Author Information
Donna Angela
“Chandra learnt proficiency from corporate lady Mrs Opal, wife of Brigadier Opal; a gentle woman but heavy when, forced to wear a frown”
Wearing shoes; white speedboat cut foreign brand “Donna Angela” an acquire from Mrs Opal; her ex boss’s lost and found record closet; dispersed each six months; Chandra returns to Patna alone but confident, hoping, to join the same organisation she had left.
Earlier Chandra and her husband were in the capitol of Bihar on contract with a gentleman, keen to expand his hotel; current intend address Chandra’s. His triumph is another story.
Fastidious about grounds under feet; unfamiliar places made Chandra insecure; and insecurity knocked the bottom out of her soul. Of new cities; biased indeed, bound to live in one. Cope, unpleasant shocks her motto was “Better a known devil than an unknown." To nest-type Chandra axiom “Familiarity breeds contempt” puzzled.
Her two and a half little one was at Calcutta with her ma who treasured her only grandson. Beside Chandra’s two loving brothers went extents caring for their little nephew; tiny monarch thus pampered, blueblood baby Shomshuvro Dasgupta tuck secure, in protective Lahiri landau.
Chandra wore a ‘Dasgupta’ now; she sported a 'Lahiri' before; nuptial differences; her father a liberal as any Bengali, Punjabi, Southern etc…
Casts play unique role in Bihar, just as well in all India; mean; inter caste marriages; a dismay for cynics.
The Caste System One Typical Indian.– ‘At how practised, viewed, tinted or not, through looking glass, none, angles used, degrees measured; conclusion drawn; laid purely on the beholders eyes’ opinion circulated in the society Chandra grew.
A cultural cosmopolitan City of Joy – ‘Rubbed on wrong sides by invisible conundrum pushing into economic predicaments, letting inmates, suffer in silence.’
Thus to say by caste, the gentleman Gemini Babu was Bhumiar, meaning landowners or farmers. Towering man, he bound his thread and 'Dhoti' with pride, drinking translucent fresh-lemon tea, from a large glass, breaking fast at mornings.
Then he rushed somewhere, return relaxed, groomed in crisp white pleated safe wrap-around falling from waist to kiss his feet.
Many poor found him a kind heart; he engaged them; they looked up on him as their mentor calling him 'Malik' meaning owner; his wife 'Malkin.'
In fact, his business friends Mr Sunman and Mrs Chandra Dasgupta addressed the same way ‘Malik and Malkin’ basked in their affection. Mind, soul, folks were attached to their Malik and Malkin; surprisingly; with no strings attached.
Bihar reputed wild; Chandra sensed none; perhaps her old association of being there with husband, the reason. He absent from her side, still she feared not; how could he be, by her now?
“Sunman was away in Doha on his new assignment!” revealed Chandra to Mr Gemini Babu, along her own plans.
Mr Gemini Babu addressed Chandra jokingly as ‘Dasguptea’ to differentiate Mr and Mrs; the name stuck; Mrs Chandra Dasguptea a welcome guest theirs.
However, polite and hospitable, to Chandra's dismay; Mr Gemini Babu missed Sunman 'because of his approach at dispensing duties' and insisted he join her too. An idea misfit to Chandra's current move; beside Sunman flew to an 'Oasis' not to return in a while; the deserts needed him and so did he, to count sands.
Actually Chandra could not spare mind on him, against fly out of the country; come, what may -- money or fame; stubborn.
Incidentally need cite, Mr Gemini Babu’s fond cousin Anita, was Chandra’s friend; married to -- an agreeable given name; as because of his profession; by locals ‘Doctor Saab’ a veterinary doctor.
They owned Petrol pumps too; thus, Doctor Saab had his handful; twenty-four hours; inclusive chicks, cows, donkeys, cats, dogs, horses… job sincerity drove him a workaholic.
Anita helped his endless, schedules. Naturally, their children were in hostel; Viswabharati, Tagore's Santiniketan “Culture bonus from education at Tagore's house” said Dr Saab seriously.
Their eldest daughter Sonya; Master in Comparative Literature-Viswabharati engaged to attractive Kumar Singh, an Indian Air Force Pilot Officer posted at Kalaikunda Air Base; prepared for marriage in spring to come. Happy maiden, superb artist sold many her works of arts.
Lukewarm job response of Mr Gemini Babu sunk Chandra, lock, stock and barrel, into the coalmines of Dhanbad. Moreover tripping over own suitcase full basics her feet hurt enormously.
Wiping her sprain with her father's choice brand, ‘Amrutanjan’ a yellow balm with ventilating odour in the tiniest jar which she carried to give relief from all types of painful ailments – from headaches, cuts, bruises, to breathing; she felt relief.
