Mind Speaks: Some connections happens just like that And stays forever
I love to visit Mumbai during rainy season. It is because, I love to see Mumbai when it rains. To photograph it during the rain is something very special.
Normally, I stay in hotels close to the airport. Approximately 16 years ago during one such visit, I was waiting outside the hotel with my camera kit to see whether I can get a suitable taxi to go around Mumabi.
It was the days of Maruti Omni’s, and one such high roof car slowed down. I asked him, can we go around for a drive. He asked me where? I said, no such specific places, but take me wherever you feel I can click some good photos. It was around 08:00 am in the morning and we finished the day at 10:00 pm and then straight to airport to catch the flight back to Abu Dhabi.
A strong bond was made that day. Till now, whenever I am in Mumbai, I have a safe person to take me around. With more than 2 camera, and all other valuable items, I can safely travel with him, without any fear. Trust and dependability is a key factor in building relationships. Moreover, he is a safe driver too.
Over the period of years, life has evolved in several ways for him and me. We both lost a few key family members battling cancer. Whatever little help I could, I always passed on to him. In turn he has never ever asked me for a favor.
Only change that has happened in him is his car. He has Hyundai car instead of the old Maruti Omni High roog, (which I still prefer a better one than this). He got married, has children now.
If you are in Mumbai and wish to take his service, you can call him with confidence. His number is there on the photo.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi.
ClicksandWrites 