Aparna liked what she did when she picked up and dropped off Ganesh at work. But the incessant ogling and unwanted attention began to take toll on her. She kept thinking as to what she should do. Ganesh suggested that she help out a few people who work in charities. Another possible step could be to help children who needed special attention in academics or sports. Lastly, she could visit old-age homes where parents were neglected. He said, it is best to help people when you are physically able to do so.
She decided to help out with a broad range of charities and school children who needed special attention. Often, she had to travel quite a distance for those places. Using her bullet was the best available option for her. As always she wore traditional indian dresses such as Salwars or Sarees. She used to come back every evening and discuss what she saw with Ganesh. Ganesh was astounded by the apathy shown by many towards parents and special needs children. One fine day, he decided to quit work by taking a voluntary retirement and join Aparna in her ventures. On many occasions they would drive together in their car. Many parents in the old age homes used to get thrilled sitting in the cars and going for a ride. When the special needs kids did go pillion with Aparna on her bike, they would feel Aparna was their own mom. The plight of these people moved them. The family had enough money stashed in their banks to ride out the rest of their lives. So, they did not worry about it.
A few months had passed that way and one fine morning Aparna got a mail from Sanjay saying that he is going to be a dad. Aparna jumped in joy as though it is her own brother who sent her the news. She wrote back saying that she would come over and help Seetha on her delivery. Seetha lost her parents around 10 years back and hence decided to have the delivery at her in-laws' place itself. In the meantime, Rani's and Anjali's family heard about Aparna's and Ganesh's charity work. They would come over and help them out whenever their schedules permitted. Rani had observed a sea change in Aparna. She has always been a happy lady. But there was a tangible difference now. Her face was visibly brighter and there was a look of satiscfaction hitherto unseen on her face. Her family revolved around the special needs children and the old-age home. All the families residing at the old-age home adopted her as a daughter and the children at the care centre called her "Amma".
The kids' best moments were spent onboard her bullet. All along she could not help thanking god for the good things she had.
She went riding her t-bird to Sanjay's place to help Seetha in her delivery. Sanjay had a baby girl. She came back a month after the delivery. Rani and Anjali along with Ganesh and Ragav had effectively substituted for her in her charity work. Only this time, her bull was away.
While on her missions, most women would ask her to teach bike riding. She gladly taught many of them. All profits she made from teaching the women went to the non-profits she served for so long. Ganesh was also involved in teaching the women how to ride. Owing to heavy demand, they bought two more bullet bikes to teach the ladies around.
Years passed. From a time where there was only one woman riding a bullet in her saree, now there were atleast a 100s of them going around. What was once a novelty ceased to be one. As she had predicted many years ago durng the meeting with Ram, this too passed. Biking still continued.
All said and done, "Tomorrow is just another day !!".
Mark Bradshaw
This brings to an end the biking family series.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
The Biking family - X (By Mark Bradshaw)
While the ladies were dropping off Ragav, their sweethearts were at the fields with Sanjay and Ram. Ram revealed that they had 1 acre of land when they moved in. They adopted innovative methods such as earthworm based fertilization and mixed cultivation. Over time, they managed to increase the yield from 100 kg per acre to 1 ton per acre. All of that was done using organic methods. They taught these methods to other farmers who owned lands nearby. Together, they formed a co-operative to sell their produce. Those who worked in their farms were treated as their own family.
Sanjay went to agriculture college and learnt even more. Despite all prosperity, they remained simple. Their home cooking gas was bio-gas. The water pumps were solar power based pumps. Even during the worst power cuts, they remained unaffected by power problems. After all, sunlight is available in plenty. Seetha used to visit the farm for learning the techniques. Eventually, she got hooked to Sanjay. Sanjay blushed when he told that.
The men were amazed at this awareness. The country needs more people like Ram. The ladies then returned home. They mentioned about Anjali acting as Ragav's girlfriend. The whole family burst into peals of laughter. It became late and the families were about to return. Aparna said, she will come over with Ganesh and the two kids in the car. Krishna would drive the bull with Anjali as pillion. Raja would rive the CBZ with Rani. Suddenly, Ram's wife asked Aparna why don't you guys stay back. After all, tomorrow is a holiday. She just couldn't resist having Bindu and Rahul around. It reminded her of those days when her daughter and Sanjay were playing around. As a mother Aparna figured out what she had in mind.
Anjali said, she will go straight to her home as would Rani. Aparna would take Rahul and Bindu along in her car and the kids would stay with them for two weeks. The next time they would meet at Anjali's. Before leaving Anjali hugged the two kids and said, be good kids ok!! The kids retorted, "You be a good girl Amma. The tightly hugged her and kissed her". The whole family once again burst into laughter. How naughty these kids are? Rani repeated the same. She couldn't let go of loving kids. However, she was used to staying away from kids. Ragav used to do the same earlier. With tears they bid good bye to Ram's family and hit the road.
Aparna stayed back that night with Ganesh and kids. Aparna had conversations with Ram's wife (Suma) as only a mother and daughter could have. They talked about everything from food to clothing and the kids. Suma saw every bit of her daughter in Aparna. Occasionally, she would cry but Aparna quickly wiped off her tears. The kids were left to sleep with Ram and Suma. Ram couldn't get over the love that grandchildren gave. Innocently, they could come and sleep with them. The unadulterated smile brought boundless joy. Sanjay and Seetha went to their befroom. Aparna and Ganesh slept under moonlights. It was a different experience for them. They were bowled over by the love and hospitality shown by Ram. Ganesh said, how can we even match it . Aparna said, we can't. Villagers have no match when it comes to hospitality. Even a 5-star hotel can't do it. It is just priceless.
The next day, the Aparna woke up and went for a morning walk with Ganesh. The fresh unpolluted air of villages and the chirping of birds felt awesome. They had their early morning coffee, woke up the kids. Seetha gave bath to the two kids. She took care of them like she would to her own. After an early lunch, the were ready to depart. Aparna just went to Seetha and hugged her. She said, Sanjay is lucky. Sanjay hugged Aparna and said, he is lucky to have her as a sister. He would miss her once she leaves. The couple along with kids paid their respects to the elders and left home. Suma had packed good food so that they don't have to eat outside. Their thoughtfulness and hospitality was the topic of discussion throughout the drive.
Anjali and Rani were happy pillions when they returned. However, Raja and Krishna found thier rider role a bit strange. They were more used to the ladies riding and them being pillion. Half way through the trip they switched roles. Rani looked gorgeous wearing her saree as did Anjali. No sooner did the ladies take over the handlebar, the gents took over the ladies. Rani drove with Raja alone after a long time. For Anjali it was reminder of the romantic trip they had to Aparna's a couple of weeks back. Raja pinched Rani in her hip. Rani giggled. Occasionally, she would slow down to 10 kph, turn around and kiss him. He would still hug her around her chest. Raja asked her not to exceed 50 kph. Rani replied, I am thinking of 30. They were just sad that their home would come too soon.
Eventually, the couples reached their respective homes around 1:30 am.
Ganesh and Aparna went back home. The kids occupied their space for the next two weeks. Ganesh would come back from work early everyday just to be with the kids. His world seemed to revolve around them as was Aparna's. Aparna once went to the bike renter took them around town in a lightning 535. Rahul sat on the fuel tank and Bindu behind her. The sight of kids on the fuel tank was a throwback to the yesteryears when Ragav used to do the same. She just thought how fast do the kids grow up.
Then came the time to return. The family returned to Anjali's in a luxury bus. All the four went back. Anjali welcomed them. Rani and Raja came on separate bikes. They returned Anjali's pulsar. Anjali returned Aparna's T-bird. They all returned home the next day. Rani went back on her CBZ with Bindu sitting in between the parents. While on the bike, Aparna was in a zone. The bike was her child. She wore a white salwar. She rode pillion this time. While riding, Ganesh asked if she is upset with anything. " Honey, do you want to ride?" Surprisingly, the answer was no.
He stopped at one of the restaurants and went over for a coffee with Aparna. He had heard for the first time that she didn't want to ride? Surely, something serious was going through her mind. He broke the ice and asked what are you missing in life. Aparna opened up and spoke up.
Ragav has been with me for 18 years and he has gone to college. You go to work every weekday. I am here all alone at home having just the bike for company. How long do you think this can go on? I have been busy all my life. I want to do something. Ganesh suggested that she give him a ride on the t-bird everyday to work. you can also pick me up in the evening. This will give you relief for atleast 3 hours everyday. Before you know, we will be back together. They were back on the saddle. Aparna felt better and let Ganesh ride.
She tried the trick as suggested by riding back and forth on her t-bird ferrying Ganesh to and fro the office. She wore colourful sarees every day while riding. News about her ride spread. Many knew about her ride timings and would line up the roads those specific ties of the day. Policeman handling manual traffic signals would stop the traffic in her direction of driving everytime she drove. Tea shops lining her route made brisk business. Traffic police would stop her arbitrarily and ask for her licence. Aparna began to sense what was going on and wanted to do something about it. The bull had already logged 6000 kms by then.
What did she do? Will see again later.
Sanjay went to agriculture college and learnt even more. Despite all prosperity, they remained simple. Their home cooking gas was bio-gas. The water pumps were solar power based pumps. Even during the worst power cuts, they remained unaffected by power problems. After all, sunlight is available in plenty. Seetha used to visit the farm for learning the techniques. Eventually, she got hooked to Sanjay. Sanjay blushed when he told that.
The men were amazed at this awareness. The country needs more people like Ram. The ladies then returned home. They mentioned about Anjali acting as Ragav's girlfriend. The whole family burst into peals of laughter. It became late and the families were about to return. Aparna said, she will come over with Ganesh and the two kids in the car. Krishna would drive the bull with Anjali as pillion. Raja would rive the CBZ with Rani. Suddenly, Ram's wife asked Aparna why don't you guys stay back. After all, tomorrow is a holiday. She just couldn't resist having Bindu and Rahul around. It reminded her of those days when her daughter and Sanjay were playing around. As a mother Aparna figured out what she had in mind.
Anjali said, she will go straight to her home as would Rani. Aparna would take Rahul and Bindu along in her car and the kids would stay with them for two weeks. The next time they would meet at Anjali's. Before leaving Anjali hugged the two kids and said, be good kids ok!! The kids retorted, "You be a good girl Amma. The tightly hugged her and kissed her". The whole family once again burst into laughter. How naughty these kids are? Rani repeated the same. She couldn't let go of loving kids. However, she was used to staying away from kids. Ragav used to do the same earlier. With tears they bid good bye to Ram's family and hit the road.