Nevertheless, her heart deep in a pit, determined; if not at her old job, she would, at another. The city was dotted with new constructions on Fraser Road; many new hotels were being set up; Hotel Smart Samara, Seta Clark, Beta Mark, Daisy Duck, etc…
Resolute to stay in ancient erstwhile Pataliputra modern Patna not far from Calcutta; just a night throw by Super Deluxe; explanation; emotionally more miles from her dear ones unsuitable; her goal was set; close to Calcutta.
That particular day of deaf ears was a Saturday; nope, just a minute it was a very special day, the day of Saturn, a day to fast and offer prayers.
For that reason, Chandra could accompany Debbie, wife of Mr Gemini Babu and other family members, maids, servants with similar fasts to a new temple near the station. One donated by a very blessed man, a class one gazetted officer; son of the soil looking after city administration.
Barren couple blessed doubly after they had had offered prayers to the deities there; then an unusually tiny alter under a banyan tree; the couple bore twins without hormonal care of the licensed.
“The magnificent temple revered passer-by of all faiths because of wishes fulfilment” said locals unanimously.
Faith Move Mountains; felt Chandra at their story.
As shoes were not allowed in places of worship; alighting barefoot from red Mahindra they left the same in wagon; their driver on guard. Parking the vehicle in a suitable spot, “Unattended shoes are soft targets, win thieves few dimes” judiciously said the driver, not against earnings but stealing.
“Petty thefts associate all pilgrim places” remarked a seasoned pilgrim; Chandra recalled his voice; she was not worried about her “Donna Angela” but her sinking plan.
Her silk sari end on verge slip offs her shaped shoulder, 'phantom is too quick' her timely tow its corner kept her bosoms covered; secure over a boat neck top and ‘no complain’ cotton bra. She was visibly pleased at her emergency image management; “Phew” breathe relief.
Midst congested locality, the temple taps provided pilgrims water to drink as well wash hands and feet, before climb marble stairs, leading to the deities.
Mostly visitors adorned temple attire; cream colours, red borders, off-white rustle mingled with camphor and benevolence. “Moog, Tsar, and Gored” -- ritual silks fluttered in the air, scents love, and goodwill; worship emanating perfumes matching tuneful bangles.
Maids too were in their best silks, received from mentors on occasions. Bulbous marigold garlands, assorted flowers, stems and leaves of tulsi, wood apple from ethnic florist; neatly arranged on bronze, copper round trays. Packets of incense and sandalwood paste ready. Perched coconut on bronze ethnic ewer filled with water carried by Debbie, Chandra and the maids.
Diamond shape cashew nut sweetmeat; more chubby sweets of chickpea flour cooked in ghee, sugar; arranged in ethnic print paper boxes. Extra fruits, guava, nectarine, litchi, black berries, cucumber, bananas, custard apples, grapes placed as offerings over banana leaf spread on metal enfold. They set.
Priest Mr Panday lead the group. The edge of off-white red-bordered “Gored” silk sari covered Debbie's pretty head; woman of natural red lips, blush cheeks, dark long tresses bun tied. A contrast to dusky Chandra's shoulder length hair; both had vermillion signs of marriage in the central partings of their hair with matching forehead adornment; red round complementing dots balanced brilliant; between eyebrows.
Around 10:00 am, that special day remembered Chandra, start prayers; she often went to places of worship because she enjoyed the fragrance of divinity; while praying she could never ever ask for material blessings.
She often repeated words learnt from her maternal grandfather “Dear God, I know not how to use great words, neither know how to pray, nor am an expert with rituals, but offer my humble services, pray in all humility for your mercy and kindness”
Though she wore a placid countenance, desperate, helpless, emotionally at odd, no one could see her tremor inside; words cannot describe her feeble feel that day; midst Vedic scriptures repeated under guidance of the priest.
With folded hands, closed eyes and chant of prayers Chandra realised she was astonishingly asking, ridiculously extraordinary -- an engagement as a Front Office Manager! Silently between Mantra utterances a specific concrete amount, as annual remuneration and perquisites; a list of want placed at the feet of the deities.
First time in her twenty seventh years, she was praying differently in that particular place of worship; where many wishes were fulfilled; known as a co-incident?
Over prepared with care vegetarian dinner; it was known from Debbie niece Sonya; that Dr Singh came to know of Chandra's visit and would be glad if Chandra dropped in to say Hello; to him.
Dr Singh known by family Dasgupta from those earlier days; his wife too was a doctor; his father a MP lived in New Delhi; they too were in the 1980s booming hotel trade of Patna.
