Natpu

Parthiban was a great photographer. He took wonderful pictures which he displayed in several competitions and has won many awards. After winning an award recently, he was interviewed by a national news reporter. The reporter herself was a big fan of him and was interested to know about him. Parthi introduced himself and described his journey towards becoming a renowned photographer. Poomari's eyes were filled with awe, hearing it from him personally. She then asked him several questions for which he answered enthusiastically. She asked him what he was planning photograph next and his answer was "Probaby you". Upon hearing this, Poomari started blushing. She then asked him "You have taken a lot of pictures and no wonder they are great. But all of them are from within the urban environment. Have you thought about traveling to a forest or a mountain and capturing the wild?". Parthi stood mum for a while. He was both amazed about how well the reporter has researched him and also for asking about the one thing he wished he wasn't questioned about.

The reporter couldn't understand his silence and wasn't sure either if she had asked something offensive. But soon felt that he was uncomfortable and asked the cameras to stop recording. She decided to give a break and was also curious at the same time. So she went to him personally and asked him the reason. For the first time, he had opened up to her. Her assistant who was nearby eavesdropped their conversation. 

A week passed and Parthi's interview would be appearing in today's newspaper. He was all excited to read about himself. He took the newspaper and searched for his interview. Parthi was shocked reading the headline. Being unable to control his emotions, he called Poomari immediately. She too had seen it but promised him that it wasn't her. She assured him that she'll speak to the authorities and fix the online version. But the hardcopy would have already reached millions and nothing can be done about it.

It has been three years since then and Parthi had just received "Best wildlife photographer of the year" award. He was again being interviewed by another person. He knew what the first question would be and so it was. 

Reporter : Three years ago we read your interview on the newspaper titled "Parthi is afraid of the wild" and now you have received this award. What inspired you to overcome your fear and achieve this?

Parthi : After reading the newspaper I wanted to take the risk of going into the wild but I was still afraid. That's when Poomari decided to help me. She came with me to all the places until I had the confidence to go there alone. I dedicate this award to her and our friendship.  I now have the confidence to be in the wild by myself and to explore new places. 

P.S - We may not always have the ability to overcome our fears/insecurities but friendship always does !!!