Aparna stayed back that night with Ganesh and kids. Aparna had conversations with Ram's wife (Suma) as only a mother and daughter could have. They talked about everything from food to clothing and the kids. Suma saw every bit of her daughter in Aparna. Occasionally, she would cry but Aparna quickly wiped off her tears. The kids were left to sleep with Ram and Suma. Ram couldn't get over the love that grandchildren gave. Innocently, they could come and sleep with them. The unadulterated smile brought boundless joy. Sanjay and Seetha went to their befroom. Aparna and Ganesh slept under moonlights. It was a different experience for them. They were bowled over by the love and hospitality shown by Ram. Ganesh said, how can we even match it . Aparna said, we can't. Villagers have no match when it comes to hospitality. Even a 5-star hotel can't do it. It is just priceless.
The next day, the Aparna woke up and went for a morning walk with Ganesh. The fresh unpolluted air of villages and the chirping of birds felt awesome. They had their early morning coffee, woke up the kids. Seetha gave bath to the two kids. She took care of them like she would to her own. After an early lunch, the were ready to depart. Aparna just went to Seetha and hugged her. She said, Sanjay is lucky. Sanjay hugged Aparna and said, he is lucky to have her as a sister. He would miss her once she leaves. The couple along with kids paid their respects to the elders and left home. Suma had packed good food so that they don't have to eat outside. Their thoughtfulness and hospitality was the topic of discussion throughout the drive.
Anjali and Rani were happy pillions when they returned. However, Raja and Krishna found thier rider role a bit strange. They were more used to the ladies riding and them being pillion. Half way through the trip they switched roles. Rani looked gorgeous wearing her saree as did Anjali. No sooner did the ladies take over the handlebar, the gents took over the ladies. Rani drove with Raja alone after a long time. For Anjali it was reminder of the romantic trip they had to Aparna's a couple of weeks back. Raja pinched Rani in her hip. Rani giggled. Occasionally, she would slow down to 10 kph, turn around and kiss him. He would still hug her around her chest. Raja asked her not to exceed 50 kph. Rani replied, I am thinking of 30. They were just sad that their home would come too soon.
Eventually, the couples reached their respective homes around 1:30 am.
Ganesh and Aparna went back home. The kids occupied their space for the next two weeks. Ganesh would come back from work early everyday just to be with the kids. His world seemed to revolve around them as was Aparna's. Aparna once went to the bike renter took them around town in a lightning 535. Rahul sat on the fuel tank and Bindu behind her. The sight of kids on the fuel tank was a throwback to the yesteryears when Ragav used to do the same. She just thought how fast do the kids grow up.
Then came the time to return. The family returned to Anjali's in a luxury bus. All the four went back. Anjali welcomed them. Rani and Raja came on separate bikes. They returned Anjali's pulsar. Anjali returned Aparna's T-bird. They all returned home the next day. Rani went back on her CBZ with Bindu sitting in between the parents. While on the bike, Aparna was in a zone. The bike was her child. She wore a white salwar. She rode pillion this time. While riding, Ganesh asked if she is upset with anything. " Honey, do you want to ride?" Surprisingly, the answer was no.
He stopped at one of the restaurants and went over for a coffee with Aparna. He had heard for the first time that she didn't want to ride? Surely, something serious was going through her mind. He broke the ice and asked what are you missing in life. Aparna opened up and spoke up.
Ragav has been with me for 18 years and he has gone to college. You go to work every weekday. I am here all alone at home having just the bike for company. How long do you think this can go on? I have been busy all my life. I want to do something. Ganesh suggested that she give him a ride on the t-bird everyday to work. you can also pick me up in the evening. This will give you relief for atleast 3 hours everyday. Before you know, we will be back together. They were back on the saddle. Aparna felt better and let Ganesh ride.
She tried the trick as suggested by riding back and forth on her t-bird ferrying Ganesh to and fro the office. She wore colourful sarees every day while riding. News about her ride spread. Many knew about her ride timings and would line up the roads those specific ties of the day. Policeman handling manual traffic signals would stop the traffic in her direction of driving everytime she drove. Tea shops lining her route made brisk business. Traffic police would stop her arbitrarily and ask for her licence. Aparna began to sense what was going on and wanted to do something about it. The bull had already logged 6000 kms by then.
What did she do? Will see again later.
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Biking family - IX (By Mark Bradshaw)
Aparna and her sisters along with their families landed at Ram's house as invited. All of them were gracefully dressed and had bought a few gifts for the hosts. Sanjay and Seetha were a childless couple. Ram and his wife lead a simple life. As they entered their house, they were enthusiastically welcomed by their adopted family. The couples and their children paid respects to the elders by prostrating in front of them seeking their blessings. Even though they were revolutionary, they respected the time honoured traditions of honouring the elders. It was their firm belief that modernity is also respecting our most sacred of traditions. They felt that when they visit elders, they should dress appropriately. After all, no one goes to a temple wearing shorts.
The elders blessed them and asked them to be seated. Since they were relatively less well to do, they had just a charpoy where the visitors usually get seated. However, the couples felt equally comfortable sitting on the floor and did so. Ram was visibly happy at Aparna and her sisters accepting their invitation. Ram's wife was around 60 years old. Once they settled into their hosts' home, the most obvious of questions were asked. They were asked, how come you ladies from a village based families managed to learn motorcycling. This was a question that theywere asked atleast 100 times. Rani smiled and said, it was just that our mother didn't want to accept status quo. Lot of people kept saying that women cannot ride bikes. She sought to challenge that and learnt it by herself and eventually taught us. After all, decades back, people would frown at women driving cars. Does anybody look at women driving around these days? When not many women went to college or worked in the early 50s, we had brave old women of those days do that. These days80% of the medical college students are women. Nobody even considers it strange. Likewise, this will also pass. On them beng saree clad while driving, Anjali mentioned the comedy movie in the early 90s when an actor disguised as a woman rode a bullet wearing a saree. If a man can do it, we can do it better. The folks burst out laughing at that explanation. We figured that if we can adjust the way we wear our saree, we can ride even the biggest of bikes. Eventually, we got used to it.
Food was served. There was so much love in the preparation, even the most luxurious food couldn't have tasted better. The couples learnt that they were from a farming community and they made their living tilling the fields. Most of the food they made was grown in their own fields. Untypical of many farming families in those days they had only two children whereas Ram's siblings had atleast 3. Envying the fact that lots of wealth will be split between just two children, his siblings distanced themselves from Ram. One day, his daughter fell ill and was bedridden. He was in the farm and Ram's wife was attending to her. Sanjay was barely 3 years old then. Ram's wife cried for help. At that crucial juncture, his relatives ditched him and did not help. She had to take the girl by a bullock cart to the nearest doctor pleading for help. However, it was too late. The child died a painful death. Upset with the attitude of his siblings, he just wrote off all his wealth for his siblings. After all, this wealth cannot save lives. A small portion of it was sold to another farmer and they moved over to the place where they live right now. Sanjay grew up without knowing what it is to have a sister. He grew up to study at a local college. He graduated with distinction and ended up marrying Seetha who was his college junior. Anjali, Rani and Aparna couldn't bear hearing this sad story. They started sobbing heavily. To them it was unimaginable as to how heartless people can be towards such a beautiful girl child. They just fell on Ram's lap and cried even more. The hubbies who are normally composed broke down and couldn't imagine this. Having a baby girl himself, Raja just imagined how it would be were it to be Bindu. He almost fainted. Losing a child because of greed was unthinkable. A girl child is a bundle of joy.
Anjali said, why do you have to worry about your lost daughter uncle? We are here for you always. We are your own. Just think that you have got a bonus of two more daughters. As Ram was saying this, his wife couldn't bear with it. Those unpleasant memories of that tragic event resurfaced after 32 years. Aparna just wiped her tears and said, "Don't worry amma. We are all here for you." The very sound of Amma coming from a girl evoked her daughter's memories for Ram's wife. She reminisced about how her baby girl would crawl around her feet hanging on to her saree and cheerfully said Amma. Rani said, we keep hearing about it in movies but to come across it in real life is horrifying. The sorrow dissipated slowly. The couples had bought a Dhoti and shirt for Sanjay. They also bought a salwar kameez for Seetha. They asked Seetha aand Sanjay to wear them right away. They both came back after changing clothes. Rani just hugged and kissed him and asked Sanjay to treat them as his own. Sanjay was slightly elder to Rani and a few years younger than Aparna.
As time passed, they were ready to drop off Ragav at his college hostel. Sanjay asked Ragav to visit his second home as often as possible to which he agreed. The hubbies wanted to see Ram's agricultural fields. As always, the ladies took over the saddle of the bikes. Anjali rode the CBZ with Ragav as pillion. Rani stayed back to help Amma. Aparna kickstarted the bullet. She asked Seetha to be her pillion. En-route Anjali asked if Ragav had any girlfriends. Since Ragav and Anjali were just 10 years apart, they treated each other like friends rather than an aunt nephew relationship. Ragav blushed and said nothing. Seetha just admired Aparna's bullet riding skills. She hasn't seen even men riding it so well. To see a saree clad girl riding it was a wonder for her. Since Seetha wore the salwar kameez, she didn't sit side saddle. She lightly held on to Aparna. It was a 50 km ride from their home to the hostel. Upon landing at the hostel, a few friends of Ragav were looking at the bikes and their riders. They were unaware that Ragav's mom and aunts rode heavy bikes. When Ragav was just unloading his luggage and trying to enter his room. His friends came over and said. "Boss, you didn't tell me you had girlfriends" . Ragav couldn't control his laughter. He just managed and decided to play a trick. He went back downstairs and winked at the ladies. He introduced Anjali as his girlfriend.
The boys fell for the trap and got introduced one by one. The ladies just played along. Aparna said, she is a neighbour of his and a very good friend. So friendly that she can travel a distance of over 300 km to drop off his luggage. Seetha was watching all this fun unfold from the sidelines. This went on for over 15 minutes. Eventually, they revealed their actual identities. The boys were scratching their heads in embarassment. One of them got the courage to say Aunty you look great in your bullet. I would like to get trained in biking by you. Aparna said, she will do it if he comes over to her home.
