My first job

In the course of my job, over the years, I have had the opportunity to interact with countless hard-working individuals, some inevitable dodgers, innumerable managers and a few exceptional leaders. These have not all been in the education field. I will not take names, so a resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This is about my first job. Let me start at the very beginning. I started working at a very early age – and studying full time simultaneously - needed to. Before I ventured into teaching, I was kind of in a quandary as to what I should do. I did seriously consider becoming a priest but I have already told that story ! There was a large, very reputed company in Allahabad that manufactured Torches and batteries so I joined as an Administrative Assistant – was probably the youngest in a company of around 3000 employees. I will admit that it did help, that my mother was a friend of the Personal Assistant( a lovely lady ) to the owner, who put in a kind word for me and after a brief interview I was appointed as a Junior Assistant in the Administration department. My first interview was a breeze and went something like this. Miss C. – Come in – sit down – So Michael , how is your dear mother- please give her my regards and tell her I have not heard from her for ages? Me – Thank you aunty - she is well. I will tell her Miss C- If you get this job you will not call me aunty! Me – Ok sorry aunty! Miss C- Are you a hard-working boy? Me – Yes, I am (Smiling) Miss C – Do you know how to use a typewriter? (Remember no computers back then ) Me – Yes (I was learning and my speed was 35wpm) Miss C – Do you have a bicycle to ride to work? Me – Yes Miss C – Ok I think you are suitable – come to the office tomorrow. And so, I joined on the princely sum of four hundred and seventy-five rupees a month. If you were never late and never took leave, you got an additional fifteen rupees as a regularity bonus! I was trained in all departments of the company – Purchase, Finance, General Administration, Sales, Marketing, Procurement, and the like. It was a terrific learning experience which has stood me in good stead. Within six months I had probably proved that I had it in me to work hard and smart & I was promoted to the position of Assistant and attached directly to the Additional General Manager. While I was thrilled, others told me in no uncertain terms that it would be like working for the devil. He was a known hard task master; he arrived early and left the office after all the others. He made people work on weekends. I also gathered that two others, in this very post, had left within a year, apparently unable to bear the workload and his volatile temper which incidentally he was known to lose at the drop of a hat. Mr N was a tall, big made man with a booming voice, who made doubly sure that his presence was felt. His arrival in office every morning was met with a scurry of anxious activity - people vanishing from the corridors, silence when he passed by, peons running to fetch his files and other paraphernalia, his typist rushing to greet him etc . He sure knew how to announce his arrival. He was a retired Income tax professional and had been very high up in the hierarchy of the Tax department. I was quite chuffed that I had been given an office which I shared with the typist attached to him – we also had a peon which was a luxury in those days. I was also given a phone on my table – I was over the moon, especially when I saw so many others in large common offices with just a table and chair to their name. I will admit that it caused a certain amount of heartburn among colleagues, but I was young and raring to go so I scoffed at the snide remarks. Oh yes – I even had my name on the wall outside the office ! My job was to render Administrative support – so I arranged transport, got bills paid, visited the Municipality and Electricity departments in the city, booked train tickets, kept a tab on his bank statements etc . He also had shares in a large no of companies, so I had to follow up to see that the share certificates had been received and deposited in the bank and credited. It also called for a large amount of correspondence with these companies, so I learnt to type short letters as well. I was also quite happy that I was permitted to dictate letters to the typist – a pretty young lady who was around my age (that is another story) . I cycled all over to get the various jobs done and quite enjoyed the freedom – I would often go home for lunch too and that was a bonus. When I visited some offices for the first time, I would be permitted to give out a few torches and that helped me get the job done. So back to the boss and my first real tough experience of the workplace. It happened one afternoon. Mr N worked on a large number of legal matters for the company and probably a case had not gone as planned so he returned from the court at around two and everyone who saw him strut in said he was furious like never before . His