I am lying in a corner of a storeroom, old, bent and covered with dust. My bright days are long gone, but the memories of my younger years are still fresh in my mind.

I was made in a factory about ten years ago. In those days, I looked smart and attractive. My cover was made of strong black nylon that shone in the sunlight. My ribs and spokes were made of polished metal. I was sturdy, reliable and built to last. Along with many other umbrellas, I was packed neatly in a large box.

A few days later, I was sent to a big shop for sale. One afternoon, a wealthy gentleman came into the shop and bought me for ₹500. He carried me home with great pride. As soon as we reached home, everyone gathered around to see me. They admired my neat appearance and strong build. My owner was very pleased with me. He even told the family to handle me carefully so that I would not get damaged.

My owner used me with great care and I enjoyed being with him. I travelled to many places and protected him from both rain and strong sunshine. One day, he took me to visit his brother. While the two of them were talking, he left me in a corner of the room. Soon, his brother’s playful son noticed me and picked me up.

The boy went outside and began opening and closing me again and again just for fun. Then he started teasing a stray dog with me. The dog barked loudly and rushed towards him. Frightened, the boy threw me at the dog. He missed and I crashed against a wall. Several of my ribs broke, my cloth cover tore and I was bent badly. I was damaged beyond repair. My owner was upset and angry with his nephew, but there was little he could do. After all, the boy was a member of his own family.

With a sad heart, he brought me back home and put me away in the storeroom. Since then, I have been lying here quietly, gathering dust and waiting for the end of my journey.