OUR DUBAI SOJOURN: A WISH FULFILLED

         I retired from Army  on 01 December, 1985, being below even of a JCO rank, at the age of 40,  I remained jobless for quite sometime.  It was extremely difficult for me to cope-up with day-to-day expenditure, being an unemployed person like me with a meagre monthly pension of Rs. 411. Two primary school going children Vandana and Vivek, were still to be brought up and educated which was a major problem before us. It was all helplessness all around! As luck would have it, I got the service in the National Fertilizers Ltd., Panipat with the support of my army mate Kuldip Sehrawat.  We shifted from Jalandhar to Panipat  in the year 1986 and had a small house constructed there, in a pollution free village environs.  Vandana did her 12th in the K.V. Panipat, BSc(Med) in S.D. College and then MBA from a Management Institute at Sonepat, affiliated to NMIM, Mumbai.

        Vandana, however, did not want to stay back at home, doing nothing, after her MBA but always insisted to work, let it be on lower pay packages, in order to gain experience and to be familiarized with the set up of complex corporate world. She did various small time jobs in Delhi, and lived there for one year and a half, all alone, while both of us back at home, remained caught up with  unknown fears.  Vandana, however, fought boldly and worked sincerely hard, and finally managed to reach at a platform, from where she was free to pick up any route towards future success, with great zeal, accurate  approach, hard work and  of course with strong stamina, to face sharp competition ahead. Before reaching at the platform in a leading telecom company, she was earning monthly salary of Rs. 5,000/- or less during her struggling days. However, she was not dependable on us except for few occasions when we supported her financially too.

        One day, when we both were in the kitchen preparing dinner for that night, Rama, looked little tense and worried. I already knew the reason, tried to console and encourage her by saying that "look, one day would definitely come, when Vandana would get salary of Rs. 15,000/- per month and that day is not very far". Hearing this, she tauntingly spoke without having seen into my eyes that " O Din Dubba, Yadon Ghori Charia Kubba". Perhaps the 'saying' is self explanatory but I did not take it serious and again tried to impress upon  her and said " NO, avoid negative attitude and be optimistic".  I once again tried to assure her that Vandana would definitely reach up to the pay scale of Rs. 15,000/- very soon and then we shall think about her marriage! As was evident from our social and financial status then, we could not have had even thought of a brighter and greater career for our daughter.

       She is  married and  lives in Dubai. That is why, we both are here for a month. Vishal Mehra, her husband, is a high profile tourism professional flying the world over. Vandana currently holds an important post of upper middle order in an American Multinational Company.  All credit goes to Vishal, who is behind her successes. They have a lovely daughter Saisha studying in a leading internationally reputed school. Both being based in Dubai, our coming to this modern and thriving metropolis, for a month's stay, is not at all surprising!

      The morning of 9th of December 2016 was full of mental tension  and worry for both of us at our son's residence at Noida, as it was a heavily foggy and cold morning.  The visibility was so low that it was not possible to look beyond ten meters.  On the top of this, it had to be decided that we would have to go to the IGI by taxi all alone! At exactly quarter to nine, the taxi was called and we left for the airport. Somehow, we reached at the airport at around 11 or so. We both jointly managed to clear ourselves at the various counters at IGI, after having funny run around from pillar to post, and later touched down at Dubai International Airport, at quarter to six.

        Formalities like immigration, security clearance and collection of unaccompanied luggage, were completed with the help of Marhawa assisting us. Vishal, Vandana and Saisha picked us up at the exit, in their lovely new Audi, Q7 and we all drove down, on a beautiful road network and soon reached at the Business Bay residence. Burj Khalifa standing tall at a stone's throw distance, giving magnificent look through our bedroom window. A dream coming true........a wish fulfilled!!

DUBAI, AT A GLANCE


      Friends, if I may share with you about what I have seen about the city of Dubai during my one month's stay there.  Whatever I have been able to see around during my stay there, I shall try to tell you all about that you may like to know if you are planning to make a holiday trip to Dubai.

      As a country, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is still young having only formed in 1971. Dubai may have everything to offer, but there are six other emirates in the UAE and five other countries in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), all of which warrant brief mention. All six other emirates - Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaim, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Fujairah - are within two hours drive from Dubai.  The neighboring GCC countries of Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait are all less than 90 minutes  flight away. Unifying the different emirates was seen as a progressive step to enhance security and influence in the area.  However, the region has a long history before that.. The UAE is considered the second richest Arab country after Qatar, and globally, being the eighth richest country in the world.