driver confirmed the ominous news. I had, over the first few weeks seen him lose his temper but it was nothing that I could not handle – I often wondered what all the fuss was about. That afternoon I was about to learn the truth. Soon I was summoned over the two-way intercom to his office. I usually entered from a side door and when I did, I sensed imminent danger. There was a large no of files open on the massive table – a half drunk cup of coffee and a few biscuits lay unattended , his tie lose around his neck, his white hair dishevelled and he was scowling and muttering to himself . I stood in silence at the side of the very large table and waited for instructions. While I did , he talked on the phone and yelled at someone on the other end of the line – he banged the phone down after the call and almost smashed the instrument , he rang the bell in frustration and had two peons running in , in panic. He barked instruction to them, and they scurried off – all the while I was waiting! A few more tense minutes elapsed and then he looked up and shouted at me, asking me what I was doing there and why I was staring ! When I informed him that he had sent for me he looked incredulous and angry at the same time. He had obviously forgotten what he had summoned me for, so rather than admit the same, he picked up a few files and flung them in my direction while muttering words like “useless, fed up , disgusting” under his breath . The files and all their papers flew in my direction and landed near my feet. Something within me told me not to pick them up so I stepped out, called the peon, and requested him to come in and do the needful. As Mr N was on the phone again- I left and went back to my office. Do not get me wrong- I was literally shaking in fear but somehow, I didn’t show it. Thereafter, silence prevailed in the department and everyone tip toed around on eggshells. Soon it was five in the evening and people packed up and left, save the peon, the driver and me. Usually I would go and inform him that I was leaving but that day I was terrified to even do that, so the old peon and I sat wondering what to do next. An hour passed and it was then around six pm. Then I heard the buzz of the intercom – no voice, just the incessant buzzing – it meant “come to the office” Taking my notebook, I rushed there. Entering timidly, I was shocked to see Mr N beaming. He beckoned to a chair and asked me to sit down. He then asked me about the work I had done that day concerning his shares . I have always been very methodical, so I showed him all the work and gave him the list for the day. He was a smart man and he knew that everyone was dead scared of him. He suddenly burst out laughing – it was a booming laughter which could be heard down the corridor. He asked me, in a rather serious tone, as to why I had not picked up the files he had thrown. Seriously I was stumped for words. He then said something that surprised me, and I can almost quote him verbatim “You are the first person who has not picked up the files I have thrown and you did not shed a tear- smart boy” He guffawed & I was shocked and rather taken aback, not knowing if that was the end of my job in the company. He then seemed calm – he apologised and said he was just very upset as the company had lost a big case that day. He also added that I should never be afraid of him again. He went on to talk about Leadership and that evening I learnt some very valuable lessons that I have never forgotten. He admitted that losing his temper was very wrong- a weak facet of his personality & how, despite his age, he was working on it.( He was 75 years old ) He seemed to be a soft and gentle giant within. Suddenly, my entire perception of Mr N changed - I saw in him a good, hard working, highly intelligent man. He loved the company and it was his life. He took no holidays, worked on weekends and till late every night. He accomplished a lot, was an asset to the company and saved lakhs of rupees for the owner. I then thought back at how, very often, I had seen the Managing Director and the owner going to his office to speak to him rather than summoning him to theirs. It said a lot about his standing in the company.Yes, he had a volatile temper but there is one thing I remember – he never held a grudge. I worked for a year and a half in this company and his tantrums lessened. I still carry good memories. I learned to work with people twice my age & with all castes, creeds, and religions, very peacefully. I learned to stand up for myself and get a point across through dialogue and discussion. Being so young had its advantages but there were those who did try bullying tactics – and I learned after a few hard knocks, that if you stand up to a bully, he or she usually backs off. I learned to be diplomatic and to hold my peace when necessary. I learned the art of correspondence. Above all, I think the biggest take away was that the job did wonders for my confidence and really set me up for life – have never looked back.

