Subhash Mitra

Subhash is 13, and older than his brother by 15 months. Despite that, his sense of personal identity is tied to Udayan and without him, Subhash feels incomplete. Subhash is like his brother in many ways. They are the same size, sharing clothing with each other; have the same complexion and hair. Subhash has always been the kind of child who didn't stray far from his parents. He enjoys his mother’s company, watching as she cooks or embroiders, and helps his father to plant vibrant dahlias in courtyard pots. The times Subhash enjoys most are the times that he is by himself. He also enjoys solitary pursuits like collecting insects so that he can watch them under a screened dome or searching for frogs. When company came, or relatives visited, he was quiet and withdrawn. Subhash wonders if his parents see his lack of creativity as a failing...