Chandra walked casually through the doors to be greeted by a beaming Dr Ajay Singh at his temporary desk; his real office at the ESI hospital emergency dispensary; Sunday an off for Dr A. V. Singh from Government hospital; he could afford care -- hotel.
“Please do come in Mrs Dasgupta, we were just waiting for you; would you like to join us as our Front Office Manager for Hotel Smart Samara?”
“Waiting for me?” Chandra replied with a question; strange, she thought.
“Yes you are tailor-made for our new hotel and I know you very well.” He matter of fact single breath.
Dr Ajay Vikram Singh the new director of the newly finished Hotel Smart Samara had Mr Raghubans Babu an ex IAS officer as General Manager; she was told.
Chandra knew instantly she would accept the job, agree with the polite General Manager of the hotel, and make a wonderful team.
She took a tour of -- to apply for stars – hotel – “Ranking enhances possibilities” they had jointly agreed.
Soon staffs introduced in turns, Housekeepers, Accountants, Auditor, Security, Bouncer, Service persons, from the kitchen, Front and back office…
She had a choice, accommodate in hotel or company flat, next to Dr Singh’s family. Anticipating the volume of work at initiation new hotel, she opted reside in hotel. Later decide whether to move into a residential quarter, outside hotel premises. Another choice reason -- Patna roads not smart as the hotels.
The very same day of her visit to Dr Ajay Vikram Singh by 15:00 hrs -- A Sunday; she accepted and signed her appointment letter all conditions and formalities; complete to her satisfaction exactly the way she wanted between Vedic chants.
Mind running prayers and wants simultaneously; invisible to others, wishes lay at the feet of the deities; those abstract actions were not distractions but an intense faith; the natives not a wee bit wrong; Mrs Chandra Dasgupta favoured by divine grace, could this be a ridiculous exact co-incidence?
She brought prestige to the hotel; thought Dr Singh and Mr Raghubans Bubo; happy to have a serious professional woman; to boss Front Office; after all, face is the index of the mind and the first impression is the lasting impression.
Their Reception would not only be glamorous but efficient. In her white speedboat shoes, she hauled and launched profits.
To their glory and envy of the competitors, surely, she did an iron hand in supple woollens; Mrs Chandra Dasgupta was sweet, sober, and simply smart!
1
Castes play a significant role in Bihar, just as well in all India. Meaning; inter caste marriages; to the cynics a dismay. Chandra wore a �Dasgupta� now; she sported a �Lahiri� before. Marriage made the differences. Her father was liberal as any other Bengali, Punjabi, Telegu, etc�
The Caste System -- One �
� At how viewed upon, tinted or not, through looking glass or none, angles used, at degrees � measured; conclusion drawn; laid purely on the beholders eyes...
The above opinion circled in the society Chandra grew; a cultural cosmopolitan
-- City of Joy �
... Rubbed on wrong sides by invisible conundrum pushing her into economic predicaments, causing the inmates to suffer in silence�
Thus to say -- by caste the gentleman was a Bhumiar, meaning landowners or farmers. Towering man, he wore his thread with pride along with his �Dhoti� drinking from a large glass, translucent fresh-lemon tea, breaking his fast at mornings.
Then he would rush somewhere to return much relaxed, groomed tidy in fresh crisp white well pleated yards, safe wrap-around from waist; falling to kiss his feet. Many poor landless labourers found in him a kind heart. He engaged them and they would look up to him as their mentor calling him �Malik� meaning owner; his wife was �Malkin.�
In fact his business friends Mr Sunman and Mrs Chandra Dasgupta were, thus, addressed the same way � �Malik and Malkin� � They basked in their affection.
With their body, soul and mind the folks were attached to their Malik and Malkin. Surprisingly; wilful with no strings attached.
Though Bihar had a wild reputation, she did not feel or understand the same; perhaps Chandra�s old association of her being there previously, with her husband, Mr Sunman Dasgupta, came to usefulness.
Even though he was absent from her side, this time, she feared not being by self. How could he be, by her now?
�He was away in Doha on his new assignment!� revealed Chandra to Mr Bhumiar Babul. She also aired her own plan.
Mr Bhumiar Babul had never addressed Chandra by her first name but teasingly as �Dasguptea� to differentiate between Mr and Mrs; the name stuck. Bengali Mrs Chandra Dasguptea was a valued guest �atithi� in their home.
2
Polite and hospitable, much to Chandra�s disappointment; Mr Bhumiar Babul missed her husband -- Reasons: �because of his organised approach of dispensing duties� and insisted he join her too.
The idea was a misfit to Chandra�s current charter. Beside Mr Sunman Dasgupta flew to an �Oasis� and surely would not return in a while. The deserts needed him and so did he, to count sands.