       His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, has guided the country, and specially Abu Dhabi, through a period of astonishing growth.  Sheikh Khalifa has always been generous with Abu Dhabi's oil wealth, ensuring other emirates within the county.  The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world's tallest building, is named after Sheikh Khalifa. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Prime Minister and the Vice President of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Dubai.  He has overseen numerous landmark projects in Dubai including  Palm Jumeirah, the 'Seven Star' Burj Al Arab Hotel and the Burj Khalifa

      The economic growth of Dubai is very fast since last 25 years. The international business is flourishing here.  The UAE is well ahead of many other countries in the Middle East in terms of travel and tourism. Dubai is perhaps the most famous tourist destination in the UAE with over 580 hotels and attractions such as the man-made Palm Jumeirah Island, The Burj Al Arab Hotel with helipad on its top and an ever growing marina area.  In Downtown area Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building towers over world's largest dancing fountain and nearby is the world's largest The Dubai Mall and newly inaugurated Dubai Water Canal flowing through the residential and busy commercial areas.

      'Marsa Dubai, is another busy area which is known for modern and one of the highest standards of living. The Walkways and the man-made waterways to the unique imagination of Dubai's modern architecture. The sparkling glass building of the National Bank of Dubai, fondly known as 'pregnant lady', is a sculptural vision standing tall like a magnificent convex mirror that reflects the bustling activity at the creek.  streets and pathways, attractively landscaped lakes, gardens and recreation areas make it perfect for those who want to enjoy the peace and quiet. Living standard is one of the highest in the world.

      Arabic is the official language of the UAE. However, English is widely used in all areas of life including in business that you might live here for years without needing to learn   Arabic. Most road, street and shop signs and restaurants menu display both English and Arabic.  That is not to say that learning a few words or phrases of Arabic is not a good idea Though, Arabic is not the easiest language to learn, but if you are able to speak out a few words to the locals, you are most likely to receive a warmer welcome or at least a smile even if your pronunciation is terrible. 

      You will be surprised to know that if you are stuck up somewhere due to language problem, you need not to worry as you are likely to find Hindi speaking people all around, everywhere! There are even local Emiratis, who are fond of Bollywood movies and understand Hindi and enjoy Indian music most! So be careful on commenting on locals while walking around in a supermarkets, malls, community common places or strolling on the The Walkways.

      Islam is the principal religion but the UAE is tolerant of other cultures and religions, the ruling family has in the past donated land for the building of churches and Hindu temples in the UAE.

      Dubai is rich and showy, it likes to have the biggest and the best of every thing in the world.  They want everything biggest, tallest and the fastest of all. There is hardly a week goes by when something the UAE does not claim to be the world's biggest, tallest, fastest or most expensive and yet there are plans to go more bigger, taller, fastest or even costliest of all! 

      May be in the coming few years, one would see a structure called Dubai Creek Tower, taller than Burj Khalifa. Dubai Harbor Lighthouse coming up 135 meters tall with grand hotels, Mall, and residential apartments with 360 degree revolving lighthouse on the top and unique looking glassy structure standing on man-made island in the sea, would be another attraction during and after Expo 2020!

      The culinary delights available in Dubai are  anything from Mexicans, Asian and  English roast dinner.  Most of the popular restaurants are in hotels where alcoholic drinks are also served.  Some of the fastest foods can be found in the road side cafeterias where two people can often feast on less than Dhs 50.  Pork is also available but with some restrictions. 

      Smoking the traditional Shisha (Hooka) is a popular pastime throughout the Middle East. After culmination of our Desert Safari on 20 Dec 2016, the last point of rendezvous was one of the Desert Camps, where our dinner was already booked. After having settled in the camp, I along with Vishal, my son-in-law, tried our hand with Shisha, in the Shisha Parlor in the Camp. It is similar to our Indian Hooka except that it gave aromatic  smoke.  However, we being non-smokers, could not enjoy smoking Shisha.

      The legal system in the UAE is a mix of Shariah and conventional laws implemented by the federal judiciary.  Dubai Police is helpful if you are on the right side of law. The police have a visible presence in the city but not prominent as in  other large cities.  You are most likely to be stopped for a traffic offence.  You must always carry your  driving license and vehicle registration - failure to do so could result in a heavy fine.  If you are stopped by the police, it is important to appear helpful and co-operative at all times. Being impolite may land you in a trouble.


      Dubai's road and flyover system is the extensive, expanding and intimidating network of roads but once you find your way out, things become easier.  When you start driving, it is pretty much given that you will need to schedule an extra 20 minutes for getting lost. Dubai is famed for its U turns, to enable you to link to the road that takes you to your destination. Mind it, it is left hand drive and 'Keep Right'.

      Sign posting in Dubai is generally good once you understand the system.  The infrastructure is superb.  Dubai's bus system is good. Fleet of water buses offers commuters and travelers a complete network of routes along Dubai's waterways. The Dubai Canal which was inaugurated in November 2016, is linked with Deira Creek and the Arabian Gulf. It flows majestically through the city. It looks like as if a dark green necklace is worn by the city of Dubai.