My first job

In the course of my job, over the years, I have had the opportunity to interact with countless hard-working individuals, some inevitable dodgers, innumerable managers and a few exceptional leaders. These have not all been in the education field. I will not take names, so a resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This is about my first job. Let me start at the very beginning. I started working at a very early age – and studying full time simultaneously - needed to. Before I ventured into teaching, I was kind of in a quandary as to what I should do. I did seriously consider becoming a priest but I have already told that story ! There was a large, very reputed company in Allahabad that manufactured Torches and batteries so I joined as an Administrative Assistant – was probably the youngest in a company of around 3000 employees. I will admit that it did help, that my mother was a friend of the Personal Assistant( a lovely lady ) to the owner, who put in a kind word for me and after a brief interview I was appointed as a Junior Assistant in the Administration department. My first interview was a breeze and went something like this. Miss C. – Come in – sit down – So Michael , how is your dear mother- please give her my regards and tell her I have not heard from her for ages? Me – Thank you aunty - she is well. I will tell her Miss C- If you get this job you will not call me aunty! Me – Ok sorry aunty! Miss C- Are you a hard-working boy? Me – Yes, I am (Smiling) Miss C – Do you know how to use a typewriter? (Remember no computers back then ) Me – Yes (I was learning and my speed was 35wpm) Miss C – Do you have a bicycle to ride to work? Me – Yes Miss C – Ok I think you are suitable – come to the office tomorrow. And so, I joined on the princely sum of four hundred and seventy-five rupees a month. If you were never late and never took leave, you got an additional fifteen rupees as a regularity bonus! I was trained in all departments of the company – Purchase, Finance, General Administration, Sales, Marketing, Procurement, and the like. It was a terrific learning experience which has stood me in good stead. Within six months I had probably proved that I had it in me to work hard and smart & I was promoted to the position of Assistant and attached directly to the Additional General Manager. While I was thrilled, others told me in no uncertain terms that it would be like working for the devil. He was a known hard task master; he arrived early and left the office after all the others. He made people work on weekends. I also gathered that two others, in this very post, had left within a year, apparently unable to bear the workload and his volatile temper which incidentally he was known to lose at the drop of a hat. Mr N was a tall, big made man with a booming voice, who made doubly sure that his presence was felt. His arrival in office every morning was met with a scurry of anxious activity - people vanishing from the corridors, silence when he passed by, peons running to fetch his files and other paraphernalia, his typist rushing to greet him etc . He sure knew how to announce his arrival. He was a retired Income tax professional and had been very high up in the hierarchy of the Tax department. I was quite chuffed that I had been given an office which I shared with the typist attached to him – we also had a peon which was a luxury in those days. I was also given a phone on my table – I was over the moon, especially when I saw so many others in large common offices with just a table and chair to their name. I will admit that it caused a certain amount of heartburn among colleagues, but I was young and raring to go so I scoffed at the snide remarks. Oh yes – I even had my name on the wall outside the office ! My job was to render Administrative support – so I arranged transport, got bills paid, visited the Municipality and Electricity departments in the city, booked train tickets, kept a tab on his bank statements etc . He also had shares in a large no of companies, so I had to follow up to see that the share certificates had been received and deposited in the bank and credited. It also called for a large amount of correspondence with these companies, so I learnt to type short letters as well. I was also quite happy that I was permitted to dictate letters to the typist – a pretty young lady who was around my age (that is another story) . I cycled all over to get the various jobs done and quite enjoyed the freedom – I would often go home for lunch too and that was a bonus. When I visited some offices for the first time, I would be permitted to give out a few torches and that helped me get the job done. So back to the boss and my first real tough experience of the workplace. It happened one afternoon. Mr N worked on a large number of legal matters for the company and probably a case had not gone as planned so he returned from the court at around two and everyone who saw him strut in said he was furious like never before . His driver confirmed the ominous news. I had, over the first few weeks seen him lose his temper but it was nothing that I could not handle – I often wondered what all the fuss was about. That afternoon I was about to learn the truth. Soon I was summoned over the two-way intercom to his office. I usually entered from a side door and when I did, I sensed imminent danger. There was a large no of files open on the massive table – a half drunk cup of coffee and a few biscuits lay unattended , his tie lose around his neck, his white hair dishevelled and he was scowling and muttering