In reality Chandra could not spare her mind on him, she was not for -- flying out of the country; come, what may -- money or fame. She was stubborn.
Incidentally; it is necessary to mention that Mr Bhumiar Babul had a loving cousin Anita; married to a -- an agreeable given name; as because of his profession; by locals �Doctor Saab� a veterinary doctor.
Additionally they were owners of Petrol pumps; thus Doctor Saab had his handful; twenty four hours; inclusive chicks, cows, donkeys, cats, dogs, horses� Professional sincerity drove him into a workaholic.
His wife helped him in his round the clock, engagements � naturally they sent their children to study in hostel; Viswabharati, Tagore�s Santineketan to learn art, science, and theatres. �Culture would be an added bonus from their education at Tagore�s house� said Dr Saab jokingly.
The eldest daughter Sonya was at home preparing for her marriage in spring to come. She had done her Masters in Comparative Literature from Viswabharati; would decide on her profession after her marriage with Kumar Singh an attractive young Pilot Officer from the Indian Air Force.
He was posted at Kalaikunda Air Base; her knowledge of Bengali would be an advantage for her because Kalaikunda was in the State of West Bengal; not that the Bengalis did not speak or understand Hindi India�s, National Language.
Their famous, �Chalo, chalo Delhi chalo� repeated after Netaji S. Chandra Bose and �Iswar ho Allah, tero nam, sabko sammati, de Bhagwan� after Mahatma; should leave no one guessing.
Sonya was a superb artist and had sold many of her artwork already.
3
The lukewarm job response of Mr Bhumiar Babul sunk Chandra, lock, stock and barrel, into the coalmines of Dhanbad. In addition, she hurt her feet tripping over her very own suitcase packed with bare essentials.
She wiped her sprain with her father�s choice brand, �Amrutanjan� a yellow balm with ventilating odour in the tiniest jar which she carried to give relief from all types of painful ailments � from headaches, cuts, bruises, to breathing.
Nevertheless, her heart deep in a pit, she gave her spirit a workout; if not at her old job, she would, at another. The city was dotted with new constructions on Fraser Road. Many new hotels were being set up. Hotel Smart Samara, Seta Clark, Beta Mark, Daisy Duck, etc�
Of that she was determined to stay in ancient �Pataliputra� modern Patna. Not far from Calcutta; just a night throw by Super Deluxe. Emotionally she could not afford further miles, away from her dear ones. Her goal was to get closer to Calcutta.
That particular day of deaf ears was a Saturday. Nope, just a minute it was a very special day, the day of Saturn, a day to fast and offer prayers.
For that reason so could, Chandra accompany Mina, wife of Mr Bhumiar Babul and other family members along with maids and servants holding similar fasts to a new temple near the station.
The new temple was donated by a barren couple who were blessed doubly, at one go, after they had had offered prayers to the deities there; then; it used to be a tiny alter under a banyan tree. They have had twins. That too, without artificial assistances, or any hormonal treatments provided by professionals.
�The magnificent place of worship was revered by all passer-by from all religions because their wishes always came true� said the locals unanimously. The very blessed man, a class one gazetted officer was son of the soil looking after city administration.
4
Faith does move mountains, felt Chandra at the story. Barefoot, alighting from the red Mahindra jeep they left their shoes and sandals in the wagon. Shoes were not allowed in places of worship.
Parking the jeep in a convenient spot, �Unattended shoes are soft targets, and could earn the thief a few dimes� said the driver advising. The driver guarded the same. Not that he was against earnings but a dislike for stealing; he added further looking very responsible.
�Worldwide petty thefts were associated with all pilgrim places� once said a seasoned traveller wisely, to all he came across -- Chandra remembered his voice. Chandra was not worried about her �Donna Angela� but her sinking plan.
Her silk sari end on verge slip offs her shaped shoulder, �phantom is too quick� she towed the corner in time. That kept her bosoms covered, secure over a boat neck blouse and �no complain� cotton bra inside. She was visibly pleased at her emergency image management; �Phew� breathing in relief.
As there could be no affording of a pond in that congested locality; the temple authorities; arranged taps in rows for the visitors to wash hands and feet before a climb of marble stairs, leading to the deities. The water made the worshippers feel purer and fresher.
They were adorned mostly in temple attire: cream colours; red borders; white rustle mingled with camphor and benevolence. Men in Mooga, women in Tussar -- ritual silks fluttered in the air, scents love and goodwill. Worship emanating perfumes.
Even the maids were in their best silks, received as presents on festival days from their mentors.
Bulbous marigold garlands, assorted flowers, stems and leaves of tulsi, wood apple provided by the ethnic florist; they neatly arranged their bronze and copper round trays. Packets of incense, and sandalwood paste made ready by maids at home perched along coconut fruit and bronze ethnic ewer filled with water.