       There are number of foot bridges for the pedestrians at the prominent places. Colorful waterfalls and musical fountains, at places, are a romantic scene for the tourists, residents and walkways strollers alike. Yachts, motor boats and old time Arabian Nights charm heavy duty wooden Dhow cruise could be seen ferrying and giving joy rides to visitors in bulk. All these arrangements are controlled by the Dubai marine transport department.

So far health is concerned, both public and private healthcare services are available in Dubai. General standards are very high with English speaking staff and internationally trained medical staff in most facilities.  Healthcare in Dubai is managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Health insurance is must in Dubai and the UAE.

      Dubai is a home to various international and government nurseries, schools and universities offering top quality education.

      Downtown Dubai is the rendezvous for all kinds  of shops, restaurants,  malls and architectural marvels. Hordes of tourists and residents throng the place everyday.  At the heart of downtown is the Dubai's tallest tower, Burj Khalifa which points like a needle more than 800 meters skywards.  By its base are the world's biggest mall, The Dubai Mall, while the centerpiece is the spectacular 'Dubai Fountain' drawing crowds to witness the regular evening shows where jets of water shot 150 meters upwards into the air, parallel to Burj Khalifa, dancing on the tunes of Arabic Music.

      The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, is full of top end retail brands, an array of excellent eateries and some fantastic entertainment options such as Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo, Dubai Ice Rink and 22 screen cinema.

      Big Bus Tours - A fleet of double decker buses that provide service with audio commentary, to major attractions across town. Tickets are valid for either 24 or 48 hours.  Night tours with  commentary attract visitors to enjoy illuminated Dubai.

      If you are willing to enjoy waterways, you can always charter a Dhow, in a large group, from the fishermen and travel to east coast. If you know a bit of Arabic, you can still haggle with the fishermen in order to set the lowest price. Waters in the area are clear and turtles and dolphins can be seen from the boat.

      Hotels in Dubai range from one of the best in the world.  The Burj Al Arab Hotel, tallest in the world, emerging out from the Arabian Gulf on the man-made island, with rate in the region of Dhs. 11,000 for a night in a standard suite. The world famous Hotel Atlantis, in the Palm Jumeirah, one of the world's largest man-made island, is the shaan of Dubai. Then there is the Meydan Hotel which hosts the richest horse race in the world  The Dubai World Cup and Armani Hotel at the base of  the tallest man-made structure in the world Burj Khalifa and The Taj and The Oberois being the leading Indian ambassadors.

      If you are planning a trip to Dubai for shopping, look out for small shopping centers first and then head for Bur Dubai where you would find an atmosphere like back home Chandni Chowk and  whatever you want to purchase. Trying haggling for price cut, though not welcome in Dubai, but place like Bur Dubai where you can bargain and have the cost reduced to some extent. There is generally a mall or shopping center within easy distance from anywhere you end up. 

       When you are exhausted at Bur Dubai, try visiting The Dubai Mall, The Mall of Emirates, Dubai Outlet Mall. Dubai Marina Mall at the Marsa Dubai or  Mercato Shopping Mall at the northern end of Jumeirah Road. Then head to West Square or City Walk both in Jumeirah.  The second biggest shopping hub.  The huge Lulu Hypermarket just off Union Suqeim Road is worth the visit and there is a cluster of handy shops with easy approach.

       Hypermarkets, we generally call them Supermarkets,  are a one stop shop for almost anything you can think of, . With a range that goes far beyond food, most sell a variety of electronics and home appliances at competitive prices as well as toys, home wares, luggage, clothes, shoes, music and much much more. You name it, they have it.

       If you are over the age of 21 years, you can buy alcohol in Dubai's restaurants and licensed bars for consumption on the premises.  If you wish to drink at home, you will need a liquor license.  Muslims are not allowed. Drinks can be expensive in Dubai.  If you have a few drinks with dinner, then do not drive. You will be breaking the law if you drive after even one drink. You may land up in a trouble.

      The local scents are a big business in Dubai. These scents are generally strong and spicy.   US based store present in Mall of the Emirates, ibn Battuta Mall and The Dubai Mall.  All kinds of lovely bath and beauty products are available here.

      The 'Signature' Sanjeev Kapoor's latest Dubai Restaurant with traditional Indian dishes given an innovative makeover. Samosas and Bhajis take a back seat to such a modern delights of tandoori lobster, basil pepper, honey mustered chicken or paneer tikka.

      May be it is not the end of story of the City of Dubai and much much more  can still be written in the form of an encyclopedia  about this wonderful city and the UAE,  like an unending story of Arabian Nights, if I may, now say goodbye, all happy and feeling satisfied with my Dubai visit, a long cherished wish has been fulfilled!!






       

                                   MASTI AT THE JUMEIRAH BEACH, DUBAI

       The other day, we all were at the Jumeirah Beach.  It was an opportunity, a rare one indeed, to be on a beach, having fun and frolic.  We had taken sufficient food stuff, drinks and chocolate milk along and enjoyed our day out, to the fullest.  On the sands, we laid  out the mat spreads, and the stuff brought was also arranged on it, though against the mild sea winds.

