Missing The Ride

I squeeze in through a narrow passage amongst the jostling crowd to find my place by the door. Holding on the support bar I wait for my ride to start. With a jerk, it starts moving, gains speed, while I enjoy one of the best moments of my life.

 

My body moves in sync with its rhythmic movement, while the wind blows in my face and hair, cooling me down.

Buildings, trees, bridges and people appear and vanish in a split of a second. The tracks glisten and entwine to make never-ending designs. Trains pass by, with people hanging out of the doors which looks exciting, yet is dangerous. But that is life in Mumbai, isn’t it? 

 

 

The compartment is crowded due to rush hour and I get to hear a lot of swearing and bickering. Traders hop in and out continuously pestering everyone to purchase their colourful wares.

I find the passengers an eclectic group, consisting of housewives, corporates, students and of course the fisherwomen carrying smelly baskets who are permanent fixtures, at any given time of the day. I being a regular traveller, always find a familiar face amongst my fellow passengers.

 

In spite of cacophony the train ride soothes me down. The pace being constant coupled with soft jerks lulls the best of us to sleep. The air outside seems pure and fresh washing away the grime and sweat of the day.

 

The announcement that my stop is next shakes me from my reverie, and even though I don’t want to move from my pleasure spot I have no choice in the matter. A crowd forms near the exit, me being a part of it. The instant the train stops, I’m pushed forward and I’m back on solid ground.

I walk out contented, anticipating my journey the next day.

 

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I miss travelling by the Mumbai local. Now that work is over (for the time being) I have stopped travelling by train. This post is the result of that desperation to hop in one ;). Of course things are not so rosy. Travelling by this means can be a pain, literally :P. In spite of that, I’ve had quite a few amazing rides.

If you are an outsider and want to know how to travel in a Mumbai local, check this page out.

 

Anyways, enjoy! And if you have any experiences regarding the same, do share.