A lot of things happen in life, both tragic and happy. At some point, the sun shines in the blue clear sky and we enjoy life with our loved ones without knowing the perilous adventures that await us in the future. But everything changes when dark and dense rain clouds gather in the blue sky.

We are now worried. We don’t laugh anymore. Instead, the playful smile on the face is replaced with waterlogged eyes and a sullen mouth, unable to react or speak.

Let me tell you about one such day, when things suddenly changed from bright and happy moments to gloom. It was our school’s Annual Day. All the students had smiles and a light of happiness on their faces. All were excitedly walking, talking, and having fun towards the end of a stressful year. The air was fresh and the warm environment made everyone feel welcomed.

There were children giggling and running, and students arguing over how to make things more fun. There was a sense of satisfaction in the air. Parents sat down with a rather proud look. The event went smoothly without any problems.

As the night progressed, the warmth of the day faded away, leaving only the cool of the twilight and the promise of a cold night. Soon the twilight disappeared, revealing a velvety dark sky. The night was as dark as ever, with various constellations and clusters of faint, bright lights scattered across the sky. The enchanting sky created an appealing and charming effect that could mesmerise anyone.

As my gaze fixed on the event, I couldn’t help but admire its splendour, aesthetically designed lamps, captivating scenery and students dressed modestly. Well-placed chairs added a formal look to the event where everything seemed sacred. Applause were heard as the students took to the stage turn by turn, to receive their due awards for their academic achievements.

The night went on peacefully until a sudden commotion took everyone’s eyes off the stage. Everyone was surprised and looked around involuntarily to see what the racket was all about. An unexpected sight was in front of our very eyes.

A fire had started because of a short circuit and soon after, the lights in the venue went out. The frightened and bewildered expression on each person’s face became covered by darkness.

Many panicked and everyone tried to flee, not knowing where the exit was. In an instant, the whole area was engulfed in flames, which became dangerously wild. A lot of people were gathering outside. Parents waited helplessly, crying and screaming, not knowing if their child was okay.

Amid the commotion and shouts, some threw water, some threw dust, and some put out fires with sticks and rods. The use of fire extinguishers was no exception. The lights in the school building had already shutdown.

It was a scary sight to see this place engulfed in flames. Meanwhile, someone had the sense to notify the fire department. The fire engine soon arrived at the scene of the fire. They did their best to control and put out the fire.

They fought hard and heroically. One firefighter was seriously injured in the fire and several others suffered burns and bruises. Some students trapped inside the school grounds were also rescued.

Eventually, the painful and tragic incident was over, and everyone survived. Some returned home safely, while others were unfortunately hospitalised.

I still feel heartbroken over this incident. I think life works that way. At one point, an incident that no one predicts occurs and life is turned upside down.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2022