      All of us, first of all, walked towards the sea and plunged into the waters. We were all bare feet, putting on cargo shorts. As we got into the water, All of us experienced the shiver of cool water and the hit of sea winds. Rama seemed overwhelmed seeing the mighty ocean before her, that she had earlier seen either only on the screen or as photographs. She enjoyed the feel of touching of sea water, its splash and standing into the sea herself, and was very happy and thankful to Vandana, her daughter, who enabled her to see the sea!

      It was virtually a rare experience for me too, to walk into the sea against the mighty waives coming continuously one after the other, and while retreating back into the sea, took along with them, the sand from under the feet creating a mild sensation in the whole body. If you continuously stare at the coming waves, at a stretch, without blinking your eyes, you must feel giddy and may have a fall into the water. Many times I tried to go deeper with all my dare, and of course, also with hidden fear, but then you are nobody to challenge the mighty ocean!

      Our little Saisha was more than happy. She was all shouting, laughing and calling everyone to join her while she tried to negotiate the small waives, at their fag end, and then came running back to safety. She tried her hand in making sand castles using all her skills, with small hands.  I also joined her help made big sand castle with all my efforts in half an hour, little beyond from the reach of the waives. But Saisha was not lucky enough to save her castle for long, when suddenly a big, mighty and furious waive came and washed it away before our eyes! Sorry Saisha!!

      Low flying helicopters over the beach attracted everyone's attention on the beach, to look skyward, the visitors enjoying the aerial view of the sea, sand dunes, beaches, man-made islands and the crescents. The Dubai city from the air is an impressive and truly unique sight. Flying along the coast by helicopter, the experience of which, will live long in the memory.

      After feeling tired a little, we had our lunch, some sitting and some standing in the sands, changed clothes, packed, cleaned up the site, putting the waste into the bin, walked away from the beach and then further drove away to another beautiful beach, The Walk Marina Beach. Here we enjoyed sightseeing, walking around beautifully maintained and manicured green lawns, with nicely arranged and pruned hedges, amusement and children play parks, upcoming merry-go-round on the sea shore. 

      Hustle and bustle in the area surrounded by many reputed wayside restaurants and eateries, over looking shiny tall residential sky scrapers. A vast sea skyline in front of us gave an unlimited and amazing nazara of The Walk Marina and the World's only tallest Seven Star Hotel Burj Al Arab, constructed in the sea on the man-made island, showing up at the skyline!!

    In the evening, driving back home, all through from The Walk, to the Business Bay residence, was yet another thrill!!

                       VISIT TO SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE, ABU DHABI

      At 12 noon, we headed for Abu Dhabi and reached at the well known Swedish Furniture and Home Accessories retail chain IKEA, the biggest in the UAE, located in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Though we had no plans for shopping, still we spent quite a good time in the mall, had a cup of coffee and purchased few items, though some of them, not necessarily required. IKEA commenced its operations in Dubai in 1991 and opened in Abu Dhabi in March 2001.

      At 14.15, we reached at the stunning Abu Dhabi landmark, a truly remarkable architectural marvel, reminiscent of a sultan's palace from the Arabian Nights The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque . Unlike most mosques in the UAE, it is open to non-Muslims. It has a capacity for astonishing 40,000 worshipers. The world's only one piece largest hand-woven,, beautiful masterpiece of Persian Carpet which is spread out wall-to wall, in the main hall of the mosque, is worth appreciating.

      At the entrance, there are two entry gates for the visitors, separately for men and women. Women are not allowed entry without burqa which is issued to them at the entry gate. The structure of the mosque is so huge and fascinating and spread out in a vast area. It is not so easy for visitors to walk around the whole area without being feeling fatigued. 

      The look of the Persian Carpet, and the massive and rarely big and beautiful inner domes, with intricate carvings on them with colorful paintings on walls makes the onlookers feel like wandering in a dream world. The number of big and small colorful and designer Belgian Chandeliers, compel each and every visitor to look above in amazement! While entering into carpet area, the visitors are only allowed bare-feet.

     To be there first time, is a feeling of self satisfaction, and feast to one's eyes! Masha Allah!

     It was late evening and getting dark when we returned to Dubai, throwing a look from a distance, on the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Palace and Emirates Palace Hotel, having a longer circular drive through the beautifully illuminated roads, sign postings and  computerized hoardings, big and small, on the roads and buildings, on either side of the busy motorway, was a rare view for us, all through, till we reached home.

                                                           LOST COMPANIONS

       Since early 2003, a stray puppy came inside our home at Panipat, all wet and shivering from cold as it was heavily raining outside. It was picked up from the gate and brought in, wiped clean and given some milk that he did not like. However, somehow a small quantity of milk was given to him with the help of a spoon forcefully. It was quite fluffy, good looking  and seemed  to have been parted from the mother dog. 

