Abi is a shy kid- every day they put on a bland, neutral colored t shirt and jeans, and feel a bit uncomfortable and uncertain in their body. They try not to stand out too much, but also feels that it creates a cycle of them feeling smaller and smaller, and almost disappearing.

One day they watches their mom get ready. They are awed by all the shades of bright blush, soft cloudy eyeshadow, and especially the bright shock of lipstick that she applies artistically.

They sigh longingly over her glittering earrings and the swatches of silk that she unfurls from her closet, hundreds of bright saris with playful patterns that she chooses from.

After she leaves, they sneak into her closet, and investigates the saris. The saris are so vivid with color and ornamentation that they almost dance to life as they billow to the floor, creating impossible shapes as they descend.

One of the patterns on the saris animates before Abi’s eyes- an embroidered tiger who Abi immediately bonds with, and names Nava. Nava makes Abi feel more safe and confident, and becomes their loyal imaginary friend.

Abi ages, and as they become a teenager Nava quietly disappears from their life.

Abi finally decides to confront a realization they have about themself and the way they wants to present to the world. They secretly borrow their moms sari, and her makeup, and begin to apply it to their own face.

As they emerge, the aunties are gossipy and point fingers. They laugh and look down on Abi, and their mother is ashamed. Abi’s saree starts to fall- they did not know how to tie it properly. For a moment, Abi regrets everything and wishes they could go back to fading into the background, disappearing within their own skin.

In that moment Nava appears and roars, scaring away the mean relatives. She protects Abi, and they starts to gain courage again.
Abi’s mother changes her mind, and comes to help. She adjusts Abi’s saree.

Ever since then, Abi has been less afraid to wear what they want and be who they want to be.