The ladies kept laughing at it for sometime. Aparna rode back in her bull. Anjali took Seetha as pillion and returned to Ram's home. It was around 5:30 pm when they returned.
The elders blessed them and asked them to be seated. Since they were relatively less well to do, they had just a charpoy where the visitors usually get seated. However, the couples felt equally comfortable sitting on the floor and did so. Ram was visibly happy at Aparna and her sisters accepting their invitation. Ram's wife was around 60 years old. Once they settled into their hosts' home, the most obvious of questions were asked. They were asked, how come you ladies from a village based families managed to learn motorcycling. This was a question that theywere asked atleast 100 times. Rani smiled and said, it was just that our mother didn't want to accept status quo. Lot of people kept saying that women cannot ride bikes. She sought to challenge that and learnt it by herself and eventually taught us. After all, decades back, people would frown at women driving cars. Does anybody look at women driving around these days? When not many women went to college or worked in the early 50s, we had brave old women of those days do that. These days80% of the medical college students are women. Nobody even considers it strange. Likewise, this will also pass. On them beng saree clad while driving, Anjali mentioned the comedy movie in the early 90s when an actor disguised as a woman rode a bullet wearing a saree. If a man can do it, we can do it better. The folks burst out laughing at that explanation. We figured that if we can adjust the way we wear our saree, we can ride even the biggest of bikes. Eventually, we got used to it.
Food was served. There was so much love in the preparation, even the most luxurious food couldn't have tasted better. The couples learnt that they were from a farming community and they made their living tilling the fields. Most of the food they made was grown in their own fields. Untypical of many farming families in those days they had only two children whereas Ram's siblings had atleast 3. Envying the fact that lots of wealth will be split between just two children, his siblings distanced themselves from Ram. One day, his daughter fell ill and was bedridden. He was in the farm and Ram's wife was attending to her. Sanjay was barely 3 years old then. Ram's wife cried for help. At that crucial juncture, his relatives ditched him and did not help. She had to take the girl by a bullock cart to the nearest doctor pleading for help. However, it was too late. The child died a painful death. Upset with the attitude of his siblings, he just wrote off all his wealth for his siblings. After all, this wealth cannot save lives. A small portion of it was sold to another farmer and they moved over to the place where they live right now. Sanjay grew up without knowing what it is to have a sister. He grew up to study at a local college. He graduated with distinction and ended up marrying Seetha who was his college junior. Anjali, Rani and Aparna couldn't bear hearing this sad story. They started sobbing heavily. To them it was unimaginable as to how heartless people can be towards such a beautiful girl child. They just fell on Ram's lap and cried even more. The hubbies who are normally composed broke down and couldn't imagine this. Having a baby girl himself, Raja just imagined how it would be were it to be Bindu. He almost fainted. Losing a child because of greed was unthinkable. A girl child is a bundle of joy.
Anjali said, why do you have to worry about your lost daughter uncle? We are here for you always. We are your own. Just think that you have got a bonus of two more daughters. As Ram was saying this, his wife couldn't bear with it. Those unpleasant memories of that tragic event resurfaced after 32 years. Aparna just wiped her tears and said, "Don't worry amma. We are all here for you." The very sound of Amma coming from a girl evoked her daughter's memories for Ram's wife. She reminisced about how her baby girl would crawl around her feet hanging on to her saree and cheerfully said Amma. Rani said, we keep hearing about it in movies but to come across it in real life is horrifying. The sorrow dissipated slowly. The couples had bought a Dhoti and shirt for Sanjay. They also bought a salwar kameez for Seetha. They asked Seetha aand Sanjay to wear them right away. They both came back after changing clothes. Rani just hugged and kissed him and asked Sanjay to treat them as his own. Sanjay was slightly elder to Rani and a few years younger than Aparna.
As time passed, they were ready to drop off Ragav at his college hostel. Sanjay asked Ragav to visit his second home as often as possible to which he agreed. The hubbies wanted to see Ram's agricultural fields. As always, the ladies took over the saddle of the bikes. Anjali rode the CBZ with Ragav as pillion. Rani stayed back to help Amma. Aparna kickstarted the bullet. She asked Seetha to be her pillion. En-route Anjali asked if Ragav had any girlfriends. Since Ragav and Anjali were just 10 years apart, they treated each other like friends rather than an aunt nephew relationship. Ragav blushed and said nothing. Seetha just admired Aparna's bullet riding skills. She hasn't seen even men riding it so well. To see a saree clad girl riding it was a wonder for her. Since Seetha wore the salwar kameez, she didn't sit side saddle. She lightly held on to Aparna. It was a 50 km ride from their home to the hostel. Upon landing at the hostel, a few friends of Ragav were looking at the bikes and their riders. They were unaware that Ragav's mom and aunts rode heavy bikes. When Ragav was just unloading his luggage and trying to enter his room. His friends came over and said. "Boss, you didn't tell me you had girlfriends" . Ragav couldn't control his laughter. He just managed and decided to play a trick. He went back downstairs and winked at the ladies. He introduced Anjali as his girlfriend.
The boys fell for the trap and got introduced one by one. The ladies just played along. Aparna said, she is a neighbour of his and a very good friend. So friendly that she can travel a distance of over 300 km to drop off his luggage. Seetha was watching all this fun unfold from the sidelines. This went on for over 15 minutes. Eventually, they revealed their actual identities. The boys were scratching their heads in embarassment. One of them got the courage to say Aunty you look great in your bullet. I would like to get trained in biking by you. Aparna said, she will do it if he comes over to her home.
The ladies kept laughing at it for sometime. Aparna rode back in her bull. Anjali took Seetha as pillion and returned to Ram's home. It was around 5:30 pm when they returned.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
The Biking family - VIII (By Mark Bradshaw)
The sisters had one of the best days in their life. A causal trip to the town for shopping enabled them to save a life. They were able to help a totally unknown person recover from what could have been a fatal heart attack. They were able to show their true love in helping. Never have they been so happy. In all this, they never lost their self. It was a meditative experience for all the three.
For the first time, the ladies drove all alone and experience nature in its fullest. Their hubbies were not there with them nor were their kids. The journey started with no specific purpose but ended up being the most purposeful one of their life. Who knows what would have happened to Ram had they not saved him. In all this, they felt totally humbled by nature. Throughout the process, they were one with the nature. They realized they are nothing but a speck in front of god's creation. They saw wonderful tea estates and walked alone in the company of mother nature.
While riding back home, Aparna was thinking about how she lost her in-laws because they did not get the required medical attention on-time. Her father in-law died of heart attack when Ragav was 6 years old. She had gone to Ragav's school for some reason and Ganesh had gone to work. IT had happened all too soon for them to react. She told herself, "I was not able to save my father in-law, but I was able to save Ram uncle". Thankfully, god gave me the ability. Her mother in-law followed her hubby a few years later.
Rani was thrilled about the whole ride. The freedom of the trip was like a whiff of fresh air. She wanted to have more of it. She was also contemplating buying a cruiser. But decided against it as she didn't need it except while travelling long distances. Anjali was happy with this ride as it showed her how good travelling by a cruiser can be. Her happy life continued to be happy.
Even though they travelled long distances, the clothes didn't get ruffled as they thought. This was a tribute to their riding skills. Upon waking up in the morning, Krishna woke up. Anjali was deep in her slumber. Aparna had just woken up. He wanted togo for a ride on enfield and asked Aparna for the keys. She said he can be her pillion. Krishna agreed. Aparna deftly manoeuvred her t-bird around the streets with him as pillion. Krishna was cursing his luck. When do I get to ride a bike? Just that Aparna was so attached to the bike. She wouldn't let anybody ride it. To her, it was like another child. Later Anjali drove Raja around on the 500cc. It was a happy day. Rani took Ragav around on her lightning. The visitors stayed back for another 3 days extending their vacation.
Two days later, Aparna received a letter from Ram. It contained a message of thanks and a cheque repaying the amount which they had paid for Ram's treatment. She wanted to read it to everybody. The letter read
" Dear Aparna,
Trust this letter finds you in good health. I cannot thank you enough for your timely help. I have now recovered almost completely from my heart attack. The doctors said that immediate treatment of the attack made it easy for the doctors to cure the problem. A few days of rest is all that I need. While the timely help is priceless, the least I could do is to pay back the expenses you made for me with gratitude. Kindly accept the cheque.
When Anjali helped me with resuscitation, her skill (saraswathi) came to the fore. When you paid the money, the lakshmi devi in you came. When you drove us to the hospital, your bravery in defying traditions and the shakti in you came out. In one day, I was able to see all the three manifestations of goddesses in action. Sanjay may have told you about my daughter who passed away many years back. Even if she were to be alive, I doubt she would have showered unconditional love. After all these years, I didn't miss her for the first time. You are the daughters I never had. Blessed be your mother who gave birth to you three.
In all these, you were humble enough to shower praise on god and give him credit for all that. In this world, when people take credit even for the smallest of deeds, your gesture stands towering in front of others. To have such respectable attributes is an indicator of how much your father has worked to raise you. It is often said that a king who built a big temple never wrote his name anywhere, but someone who donated a light bulb wanted to advertise his contributions. In the midst of all this, i cannot help admiring your traits.
You mentioned you were married with children. Yet, you were given total freedom to be yourself and rode motorbikes. Rare indeed is such a partner. I am privileged to adopt you as my own children. Just that I wish I knew you a lot earlier. But may be god willed that I know you so late in my life. Kindly, accept Sanjay as your own brother. His wife Seetha is like your sister in-law. I also request you along with your family to come over next week. I would hopefully recover by that time. Please give us a chance to host you.
May god bless you.
Ram.
Please read it out to your sisters as I don't have their mailing address.
"
Everyone was moved by this letter and couldn't help crying. In these many years, they have helped so many people. But to have their actions make such a big impact was totally unexpected.
For many women in these days, modernity means breaking away from traditions and taking to alcohol, smoking and loafing around with more than one boyfriend. Yet in all this, they became dependants of such unhealthy habits. These women had none of those. Here they were dressed in the most traditional ways an Indian woman can. They wore bindis and jasmine flowers. Yet they rode powerful bullets, the ultimate symbol of a male bastion in India. The speed at which they rode would put even an avid racer to shame. They were fiercely in love with their hubbies and children. Yet, they never hesitated hugging and kissing any men including their brother in-laws and strangers. This to them was a symbol of love. They managed to tread the thin dividing line between love and lust effectively and consciously. They were willing to take totally unknown men as pillions and save their lives. The men in their lives never imposed themselves in their lives. Likewise, they never imposed themselves on their men. The fragrance of their love was beyond the fragrance of the jasmine flowers they had on their head. All these for women who lived in villages.