       Within next few days, he started eating, playing and drinking milk regularly  and as a result of which, now he looked more good and attractive and we also loved and finally decided to keep him permanently at home. Days and months passed by and Sheru, as we called him, became more homely. He became a member of our family. Sheru was smart, handsome, extra confident and active. Whenever we were on the dining table, Sheru will not miss the occasion. He will sit down by the side and demand his share each time we eat. He was however, never bothered about his own bowl.

        In November 2004, on a fateful day, a boy, perhaps one of the friends of our Son Vivek,  came running to our home and told that your Sheru has been poisoned by Panipat Health Team and his dead body is lying in a drain in NFL Township. It was all over and we could not do any thing as Sheru was not provided with a Neck Belt and the Health Team, therefore, poisoned treating him as a stray dog! Sheru left us behind disheartened and anguished!

       In an extremely cold winter night of 2005, I could not sleep well and spent  restless night because of a very fearful nightmare where a horde of wild dogs, with wide open jaws and tongues moving fast, back and forth, had surrounded me from all sides. I found it quite helpless to protect myself from those barking mad dogs and under the pressure, I gathered all my dare and tried to run away from the scene.  

       But I found it with surprise that whenever I took one long running step ahead, at the same time I was being dragged two steps backwards by an unknown force! Then I found myself totally overpowered by the wild dogs and as a result of which, I woke up at four abruptly, panic stricken, all perspiring and feeling heavy heartbeat strokes pounding heavily, frightened and weak!

       I got up, took some warm water, strolled in the lobby for a while and opened the gate in order to get an idea of the atmosphere.  It was still dark, cloudy and densely foggy outside. The visibility in the street was very low and it was not possible to look beyond even ten yards. After a while, as I was about to shut the gate, I heard crooning sound emanating deep in the fog at a short distance in the street. 

       I tried to go near. When I went a few steps further, the sound became loud and clear. In an effort to locate the spot, I lowered myself a little and found that a small puppy, a few days' old, presumably overrun by a speeding vehicle, most probably by a two wheeler. I immediately ran back to the house and brought Rama, my wife, at the scene. For a moment we thought what to do? The condition of the puppy was so precarious that it needed an immediate medical attention. 

       We decided on the spot, lifted it and brought home. The puppy was all wet due to falling of heavy mist during the night, and trembling due to severe cold which needed immediate medical treatment. It was taken to Vet Hospital the same day and given primary first aid and further treatment

       It was, however, now clear to me the meaning of the nightmare that I had been undergone into, that night meaning that it could have been a signal for me to save a precious life, that might have had been no more, if there was a delay of  even an hour!

       Not being going into further details as to how we brought up the puppy on its legs, after having given medical treatment and spoon feeding, to be precise, the puppy stood on three legs because left hind leg was squeezed and fell shorter than the right one, as a result of which, the puppy started walking funny. One month and a half had passed and by now, we had given puppy, a name, 'Kundu'!

       From December 2005 till August 2008. Kundu was already with us when our Son Vivek suddenly brought home a few days' old Labrador Puppy and left for Malaysia for an indefinite period. We very well knew that entry of another rival into the house was neither liked nor suited to Kundu. It was like two swords in one scabbard. We had to constantly watch Kundu's movements to ensure that it did not harm the new comer.

       Whenever Kundu had an encounter with the lab puppy roaming about in the lobby, it immediately ran after him growling and projecting open jaws and stretching its tongue inside out vigorously, trembling with raze and that was the crucial time when the lab puppy had to be protected and rescued from Kundu. As lab puppy grew, friendship between Kundu and lab developed slowly.

        A time came when both of them became fast friends and played, slept and sat together. Shortly,  lab puppy grew bigger, lightening active, beautiful, sturdy, creamy-white with lightest sparkling golden shade all over, with straight and sharp tail always in submission, who got a name from us as 'Danny'.

       Playful activities of both the pets were a source of our entertainment in the house and even for the visitors. Both the pets were so lovable that it became a talk of the town. Now, Danny was two years old and it attracted many dog loving people, some of them even dared to offer us handsome amounts of money for Danny. It, however, gave us severe surprised shock. Danny had become my friend who was well aware of my movements, actions and codes.

        He would accompany me wherever I went. Whenever, we were on the dining table, he would sit aside and watch us eye to eye. We both are alone in a big house and both Kundu and Danny were our companions who kept an alert eye day and night. Since we are vegetarian, Danny was unlucky to have received non  vegetarian feed. Sorry Danny!

