I was among the majority of people who eagerly awaited the 75th anniversary of Independence Day. The man I recently met, however, had no interest in any of those things. When I met him, he said, “I have no affection for India.”
I mostly go for a walk in the morning as well as in the evening. However, my most favourite time is in the evening. When I do my favourite walk in the early sunset, I meet new people on the street, and to begin our conversation I choose any topic. That evening was different than usual. I went to see a relative for a housewarming. We reached our destination around 4:30 pm. After a meeting with your relatives and rituals, I decided to take a walk, and thus I got myself out onto the footpath for some fresh air.
It may be short due to the congested area and cloudy weather. I quickly finished one round and took a U-turn for another one. This time I was observing under-construction buildings on both sides. One on the right side was a huge building that was under-construction, and on the other hand, it was a small project opted by the government of India (Mhada House). When one wins the lottery, one can easily avail of Mhada House.
Meanwhile, I had to pee because I was out of control. I met a security guard who was in his 50’s and was right in the middle of the gate watching walkers. I said Hi, and in return, he smiled and greeted me the same way. He looked innocent and determined. I thought he could easily allow me to go inside the premises to pee. The property was all open. However, it was closed from the front except for the main gate where the guard was standing. The building has advanced its columns to the 3rd floor, and the workers were working on spreading shards for the next floor. I saw there was a small stream (there was a no bathroom or toilet), and I knew I could go there to release my salty pressure.
After our exchange, I asked him politely if I could go to the bathroom. Upon my request, he agreed. I quickly wrapped up and came back to him without being noticed by anybody. I was grateful to him and thought to myself that I should thank him and inquire about the area. I did not want to purchase any property but wanted to ask him about the property. Before I began, he said, “Stupid man,”
I was completely shocked. He looked at me, “our supervisor.” I took a long breath in and felt a bit at ease. He kept continuing, “He doesn’t have humanity. Who came in? Why? Why did you allow him to enter the property?”
“You are correct, we should show some mercy to humans when there is an emergency.” I said.
“I don’t like such people.” The guard added
“Where are you from?” I kept asking…
“I am from Osmanabad.”
“How long have you been in Pune?”
“I recently moved in.”
“What is the name of the builder?”
“I don’t know, but I know that it is a Mada one.”
After some formal conversation, I asked him, “Why don’t you buy one for yourself?” I was surprised after hearing him. No man should feel demotivated, at least in today’s world. There are opportunities for those who are hard-working.
“I don’t even ask about the things that are out of our control.” I didn’t even know the price of the flat. I know I can’t buy it. Do you really believe I can afford it?
When I looked around his bike, I noticed that it was almost an old motorbike, with no indicator, a broken seat cover, and no side mirrors.
He continued,”…and I must say, it is not the condition of my bike, but it is the real condition of India and people like me.”
I nodded, looking at his innocent face. “Yes, you are right.”
“This country lacks good politicians. All the ministers, politicians, and people who have power are very few in this country. I hate celebrating Independence Day. Those who did hard work and were hanged to achieve freedom are all worthless nowadays.” “Corruption is rampant, and people in the middle class and lower classes, like myself, are suffering.”
“You are exactly right and I totally agree with you.”
“I’m not blaming Modi; there are other individuals who engage in ghotala (corruption), including Lalu and numerous others. When a regular person like me can live in peace and have easy access to all of his basic needs, then I will truly be celebrating independence.
Our hot conversation soon came to an end when it rained heavily. Our spirited discussion was abruptly ended when it started to pour heavily. However, I have celebrated our 75th day of independence. But I couldn’t help but think about him all day, asking myself a ton of questions.
