Worried of missing my destination Nagda (I recommend
clicking it to know (more) about this place!), I decided to stay awake during my
6 hour journey. But by 1.30 AM, I could not resist taking a nap counting on my
co-passenger’s promise that he would wake me on time and of course, I always
count on Indian railways, seldom has it reached on time. After my hour hand had
swung 360* few times, the same odd smell from Harihar struck bells and I sensed
Nagda was just nearby(For those who are wondering, Grasim industry is in both
towns). I alighted and there was my man, waiting ready to receive me grandly! (Oh
Wait!! How I wish it was the case! I am speaking hypothetically! True friends
always make you wait!). Eventually Rohit turned up in his Indigo (2002 model :P)
and we zipped away.
Situated on the banks of Chambal River, Nagda is a small
industrial town with tall chimneys coughing out pollutants. But the Grasim
colony is certainly a cut above the rest of Nagda. To my surprise, every Tom,
Dick and Harry smiles and waves at my friend leaving me bemused with two
options. Either, Nagda, being a small town, I am seeing the same set of guys
circling every street or ‘THERHT’ is the ‘Modi of Nagda’. Wondering if I should
prostrate completely or in a semi-fashion, I met the elders at his house and my
back recommended a semi is good enough and executed it multiple times. On the
other hand, I have to admit it was strange and nice, seeing Rohit behave (I still
think he acts) responsibly to his inmates. Authoritative to his younger and obligated
to his elder brother!
Post feasting on some authentic breakfast, we went around
the colony. Every street, every building looks identical and a newbie like me
will end up roaming for light years. Landmarks and milestones don’t work either
(tried them too!). Later, the heavy lunch made me realize how he bloats in a
matter of few days. The food was so delicious that I ate as much as he did (Which
I claim as a record) and I ended up swirling and coiling semi-consciously for
hours in the bed. To burn some calories, we decided to go for a swim.
Apparently only Nagda residents are allowed to enter the pool and have to carry
an ID card. But Rohit, like every other day, made his way through using his
deceiving skills and got a pass for me too.
On constant nagging for a party from Gaurav (A mutual
friend) and me, he agreed for one (A silent party though!) post dinner. Studies
show that there might be a positive correlation between intelligence and alcohol
consumption. Gaurav proved it wrong and so did we! (Gaurav – I am guessing you
will disagree with me on this). Many (e)X, Y, Z subjects were discussed during
the long marathon. It has always been a pleasure listening to THERHT’s non-sober
talks. So was this time.
The visit was a much deserved break and certainly was worth
its weight in gold. The weekend madness will continue!
Behind the scene –
Every average Indian male scans the name chart in his train coach, not just to
see his name, but also at others, hoping it would be his day! As I was reaching
my coach, a stunner was in the same coach. Curious to know more, I hurriedly
scanned the charts and did not find any relevance to the detail on the chart
with the one seated. With my longing dying down rapidly, I tried looking up my own
name to confirm. WHAT THE! My name was missing! Later I realised that the
charts were outdated. DAMN! Indian Railways derails my dreams too!