A 20th century poet by name Subramanya Bharathi once sang eloquently about women's liberation in his poems. He said, a liberated woman was one who tore apart the male bastions but never broke any ethics. Bharathi would have been proud of these women. A strong woman is the one who knew her strengths and yet never bothered to show it off. Has the new age woman arrived in style? Probably.
The letter made them think about making another trip to the town. Ragav had to start his semester, Bindu's summer vacation started. So, they wanted to visit Ram when they dropped Ragav at his college. So, the plans were underway. Rani would host the two sisters. Aparna would come by car to Rani's place. Anjali would come over on her pulsar. They would go over from Rani's home to Ragav's college and meet Ram uncle. The plan was to rent a van and drive over as family. The ladies returned their 500cc and Lightning 535 back at the renters. The family dispersed.
The next weekend, preparations were on to visit Rani. Ragav was unhappy at the fact that he had to go by car. Aparna agreed to drive him over to Rani's on her bull. Ragav was just merely looking for excuses to ride pillion with his mom. Ganesh happily drove his car as he always did. She wore a pink saree with sleeveless blouse. This time she didn't even bother to keep pace with Ganesh's car. She just drove fast @ 100 kmph. This t-bird brought her new energy. While she never drove at more than 60 kph on her libero, she hardly kept below 90 on her bull. Rani welcomed her home. Anjali came over with Rahul and Krishna. After a long time, Anjali was riding pillion. They stayed over night at Rani's and started next day morning for Ragav's college. Raja drove the car with Bindu, Rahul and Ganesh in the back seat. Rani was in the passenger seat.
Aparna rode Rani's CBZ. Anjali rode Aparna's bullet. Since Ragav liked travelling by bullet, Anjali took him as pillion. Aparna had Krishna as pillion. Before Anjali started the bike. Ragav hugged her and said, you should do your standard wheelies. Anjali wore an attactive blue silk saree with a sleeveless blouse and left her long hair tied at the top. Anjali just smiled at him and said I will try wheelies !!
Krishna had known Aparna as a safe and slow driver. Little did he know about her new found liking for speed. Aparna was dressed in her blue sport shorts. Her hair was let loose tied only at the top. She just wanted enjoy the wind. She just wanted look like a super cool girl. Krishna said, Aparna you look gorgeous. She also thanked him for his compliments. Krishna just hugged her at the waist.
Raja drove Ganesh's car.Ganesh fell asleep at the back seat. It was agreed that they will meet at a known lodge around 200 kms from Rani's. The car started earlier. The biker ladies started a bit late. Anjali started first on Aparna's T-bird. Her earlier misadventures mellowed her down. She tried a few wheelies just to keep Ragav happy. However, doing wheelies on bullet required special skills which she did not acquire.
Aparna started last and just tried riding normally. On hitting the highway she seemed to have acquired the adventurous streak. She did a wheelie that almost jolted Krishna. he was just not prepared for it. Aparna just laughed and said, dont worry krishna, this was just fun. Krishna didn't believe what he saw. A lady whom he had known as a conservative woman, changed so much. He wondered what this bullet bike did to her. She just said, don't worry I am just having fun. The car reached the lodge first. Aparna drove much faster than Anjali. She reached peak speeds of 130ks. Anjali maintained an average speed of 75kph. She just couldn't have enough of the t-bird.
Initially Krishna was hugging Aparna at the waist. Eventually, he put his chin over her shoulder so that he doesn't fall from the bike. Eventually Aparna calmed down and reached the lodge. Anjali came last to the lodge. Krishna asked Aparna why the ladies drove crazy when he was the pillion. Aparna laughed out loud and just hugged and kissed him. Hey, after all you are safe. Aren't you?
After the adventurous first part, Aparna changed over to her silk saree and wore her bindi at the lodge. After refreshments, she moved over to the car. Rani moved over to the CBZ saddle. Anjali continued with the t-bird. Ragav became Rani's pillion. Raja became Anjali's pillion. Aparna was the passenger seat at the car. Krishna took over the wheel. The rear seat passengers remained unchanged. Aparna just joked, hey don't wreak vengeance on me ok. Krishna laughed out loud and said, don't worry. The car started again.
Rani wore an attractive red colour designer saree andhad sleeveless blouse. As always, she wore her bindi. The t-bird and CBZ started at the same time. This time around, the women rode at 80s. Raja was amazed at Anjali's safety in riding. Whenever, he was pillion, I guess he could always read a book without a worry. Did he have the effect? At around 12:30 pm, the travellers reached the destination.
The journey continued.
For the first time, the ladies drove all alone and experience nature in its fullest. Their hubbies were not there with them nor were their kids. The journey started with no specific purpose but ended up being the most purposeful one of their life. Who knows what would have happened to Ram had they not saved him. In all this, they felt totally humbled by nature. Throughout the process, they were one with the nature. They realized they are nothing but a speck in front of god's creation. They saw wonderful tea estates and walked alone in the company of mother nature.
While riding back home, Aparna was thinking about how she lost her in-laws because they did not get the required medical attention on-time. Her father in-law died of heart attack when Ragav was 6 years old. She had gone to Ragav's school for some reason and Ganesh had gone to work. IT had happened all too soon for them to react. She told herself, "I was not able to save my father in-law, but I was able to save Ram uncle". Thankfully, god gave me the ability. Her mother in-law followed her hubby a few years later.
Rani was thrilled about the whole ride. The freedom of the trip was like a whiff of fresh air. She wanted to have more of it. She was also contemplating buying a cruiser. But decided against it as she didn't need it except while travelling long distances. Anjali was happy with this ride as it showed her how good travelling by a cruiser can be. Her happy life continued to be happy.
Even though they travelled long distances, the clothes didn't get ruffled as they thought. This was a tribute to their riding skills. Upon waking up in the morning, Krishna woke up. Anjali was deep in her slumber. Aparna had just woken up. He wanted togo for a ride on enfield and asked Aparna for the keys. She said he can be her pillion. Krishna agreed. Aparna deftly manoeuvred her t-bird around the streets with him as pillion. Krishna was cursing his luck. When do I get to ride a bike? Just that Aparna was so attached to the bike. She wouldn't let anybody ride it. To her, it was like another child. Later Anjali drove Raja around on the 500cc. It was a happy day. Rani took Ragav around on her lightning. The visitors stayed back for another 3 days extending their vacation.
Two days later, Aparna received a letter from Ram. It contained a message of thanks and a cheque repaying the amount which they had paid for Ram's treatment. She wanted to read it to everybody. The letter read
" Dear Aparna,
Trust this letter finds you in good health. I cannot thank you enough for your timely help. I have now recovered almost completely from my heart attack. The doctors said that immediate treatment of the attack made it easy for the doctors to cure the problem. A few days of rest is all that I need. While the timely help is priceless, the least I could do is to pay back the expenses you made for me with gratitude. Kindly accept the cheque.
When Anjali helped me with resuscitation, her skill (saraswathi) came to the fore. When you paid the money, the lakshmi devi in you came. When you drove us to the hospital, your bravery in defying traditions and the shakti in you came out. In one day, I was able to see all the three manifestations of goddesses in action. Sanjay may have told you about my daughter who passed away many years back. Even if she were to be alive, I doubt she would have showered unconditional love. After all these years, I didn't miss her for the first time. You are the daughters I never had. Blessed be your mother who gave birth to you three.
In all these, you were humble enough to shower praise on god and give him credit for all that. In this world, when people take credit even for the smallest of deeds, your gesture stands towering in front of others. To have such respectable attributes is an indicator of how much your father has worked to raise you. It is often said that a king who built a big temple never wrote his name anywhere, but someone who donated a light bulb wanted to advertise his contributions. In the midst of all this, i cannot help admiring your traits.
You mentioned you were married with children. Yet, you were given total freedom to be yourself and rode motorbikes. Rare indeed is such a partner. I am privileged to adopt you as my own children. Just that I wish I knew you a lot earlier. But may be god willed that I know you so late in my life. Kindly, accept Sanjay as your own brother. His wife Seetha is like your sister in-law. I also request you along with your family to come over next week. I would hopefully recover by that time. Please give us a chance to host you.
May god bless you.
Ram.
Please read it out to your sisters as I don't have their mailing address.
"
Everyone was moved by this letter and couldn't help crying. In these many years, they have helped so many people. But to have their actions make such a big impact was totally unexpected.
For many women in these days, modernity means breaking away from traditions and taking to alcohol, smoking and loafing around with more than one boyfriend. Yet in all this, they became dependants of such unhealthy habits. These women had none of those. Here they were dressed in the most traditional ways an Indian woman can. They wore bindis and jasmine flowers. Yet they rode powerful bullets, the ultimate symbol of a male bastion in India. The speed at which they rode would put even an avid racer to shame. They were fiercely in love with their hubbies and children. Yet, they never hesitated hugging and kissing any men including their brother in-laws and strangers. This to them was a symbol of love. They managed to tread the thin dividing line between love and lust effectively and consciously. They were willing to take totally unknown men as pillions and save their lives. The men in their lives never imposed themselves in their lives. Likewise, they never imposed themselves on their men. The fragrance of their love was beyond the fragrance of the jasmine flowers they had on their head. All these for women who lived in villages.
A 20th century poet by name Subramanya Bharathi once sang eloquently about women's liberation in his poems. He said, a liberated woman was one who tore apart the male bastions but never broke any ethics. Bharathi would have been proud of these women. A strong woman is the one who knew her strengths and yet never bothered to show it off. Has the new age woman arrived in style? Probably.
The letter made them think about making another trip to the town. Ragav had to start his semester, Bindu's summer vacation started. So, they wanted to visit Ram when they dropped Ragav at his college. So, the plans were underway. Rani would host the two sisters. Aparna would come by car to Rani's place. Anjali would come over on her pulsar. They would go over from Rani's home to Ragav's college and meet Ram uncle. The plan was to rent a van and drive over as family. The ladies returned their 500cc and Lightning 535 back at the renters. The family dispersed.
