Laughing Unabated

The Hindu, 13 May 2009: Ajmal’s smiling and laughing continued unabated, a
day after the court reprimanded him. On Tuesday, the court once again chided the
accused for his behaviour in court. When the butts of the rifles were being
examined, Ajmal seemed to be tickled to pieces.
However, Mr. Tahaliyani took
strong objection to his laughing when details of Ombale’s death were being
mentioned. The judge remarked that at every mention of Ombale, Ajmal tended to
laugh. Ajmal stood up and said that this was not his intention.

Why is he laughing? It might seem gross disregard for what is going on or the seriousness of the crime he committed. But I do not think so.

I think he is genuinely amused by the name Ombale and even more genuinely tickled by the butt of the rifle. It might also mean that he crossed the threshold of the mirage called hope. Must be feeling immense freedom. Otherwise what could lead to this irreverant laughter?

I also get unduly amused by certain names however prosaic and ordinary they might sound. Ombale is not prosaic by any stretch of imagination and the fact that Ombale is dead does not diminish the potential of his name to amuse! So.. Ajmal. go on and laugh because you have nothing to lose!