As she made her way to the dance floor, the music changed and folk songs began to play. Virk watched her as she tucked in the loose end of her saree in her petticoat and took position with her hands slightly raised. He looked confused but the bandmaster instinctively knew what was coming. As soon as he increased the volume, Bibi started performing the traditional gidda! Her feet stamped the floor in a delicate, measured way, her expressions matching her vigour. Virk was pleasantly shocked to see her perform with such gusto. And soon the stage emptied, letting her perform in complete freedom. Virk had never seen her dance before. It dawned on him that she was emerging from the last of her mental bondages, breaking free and letting go of the enormous pain in her heart. He joined her, matching her steps, and the two entertained the crowd. As the song ended, Bibi pulled Virk in a deep embrace and burst into tears. There was a big smile on her face, but the tears reflected her gory past. The crowd was quick to respond. General Rathod and his wife were the first to clap, followed by thunderous applause from the gathering. Bibi looked into Virk’s eyes and gently pulled him towards her. She stood on her toes and planted a kiss on his left flap. ‘More strength to you. May you take care of this responsibility to the army’s satisfaction.’ Her words couldn’t be heard by the others but the expressions on her face melted everyone’s heart.

Amidst loud cheers and applause, the two stepped down from the dance floor, hand in hand. Virk escorted Bibi to the sofa and then went to the adjoining room. Minutes later, he emerged wearing a fresh uniform and went straight to the bar. He needed to celebrate the liberation day of his better half. Her tears had touched the core of his heart. The bartender poured him a large Russian vodka and while pushing the glass in his direction, he said, ‘To your good lady’s happiness.’ Virk looked at the senior steward, smiled and extended his hand. The bartender shook it and saluted in return. ‘I feel so proud and elated to be serving you, Sir. Thank you.’ Virk heard him but said nothing in return. Instead, he raised his glass. Being an army officer, he was expected to keep his emotions in check. But he was finding it difficult to control the tears that were threatening to burst out.