Diamond shaped cashew nut sweetmeat and chubby sweets made from chickpea flour cooked in ghee with sugar, were arranged in colourfully ethnic printed paper boxes. Extra fruits like guava, nectarine, litchi, black berries, cucumber, bananas, custard apples, grapes and more placed as offerings over banana leaf spread on metal enfold.
5
The priest Mr Panday guided the group to alter. Mina covered her head with the edge of her red bordered white �garad� sari. She was a pretty woman with natural red lips and blushing cheeks, thick long hair tied in a bun.
In contrast Chandra was a dusky woman with jet black shoulder length hair. She was attractive with expressive eyes. As signs of marriage both women wore vermillion in the central partings of their hair with matching forehead adornment -- �bindis� round complementing red dots balanced brilliant; between eyebrows.
It was around 10:00 am that special day recalled Chandra when they started with their prayers. She often went to places of worship because she enjoyed the fragrance and the divine atmosphere. Whenever she prayed she could never ever ask for material blessings.
She would often repeat the words learnt from her maternal grandfather. �Dear God, I know not how to use great words, neither I know how to pray, nor am I an expert with rituals, but I offer you my humble services. I pray to you again and again in all humbleness for your mercy and kindness.�
Though she wore a placid countenance, desperate, helpless, emotionally at odd, no one could see her tremor inside; words cannot describe her feeble feel that day. Vedic scriptures were repeated as required under guidance from the priest.
With folded hands, closed eyes and chant of prayers Chandra realised she was astonishingly asking for the ridiculously extraordinary -- an engagement as a Front Office Manager! Silently in between Mantra utterances a specific concrete amount, as an annual remuneration with perquisites. There was a list of want she placed at the feet of the deities.
First time in her twenty seventh years she was praying differently in that particular place of worship; where wishes were horses and those who knew; rode them.
6
Shall this be known as a co-incident?
The same evening, over, prepared with care vegetarian dishes for dinner; it was known from Mina�s niece Sonya; that Dr Singh came to know of Chandra�s visit and he would be pleased if Chandra could drop in to say Hello; to him.
Dr Singh was known by family Dasgupta from those earlier days; his wife too was a doctor. His father was a member of the parliament and lived in New Delhi. They too were in the booming hotel trade of the 1980s in Patna.
Chandra walked casually through the doors to be greeted by a beaming Dr Ajay Singh at his temporary desk. His real office was at the ESI hospital emergency dispensary. Sunday was an off day for Dr A. V. Singh from his Government hospital. He could afford, some spare care -- hotel.
�Please do come in Mrs Dasgupta, we were just waiting for you, rather for just a person like you. Would you like to join us as our Front Office Manager for Hotel Smart Samara?�
�Waiting for me?� Chandra replied with a question. How strange, she thought to herself.
�Yes you are tailor-made for our new hotel. I know you very well.� He said in a matter of fact voice.
Dr Ajay Vikram Singh was the new director of the newly finished Hotel Smart Samara.
The General Manager Mr Raghubans Bubo was an ex IAS officer from a place known as Chiliad, some miles away from Patna; she was told.
Chandra knew instantly that she would accept the job, get along well with the polite General Manager of the hotel; they would make a wonderful team. She took a tour of -- to apply for stars � hotel � �Ranking enhances possibilities� they had jointly agreed.
As an induction; the staffs were introduced in turns so as not to upset their routine. Housekeepers, Accountants, Auditor, Security, Bouncer, Service persons, from the kitchen, Front and back office, etc � Most of them were on their new jobs.
7
She would be accommodated in the hotel or in the company flat, next to Dr Singh�s family, whichever she chose. Anticipating the volume of work at the inception of a new hotel she opted to reside in hotel.
Initiation complete she could decide whether she needed to move into a residential quarter, outside the hotel. There was another reason -- Patna roads were not smart as the hotels.
The very same day of her visit to Dr Ajay Vikram Singh by 15:00 hrs -- A Sunday; she accepted and signed her appointment letter. With all conditions and formalities; complete to her satisfaction. It was exactly the way she wanted in between the Vedic chants.
She remembered her mind running prayers and wants simultaneously. Her invisible to others, wishes lay at the feet of the deities. Those abstract actions were not distractions but an intense faith. The natives were not a wee bit wrong. Mrs Chandra Dasgupta was favoured by heavenly grace. Could this be a ridiculous exact co-incidence?
She brought prestige to the hotel; thought Dr Singh and Mr Raghubans Bubo. Happy; they were to have a serious professional woman; to boss; their Front Office. After all, face is the index of the mind and the first impression is the lasting impression.