The next weekend, preparations were on to visit Rani. Ragav was unhappy at the fact that he had to go by car. Aparna agreed to drive him over to Rani's on her bull. Ragav was just merely looking for excuses to ride pillion with his mom. Ganesh happily drove his car as he always did. She wore a pink saree with sleeveless blouse. This time she didn't even bother to keep pace with Ganesh's car. She just drove fast @ 100 kmph. This t-bird brought her new energy. While she never drove at more than 60 kph on her libero, she hardly kept below 90 on her bull. Rani welcomed her home. Anjali came over with Rahul and Krishna. After a long time, Anjali was riding pillion. They stayed over night at Rani's and started next day morning for Ragav's college. Raja drove the car with Bindu, Rahul and Ganesh in the back seat. Rani was in the passenger seat.
Aparna rode Rani's CBZ. Anjali rode Aparna's bullet. Since Ragav liked travelling by bullet, Anjali took him as pillion. Aparna had Krishna as pillion. Before Anjali started the bike. Ragav hugged her and said, you should do your standard wheelies. Anjali wore an attactive blue silk saree with a sleeveless blouse and left her long hair tied at the top. Anjali just smiled at him and said I will try wheelies !!
Krishna had known Aparna as a safe and slow driver. Little did he know about her new found liking for speed. Aparna was dressed in her blue sport shorts. Her hair was let loose tied only at the top. She just wanted enjoy the wind. She just wanted look like a super cool girl. Krishna said, Aparna you look gorgeous. She also thanked him for his compliments. Krishna just hugged her at the waist.
Raja drove Ganesh's car.Ganesh fell asleep at the back seat. It was agreed that they will meet at a known lodge around 200 kms from Rani's. The car started earlier. The biker ladies started a bit late. Anjali started first on Aparna's T-bird. Her earlier misadventures mellowed her down. She tried a few wheelies just to keep Ragav happy. However, doing wheelies on bullet required special skills which she did not acquire.
Aparna started last and just tried riding normally. On hitting the highway she seemed to have acquired the adventurous streak. She did a wheelie that almost jolted Krishna. he was just not prepared for it. Aparna just laughed and said, dont worry krishna, this was just fun. Krishna didn't believe what he saw. A lady whom he had known as a conservative woman, changed so much. He wondered what this bullet bike did to her. She just said, don't worry I am just having fun. The car reached the lodge first. Aparna drove much faster than Anjali. She reached peak speeds of 130ks. Anjali maintained an average speed of 75kph. She just couldn't have enough of the t-bird.
Initially Krishna was hugging Aparna at the waist. Eventually, he put his chin over her shoulder so that he doesn't fall from the bike. Eventually Aparna calmed down and reached the lodge. Anjali came last to the lodge. Krishna asked Aparna why the ladies drove crazy when he was the pillion. Aparna laughed out loud and just hugged and kissed him. Hey, after all you are safe. Aren't you?
After the adventurous first part, Aparna changed over to her silk saree and wore her bindi at the lodge. After refreshments, she moved over to the car. Rani moved over to the CBZ saddle. Anjali continued with the t-bird. Ragav became Rani's pillion. Raja became Anjali's pillion. Aparna was the passenger seat at the car. Krishna took over the wheel. The rear seat passengers remained unchanged. Aparna just joked, hey don't wreak vengeance on me ok. Krishna laughed out loud and said, don't worry. The car started again.
Rani wore an attractive red colour designer saree andhad sleeveless blouse. As always, she wore her bindi. The t-bird and CBZ started at the same time. This time around, the women rode at 80s. Raja was amazed at Anjali's safety in riding. Whenever, he was pillion, I guess he could always read a book without a worry. Did he have the effect? At around 12:30 pm, the travellers reached the destination.
The journey continued.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
The Biking family - VII (By Mark Bradshaw)
Almost as soon as Aparna was talking about the lady's day out, Ganesh came over and talked to Aparna. Aparna, why don't you ladies take time off so that we can take care of your household chores or possibly take care of the kids. Ganesh had plenty of vacation left as did the other two gentlemen. True gentlemen they were, Ganesh had nothing to worry about. he was a good cook. He didn't have to do anything to take care of Ragav who was 19 years old. Krishna's son Rahul was with his parents. Bindu was the only child who needed attention. With a child like her, nobody would even imagine problems.
The plan unfurled much faster than imagined. The ladies got new energy and enthusiasm. So, planning started at the right earnest. Aparna gave her bull to the two siblings and asked them to try out driving it. Aparna had already driven Rani's CBZ and Anjali's pulsar earlier. This bull was a newbie. Rani test drove it with Raja as pillion. This was the ride of her lifetime. She had never experienced anything like that. She knew that Bulls have brakes on the left side. But the thunderbird was different and it had brakes on the right side. She was disappointed but only just. The thump of a legendary enfield was missing as well.
Anjali then took over the t-bird and was amazed at the incredible balance the bike provided. Right away, she knew what she wanted. But then, you don't buy bikes by just going to the shop one fine day.
Just when Anjali came back, Aparna's neighbor gave them an idea. There was a bike renter who would rent enfields to people who wanted it. She had a lightning 535 and a classic 500cc bike with her that day. The ladies immediately jumped at the idea went to the renter. The law abiding Aparna broke the rules and drove triples on her t-bird 500cc to the renter.
The renter knew about Aparna's t-bird riding skills. But the renter (it was a lady too!!), did not expect three women to come over that place saree clad and the pillions not riding side saddle. She instantly got over it and handed them the bikes. Anjali would ride the 535 lightning and Rani the classic 500cc. Aparna as usual would ride her own. The paperwork and insurance copies were checked. The ladies' had all their documents in-place. Thus began the ride out of all the three ladies.
It was agreed that the ladies would try out all the three bikes while driving long distance. They would not pack anything except the bare essentials. They will come back late that night. The hubbies will not be contacted except when there is an emergency. The trip would cover no more than a total of 800km. The three ladies would wear only sarees while riding. The maximum speed while riding would be 100 kph. It could go to 120 if there is any imminent danger the way Rani had while travelling. Protective measures such as pepper sprays will be used to defend themselves. All the three women will be within a safe distance of each other.
Aparna dressed in her Red silk saree. Rani dressed in her parrot green silk saree. Anjali dressed in her favourite yellow silk saree. All the ladies also wore jasmine flowers on their head and wore bindis. Even though they were dressed like adults, they had a child like enthusiasm in them. Seeing these ladies dressed like goddesses, the men of the house were in a daze. Ganesh hugged and kissed Aparna. He went and kissed the other two ladies too. The family was the most broadminded one you could imagine. They had the highest respect for each other. The other two gentlemen repeated formalities after Ganesh.
The ladies took off. They started out of their home at 30 kph. Soon they were out of the city. Aparna had recollected her long travel to Ragav's college earlier. It was near a hill station. So, the three decided to drive over to the hill station. Around 100km into the trip, it was time to swap bikes. Aparna took over the 535, Rani the t-bird and Anjali the 500cc. It was slightly different for Aparna to see the brakes and gearbox switch sides. But then, she was a veteran biker with over 100,000 km in her Libero and earlier bikes. Did anyone need to teach fish to swim? They had breakfast at the nearby Dhaba before switching bikes.
Anjali said to the ladies, "After all, the kids and hubbies are not with us, why should we stick to low speed limits. We also know how to drive safe. We all have the most powerful bikes in India. Why not try 120 ks? Aparna and Rani agreed. The next halt would be at the foothills of the hill station. The t-bird ridden by Rani started first, Anjali started her 500cc. The quietness of t-bird gave way to the legendary thump of the 500cc. Aparna started her 535cc. The onlookers at the Dhaba who had been used to ladies riding enfields had never seen 3 women riding alone wearing a saree and having jasmine flowers on their head. Just a few months back, 10 or 15 ladies had stopped by riding on their enfields while driving for the rider mania. This however, took them to another level. The three sisters have been used to the additional attention they got wherever they went. They had defied tradition in a lot of ways and yet remained very traditional. This was true modernity.
The cruise speed was increased to 120k. The ladies biking was like a symphony orchestra. Aparna was actually used to the quite t-bird and the lightning's thump was like a meditation mantra for her. It was meditation in motion. There was something unique about the experience. The three ladies ensured that they were within short distance of each other by overtaking each other once every 2 or 3 minutes. They have experienced wind blowing on their face for a very long time.
En-route Rani was thinking how lucky she was. She had a revolutionary mom who had the guts to teach her biking when even riding a TVS50 was rare for women. She had sisters that anyone would die to have. Above all, her hubby was the best she could get. He allowed her to be herself without imposing his ideas on her. Similar thoughts were going through the other two minds as well.
As these thoughts were going on, the foothills of the hill station arrived. Aparna took over the 500cc, Rani took over the 535 and Anjali the t-bird. The journey continued. The straight roads were replaced by hairpin bends. They reached the first hill station which was around 800 m above sea level. En-route they stopped at the tea estates. Walked through them, sipped a few glasses of tea.
At the hill station, they had food at a local restaurant. It was already 2:30 pm. All along en-route they gave their camera to a few strangers and asked them to take photos of the three riding. This collection of photos now stood at 20.
Soon, bikes were swapped and the descent started. They came to the foothills in about 1 hour. After that, the bike swap took place once again. Aparna realized during the course of this ride. When you travel along with an ultimate aim in mind, the journey becomes a chore. Chores lead you to physical pain and unnecessary stress. However, when there is no such goal and you are free from any worries, the journey becomes a meditation. It was only last month that she had come nearby to Ragav's college to pick him up. That enervated her. This time she was most energetic. The difference between this ride and her Ragav college ride couldn't be starker.
It was already 3:30 pm. Even if they were to drive @ 70 ks, it would be just 7:30 pm. So, a change of plan. They decided to go to the nearby city and do some shopping. The cavalcade of lady bulleteers continued. Even if they were the most unconventional women, the made for women disease of shopping hadn't spared them. They did not buy anything for themselves. Instead they bought for every other member of their family. After all, they got everything they ever wanted. Asking for more would be unreasonable.
