Transportation

 Transportation is essential for movement, connecting people to places. From prams to luxury vehicles, each mode reflects our needs, desires, and the times we live in.

For me, like many of you, it all began with me in a pram, probably wailing at the top of my lungs while being pushed around. It must have been fun after all; I had no responsibilities. For others, it was likely a convenient way to keep me out of the way and above all, to keep me out of trouble, or at least to avoid hearing me wail.

 Then came a red tricycle, which I feel I remember. I could be wrong, but I like to think I zipped through rooms on it, maybe over people's toes—perhaps even getting scolded for it. 

Next up was school, which at first had me traveling by cycle rickshaw driven by a trusted man who lived nearby. It was a slow journey - leisurely and quite enjoyable.  Then came my trusted ladies' bike. Supposedly, my mum had ridden it as a girl, making it ancient by the time it reached me. After some dusting off, a coat of paint, and a hundred rupees later, I was zipping around town. Who cared if it was a lady’s bike? I was finally mobile. It took me, friends, and a girl or two on a few adventures—I won’t name names for obvious reasons. School, church and the market were now a breeze. 

Soon after came the big upgrade—a gents' bike bought second-hand for another hundred rupees. It was in  immaculate condition, and I spent hours on weekends cleaning it to perfection.

 Fast forward to married life, and my excitement reached new heights with the purchase of a shiny greyish new Bajaj Super scooter. My wife, two kids, and I braved the heat, cold, and rain, zipping around town with a sense of freedom. This was life, and I was thrilled to bits. It was always well maintained and my pride and joy.

Then, life took me to Dubai, where we were forced to move around by taxi till I got a driving license.  I was then given a company-owned Nissan Sunny to use. It had seen better days, but hey, it was a car. A year later, I was cruising around in a new one. 

When I became Principal, the school handed me a maroon Mazda 6. What a car to drive - smooth, sleek and low-slung.  But I was just getting started. I then bought my own Pajero, traded it in after four years for an even better one.

Now, I drive a  pearl-white Land Cruiser. Its glossy finish shines in the Dubai sun, exuding sophistication and power. Inside, it blends luxury with utility—leather seats, a few high-tech features, and a spacious cabin. The Land Cruiser handles the chaotic roads with ease, offering smooth rides and reliable safety features. Whether it's the heat or rain, it’s built for anything, providing both comfort and confidence on every journey.

And who knows? Maybe I'm tempted for an upgrade. But for now, this Land Cruiser takes me from point A to point B . Age, budget, and a touch of personal flair all come together, making the ride unforgettable.