By Sandeep Hattangadi

Sagar and Sangeeta were a happy couple with two kids, 8-Year-old Pradeep and 5 years old Deepa. Sagar was employed in an MNC as a marketing executive and Sangeeta was working as a supervisor in a BPO. Things were rosy for them until Sangeeta was selected to go to the US as a promotion transfer which meant more salary and more perks and the opportunity to work in New York.

 The HR chief of Sangeeta’s BPO called her to his cabin and said, “Yes. Sangeeta. I hope you take this opportunity and let me tell you many of the staff members are in contention for this opportunity. I am most happy for you.” Sangeeta says with emotion, “Sir, I thank you for this golden opportunity but I would like to discuss it with my husband. I am more than eager for this promotion but I have to think about my husband and kids who are growing up,” The Chief gets up and says, “Well Sangeeta, it’s your call after all. We are giving you a Five-year visa which is a godsend for any employee.”

Sangeeta thanks her chief and comes out of the cabin with an unsure visage. The other staff starts to compliment Sangeeta and Sangeeta is overjoyed with attention. But she is wary of Sagar’s reaction to her promotion. Sangeeta rushes home and picks up the kids from the crèche and starts to make an elaborate dinner and especially delicacies which Sagar likes. Sagar comes home and Sangeeta finds him in a good mood and after dinner, she broaches the topic of her promotion.

Sagar is happy for her but he is disturbed as to who will look after their kids. Sagar says, “Congratulations Sangeeta! You are riding the corporate ladder and sky is the limit for you! But the kids are small and who will look after them when you are not here. Actually, we are financially stable too and we don’t need your salary to run our home.” Sangeeta replies, “Yes. Sagar what you are saying is right. But even I have my own plans, my own dreams, my own ambitions and I feel that this is the best opportunity we can have,” Sagar says desolately, “But what about the kids, what about their education, what about their upbringing?”

Sangeeta says defensively, “Look Sagar we can give the best for our kids with my job. As for their upbringing, I can call my mother and sister to look after my kids. They will raise them like their own children.” Sagar agitatedly replies, “No this is wrong Sangeeta. We can’t let other people raise our children,” Sangeeta calmly replies, “My mother and sister is not “other” people. They are my own flesh and blood.” Sagar angrily,” I can’t let you take this promotion whatever the cost.” Sangeeta says, “I know Sagar, You are jealous of my success. You can’t see your wife coming up in the hierarchy. You are a male chauvinist.”

Sagar says angrily, “Whatever! If you want this promotion I need a divorce from you and the custody of the kids.” Sangeeta pleads, “Come on Sagar, consider a good thought over the issue and then make a decision.” Sagar resignedly, “I have taken a decision and I need a divorce.” Sangeeta, “Ok! So be it.”

Sagar, “Bon Voyage Sangeeta!”