It was Holi, and little Manoj Behera was running around, playing with colors. His laughter filled the air. But suddenly, he tripped over a stone and fell. His knee got scraped, and he started crying.

His mother rushed to him and picked him up.
"Shh, beta," she said softly, holding him close. "It’s just a small wound. Maa is here." She kissed his forehead and wiped his tears. Slowly, his pain started to fade.
He felt safe in her arms.

Years later, things were different. There was no Holi, no laughter ~ only silence and blood.

pc. Manoj stood tall in his uniform. His body was covered in dust and blood. His left leg was burned badly, but he...