June 01, 2024

Dear Colleagues 

While some of the readers have suggested a review of its name, I continue to call these monthly musings random reflections; another for your perusal:

1. Today is the last phase of seven weeks long seven phase parliamentary elections in India. Throughout this period, availability of informal service workers became a challenge in cities like Delhi…plumbers, electricians, maids, gardeners, drivers, couriers, pet-walkers, etc etc. Participation in election rallies and related election activities have high demand of daily wage workers, where they earn more than they do otherwise.
2. The system of polling for such elections is now pretty well managed. In our polling station, this time, security was not very strict as no frisking for mobiles etc was done. Given hot weather, most voters landed up in long queues early morning. And, as usual, even in this queue of neighbours, several middle-aged educated persons were seen pushing themselves ahead in the queues, only to be scolded by others and security staff. Some habits run in our blood?
3. Catching a bus can be pretty stressful in many places. In Victoria (Canada), traveling in public transport buses is a pleasurable experience. Bus stops at designated spots only; getting on and getting out managed through separate doors when bus is fully stationary. Each bus has system for people with disability and wheel- chair to board on their own. Other passengers maintain patience, and thank the driver when they leave!
4. Many Bollywood films are shot in beautiful mountains, lakes and valleys of Switzerland. Chandini, Chori Chori, Don 2, Veer Zara, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge are some of those movies filmed in such locations. Interlaken, a popular tourist hub for enjoying such scenery in Switzerland, has a statue of late Yash Chopra, in recognition of Bollywood’s indirect marketing of such scenic locations.
5. Yes, it is hot in Delhi, very hot for the past two weeks. Having grown up in this region of high temperatures in summer months of May & June, I find long stretches of near 50C over weeks somewhat unusual. But capacity of families to live with such hot months without ACs 3-4 decades ago seemed more resilient than now. A key difference seems to be the past practices of aligning daily/weekly life-styles and schedule of activities to changing seasons and weather conditions.

Stay well, stay cool

Rajesh Tandon

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