       On one fateful morning, when I had gone to fetch milk in the neighborhood, I found Danny missing from the house on my return. On searching every nook and corner and expected places from where it could be found, Danny was no where to be seen. We were wondering as to where the dog can go within 15 minutes! Within no time, whole of Vikas Nagar and NFL Township area were physically searched shouting \for Danny but in vain. 

       Next day, Danny's  image posters were pasted every where and announcements were made on loud speakers offering an award of Rs 2,000/- whosoever gave us the clue about the whereabouts of our beloved Danny. But  till today, we are missing our Danny, the lovable dog companion!

       As if, it was not enough for us to live disheartened and under extreme mental suffering due to loss of Danny in the year 2014, one day, our dear Kundu also did not return home in the evening, till today increasing our agony manifolds!

       To add still more surprise shock, I may say that it was  already enough for our family to live under extreme mental stress due to loss of our dear family pet dogs Sheru, Danny and Kundu in the past, now that our beloved Roxi, a German Shephard, breathed his last in Feb 2018, again leaving all of us in  mental pain  and thereby increasing our agony manifolds! however, \in March 2018, a very young GSD puppy was brought home from Chandigarh and was given the name Roxy, who is now over two years old and have helped us forget the past!

                                                   A COLLAPSED DREAM

        In the year 1956-57, I was studying in the 6th class in the then High School, Nurpur, Kangra. Harbans Singh Katoch, a boy from Village Nagni, Bhadwar took admission in 6th class.  Both of us came closer and soon became friends.  We always used to sit together in the class and also go together where ever we went.  For the first few months Harbans used to up and down from Nagni which did not suit him and later he started to live in the school hostel within the school premises.  Harbans was then little shorter and fattier than me. He was also seen a little clever and intelligent as compared to me.

        During next two years, we grew and grew longer, tougher and understandable as well. It was the time when we had started  thinking about our future plans.  Though, it was too early for the school boys like us worrying about the future life, it still became a matter of highest priority and importance for both of us.  One day when I was with him at the hostel, I told Harbans that after leaving the school, I want to join the armed forces as an officer. 

\        On hearing this, Harbans also jumped into final conclusion and agreed with me and told me that perhaps he was also thinking on the same lines. From then on, we both determined to make all out efforts, after schooling, to join the armed  forces as commissioned officers and solemnly pledged ourselves for the same.

       In the year 1961, after completion of matriculation, we went our own ways and never met again until 20th July, 1974 at 9.30 AM, at a Military Headquarters in Pathankot! Before matriculation result, I was sent to my Chacha Udham Chandji at Jammu, so that instead of loitering aimlessly in the village, I might be put into a temporary job where at least I could be able to earn some money in order to meet my own expenses.  After having worked in a factory in Jammu for a period of three months, I was again in Village Ladori for a while, for preparation to leave for Bombay to my maternal uncle who was then serving in Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. as a Purchase Officer.  My uncle had promised my Dadi that he would take me to Bombay and help provide  a temporary apprentice job in any factory there.

        One day, it so happened that in Hattian, I met one of the old classmates Rameshwar Singh who is the relative of Harbans.  I inquired from Rameshwar about the whereabouts of Harbans, who in turn, told me that he had joined the Army as a Sepoy, a few months back and currently he is under recruit training. I asked Rameshwer with dismay as to why he joined the Army as a Recruit.  Rameshwar told me  that he had been advised by a very senior  serving army officer that he should not wait for any longer and waste time but straightaway join the Army as recruit.  

       There are more and bright chances for a serving soldier to apply for permanent commission.  I listened carefully and noted the point.  Being an under privileged and due to lack of proper guidance and financial support, the dream of joining Army as an officer was slowly fading away and I was now more worried aboutmy settlement in any job..  As the question of my further studies in a college was already out, all my hopes and dreams now depended upon my job in Bombay.  However, the pledge that I and Harbans had taken together was still alive at the back of my mind.

        Subhash Chachaji received me at Bombay Central Railway Station and took straight to his house in Bandra where I stayed with the family for two days only.  Then I was taken to New Heaven Engineering Works at Andheri(East) and introduced to a very senior and impressive looking elderly, well dressed in whites, over six feet in height and soft spoken sikh engineer who straightaway provided me a helper's job on a monthly salary of Rs 50/-.  Next day, I was introduced to another boy.  I was to live in a Kholi that had been taken on rent at Jogeshwari.

         I reached Jogeshwari. It was a very small room of 8'x8' where five boys were already living!  Almost half the room was occupied by the baggage and utility items.  It was very difficult or impossible for six persons to sleep on the remaining floor, all huddled together, but there was no alternative except 2 or 3 persons could manage sleeping on the small varanda in summers.  Each and every individual had to prepare roti on one available oil stove, turn by turn, and then run fast to various work places.