Their Reception would not only be glamorous but efficient. In her white speedboat shape shoes, she would haul and launch profits. To their glory and envy of the competitors, surely she did an iron hand in supple woollens. Mrs Chandra Dasgupta was sweet, sober, and simply smart!
End
*****
Page 1
Hopes were to get back her job as manager in the same organisation which she had left.
Wearing her perfect pair of white speedboat shape foreign brand �Donna Angela� shoes which she inherited from Mrs Opal, her ex boss,
-- �Chandra learnt proficiency from her, a corporate lady, married to Brigadier Opal; Mrs Opal a gentle woman but heavy when, forced to wear a frown� --
Chandra returned to Patna; this time alone but confident.
She was fastidious about grounds under her feet.
Unfamiliar places made her insecure, and insecurity knocked the bottom out of her soul.
Better a known devil than an unknown -- was her appreciation of the -- not so good -- that came her way.
This is how she thought of new cities, narrow minded indeed, given a compulsion, to live in one.
She was a typical stereo-nest-type -- bird in air, in the day; at night, down to earth, stay.
Personally to her, -- �Familiarity breeds contempt� -- was out.
****
Page 2
Her; two and a half little one was at Calcutta with her ma who treasured her only grandson.
Beside Chandra had two loving brothers who would go any extent to take care of their only nephew.
Blueblood baby Shomshuvro Dasgupta tuck secure in protective arms of Lahiri family.
The tiny monarch � was pampered.
***
Page 3
Earlier, both, she and her husband had come to the capitol of Bihar to run business on contract for a gentleman, keen to expand his hotel chain further and further�
Whether he was successful in his venture is another story to be told another day at another appropriate time.
***
Page 4
Castes play a significant role in Bihar, just as well in all India.
Meaning; inter caste marriages; to the cynics a dismay.
Chandra wore a �Dasgupta� now; she sported a �Lahiri� before.
Marriage made the differences.
Her father was liberal as any other Bengali, Punjabi, Telegu, etc�
The Caste System
-- One �
� At how viewed upon, tinted or not, through looking glass or none, angles used, at degrees � measured; conclusion drawn; laid purely on the beholders eyes.
The above opinion circled in the society Chandra grew; a cultural cosmopolitan
-- City of Joy �
... Rubbed on wrong sides by invisible conundrum pushing her into economic predicaments, causing the inmates to suffer in silence�
***
Page 5
Thus to say -- by caste the gentleman was a Bhumiar, meaning landowners or farmers.
Towering man, he wore his thread with pride along with his �Dhoti� drinking from a large glass, translucent fresh-lemon tea, breaking his fast at mornings.
Then he would rush somewhere to return much relaxed, groomed tidy in fresh crisp white well pleated yards, safe wrap around from waist; falling to kiss his feet.
Many poor landless labourers found in him a kind heart.
He engaged them and they would look up to him as their mentor calling him �Malik� meaning owner; his wife was �Malkin.�
In fact his business friends Mr Sunman and Mrs Chandra Dasgupta were, thus, addressed the same way � �Malik and Malkin� � They basked in their affection.
With their body, soul and mind the folks were attached to their Malik and Malkin.
Surprisingly; wilful with no strings attached.
***
Page 6
Though Bihar had a wild reputation, she did not feel or understand the same; perhaps Chandra�s old association of her being there previously, with her husband, Mr Sunman Dasgupta, came to usefulness.
Even though he was absent from her side, this time, she feared not.
How could he be, by her now?
�He was away in Doha on his new assignment!� revealed Chandra to Mr Bhumiar Babul.
She also aired her own plan.
Mr Bhumiar Babul had never addressed Chandra by her first name but teasingly as �Dasguptea� to differentiate between Mr and Mrs; the name stuck.
Bengali Mrs Chandra Dasguptea was a valued guest �atithi� in their home.
***
Page 7
Polite and hospitable, much to Chandra�s disappointment; Mr Bhumiar Babul missed her husband --
Reasons: �because of his organised approach of dispensing duties� and insisted he join her too.
The idea was a misfit to Chandra�s current charter.
Beside Mr Sunman Dasgupta flew to an �Oasis� and surely would not return in a while.
The deserts needed him and so did he, to count sands.
In reality Chandra could not spare her mind on him, she was not for -- flying out of the country; come, what may -- money or fame. She was stubborn.
***
Page 8
Incidentally, it is necessary to mention that Mr Bhumiar Babul had a loving cousin Anita; married to a -- an agreeable given name; as because of his profession; by locals �Doctor Saab� a veterinary doctor.
Additionally they were owners of Petrol pumps; thus Doctor Saab had his handful; twenty four hours; inclusive chicks, cows, donkeys, cats, dogs, horses�
Professional sincerity drove him into a workaholic.