to himself . I stood in silence at the side of the very large table and waited for instructions. While I did , he talked on the phone and yelled at someone on the other end of the line – he banged the phone down after the call and almost smashed the instrument , he rang the bell in frustration and had two peons running in , in panic. He barked instruction to them, and they scurried off – all the while I was waiting! A few more tense minutes elapsed and then he looked up and shouted at me, asking me what I was doing there and why I was staring ! When I informed him that he had sent for me he looked incredulous and angry at the same time. He had obviously forgotten what he had summoned me for, so rather than admit the same, he picked up a few files and flung them in my direction while muttering words like “useless, fed up , disgusting” under his breath . The files and all their papers flew in my direction and landed near my feet. Something within me told me not to pick them up so I stepped out, called the peon, and requested him to come in and do the needful. As Mr N was on the phone again- I left and went back to my office. Do not get me wrong- I was literally shaking in fear but somehow, I didn’t show it. Thereafter, silence prevailed in the department and everyone tip toed around on eggshells. Soon it was five in the evening and people packed up and left, save the peon, the driver and me. Usually I would go and inform him that I was leaving but that day I was terrified to even do that, so the old peon and I sat wondering what to do next. An hour passed and it was then around six pm. Then I heard the buzz of the intercom – no voice, just the incessant buzzing – it meant “come to the office” Taking my notebook, I rushed there. Entering timidly, I was shocked to see Mr N beaming. He beckoned to a chair and asked me to sit down. He then asked me about the work I had done that day concerning his shares . I have always been very methodical, so I showed him all the work and gave him the list for the day. He was a smart man and he knew that everyone was dead scared of him. He suddenly burst out laughing – it was a booming laughter which could be heard down the corridor. He asked me, in a rather serious tone, as to why I had not picked up the files he had thrown. Seriously I was stumped for words. He then said something that surprised me, and I can almost quote him verbatim “You are the first person who has not picked up the files I have thrown and you did not shed a tear- smart boy” He guffawed & I was shocked and rather taken aback, not knowing if that was the end of my job in the company. He then seemed calm – he apologised and said he was just very upset as the company had lost a big case that day. He also added that I should never be afraid of him again. He went on to talk about Leadership and that evening I learnt some very valuable lessons that I have never forgotten. He admitted that losing his temper was very wrong- a weak facet of his personality & how, despite his age, he was working on it.( He was 75 years old ) He seemed to be a soft and gentle giant within. Suddenly, my entire perception of Mr N changed - I saw in him a good, hard working, highly intelligent man. He loved the company and it was his life. He took no holidays, worked on weekends and till late every night. He accomplished a lot, was an asset to the company and saved lakhs of rupees for the owner. I then thought back at how, very often, I had seen the Managing Director and the owner going to his office to speak to him rather than summoning him to theirs. It said a lot about his standing in the company.Yes, he had a volatile temper but there is one thing I remember – he never held a grudge. I worked for a year and a half in this company and his tantrums lessened. I still carry good memories. I learned to work with people twice my age & with all castes, creeds, and religions, very peacefully. I learned to stand up for myself and get a point across through dialogue and discussion. Being so young had its advantages but there were those who did try bullying tactics – and I learned after a few hard knocks, that if you stand up to a bully, he or she usually backs off. I learned to be diplomatic and to hold my peace when necessary. I learned the art of correspondence. Above all, I think the biggest take away was that the job did wonders for my confidence and really set me up for life – have never looked back.

My attempt at Wadi Bashing

MY ATTEMPT AT WADI BASHING The lockdown has been getting to me – I had been stuck inside the house for the last few months – not going to work – not going shopping – not going to church – no more mall strolling -no more visits to our favourite Marks and Spencer! I was going crazy. I had stifled the impulse to make a break for it and just go out and to hell with everything else – however, better sense had prevailed. Better to be, as they say – six feet apart (or more) than six feet under. And then- the authorities had said “stay home” so who was I to break the rules and all that …… So yesterday – yes just yesterday, the entire lockdown was lifted, and I decided this was it. Enough of being stuck at home. I guessed that even my poor vehicle was getting bored. So, I did what I had contemplated doing for the last month or so – phoned a good friend at around two pm and asked him if he would like to go for a long drive at around four. He is quite the adventurous type and it did not take much convincing. He was up for it. (Thank you- Neville and Susan Darukhanawala for planting this seed in my head). You are always