        Meagre monthly salary of Rs. 50/- was not at all enough to live in Bombay even in those days.  It had become very difficult to make both ends meet and meet other daily expenses including medicines, room rent, rations, milk and vegetables.  Due to very poor living conditions with increasing tension of factory workload and lack of even minimum inescapable daily diet to survive, I fell ill and was admitted in JJ Hospital.  After having stayed in the hospital for nearly one and a half month, doctors recommended that I should not continue to stay in Bombay and that I must go home in order to gain health.

        I was back home in Ladori.  It was Jun-Jul 1963. Nothing had changed in Ladori and I again started feeling helpless and lonely in the village.  Frustration also began to overpower me resulting in a unknown fear of my taking to a wrong route.  Resulting, I was, this time, sent to Patiala to my Chhote Chachaji, Ishwer Chander Sharma, who was then serving in the Army as a Religious Teacher. I was sent to Patiala so that I may be able to improve my health.

         After having lived in Patiala for five months, my health had very much improved and I had started thinking of doing some job.  One day morning, I was standing on the roof of our quarter when I saw huge number of young village boys heading towards Cantonment Area.  I immediately came down on the road and inquired from one of the boys.  He told me that there was a Army Recruitment Mela in the Recruitment Office and that they are going there for recruitment in the Army.

        I came back down to the quarter.  Sat on a chair for a while and thought about my friend Harbans and his joining Army as a Sepoy.  Within no time, I was at the Recruitment Office without the knowledge of my Chachaji.  To  my surprise I was only a matriculate candidate among all the aspiring candidates.  I was recruited in the Army without any difficulty, as a clerk on 11 November 1963 and reached Bangalore for training.

     After recruit training, I was posted to a Military Headquarter in Pune in May 1965.  In Jun 1966, I was further posted to HQ Bombay Sub Area, Colaba, Bombay on my own request.  In early 1967, I applied for Commission in the Army but very sorry to say, that Brig Harpal Singh, the then Sub Area Commander, rejected my candidature right away, by saying that he did not like clerks to become commissioned officers in the army and that I should first change my trade from clerk to a general duty sepoy, then he would be the first person to help me grant commission in the Army!  What a misuse  of  an authority, the first recommending authority, which was not at all a final one! I missed the chance.

        In 1973 to 1975, I was posted in a Military Headquarters at Pathankot.  One day morning, at about 9.30 AM, I was busy with some official work.  My cap was hanging on the wall behind me.  I heard someone asking me about the office of a senior officer serving in our Headquarters.  I looked up.  I was stunned, numb, cold and yet perspiring.  Capt Harbans Singh Katoch was standing tall before me!  For a few seconds, I could not utter a words.

         My throat got dried and stuck.  Capt Harbans Singh Katoch first touched my shoulder and then shook hand with me.  I felt a strong grip, the grip that gave me a long awaited friendly touch, that I remember till today.  Soon Harbans left my office with a swift turn, with a promise to meet again very soon.  However,  We  never met  again till today!

        I could not sleep properly for a few nights after having seen my friend.  From next day onward, I started preparations, day and night, for applying for SL Commission.  Now that I had completed my 10 years active in the Army, I was eligible for applying for SL Commission in the Army.  Appropriate time for submission of applications for SL Commission came and I applied for two different posts, one for Record Officer and another application for  the post of Quartermaster.  After recommendations by the Sub Area Commander, the applications were sent forward to a high headquarter at Nagrota near Udhampur.

       A few weeks later, all the recommended candidates were present at Nagrota for final recommendations prior to Service selection board.  In the morning at 9 O' Clock, interview began.  My turn came at 11 AM.  First I was called for the post of Record Officer.  Lt Gen Khushwant Singh was the interviewing officer.  When I settled down in front of him on the chair, I was asked a question whether I had ever served in Record Office.  Being staff duty clerk, they are not posted in Record Office but they are doing the same official work in the Formation Headquarters, was the reply given by me. 

        The General said that 'when you have not served in the Record Officer, how you can become a Record Officer'.  Hence, not recommended.  In the afternoon, I was again called for another interview for the post of Quartermaster.  The General repeated same version and not recommended me for Quartermaster either.!  Laut ke Budhu Ghar ko Aye.

        Though there was one more chance for me to apply for SL Commission, I felt disheartened and made up my mind for applying for posting abroad.  The only condition was that one who applies for commission in the army, cannot simultaneously apply for posting abroad.  I finally chose to apply for posting abroad. I am not going into the details as to how I was finally selected for posting abroad which I have already mentioned somewhere in my earlier write-ups, I was posted to High Commission of India, Canberra (Australia).  Stayed there with family  for three years and posted back to a Military Headquarters at Jalandhar in 1983.

        It was my last and the only chance for applying for SL Commission.  I worked hard day and night, went to SSB Allahabad after having recommended by the intermediary authorities and performed outstandingly well as opined by the instructors and my batch colleagues there, and most importantly, by my own consciousness, later, at home, it was all shocking surprise.  I could not make it this time either!  A sweet dream collapsed and I also lost my school friend in the oblivion!