His wife helped him in his round the clock, engagements � naturally they sent their children to study in hostel; Viswabharati, Tagore�s Santineketan to learn art, science, and theatres.
�Culture would be an added bonus from their education at Tagore�s house� said Dr Saab jokingly.
The eldest daughter Sonya was at home preparing for her marriage in spring to come.
She had done her Masters in Comparative Literature from Viswabharati; would decide on her profession after her marriage with Kumar Singh an attractive young Pilot Officer from the Indian Air Force.
He was posted at Kalaikunda Air Base; her knowledge of Bengali would be an advantage for her there because it was in the STATE of West Bengal; not that the Bengalis did not speak or understand Hindi India�s, National Language.
Their famous, �Chalo, chalo Delhi chalo� repeated after Netaji S. Chandra Bose and �Iswar ho Allah, tero nam, sabko sammati, de Bhagwan� after Mahatma; should leave no one guessing.
Sonya was a superb artist and had sold many of her artwork already.
***
Page 9
The lukewarm job response of Mr Bhumiar Babul sunk Chandra, lock, stock and barrel, into the coalmines of Dhanbad.
In addition, she hurt her feet tripping over her very own suitcase packed with bare essentials.
She wiped her sprain with her father�s choice brand, �Amrutanjan� a yellow balm with ventilating odour in the tiniest jar which she carried to give relief from all types of ailments � from cuts, bruises, to breathing.
Nevertheless, her heart deep in a pit, she gave her spirit a workout; if not at her old job, she would, at another.
The city was dotted with new constructions on Fraser Road. Many new hotels were being set up.
Hotel Smart Samara, Seta Clark, Beta Mark, Daisy Duck, etc�
Of that she was determined to stay in ancient �Pataliputra� modern Patna.
Not far from Calcutta; just a night throw by Super Deluxe.
Emotionally she could not afford further miles, away from her dear ones.
Her goal was to get closer to Calcutta.
***
Page 10
That particular day of deaf ears was a Saturday.
Nope, just a minute it was a very special day, the day of Saturn, a day to fast and offer prayers.
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For that reason so could, Chandra accompanied Mina, wife of Mr Bhumiar Babul and other family members along with maids and servants holding similar fasts to a new temple near the station.
The new temple was donated by a barren couple who were blessed doubly, at one go, after they had had offered prayers to the deities there; then; it used to be a tiny alter under a banyan tree.
They have had twins. That too, without artificial assistances, or any hormonal treatments provided by professionals.
�The magnificent place of worship was revered by all passer-by from all religions because their wishes always came true� said the locals unanimously.
The very blessed man, a class one gazetted officer was son of the soil looking after city administration.
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Faith does move mountains, felt Chandra at the story.
Barefoot, alighting from the red Mahindra jeep they left their shoes and sandals in the wagon. Shoes are not allowed in places of worship.
Parking the jeep in a convenient spot, �Unattended shoes are soft targets, and could earn the thief a few dimes� said the driver advising.
The driver guarded the same.
Not that he was against earnings but a dislike for stealing; he added further looking very responsible.
�Worldwide petty thefts were associated with all pilgrim places� once said a seasoned traveller wisely, to all he came across -- Chandra remembered his voice.
Chandra was not worried about her �Donna Angela� but her sinking plan.
Her silk sari end on verge slip offs her shaped shoulder, �phantom is too quick� she towed the corner in time.
That kept her bosoms covered, secure over a boat neck blouse and cotton bra inside.
She was visibly pleased at her emergency image management; �Phew� breathing in relief.
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As there could be no affording of a pond in that congested locality the temple authorities; arranged taps in rows for the visitors; to wash hands and feet before a climb of marble stairs, leading to the deities.
The water made the worshippers feel purer and fresher.
Except for few; they were mostly in temple attire: cream colours; red borders; white rustle mingled with camphor and benevolence.
Men in Mooga, women in Tussar -- ritual silks fluttered in the air, scents love and goodwill. Worship emanating perfumes.
Even the maids were in their best silks, received as presents on festival days as gifts.
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Bulbous marigold garlands, assorted flowers, stems and leaves of tulsi, wood apple provided by the ethnic florist; they neatly arranged their bronze and copper round tray.
Packets of incense, and sandalwood paste made ready by maids at home perched along coconut fruit and bronze ethnic jugs filled with water.
Diamond shaped cashew nut sweetmeat and chubby sweets made from chickpea flour cooked in ghee with sugar, were arranged in colourfully ethnic printed paper boxes.
Extra fruits like guava, nectarine, litchi, black berries, cucumber, bananas, custard apples, grapes and more placed as offerings over banana leaf spread on metal enfold.