planting something or the other. So, leaving the wives back home to cook dinner, we set off down the winding mountain road to Fujairah. I had traversed this road umpteen times so knew it like the back of my hand. It was an exhilarating drive to say the very least – great car, smooth road, sun roof open , cool breeze ,not much traffic ,good company , music blaring – oh for the wide open spaces . A sudden madness overcame us as we were on the road – why don’t we try some ‘wadi bashing’ ? Now I had heard about this – had a faint idea what it was about but had never tried it before. I guess I am not the adventurous type. Maybe scared of getting lost? Got lost as a kid once - but that is another story. If you are in the Middle east or have visited one of the countries here, you would, most probably have had one of these experiences. Everyone has been wadi bashing except me! Today was the day thought I! For the uninitiated, Wadi bashing is an experience to cherish and they say, you must do it at least once. So listen to what Google says …. d “A Wadi is a dried up river bed, that exposes the natural sediment of the seasonal flowing water including rocks, tree stumps, small pools of water and mud. The seasonal flow of water and floods, as with all rivers, carves a course through rocky terrains in its bid to travel through the valley. This has been happening for thousands of years, so the process is never ending and will obviously widen and deepen and change the Wadi’s look and feel each time the process happens.” For successful wadi-bashing, you need a four-wheel drive and I was sure my Land Cruiser was up to it”. Pulling out the throttle, you race along the wadis, making a run at the dunes. Some dunes are pretty enormous & can dwarf a three-story building. Lying between them are the wadis, old water courses-extremely dry and parched for most of the year. When it rains , they flood, and men and animals parched for water have drowned in the fast flowing water The bashing isn’t when you hit the wadis but when you top the dunes, a bone-jarring experience. I was a trifle apprehensive but decided that the adventure was worth it. Turning off the road and with a little help from my trusted GPS, we were soon off the main highway and “somewhere in the desert”. The area was obviously deserted, the road rough and sloping and a trifle disconcerting. It was around five in the evening and with a few hours of daylight remaining, we were sure we would have our little adventure and get back home to a yummy dinner by around nine. Oh, to be out of the house. Started imagining I was a carefree bachelor! Soon we were face to face with a lovely little stream. Cool flowing water beckoned and seeing another few vehicle there, we stopped to take in the scenery and to obviously click some Instagram able worthy photographs! We took off our shoes, waded into the water, splashed around, chatted with the people there – plenty of laughter etc. Not one to reject a hot cup of tea – we were delighted to be offered tea and snacks from people we had met just fifteen minutes ago. That is Dubai for you. We were having a swell time. One by one the others campers left, while we went around the area clicking snaps of the setting sun, I have often imagined myself as some sort of a photographer- just wishful thinking! By around seven we decided to start the journey back, so getting into the vehicle and full of energy after the refreshing evening, we set off. Strangely in the dusk, the whole terrain suddenly looked very different. My GPS was going around in circles and somehow there was no signal. The same with our phones. Should we be worried – no. We set off climbing up the trail- it was a slow bumpy drive but comparatively safe. After around a kilometer or so, we realized that we had emerged on to flat land but had somehow mysteriously gone deeper into the desert . It was now pitch black and the only light was that of the headlights of my car. The land around was rocky with a few tumbleweeds and rough tracks before me. The arid smell of the dry baked earth coupled with the grit in my mouth did nothing to make me feel confident. It did not help that our phones were still dead. I did not know whether I was imagining it, but I hoped I was not getting dehydrated as our supply of water got over a little after we reached earlier in the evening, and we had not had a sip for the last few hours. I guess that is what inexperience does. We had not planned this well enough. Both of us were so confused and began arguing as to whose fault this was. It seemed silly to be arguing in such a situation but when you are hungry, thirsty, lost and its pitch black, arguments are bound to happen. Did I mention that I was the only one who could drive? I was racked by an insatiable thirst. This was bad and getting worse. Was I trembling? Then just before I passed out, I woke – reached for the bottle near my bedside – drank a few large sips – turned over and went to sleep again No more wadi bashing for me.

My attempt at Wadi Bashing