                                      KISHAN DYAL AND KAUSHALAYA DEVI

       Kishan Dyal and Kaushalya Devi were two children of Pujari of  Mandir Kalyanrai, Khajjan.  Since birth, Kishan Dyal was a feeble minded child.  It was apparent from his early childhood conduct that he would not be able to  take care of the landed property after his father.  So, it was decided to attach the land held  by the Pujari to Mandir Kalyanrai in order to secure both property and future of Kishan Dyal.

       Kaushalya Devi was married off to Puran Chand, elder son of Pandit Mallhu Ram of Ladori.  Puran Chand and Kaushalya Devi have four sons and a daughter.  Daughter Urmila is married to Om Prakash Shastri of village Indpur.  Writer, the eldest, Raman, Radha and Arun are the four sons who are well settled and living with their respective families.  Puran Chand left for his heavenly abode in March 1974 while Smt. Kaushalya Devi followed him on 27 July, 2000.

       After the demise of Head Pujari, Kishan Dyal became next Pujari and custodian of Mandir Kalyanrai and property attached to it.  Despite best efforts made by Manjhol family of Ladori in general and Kaushalya Devi in particular, Kishan Dyal never agreed for marriage.  He had been leading a lonely life all these years.  His behavior and general conduct, though not bad, had made him a laughing stock in and around the village.  The major problem with him had always been that he did not trust anyone on the earth and was not interested to listen to any good advice or suggestion from any well wishers like his sister and  her sons. 

       It was only because of his good for nothing nature and utterly foolish behavior that he lost everything.  Half of the mandir land has gone to the Mujaras {who actually cultivate the land}, under an act of government while the second half has been forcibly occupied by them as no one cared and listened to poor and hapless Kishan Dyal who is no more now!

       A still more clever immediate neighbourer of Kishan Dyal, Pancham Chand, who was then in a government service, far away in Old Himachal Pradesh, has also grabbed and occupied vast stretch of Khadyater land of Mandir Kalyanrai through a well planned and executed conspiracy with the connivance of local revenue officials showing himself as its Kashtkar taking advantage of the mental weakness of Kishan Dyal.  It may be pointed out that Khadyater land cannot be leased \out to a Kashtkar {who actually cultivate the land} for cultivation and that too to a government employee who, during all his service period lived away from Khajjan as far as  District Chamba.

       The writer's younger brother Arun has been looking after Kishan Dyal for the last many years and supporting him both financially and morally.  He had also constructed a house for him many years before his death.  Arun's efforts to retrieve the mandir land from unauthorized occupation of Mujaras as well as from Pancham Chand, have yielded results to some extent but some cases still require constant follow up.  I personally appeal to the respected senior residents of Khajjan, revenue officials, member Panchyayat  to co-operate with Arun Kumar Sharma and help him save Mandir Kalyanrai from likely ruins.
     

                                             BAADIES - THE WOODCUTTERS

          A small cluster of houses of Baadies is situated at Jharnuin adjoining Zaildare-da-Bagh between Upla Maira and Chikla Maira amidst green scenic landscape, overlooking Chhoti Dhar, on the bank of seasonal nullah, which is named after this hamlet as Baadian-da-Naal.  People of these baadies, as they say, originally belonged to a gipsy tribe whose main occupation was tree felling, sawing and blacksmithing.  It is said that they came to this part of the then East Punjab from Chittorgarh area of Rajasthan.

         They feel  proud to have been directly associated with Maharana Pratap, who provided their logistical support  to his army and worked as porters and carried out all kind of carpentry  and blacksmithing works like making of quality swords, dhaals and handy knives, khanjjars and kirpaans for Ranas of Rajasthan both in peace and war.

       After the demise of Maharana Pratap, a fistful of his lashkar and immediate followers, who were left behind, migrated to other parts of the country in search of livelihood.  One such large family reached Ladori.  On their arrival in the village, they had nothing to do but to carry on their ancestral work of tree felling.  But due to lack of sufficient work, it became extremely difficult for them to make both ends meet and they had to live in utterly poor conditions in thatched dwellings for years, working for others.

       With the passage of time, they were taken to cultivation on agricultural land on contract basis and rearing of domestic animals became their mainstay.  A few of them became owners of some agricultural land under an act of the government while few others acquired it through deeds. Now they live  in good houses fitted with water and electricity supply.  Most of them also own various types of basic consumer household items like radio, television, mixer-grinders, refrigerator, fans, furniture, LCD and various other decorative household items. Most of them also own two wheelers.  Children go to school while womenfolk work in fields.

       Milkhi Ram Baadi, an energetic, ambitious and confident  school drop-out guy of this community was elected Sarpanch of Ladori Khas Panchayat in early sixties.  Though out of work now, he is still going strong and never misses an opportunity to play petty politics.