Just when they came out of a shop, Rani noticed an old man smiling at her. He was walking along with his son. He (Ram) appeared to be around 65 and his son Sanjay appeared to be around 35. She smiled back and was talking. Within minutes the other two ladies also picked up a conversation with the father and son. Ram applauded the ladies for their courage and said there should be many more like them. While this was going for over 5 minutes, Anjali observed that the man was in some discomfort. All of a sudden, she realized he was having a heart attack. She was trained in first aid and resuscitation. Calling an ambulance would be time consuming. Instead she gave him the first attention he needed.
The hospital was around 2 km from the shop. In a minute they decided to ferry him on the bike. Aparna ferried Sanjay and Anjali got Ram on her bike and moved slowly towards the hospital. The hospital staff took over the treatment. A few medicines were needed. Since the man was poor, he could not afford it. The ladies quickly opened their purses and gave what was required. It turned out that the old man also needed blood. The three volunteered to give blood as well.
Within 10 minutes, their journey took a totally different course. Sanjay profusely thanked the ladies and fell at their feet. They had saved his father from a certain death. That day, they were not just ordinary ladies who ride bulls. They were avatars of goddess Durga who rode their tigers to save his family.
Aparna hugged and kissed Sanjay and said that it was their responsibility as humans to help those in need. They asked if he needed any more help. He requested them to pick up his mom and wife from home so that they can come over. The ladies obliged. Aparna stayed back at the hospital while Anjali and Rani helped out on the pick up.
Sanjay mentioned that he lost his sister to an illness when he was very young and said Aparna came in the form of her avatar. In this day and age when even your close relatives dont care, total strangers came to their rescue. Aparna reiterated they are not strangers and they were connected in some way to each other. We can always earn money and wealth. However, earning goodwill is the most difficult thing in life.
When his family came over, the ladies packed up and were ready to go. Sanjay gave a warm hug and kiss to all the three sisters. He invited them over to their home. The ladies also invited him and his family home. Wished Ram a speedy recovery. The family members thanked the ladies profusely. Rani called up home and said she will be late but did not say what went on. They started out on their bulls. They tanked up their bikes with petrol and were on the move.
They stopped at a roadside Dhaba once again. Aparna switched over to the 500cc. Rani switched over to the lightning and Anjali rode the thunderbird. Since it was around 12:30 am, they thought of touching 150 ks. Better sense prevailed and they decided to stay with a max of 120 ks.
The gentlemen back home were wondering what could have gone wrong. Hoever, Aparna had 70,000 km of driving experience. Anjali had around 30,000 km and Rani had around 55,000 km. They can do nothing wrong and they will be safe. Anyway, nobody messes with ladies riding a bullet. Back home, Bindu was playing and life was normal. She was put to bed. The men of the home had done an admirable job. It was around 2:30 am when the ladies returned home after a long journey of over 700 km. This could make anyone tired. But the ladies felt they had a purpose in this trip. They saved a life that could have been left rotting by careless bystanders.
The men patiently listened to the women upon their return and said they were very proud of their deeds. They had their customary hugs and kisses before retiring to their rooms.
The plan unfurled much faster than imagined. The ladies got new energy and enthusiasm. So, planning started at the right earnest. Aparna gave her bull to the two siblings and asked them to try out driving it. Aparna had already driven Rani's CBZ and Anjali's pulsar earlier. This bull was a newbie. Rani test drove it with Raja as pillion. This was the ride of her lifetime. She had never experienced anything like that. She knew that Bulls have brakes on the left side. But the thunderbird was different and it had brakes on the right side. She was disappointed but only just. The thump of a legendary enfield was missing as well.
Anjali then took over the t-bird and was amazed at the incredible balance the bike provided. Right away, she knew what she wanted. But then, you don't buy bikes by just going to the shop one fine day.
Just when Anjali came back, Aparna's neighbor gave them an idea. There was a bike renter who would rent enfields to people who wanted it. She had a lightning 535 and a classic 500cc bike with her that day. The ladies immediately jumped at the idea went to the renter. The law abiding Aparna broke the rules and drove triples on her t-bird 500cc to the renter.
The renter knew about Aparna's t-bird riding skills. But the renter (it was a lady too!!), did not expect three women to come over that place saree clad and the pillions not riding side saddle. She instantly got over it and handed them the bikes. Anjali would ride the 535 lightning and Rani the classic 500cc. Aparna as usual would ride her own. The paperwork and insurance copies were checked. The ladies' had all their documents in-place. Thus began the ride out of all the three ladies.
It was agreed that the ladies would try out all the three bikes while driving long distance. They would not pack anything except the bare essentials. They will come back late that night. The hubbies will not be contacted except when there is an emergency. The trip would cover no more than a total of 800km. The three ladies would wear only sarees while riding. The maximum speed while riding would be 100 kph. It could go to 120 if there is any imminent danger the way Rani had while travelling. Protective measures such as pepper sprays will be used to defend themselves. All the three women will be within a safe distance of each other.
Aparna dressed in her Red silk saree. Rani dressed in her parrot green silk saree. Anjali dressed in her favourite yellow silk saree. All the ladies also wore jasmine flowers on their head and wore bindis. Even though they were dressed like adults, they had a child like enthusiasm in them. Seeing these ladies dressed like goddesses, the men of the house were in a daze. Ganesh hugged and kissed Aparna. He went and kissed the other two ladies too. The family was the most broadminded one you could imagine. They had the highest respect for each other. The other two gentlemen repeated formalities after Ganesh.
The ladies took off. They started out of their home at 30 kph. Soon they were out of the city. Aparna had recollected her long travel to Ragav's college earlier. It was near a hill station. So, the three decided to drive over to the hill station. Around 100km into the trip, it was time to swap bikes. Aparna took over the 535, Rani the t-bird and Anjali the 500cc. It was slightly different for Aparna to see the brakes and gearbox switch sides. But then, she was a veteran biker with over 100,000 km in her Libero and earlier bikes. Did anyone need to teach fish to swim? They had breakfast at the nearby Dhaba before switching bikes.
Anjali said to the ladies, "After all, the kids and hubbies are not with us, why should we stick to low speed limits. We also know how to drive safe. We all have the most powerful bikes in India. Why not try 120 ks? Aparna and Rani agreed. The next halt would be at the foothills of the hill station. The t-bird ridden by Rani started first, Anjali started her 500cc. The quietness of t-bird gave way to the legendary thump of the 500cc. Aparna started her 535cc. The onlookers at the Dhaba who had been used to ladies riding enfields had never seen 3 women riding alone wearing a saree and having jasmine flowers on their head. Just a few months back, 10 or 15 ladies had stopped by riding on their enfields while driving for the rider mania. This however, took them to another level. The three sisters have been used to the additional attention they got wherever they went. They had defied tradition in a lot of ways and yet remained very traditional. This was true modernity.
The cruise speed was increased to 120k. The ladies biking was like a symphony orchestra. Aparna was actually used to the quite t-bird and the lightning's thump was like a meditation mantra for her. It was meditation in motion. There was something unique about the experience. The three ladies ensured that they were within short distance of each other by overtaking each other once every 2 or 3 minutes. They have experienced wind blowing on their face for a very long time.
En-route Rani was thinking how lucky she was. She had a revolutionary mom who had the guts to teach her biking when even riding a TVS50 was rare for women. She had sisters that anyone would die to have. Above all, her hubby was the best she could get. He allowed her to be herself without imposing his ideas on her. Similar thoughts were going through the other two minds as well.
As these thoughts were going on, the foothills of the hill station arrived. Aparna took over the 500cc, Rani took over the 535 and Anjali the t-bird. The journey continued. The straight roads were replaced by hairpin bends. They reached the first hill station which was around 800 m above sea level. En-route they stopped at the tea estates. Walked through them, sipped a few glasses of tea.
At the hill station, they had food at a local restaurant. It was already 2:30 pm. All along en-route they gave their camera to a few strangers and asked them to take photos of the three riding. This collection of photos now stood at 20.
Soon, bikes were swapped and the descent started. They came to the foothills in about 1 hour. After that, the bike swap took place once again. Aparna realized during the course of this ride. When you travel along with an ultimate aim in mind, the journey becomes a chore. Chores lead you to physical pain and unnecessary stress. However, when there is no such goal and you are free from any worries, the journey becomes a meditation. It was only last month that she had come nearby to Ragav's college to pick him up. That enervated her. This time she was most energetic. The difference between this ride and her Ragav college ride couldn't be starker.
It was already 3:30 pm. Even if they were to drive @ 70 ks, it would be just 7:30 pm. So, a change of plan. They decided to go to the nearby city and do some shopping. The cavalcade of lady bulleteers continued. Even if they were the most unconventional women, the made for women disease of shopping hadn't spared them. They did not buy anything for themselves. Instead they bought for every other member of their family. After all, they got everything they ever wanted. Asking for more would be unreasonable.
Just when they came out of a shop, Rani noticed an old man smiling at her. He was walking along with his son. He (Ram) appeared to be around 65 and his son Sanjay appeared to be around 35. She smiled back and was talking. Within minutes the other two ladies also picked up a conversation with the father and son. Ram applauded the ladies for their courage and said there should be many more like them. While this was going for over 5 minutes, Anjali observed that the man was in some discomfort. All of a sudden, she realized he was having a heart attack. She was trained in first aid and resuscitation. Calling an ambulance would be time consuming. Instead she gave him the first attention he needed.
The hospital was around 2 km from the shop. In a minute they decided to ferry him on the bike. Aparna ferried Sanjay and Anjali got Ram on her bike and moved slowly towards the hospital. The hospital staff took over the treatment. A few medicines were needed. Since the man was poor, he could not afford it. The ladies quickly opened their purses and gave what was required. It turned out that the old man also needed blood. The three volunteered to give blood as well.
Within 10 minutes, their journey took a totally different course. Sanjay profusely thanked the ladies and fell at their feet. They had saved his father from a certain death. That day, they were not just ordinary ladies who ride bulls. They were avatars of goddess Durga who rode their tigers to save his family.
Aparna hugged and kissed Sanjay and said that it was their responsibility as humans to help those in need. They asked if he needed any more help. He requested them to pick up his mom and wife from home so that they can come over. The ladies obliged. Aparna stayed back at the hospital while Anjali and Rani helped out on the pick up.
Sanjay mentioned that he lost his sister to an illness when he was very young and said Aparna came in the form of her avatar. In this day and age when even your close relatives dont care, total strangers came to their rescue. Aparna reiterated they are not strangers and they were connected in some way to each other. We can always earn money and wealth. However, earning goodwill is the most difficult thing in life.
