Nurungukal..2..cont

     January first is time for me to roll back my memory and  make an imaginary walk on the Indra Nagar roads in Bangalore. My best New year days were enjoyed there in the company of a rare breed of humans whom I cherish the most dearest and close to my heart. It was a cluster of families representing different backgrounds. Keralites, Kannadigas, Iyengar and  a Maharashtrian. By a chance of destiny we met,loved,frolicked,enjoyed every moment of each other’s company without any inhibitions, true and transparent. A true expression of unity in diversity.

       I was a latecomer to the group. The banker,  an ex pilot and a teacher, the retired major, the marketing manager and a noted designer and photographer attracted me at the first encounter itself. I did not make much time to get into the grove and attain a coveted uncle hood.

      The group became vibrant on weak ends, sharing the hospitality in turn. Food from all the kitchen were pooled, to be enjoyed while the elders immersed in a vociferous session of rummy and others in lighter games.  The party used to be alive as long as the brew lasts. The discussions during the game touched almost all the current events and subjects.  An occasional fight added spice to the game. Leaving the lady of the house to clear the shambles the rest moved out with  usual fare well gimmicks  and thinking of the next weak end gathering.

      The trip to the location where  the great movie SHOLAY was shot was an event to keep preciously in any one’s heart for years. Like a military operation we moved in lock stock and barrel with baskets full of food ,fruits, drinks and what not. There was even a cricket bat and  ball. The wickets we managed with the twigs. The water in the lake resisted nobody from a plunge. For hours and hours  it was fun and merriment. As the sun slowly hid behind the mountain we managed to return while the sound of Gubbar singh  [arayo samba]and the sound of hoofs from the scenes of SHOLAY still reverberating in our ears.

       December 31^st evening  is the time for preparation to welcome New year. All would gather in a house ,invariably  Sreenu’s. Then till midnight it was time for music. eating .drinking and dancing. A blissful celebration ending with a loud wishing of HAPPY NEW YEAR.  Now every thing is like a dream. I yearn to be once again in that company .

   This post is only a memoir to the man who was responsible  for providing  me such bliss full days in my life at least for a few years…………