty. I’ve been reviewing your current staff, and I believe we need to bring in more ‘qualified’ dedicated permanent individuals than ghosts and guests. Those who can elevate our institution,” Pinaki continued, fixing his gaze on HR manager Ankhi.

 _“Qualified?” she shot back, her voice steady despite the fire in her belly. “Are you suggesting our current faculty lack competence as per NMC criteria I recruited? You're Insulting my capability as HR ”

 Pinak shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips. “I always believe in progress dear madam. Sometimes that means making tough decisions madam and I as CEO don't need your nods here for the benefits of the institution do I.? ”I am in a hig hierarchy madam here. 

 Ankhi clenched her fists under the table, her heart pounded in her chest. “And what about the existing dynamics? You can’t just uproot everything without considering the impact it will have on NMC nods , on our students and staff.”

 _“Enough with the emotional appeals, Ankhi madam ,” he countered, his tone dismissive. “This is about results.”

 _“Results require collaboration,” Falgun interjected, his voice calm yet firm. “Madam Ankhi is more or less the right pinak. This college thrives on teamwork. We can’t afford to alienate our faculty.”

 Pinak’s expression hardened. _“You’re both too attached to the old ways sir. It’s time to adapt or be left behind.”

 As the discussion escalated, Ankhi felt the walls closing in. She glanced at principal Falgun, who remained composed, but she could sense his concern. The meeting ended with unresolved tension, leaving Ankhi seething.

 Later that evening, she found herself wandering the college grounds, the sun setting in vibrant hues of orange and pink. She paused by the fountain, its water bubbling softly. The serenity was a stark contrast to her inner turmoil.

 _“Ankhi madam?” Falgun’s voice broke through her reverie.

 She turned, surprised to see him there. _“I didn’t expect you to be here sir.”

 “I needed some fresh air too. You looked troubled in the meeting,” he said, concern etched on his face.

 _“It’s CEO sir and his conspiracy to force me to resign here. He doesn’t see the bigger picture. He thinks he can just impose his will without understanding the consequences,” Ankhi confessed, her voice trembling slightly.

 Falgun stepped closer, his presence calming to ankhi. “You’re passionate about this place. That’s admirable.”

 _“Passionate? Fooh !More stubborn,” she replied, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. “I don’t want to let anyone walk all over me.or I shall resign I am here just for your words sake. I have such good offers outside this state . Moreover, the environment here is toxic. people here are toxic and krishnanagar weather doesn't suit my health”

 _“Stubbornness can be a strength,” Falgun said thoughtfully. “But you must choose your battles wisely. Sometimes, it’s better to negotiate than to fight. you both want to do justice for this institute? I think you must not be dominating overwhelming power and not feudal “ must not be like Merry Turner of book “Grass is singing “ of Dorris lessing 

 Ankhi looked up at him, her heart racing. _“And what if I can’t negotiate with him ? What if I have to fight with him? And what if I like MrsTurner? ”

 “Then okay, you fight, but at least do it with dignity,” he encouraged. “You’ve got this, Ankhi madam. I believed in you always respectfully and I mean it”

 His words hit her with an unexpected force, igniting a flicker of hope. _“You really think of me so sir ? you respect me, sir? It is enough for my life”

 _“I know so. You’re stronger than you realise,” Falgun assured her, his gaze unwavering.

 Just then, the sound of laughter echoed from the nearby cafeteria, drawing their attention. Students were gathering, the atmosphere vibrant and carefree.

 _“Let’s join them madam,” Falgun suggested, a smile breaking across his face.

 Ankhi hesitated, her mind still tangled in thoughts of Pinak -a Ravana to her . But Falgun’s warmth was too infectious for her . Why was it so? She could not solve this trigonometric formula. She loves her husband too. Why was Falgun then always infectious to her. That's not healthy. “Alright, sir just for a moment.”

 As they walked towards the noise, Ankhi felt lighter in Head. Surrounded by laughter and camaraderie, she could almost forget the mounting pressure.

 “Ankhi madam ! Principal sir !” a voice called out. It was Riya , krishnendu ,pritam ,som debraj usashi ajoy mithun , waving them over. “Join us!”

 They sat together, the air filled with playful banter and teasing. Ankhi found herself laughing, the sound of her laughing bright and unrestrained. For a moment, the weight of her responsibilities faded away.

 _“See? This is what it’s all about,” Falgun said, leaning back in his chair, his eyes sparkling with joy.

 _“Maybe you’re right,sir ” Ankhi admitted, a smile lingering on her lips._ “But once I get back to work table, I’ll need to strategise.”

Falgun chuckled, “Always the strategist!””After all you are a woman, madam. don't ignore nature” a woman must be like women - not a man “

As the night wore on and the laughter continued, Ankhi felt a sense of belonging that had eluded her for so long. She had fought against her own emotions, her fears, her insecurity, her stability,her loneliness in the flat and now, perhaps, she could learn to embrace them. Is she suffering from short of Panic or anxiety disorders with insomnia here? 

 “Ankhi Madam!” Pinak’s voice cut through the merriment, his presence looming like a dark cloud to ankhi . “We need to discuss the faculty changes again.”

 ,_“Now? Are you a stupid ? ” Ankhi asked, annoyance creeping in. “Can’t it wait until next morning?”

 “No,” he replied firmly. “It’s time to make decisions.”

 Ankhi looked at the principal Falgun, seeking for her support. He nodded subtly, his expression encouraging. “You can handle this,” he mouthed.

 Taking a deep breath, Ankhi stood up. “Fine, let’s talk.”

 In the dimly lit corridor, Ankhi faced Pinaki. _“You CEO sir need to understand that drastic changes will create instability for the institute. Our faculty has worked hard to build a cohesive team.”