The priest Mr Panday guided the group to alter.
Mina covered her head with the edge of her red bordered white �garad� sari.
She was a pretty woman with natural red lips and blushing cheeks, thick long hair tied in a bun.
In contrast Chandra was a dusky woman with jet black shoulder length hair.
She was attractive with expressive eyes.
As signs of marriage both women wore vermillion in the central partings of their hair with matching forehead adornment -- �bindis� round complementing red dots balanced brilliant; between eyebrows.
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It was around 10:00 am that special day recalled Chandra when they started with their prayers.
She often went to places of worship because she enjoyed the fragrance and the divine atmosphere.
Whenever she prayed she could never ever ask for material blessings.
She would often repeat the words learnt from her maternal grandfather.
�Dear God, I know not how to use great words, neither I know how to pray, nor am I an expert with rituals, but I offer you my humble services. I pray to you again and again in all humbleness for your mercy and kindness.�
Though she wore a placid countenance, desperate, helpless, emotionally at odd, no one could see her tremor inside; words cannot describe her feeble feel that day.
Vedic scriptures were repeated as required under guidance from the priest.
With folded hands, closed eyes and chant of prayers Chandra realised she was astonishingly asking for the ridiculously extraordinary -- an engagement as a Front Office Manager!
Silently in between Mantra utterances a specific concrete amount, as an annual remuneration with perquisites.
There was a list of want she placed at the feet of the deities.
First time in her twenty seventh years she was praying differently in that particular place of worship; where wishes were horses and those who knew; rode them.
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Shall this be known as a co-incident?
The same evening, over, prepared with care vegetarian dishes for dinner; it was known from Mina�s niece Sonya; that Dr Singh came to know of Chandra�s visit and he would be pleased if Chandra could drop in to say Hello; to him.
Dr Singh was known by family Dasgupta from those earlier days; his wife too was a doctor.
His father was a member of the parliament and lived in New Delhi.
They too were in the booming hotel trade of the 1980s in Patna.
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Chandra walked casually through the doors to be greeted by a beaming Dr Ajay Singh at his temporary desk.
His real office was at the ESI hospital emergency dispensary.
Sunday was an off day for Dr A. V. Singh from his Government hospital.
He could afford, some spare care -- hotel.
�Please do come in Mrs Dasgupta, we were just waiting for you, rather for just a person like you. Would you like to join us as our Front Office Manager for Hotel Smart Samara?�
�Waiting for me?� Chandra replied with a question.
How strange, she thought to herself.
�Yes you are tailor-made for our new hotel. I know you very well.� He said in a matter of fact voice.
Dr Ajay Vikram Singh was the new director of the newly finished Hotel Smart Samara.
The General Manager Mr Raghubans Bubo was an ex IAS officer from a place known as Chiliad, some miles away from Patna; she was told.
Chandra knew instantly that she would accept the job, get along well with the polite General Manager of the hotel; they would make a wonderful team.
She took a tour of -- to apply for stars � hotel �
�Ranking enhances possibilities� they had jointly agreed.
As an induction; the staffs were introduced in turns so as not to upset their routine.
Housekeepers, Accountants, Auditor, Security, Bouncer, Service persons, from the kitchen, Front and back office, etc � Most of them were on their new jobs.
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She would be accommodated in the hotel or in the company flat, next to Dr Singh�s family, whichever she chose.
Anticipating the volume of work at the inception of a new hotel she opted to reside in hotel.
Initiation complete she could decide whether she needed to move into a residential quarter, outside the hotel.
There was another reason -- Patna roads were not smart as the hotels.
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The very same day of her visit to Dr Ajay Vikram Singh by 15:00 hrs --
A Sunday; she accepted and signed her appointment letter.
With all conditions and formalities; complete to her satisfaction.
It was exactly the way she wanted in between the Vedic chants.
She remembered her mind running prayers and wants simultaneously.
Her invisible to others, wishes lay at the feet of the deities.
Those abstract actions were not distractions but an intense faith.
The natives were not a wee bit wrong.
Mrs Chandra Dasgupta was favoured by heavenly grace.
Could this be a ridiculous exact co-incidence?
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She brought prestige to the hotel; thought Dr Singh and Mr Raghubans Bubo.
Happy; they were to have a serious professional woman; to boss; their Front Office.
After all, face is the index of the mind and the first impression is the lasting impression.
Their Reception would not only be glamorous but efficient.
In her white speedboat shape shoes, she would haul and launch profits.
To their glory and envy of the competitors, surely she did an iron hand in supple woollens.
Mrs Chandra Dasgupta was sweet, sober, and simply smart!
***