MY ATTEMPT AT WADI BASHING The lockdown has been getting to me – I had been stuck inside the house for the last few months – not going to work – not going shopping – not going to church – no more mall strolling -no more visits to our favourite Marks and Spencer! I was going crazy. I had stifled the impulse to make a break for it and just go out and to hell with everything else – however, better sense had prevailed. Better to be, as they say – six feet apart (or more) than six feet under. And then- the authorities had said “stay home” so who was I to break the rules and all that …… So yesterday – yes just yesterday, the entire lockdown was lifted, and I decided this was it. Enough of being stuck at home. I guessed that even my poor vehicle was getting bored. So, I did what I had contemplated doing for the last month or so – phoned a good friend at around two pm and asked him if he would like to go for a long drive at around four. He is quite the adventurous type and it did not take much convincing. He was up for it. (Thank you- Neville and Susan Darukhanawala for planting this seed in my head). You are always planting something or the other. So, leaving the wives back home to cook dinner, we set off down the winding mountain road to Fujairah. I had traversed this road umpteen times so knew it like the back of my hand. It was an exhilarating drive to say the very least – great car, smooth road, sun roof open , cool breeze ,not much traffic ,good company , music blaring – oh for the wide open spaces . A sudden madness overcame us as we were on the road – why don’t we try some ‘wadi bashing’ ? Now I had heard about this – had a faint idea what it was about but had never tried it before. I guess I am not the adventurous type. Maybe scared of getting lost? Got lost as a kid once - but that is another story. If you are in the Middle east or have visited one of the countries here, you would, most probably have had one of these experiences. Everyone has been wadi bashing except me! Today was the day thought I! For the uninitiated, Wadi bashing is an experience to cherish and they say, you must do it at least once. So listen to what Google says …. d “A Wadi is a dried up river bed, that exposes the natural sediment of the seasonal flowing water including rocks, tree stumps, small pools of water and mud. The seasonal flow of water and floods, as with all rivers, carves a course through rocky terrains in its bid to travel through the valley. This has been happening for thousands of years, so the process is never ending and will obviously widen and deepen and change the Wadi’s look and feel each time the process happens.” For successful wadi-bashing, you need a four-wheel drive and I was sure my Land Cruiser was up to it”. Pulling out the throttle, you race along the wadis, making a run at the dunes. Some dunes are pretty enormous & can dwarf a three-story building. Lying between them are the wadis, old water courses-extremely dry and parched for most of the year. When it rains , they flood, and men and animals parched for water have drowned in the fast flowing water The bashing isn’t when you hit the wadis but when you top the dunes, a bone-jarring experience. I was a trifle apprehensive but decided that the adventure was worth it. Turning off the road and with a little help from my trusted GPS, we were soon off the main highway and “somewhere in the desert”. The area was obviously deserted, the road rough and sloping and a trifle disconcerting. It was around five in the evening and with a few hours of daylight remaining, we were sure we would have our little adventure and get back home to a yummy dinner by around nine. Oh, to be out of the house. Started imagining I was a carefree bachelor! Soon we were face to face with a lovely little stream. Cool flowing water beckoned and seeing another few vehicle there, we stopped to take in the scenery and to obviously click some Instagram able worthy photographs! We took off our shoes, waded into the water, splashed around, chatted with the people there – plenty of laughter etc. Not one to reject a hot cup of tea – we were delighted to be offered tea and snacks from people we had met just fifteen minutes ago. That is Dubai for you. We were having a swell time. One by one the others campers left, while we went around the area clicking snaps of the setting sun, I have often imagined myself as some sort of a photographer- just wishful thinking! By around seven we decided to start the journey back, so getting into the vehicle and full of energy after the refreshing evening, we set off. Strangely in the dusk, the whole terrain suddenly looked very different. My GPS was going around in circles and somehow there was no signal. The same with our phones. Should we be worried – no. We set off climbing up the trail- it was a slow bumpy drive but comparatively safe. After around a kilometer or so, we realized that we had emerged on to flat land but had somehow mysteriously gone deeper into the desert . It was now pitch black and the only light was that of the headlights of my car. The land around was rocky with a few tumbleweeds and rough tracks before me. The arid smell of the dry baked earth coupled with the grit in my mouth did nothing to make me feel confident. It did not help that our phones were still dead. I did not know whether I was imagining it, but I hoped I was not getting dehydrated as our supply of water got over a little after we reached earlier in the evening, and we had not had a sip for the last few hours. I guess that is what inexperience does. We had not planned this well enough. Both of us were so confused and began arguing as to whose fault this was. It seemed silly to be arguing in such a situation but when you are hungry, thirsty, lost and its pitch black, arguments are bound to happen. Did I mention that I was the only one who could drive? I was racked by an insatiable thirst. This was bad and getting worse. Was I trembling? Then just before I passed out, I woke – reached for the bottle near my bedside – drank a few large sips – turned over and went to sleep again No more wadi bashing for me.

My beloved country .

