In Leh, Ladakh, there is a beautiful airport surrounded by picturesque mountains. It feels as if the mountains change their colors with every season, painting a different picture each time you visit.
Among the aircraft that rested there stood Vayu, a magnificent airplane which is the biggest and most admired at the airport. Everyone treated him with special care.
But before every flight, Vayu was always towed to the runway by Bheema, a sturdy little tug vehicle. Over time, the two developed a quiet, warm friendship. Bheema would ask Vayu about his day, and Vayu always had interesting stories to share. About clouds, thunder, and far-away places.
 |
| Bheema tows Vayu to the runway. |
Through those stories, Bheema felt alive. He couldn’t fly, but listening to Vayu’s adventures was the next best thing. Still, somewhere deep inside, he felt a tiny pinch of jealousy.
“Even though Vayu has wheels of his own, he must be towed by me,” Bheema thought with a sigh. “He only moves when there’s something really important to do."
One morning, Vayu shared a fascinating experience of how he had traveled through lightning. Bheema, on hearing it, was mesmerized. He had always wanted to fly... to face new challenges every day.
“You are the lucky, chosen one” Bheema said softly. “You get to live your dreams.”
Another day, Vayu had just escaped a collision with a bird. He was thrilled to tell Bheema how he managed to come out unhurt from the close call. Bheema’s eyes widened as he listened to the fascinating story.
After a few days, Vayu had just landed at the airport. He was too tired from flying back-to-back and wanted some rest.
Bheema rolled up and asked gently, “How was your day?”
Vayu sighed, “Can we talk later? I'm too tired and need some rest.”
“Sure,” Bheema replied softly. “Sorry for troubling you.”
Vayu was then towed to the hangar for servicing and rest.
In the absence of Vayu’s stories, an emptiness settled within Bheema.
Though Bheema felt restless, he chose to respect Vayu’s silence.
At noon, while Vayu was in the hangar, Bheema slowly approached him. Vayu opened up about how hectic his schedule had been and how tired he still felt, even after resting.
While they were conversing, a sudden, massive tremor shook the ground. Both Vayu and Bheema panicked.
“Wait, let me check what it is,” Bheema said, trying to stay calm.
A massive earthquake had triggered a boulder to roll freely.
Bheema rushed out of the hangar and saw a massive boulder rolling toward the airport. He hurried back to Vayu.
“Vayu, we need to get out of here, there’s not much time left! Take reverse, pick me up and fly us out of here. Please save me, my friend!”
“I can’t go back; you need to pull me” exclaimed Vayu.
“What?! Are you kidding me? Are you expecting me to pull you back even now, when our lives are in danger?” Bheema screamed.
“I’m not lying… I don’t have a reverse option,” said Vayu helplessly.
Immediately, Bheema sprang into action. He pulled Vayu out just in time, saving him with the boulder only centimeters away.
Vayu looked at Bheema with deep gratitude. “Thank you for saving my life,” he said softly.
For the first time, Bheema felt truly proud of himself. He was happy that he had saved The Vayu’s life.
Even though he couldn’t fly, he could move forward and backward—he didn’t have to depend on anyone for his movement. That, in itself, was something to be proud of.
Now, for the first time, Bheema had a story of his own—one of courage, presence of mind, and a friendship worth fighting for.
For the first time, he felt the breeze on his face—not just from movement, but from joy. He was proud of himself and quietly cherished the moment.
The next day, for the first time, Vayu asked, “How was your day, Bheema?”
Bheema smiled wide. It wasn’t just a question—it was a sign that he mattered.
Comments
Post a Comment