The Promise

Once upon a time, I used to watch cricket matches with my sister and parents. Not that I cared about cricket—I didn’t understand the rules, didn’t know the players, and definitely didn’t think of who won or lost. What I did care about were the ads. Those colorful, creative, little gems that came between overs. I would wait for them with wide eyes and an eager smile.

One day, India was on the brink of losing a match. Everyone looked tense, especially my sister. She suddenly looked up, joined her hands, and whispered, “Oh God, please make India win—I will give you 10 paisa.” Just like that. Ten paisa! I stared at her, shocked.

And then, as if "He" were listening… India won.

I couldn’t believe it. A mere 10 paisa offering, and God actually listened?

That night, I lay in bed thinking. All this time, whenever our father scolded us, I used to make serious deals with God. “Please God, save me from Dad’s anger—I’ll give you 5 rupees!” Five whole rupees! And here was my sister, getting divine intervention for a fraction of that!

Over time, guilt crept in because I didn’t have much money—just a tiny piggy bank, with a clinking of coins. I had been offering more than I could afford.

Years later, I shaped its hands, sculpted small, held the innocence of a moment long gone. I chose a soft beige to reflect the simplicity of it all.

The art work represents the memory, the simplicity, the laughter, the bargains, and the innocent hope all rolled into one.

Medium: ceramic, Stoneware clay

Size: 15 cm x 8.5 cm x 6 cm

Year: 2024

Investment: Rs 30,000