When his family came over, the ladies packed up and were ready to go. Sanjay gave a warm hug and kiss to all the three sisters. He invited them over to their home. The ladies also invited him and his family home. Wished Ram a speedy recovery. The family members thanked the ladies profusely. Rani called up home and said she will be late but did not say what went on. They started out on their bulls. They tanked up their bikes with petrol and were on the move.
They stopped at a roadside Dhaba once again. Aparna switched over to the 500cc. Rani switched over to the lightning and Anjali rode the thunderbird. Since it was around 12:30 am, they thought of touching 150 ks. Better sense prevailed and they decided to stay with a max of 120 ks.
The gentlemen back home were wondering what could have gone wrong. Hoever, Aparna had 70,000 km of driving experience. Anjali had around 30,000 km and Rani had around 55,000 km. They can do nothing wrong and they will be safe. Anyway, nobody messes with ladies riding a bullet. Back home, Bindu was playing and life was normal. She was put to bed. The men of the home had done an admirable job. It was around 2:30 am when the ladies returned home after a long journey of over 700 km. This could make anyone tired. But the ladies felt they had a purpose in this trip. They saved a life that could have been left rotting by careless bystanders.
The men patiently listened to the women upon their return and said they were very proud of their deeds. They had their customary hugs and kisses before retiring to their rooms.
Friday, April 3, 2009
The Biking family - VI (By Mark Bradshaw)
Rani had already come over to Aparna's home. Anjali heard about it and decided to visit Aparna too. When the elder one is making waves and the second one just defeated the thieves, can the daredevil Anjali be any different. She traveled with her hubby Krishna. Her son Rahul was too young to travel with the rash driver Anjali and hence Krishna decided to leave him with his parents who stayed with them.This time, she decided to listen to Krishna and drive slower than usual. 4 accidents have taught her any lesson. Her home was around 300 km from Aparna's. She was determined to prove a point that she can be a safe rider and hence never gave the saddle to Krishna. Like her two elder ones, she also decided to wear a saree this time while biking. It was a bright yellow silk saree with fabulous designs. Of all the siblings, she had the longest hair. It was upto her waist and well nourished. She also decorated it with fragrant flowers. It was already around 7:00 pm and quite dark by the time they started.After about 5 years or marriage, Krishna had the experience of riding alone with her. The fragrance of all the flowers and her long hair enticed him a lot. He hugged her tight around her chest and cuddled her. She was driving at a nominal 75 kmph (slow by her standards). The arousal caused by Krishna was a welcome change. This is a romantic moment she was waiting for. Sometimes she would slow down to 5 or 10 ks and turn around to kiss him.At one roadside rest area, she stopped and asked Krishna to be seated on the fuel tank so that she could see his face and he could hug her while riding. He was lanky and hence wound his legs around her. It was pitch dark and hence no one saw what was going on. She finally stopped at a restaurant. They both had their coffee and were cherishing every moment. She then decided to change over to shorts and they were back to the normal riding position.The road was a bit hilly and hence the pleasant winds blowing brought its own fragrances. It was around 12:45 am before they reached Aparna's home. On a normal evening, she would have been there @ 10:00 pm. Aparna welcomed the couple and all others were tired and asleep. Soon, Anjali and Krishna hit the sack. The lady couldn't get over how nice the ride was. This was one night she would never forget.The next day morning the couples woke up. While the ladies were sipping their coffee, Aparna threw this idea. Most of the time, our lives depend on what our hubbies do. Their schedule dictates our time. Otherwise our kids take over our space. Have we ever had time with ourselves? Aparna knew it better. She has been that way for 20 years and Rani for over 15 years. Didn't they need their ladies day out?
The Biking family - V (By Mark Bradshaw)
All along Aparna was the quieter one who suddenly became a celebrity in her town. Her sis Rani was living in a different town having her own life. Her routine was limited to mostly dropping off and picking up her 8 year old daughter Bindu from school. Her daughter's school was hardly 1/2 a km from home. So, she walked everyday to school to drop her off. Vegetable shops and provisions were a stone's throw away. She was happy doing what she did.One day, she was talking to Aparna as a routine and asked Aparna to come over for the weekend. Aparna agreed and said she will come over with Ragav and Ganesh since both of them will be available. Ragav was excited about travelling. However, going by bike was not a possibility since travelling as 3 adults is not allowed by law. A law abiding citizen she was, she refused to break it at anytime. The cool biker babe in her gave way to the law abiding citizen. Ragav started making sales pitches saying why they should go by bike. Aparna was not convinced about it and hence asked Rani to come over. Rani agreed as it was quite sometime since they both met. 3 months seemed like eternity. Rani's hubby Raja agreed and the Raja-rani along with Bindu started riding. Raja started riding and Rani was riding pillion with Bindu sitting in between. 30 km through the 150 km ride, Rani felt like riding. It was not unusual for the couple to swap riding positions as they were quite used to it. There were moments when Raja would read a book while Rani was at the helm. Such was his confidence on his sweetheart's riding skills.The weather station predicted there would be heavy rain in the afternoon and they had heard about some highway thefts in the route. However, such things don't panic this unconventional couple. Rani was riding at 70kmph when she saw something at a distance. It appeared like the highway thieves were in action. After all, anyone's skills will be tested under these circumstances. Seeing a saree clad lady at the reins, this was easy pickings for the thieves.Rani slowed down a bit as they came closer to the culprits. She waved at the gang and said "Hi". The gang was baffled. Here they were trying to rob and she is welcoming them. They couldn't believe what they saw. As they inched closer, Rani asked Raja and Bindu to hold her tight. They did and the bike almost crawled @ 10kmph. The thieves thought they made good their booty. Rani was wearing her jewels and was fully decked up as a village girl would. Raja knew what is coming and couldn't help smile!!Suddenly, the bike roared to the top gear and Rani went from 10 to 110 in 20 seconds. The pillions were holding her tight. The thieves were left shell shocked and started chasing her. They almost caught up with her. When they did, she braked all of a sudden causing loss of balance for the thieves. The thieves lost control of their two wheelers and fell down. Rani was back on track deftly. The battle with the thieves was won hands down by Rani and family. In the mean time, local villagers who came to know about the thieves' presence and got hold of them. She then sped at her usual 70 kmph and once again swapped driving positions about 40 km before Aparna's residence. Aparna welcomed her sis and brother in-law along with her cute niece Bindu.When they got back home, Rani explained the incident and the whole family was laughing their heart out. Rani came to know of Aparna's bullet and congratulated her for the bold decision. She has never seen her sis so happy. Ragav was thrilled about the biking exploits of his aunt.That day Rani was just not a Rani. She was a Maharani adorned with all her jewels. In a game of chess, the queen is the most powerful one. That day the Queen did prove it.Moral of the story: "Dont mess with a saree clad biker."
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The Biking family - IV (By Mark Bradshaw)
Ragav was certainly used to his mom riding a bike with her saree. But he was blissfuly unaware of what was actually happening back home as he was in his hostel and studying for exams. His contact with his parents was limited to a few phone calls a week. He kept calling Anjali who was his favourite biker aunt and talking more often.
One fine day he called up Anjali and asked her to pick him up from college and bring him back home. However, Anjali was tied up with a few things and said it would be better if Rani or his mom picked him up. Reluctantly, he called up mom and asked "Amma, my exams are over. Can you pick me up from college?" The mom agreed and said she will drive to college in her car since he might have a lot of luggage. However, he refused and said, he wanted to come by bike.
He still couldn't get over the fact that Anjali couldn't come and was just frustrated at the thought of his mom driving her Libero. Litle did he know what was in store. Aparna mentioned this to Ganesh and he was a bit upset that she will be going alone over a distance of 250 km. How will she drive alone safely? In this age of rowdies and ruthless truckers, how can she handle being alone on the road for over 250 km? He then recollected his last trip to the coast. Aparna gently reminded him saying that going slow or fast is just a matter of how well the bike was designed and not an indicator of one's ability. However, having good control of the vehicle was indeed her strength.
She decided that she needs to be fast and safe on highways. She was reminded of the way in which the vehicles stopped for her while she was a saree clad bulleteer. A shorts wearing lady attracts unwanted attention in India. However, a saree clad biker creates shock and awe. She wore her Turquoise blue silk saree and started speeding from home. When she hit the highway around 45 mins later, she started travelling at a speed of 80-100 kmph. Vehicles coming behind her made sure they never overtook her. After all, trailing her all the way ensures they have seen the rarest of scenes in their lives. Many photographs were taken probably even more than Angelina Jolie/Brad Pitt.
Within 3 hours she reached Ragav's college. Half the followers on her route had forgotten the original route they were to take. Ragav had just come out of his sleep when he saw his mom coming to the hostel room. He picked up his luggage and brought it all the way downstairs.
What he saw there shocked him beyond belief. Amma, how come you drive a bull? She explained her story and Ragav was pleasantly surprised to know that. Now onwards, he did not want to travel with Anjali. When you got a cool and safe driver in your mom, why would you want to travel with a rash aunt?
Aparna wasted no time and soon both were fully set to return home. She had packed delicious meal for him to eat before they could travel back. He had seen only rough and brash bulleteers till now. For the first time, he saw a soft and loving bull rider. He thought he was the luckiest child in the world. The ever increasing parent's love and the cool bullet rider combined into one in his mom.
She drove back home with ragav as pillion. He hugged his mom as he has always been and she safely drove over the next 3 hours to her hometown. In one day, she had cracked 500 km on her bull. Her hubby welcomed the mom and son home.
Over these months, a single bullet bike had transformed an entire family. The adline goes, "Let the boys play with the toys. Drive a Man's bike." It should probably say, drive a mom's bike.
One fine day he called up Anjali and asked her to pick him up from college and bring him back home. However, Anjali was tied up with a few things and said it would be better if Rani or his mom picked him up. Reluctantly, he called up mom and asked "Amma, my exams are over. Can you pick me up from college?" The mom agreed and said she will drive to college in her car since he might have a lot of luggage. However, he refused and said, he wanted to come by bike.
