9^th January 2026 Beena

This morning, I shared an acrylic painting titled Magical Forest.” Among the responses, one comment stood out: “Is it a durian forest?’ That unexpected question sparked my imagination and inspired me to write the story you’re about to read.

Across Asia, durians are celebrated and polarising in equal measure. Their unmistakable, far-reaching aroma elicits strong reactions—people either crave or avoid them. Encased in a hard, thorny shell, each durian holds a secret, its contents a tantalising mystery until revealed.

Much like my painting—a forest shrouded in allure and mystery—the durian tempts many with its enigmatic presence. This season’s bounty has brought an abundance of durians, though I must confess: I’ve never acquired a taste for them.

Life, too, is wrapped in mystery. No matter how carefully we plan or act, the unknown often shapes our path. Some mysteries delight us with unexpected joys, while others challenge us with unforeseen trials.

What do you make of the journey from forest to fruit? I’d love to hear your thoughts on the mysteries woven through this story.