 _“And that’s precisely why we need to shake things up,” Pinaki insisted, crossing his arms. “You’re too emotionally attached.and sticking to single”

 _“I’m attached because I care about this institution,” Ankhi shot back, her voice was firm. _“You’re thinking purely in terms of numbers. It’s about more than that.”

 _“Numbers translate towards success madam,” he replied, his tone condescending.

 _“Success is built on trust, respect” she countered, feeling the heat of the argument rising. _“If you alienate our staff, you’ll lose their loyalty. That’s not a recipe for success.”

 Pinak’s expression hardened, but Ankhi pressed on._ “You can’t just bulldoze through this. You need to listen to the people who work here. I won’t let you ignore their voices.”

 An awkward silence settled between them, tension crackling in the air. _“I’m not here to be liked,and ignored by HR ” Pinak said finally.

 _“No one is asking you to be liked,” Ankhi replied, her heart racing. “But if you want to lead effectively, you need to earn their respect too”

 Pinaki narrowed his eyes, but there was a flicker of uncertainty. _“I’ll consider your perspective.andI am much respectful here rather you're not madam . Ask any one ”

 _“Good. That’s all from you? I shall ask,” Ankhi said, relief flooding her. “We’re in this together. Let’s work on a plan that serves everyone.”

 As she walked away, the weight of heaviness on her chest began to fill again . She had stood her ground, and for the first time, she felt a sense of empowerment over. 

 Returning to principal Falgun, she found him waiting with a proud smile. “Well done, madam Ankhi. You stood your ground.”

 “I’m learning from you the best,” she replied, her heart swelling. “Thank you for always believing in and in favour of me.”

 _“Always,” he said softly, his eyes warm. “Remember, it’s okay to be vulnerable. We’re all human.”

 As the night deepened, Ankhi felt a growing connection to Falgun, a bond forged in shared struggles and triumphs. Perhaps, in navigating this complex landscape of power dynamics and hidden emotions in her, she could also find the courage to embrace her feelings for him.

 In the days that followed, Ankhi faced challenges with renewed vigour. Conversations with Pinak became less confrontational, evolving into constructive discussions. Each small victory built her confidence, and with Falgun’s encouragement, she began to forge alliances among the faculty.

 On a particularly busy afternoon, she found herself in the staff room with Riya and the other HR colleagues. The air was filled with camaraderie, laughter bouncing off the walls.

 “I can’t believe how far we’ve come,” Riya said, grinning. “You really took charge with Pinak madam!”” Director told him to ask you first what changes he wants to do for the college. It means you know it Madam….?

_“Yes it means I am suprimo here. “It’s all about finding common ground too,” Ankhi replied, her heart swelling now with pride. “And listening to each other.”

“Speaking of listening, have you thought about talking to principal Falgun?” Riya nudged playfully.

 Ankhi’s heart suddenly skipped a beat. “What do you mean by that?”

 “Oh, come on madam, “ Riya smiled. “He may have just a soft spot for you .But he considers you as her little daughter, a children's wish is that not madam? You two have a connection!”

 Ankhi felt her cheeks a bit flushed now; she quickly changed the subject, but the seed of a possibility had been planted much before in ankhi. As the days turned into weeks, she found herself waiting at sir Falgun, dominating him on his control of blood sugar ,smoking cigarettes, mixing with Pinaki, krishnendu, their conversations growing deeper, more personal, on universe on particle physics on nobel literature and sometimes political with TMC 

 One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the college, Falgun approached her outside the building. “Ankhi, are you free for a moment?”

 _“Of course sir,” she replied, her heart a bit racing for nothing. what she was expecting from him? 

 _“I wanted to discuss the upcoming faculty meeting agenda,” he said, but there was a hesitation in his voice.Ankhi frustrated .what an unromantic person this old man is? Nonsense? Is it time for fixing the agenda of faculty meetings?!

 _“Is something that is bothering you right now sir ?” Ankhi asked, sensing the heaviness on her chest choking in her vocal cords

 “It’s just… I appreciate your dedication. You’ve been a stabilising force here,” he admitted, his gaze intense. Okay okay maybe later “But I wonder if you’re also taking care of yourself.”

Ankhi blinked, taken aback. “I’m fine,sir really.” ankhi first time wear a colour full saree for him and he didn't appreciate it even 

_“Are you?” Falgun stood behind her. “You’ve been under a lot of pressure. Is that not? ”

_“I can handle it sir,” she assured him, but the sincerity in his eyes made her pause. “But there’s something I need to address.”

_“What is it?” he asked, leaning closer.

Taking a deep breath, Ankhi gathered her thoughts. “I’ve been so focused on the college, on loyalty to company, loyal to employers and on proving myself… I haven’t really acknowledged what’s been growing between us.if at all ”

“Between us? truly ? What's growing on ankhi? I hope it's nothing at all ” Falgun’s eyes widened slightly, a flicker of hope igniting within them? .

 

“Yes,sir ” Ankhi said, her voice steady . “I care much about you here, is that not sir? . More than I realised.”

 Falgun’s expression softened, a smile breaking through. “I’ve probably felt the same way, but I didn’t want to overstep that . You are like my daughter Ankhi. She is 23 and you are 39. That's the difference. you are like a child but a good hearted lady.that's all to me

 _Ankhi felt a rush of sudden break wash over her. “So, what do we do about it? You didn't ever feel love for any lady sir? Can't you feel that sir? And you say you respect much all ladies! 

_ Me? Falgun smiled on his black thick lips pigmented with tobacco spots. Ignited a cigarette with a match stick .Who cared for a