Sad and worrying to see India racing up the Covid ladder . Yes we have a massive population too so the number may not exactly be accurate. Nevertheless, this one race I do hope they don't win because it will be catastrophic. A while ago I read that the country was in the top ten in the world and was concerned like everyone else for the teeming millions who live below the poverty line. Now to suddenly be at number four with the infections on the rise daily, is seriously alarming. What was with all the sensless drama of lighting candles, banging utensils, clapping hands and shouting Go Covid go? While most of the world was already taking preventative measures, our beloved country was indulging in these trivial and rather laughable gimmicks. People who had no water to drink were being advised to wash their hands as many times a day as possible. Ten to fifteen people living together in tiny rooms, in unhygienic slums, were being advised to main social distancing. Good nd necessary advice but how? Then there was the rather callous lockdown announcement by the government, with just a four hour warning . Obviously someone somewhere suddenly had a eureka moment . How wise was that ? Whose idea was it ? Was that the best they could do ? Once again, correct decision but poor planning . No planning in fact , no thoughts , no foreseeing potential problems. That announcement took everyone by utter surprise and sent shock waves through the entire nation. Mayhem ensued and it was pandemonium personified. Rather than rationalise and take steps to remedy the impending crisis ,all and sundry jumped on the ' let's find a scapegoat bandwagon'. The press and the Television channels had a field day and compounded the problem. It was then a calamity waiting to happen and happen it did. Weeks later, hundreds of thousands of migrant workers began leaving the cities and walking back to their villages. There were no jobs, no money and they were frustrated and terrified. No one advised them , helped them, or arranged any sort of transportation. So, as expected , we had men women and children attempting to walk thousands of kilometres in slippers , many bare footed , braving the inclement weather, hunger, thirst and sickness along the way. No one is mentioning as to how many died during those arduous journeys , how many women were probably molested or raped, how many children were lost or kidnapped and mind you , all that must surely have happened. Then we heard that trains and buses were arranged. Once again , insufficient planning saw thousands clamouring for elusive seats. Trains set out for one destination and reached elsewhere. Buses took people half way and then made them walk. It must surely have been survival of the fittest and I don't want to even fathom a guess as to the suffering that ensued. One silver lining amidst the squalor and the dark clouds were the good samaritans who handed out food and water. Heartening to see. Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians all united and did their best. That would definitely have alleviated some of the misery. However, it was not enough. Everyone knows that. Don't forget , cyclones, floods, earthquakes , rain and locusts made things worse. Thankfully no direct blame could be apportioned for nature's fury. Then there is China- determined to make its presence felt one way or the other . Today ,as the conditions worsen , hospital beds are scarce in most cities and there is tension , apprehension and utter fear gripping the entire nation. Where beds are available, the costs are prohibitive. It's about time politicians and bureaucrats stopped the blame game and their petty power squabbles and everyone who matters came together to fight this menace. DO IT NOW. It's never too late . This is certainly NOT THE TIME for ruling party vs opposition . It's a time for wisdom and unity in the face of the storm . Let's not blame one person or a few people. That's pathetic. There are many recoveries as well so fingers crossed . I just pray better sense prevails . I guess today we all need to pray for our beloved country . We are all in this together.

My beloved country .

Sad and worrying to see India racing up the Covid ladder . Yes we have a massive population too so the number may not exactly be accurate. Nevertheless, this one race I do hope they don't win because it will be catastrophic. A while ago I read that the country was in the top ten in the world and was concerned like everyone else for the teeming millions who live below the poverty line. Now to suddenly be at number four with the infections on the rise daily, is seriously alarming. What was with all the sensless drama of lighting candles, banging utensils, clapping hands and shouting Go Covid go? While most of the world was already taking preventative measures, our beloved country was indulging in these trivial and rather laughable gimmicks. People who had no water to drink were being advised to wash their hands as many times a day as possible. Ten to fifteen people living together in tiny rooms, in unhygienic slums, were being advised to main social distancing. Good nd necessary advice but how? Then there was the rather callous lockdown announcement by the government, with just a four hour warning . Obviously someone somewhere suddenly had a eureka moment . How wise was that ? Whose idea was it ? Was that the best they could do ? Once again, correct decision but poor planning . No planning in fact , no thoughts , no foreseeing potential problems. That announcement took everyone by utter surprise and sent shock waves through the entire nation. Mayhem ensued and it was pandemonium personified. Rather than rationalise and take steps to remedy the impending crisis ,all and sundry jumped on the ' let's find a scapegoat bandwagon'. The press and the Television channels had a field day and compounded the problem. It was then a calamity waiting to happen and happen it did. Weeks later, hundreds of thousands of migrant workers began leaving the cities and walking back to their villages. There were no jobs, no money and they were frustrated and terrified. No one advised them , helped them, or arranged any sort of transportation. So, as expected , we had men women and children attempting to walk thousands of kilometres in slippers , many bare footed , braving the inclement weather, hunger, thirst and sickness along the way. No one is mentioning as to how many died during those arduous journeys , how many women were probably molested or raped, how many children were lost or kidnapped and mind you , all that must surely have happened. Then we heard that trains and buses were arranged. Once again , insufficient planning saw thousands clamouring for elusive seats. Trains set out for one destination and reached elsewhere. Buses took people half way and then made them walk. It must surely have been survival of the fittest and I don't want to even fathom a guess as to the suffering that ensued. One silver lining amidst the squalor and the dark clouds were the good samaritans who handed out food and water. Heartening to see. Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians all united and did their best. That would definitely have alleviated some of the misery. However, it was not enough. Everyone knows that. Don't forget , cyclones, floods, earthquakes , rain and locusts made things worse. Thankfully no direct blame could be apportioned for nature's fury. Then there is China- determined to make its presence felt one way or the other . Today ,as the conditions worsen , hospital beds are scarce in most cities and there is tension , apprehension and utter fear gripping the entire nation. Where beds are available, the costs are prohibitive. It's about time politicians and bureaucrats stopped the blame game and their petty power squabbles and everyone who matters came together to fight this menace. DO IT NOW. It's never too late . This is certainly NOT THE TIME for ruling party vs opposition . It's a time for wisdom and unity in the face of the storm . Let's not blame one person or a few people. That's pathetic. There are many recoveries as well so fingers crossed . I just pray better sense prevails . I guess today we all need to pray for our beloved country . We are all in this together.

