Trains. More specifically the Mumbai local.
Nothing quite epitomizes Mumbai as much as these overflowing, clanking, smelly and loud personifications of its residents. Unfortunately for me, I love the trains, the different characters one comes across, the tiny fibs you overhear, the eunuchs scaring the b'jesus out of Mumbai-noobs...the little things
I especially enjoy the irony at play, when one minute people elbow each in the nose to get into the train, snarling and frothing at the mouth, and a few minutes later they are touching the arm of the same person in a bizarrely holy apology for just brushing against them.
Such is the power of the Mumbai local, fanatics turn into sages, then back into fanatics as they struggle to get out at their stop.
"Hey you! yes you the person I almost gave a concussion to while getting into the train.
My arm just grazed yours a second ago, accept my sincerest apology for it, as I touch your arm then touch my chest as a penance for my sin. "
Owing to the inordinate time I spend among my 'local' companions, be prepared for frequent helpings of the same.
Dude.. Its more like a wrestling match and then later on apologising your opponent once you know you have won your so called battle.. They are those typical 30 seconds of brushing fame as the whole compartment watches your tussle.. You forgot to add people who come with various kind of wares.. 5 throat lozenges for a rupee, guaranteed to give you a clearer throat then strepsils or any antibiotic put together..
ReplyDeleteYes! I am looking forward to incorporating all my train travails in parts...
DeleteLoved it..
ReplyDeleten one more thing about elbows n apologies..
They hold that one to climb a running train n when in, they push the same one..;)
N if u would have ever got a chance to travel in ladies compartment, the above would have turned hilarious :)
Haha! I can imagine!
Delete