Shopping alone

A few days ago I was I thinking back to the first day I drove my car after getting my license in 2001 – I wanted to go from our house in Al Diyafah to St Mary’s church but as I was about to turn towards the church I saw two big vehicles speeding behind me – Got so nervous that I kept going straight on the main Dubai – Sharjah highway as I was not sure where the various Exits would take me . Finally reached Sharjah – took the roundabout I was familiar with and came straight back home! Now however I am a good driver – WITH GPS. I am quite bad on direction and not proud of it. I must tell you a story – I have a colleague in one of our schools who once offered to take a friend and me for breakfast. We were so happy when we set off in his car. We were about to reach the hotel off Sh Zayed Road when suddenly he got all confused and entered a NO ENTRY lane! Luckily, it was a Friday, if not it could have been very dangerous with heavy traffic. He then managed to back out slowly and with difficulty, while blaming me for giving him the wrong direction WHICH I DID NOT. He denies any wrongdoing and that makes me laugh. Two vehicles coming in the opposite direction missed banging into us- one driver muttered under his breath and thought we were mad ,while the other made a strange gesture with his hand and laughed at us with his window down . We were awfully embarrassed. ( I can’t give you that person’s name as he made me promise I would never tell anyone ) . How he never saw a LARGE, RED, NO ENTRY board beats me to this day. Now everyone knows that you usually do not change hairdressers, doctors, dentists, tailors etc. It is just not done. I know that too, but for convenience sake, two weeks ago I went to a newly opened saloon near my house, to have a haircut as my hair was so long -it was flowing down my back. Now I speak English and Hindi – unfortunately, the barber did not know both and spoke some other language. I was also wearing a tight mask and my hands were trapped under the plastic cape, hence giving instructions was difficult. So, I said a prayer and made signs with my eyes to him to cut my hair. Not sure what he understood but he used a machine, was very swift & by the time he finished, I was almost bald. He was beaming as if he had just made some big discovery. He then tried to tell me in sign language that he would massage my head. I jumped up off the chair in panic not knowing what he would do with my head next. Yes, I tipped him, nevertheless. Have you noticed how gradually our wants have all but vanished? – Suddenly for months I have not felt the need to buy clothes, shoes, ties, go to the mall etc – it’s a saving as well. Our basic needs remain and there too I see that there is less wastage! I think this is so good for us and the world. Something else- - Have you noticed how we seem to use more trash bags here that in our home countries? We must make a concerted effort NOT TO WASTE ANYTHING. This morning at 7 am I went shopping for groceries – ALONE. I love to do grocery shopping alone. When I go with others (read wife) we seem to spend far too much time walking through the aisles, staring at items on the shelf, discussing, getting tempted and buying unnecessary things. Before we set out, a list is prepared, and I am told not to pick up non listed items as I am sometimes apt to do. Then, as we are about to leave the house, she goes back in to check that the gas is turned off, then the iron or the Ac as well. We are already out of the front door & I press the button for the lift which is just opposite our entrance – then I am asked to go in again to check that the cat has not been locked out on the balcony or some such trivial stuff . I am already tired, irritated & frustrated and we often drive in silence! We reach the supermarket and before I know it, we have a trolley full of stuff – much of which was not in the list in the first place. No, I am not to blame – sorry, it’s not me. Shopping? I love it – ALONE!!