He still couldn't get over the fact that Anjali couldn't come and was just frustrated at the thought of his mom driving her Libero. Litle did he know what was in store. Aparna mentioned this to Ganesh and he was a bit upset that she will be going alone over a distance of 250 km. How will she drive alone safely? In this age of rowdies and ruthless truckers, how can she handle being alone on the road for over 250 km? He then recollected his last trip to the coast. Aparna gently reminded him saying that going slow or fast is just a matter of how well the bike was designed and not an indicator of one's ability. However, having good control of the vehicle was indeed her strength.
She decided that she needs to be fast and safe on highways. She was reminded of the way in which the vehicles stopped for her while she was a saree clad bulleteer. A shorts wearing lady attracts unwanted attention in India. However, a saree clad biker creates shock and awe. She wore her Turquoise blue silk saree and started speeding from home. When she hit the highway around 45 mins later, she started travelling at a speed of 80-100 kmph. Vehicles coming behind her made sure they never overtook her. After all, trailing her all the way ensures they have seen the rarest of scenes in their lives. Many photographs were taken probably even more than Angelina Jolie/Brad Pitt.
Within 3 hours she reached Ragav's college. Half the followers on her route had forgotten the original route they were to take. Ragav had just come out of his sleep when he saw his mom coming to the hostel room. He picked up his luggage and brought it all the way downstairs.
What he saw there shocked him beyond belief. Amma, how come you drive a bull? She explained her story and Ragav was pleasantly surprised to know that. Now onwards, he did not want to travel with Anjali. When you got a cool and safe driver in your mom, why would you want to travel with a rash aunt?
Aparna wasted no time and soon both were fully set to return home. She had packed delicious meal for him to eat before they could travel back. He had seen only rough and brash bulleteers till now. For the first time, he saw a soft and loving bull rider. He thought he was the luckiest child in the world. The ever increasing parent's love and the cool bullet rider combined into one in his mom.
She drove back home with ragav as pillion. He hugged his mom as he has always been and she safely drove over the next 3 hours to her hometown. In one day, she had cracked 500 km on her bull. Her hubby welcomed the mom and son home.
Over these months, a single bullet bike had transformed an entire family. The adline goes, "Let the boys play with the toys. Drive a Man's bike." It should probably say, drive a mom's bike.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
The Biking family - III (By Mark Bradshaw)
Aparna had pulled off the greatest surprise of it all. However, she felt she can do more and have a lot more fun in life. The outh had returned to her. All of a sudden she bcame 37 years young and energetic. Nowadays, ganesh stopped going by car to work. Aparna would drop him off on her bull at work and he would return by bus in the evening. Ganesh couldn't believe the transformation. The bullock cart rider had become a bullet rider. He too wanted more fun. Ragav had grown up and was going to college. His circle of friends kept him busy. He came once in a month from his hostel.
Man there must be some fun in our life. He thought to himself. Thus with his thoughts he entered home in the evening. He saw Aparna wearing formal shorts. Ganesh couldn't believe his eyes. A village girl transformed into an athlete. She however didn't give up the bindi and her hair was as long as it had ever been. She was gorgeous in her shorts.
She was one step ahead of him in planning. They were staying around 250 km from the coast and there was a wonderful road to travel upto the coastal town. She had booked the overnight lodge for the weekend and planned a few fun activities. This time though they planned to go there on her bullet. Even though Ganesh had been driving the bull for sometime now, the thought of Aparna on her shorts with her flowing hair hitting his face was irresistible.
The bike was on its centre stand the luggage was meticulously packed for the trip. She started riding the bull from their home. She started off at 50 kmph. The wind started to blow on their face. The loosely tied hair of aparna started to hit ganesh's face. He couldn't hide his sentiments. To add to it, she was wearing a lot of jasmine flowers on her head in a typical south indian style. The fragrance of the flower and the hair took him to another world altogether. Before he could realize, it was already 75 km on the road. This time he was annoyed, Aparna why do you drive so fast @ 60 kmph. He wanted to enjoy the fragrance and the love. She slowed down to 45 and drove at a leisurely speed.
Theirs was a love marriage. But for ganesh this incident was even better than his college days when he met her. He started stoking her hair and arousing her. The bull stated to go @ 35 kph. After all, Aparna couldn't believe her enjoyment. For once she wished she had two different hands to hold the handle bar. She slowed down a lot and turned around to kiss her hubby while maintaining a safe grip on the bike. This was one trip that neither of them wanted to end.
After all, like all good things this also had to come to an end. Those who saw her at the lodge thought that she was a college girl around 18 years old. They were the happiest couple in town. The vehicle was slower than the bullock cart. But none were complaining this time.
The next day morning, she transformed into a saree clad girl and occasionally rode the bullet. Particularly fun was the part when she drove on the beach sands.
While returning Aparna became tired and hence decided that she would be pillion. She couldn't afford to risk anyone's safety and ride while being tired. Ganesh was the reluctant driver. He drove back home. And the ride continues.
Man there must be some fun in our life. He thought to himself. Thus with his thoughts he entered home in the evening. He saw Aparna wearing formal shorts. Ganesh couldn't believe his eyes. A village girl transformed into an athlete. She however didn't give up the bindi and her hair was as long as it had ever been. She was gorgeous in her shorts.
She was one step ahead of him in planning. They were staying around 250 km from the coast and there was a wonderful road to travel upto the coastal town. She had booked the overnight lodge for the weekend and planned a few fun activities. This time though they planned to go there on her bullet. Even though Ganesh had been driving the bull for sometime now, the thought of Aparna on her shorts with her flowing hair hitting his face was irresistible.
The bike was on its centre stand the luggage was meticulously packed for the trip. She started riding the bull from their home. She started off at 50 kmph. The wind started to blow on their face. The loosely tied hair of aparna started to hit ganesh's face. He couldn't hide his sentiments. To add to it, she was wearing a lot of jasmine flowers on her head in a typical south indian style. The fragrance of the flower and the hair took him to another world altogether. Before he could realize, it was already 75 km on the road. This time he was annoyed, Aparna why do you drive so fast @ 60 kmph. He wanted to enjoy the fragrance and the love. She slowed down to 45 and drove at a leisurely speed.
Theirs was a love marriage. But for ganesh this incident was even better than his college days when he met her. He started stoking her hair and arousing her. The bull stated to go @ 35 kph. After all, Aparna couldn't believe her enjoyment. For once she wished she had two different hands to hold the handle bar. She slowed down a lot and turned around to kiss her hubby while maintaining a safe grip on the bike. This was one trip that neither of them wanted to end.
After all, like all good things this also had to come to an end. Those who saw her at the lodge thought that she was a college girl around 18 years old. They were the happiest couple in town. The vehicle was slower than the bullock cart. But none were complaining this time.
The next day morning, she transformed into a saree clad girl and occasionally rode the bullet. Particularly fun was the part when she drove on the beach sands.
While returning Aparna became tired and hence decided that she would be pillion. She couldn't afford to risk anyone's safety and ride while being tired. Ganesh was the reluctant driver. He drove back home. And the ride continues.
The Biking family - II (By Mark Bradshaw)
The trip to the dam upset Aparna a lot. She kept pondering, why doesn't my hubby ganesh not recognize safe driving at all:-(. Do I always have to drive fast to prove that I am a good driver. What did I do to deserve this bullock cart tag? This is too much for me. What do I do?
This is after all a modern era where information is available at the click ofa mouse. As she was pondering, she was going about
her daily chores. People would stare at her wherever she went. After all, many were yet to come to terms with a saree clad woman driving. This irked her even more. Here is an entire town looking at me when I drive with a saree. My man doesn't care about this novelty. How often do you a see this on the road? This is wrong. Suddenly, her eyes latched onto something on the road. She said, wow this girl looks cool and young!! She later went back home and was immersed in thought.
From then on she started planning for a mega surprise. The whole episode had to be planned in total secrecy. After all secrecy is part of any surprise. She was an avid stock trader and had made significant money during the boom time and saved it up in her bank. Being a conservative investor she withdrew major sums before the boom became a bust.
One fine morning she asked Ganesh. Honey, do you mind if I pick you up from work today. Why dont you go by bus instead of our car. Ganesh thought she might need the car for some chores and hence agreed. As always he left on time and it was business as usual.
While Ganesh was at work, Aparna called up and said she wanted to pick him up early. He hastily made arrangements at work and got ready on time. While she waited at the lobby he just came down to meet her. The security guard was looking at her as though she was from another planet. He was wondering what was wrong with this security guard. After all, a lady wearing a blue silk saree isn't something to be stared at in India. But then he shrugged it off and walked with his wife. He assumed that his car would be there at the parking lot. But then, he saw something that he never expected.
Aparna had pulled off the greatest surprise by buying a twin spark
thunderbird 500cc. She had assiduously saved up and traded in her
Libero. Ganesh was awestruck. Startved of words to describe his surprise, he just gave a big kiss to Aparna and hugged her in the glare of all his colleagues. All the weird expressions shown by the security guard made sense to him. People who passed by just wanted to get photographed with Aparna and her t-bird. Why not? After all how often do you see a saree clad lady riding a bullet in India.
The wife drove her hubby backhome. Wherever they went, the traffic would stop and leave way for the lady. Definitely everybody leaves way for the bullet. Ganesh suddenly remembered the statement bullock cart. Today the bullock cart became a bullet cart. Will he ever regret the statement?
This is after all a modern era where information is available at the click ofa mouse. As she was pondering, she was going about
her daily chores. People would stare at her wherever she went. After all, many were yet to come to terms with a saree clad woman driving. This irked her even more. Here is an entire town looking at me when I drive with a saree. My man doesn't care about this novelty. How often do you a see this on the road? This is wrong. Suddenly, her eyes latched onto something on the road. She said, wow this girl looks cool and young!! She later went back home and was immersed in thought.
From then on she started planning for a mega surprise. The whole episode had to be planned in total secrecy. After all secrecy is part of any surprise. She was an avid stock trader and had made significant money during the boom time and saved it up in her bank. Being a conservative investor she withdrew major sums before the boom became a bust.
One fine morning she asked Ganesh. Honey, do you mind if I pick you up from work today. Why dont you go by bus instead of our car. Ganesh thought she might need the car for some chores and hence agreed. As always he left on time and it was business as usual.
While Ganesh was at work, Aparna called up and said she wanted to pick him up early. He hastily made arrangements at work and got ready on time. While she waited at the lobby he just came down to meet her. The security guard was looking at her as though she was from another planet. He was wondering what was wrong with this security guard. After all, a lady wearing a blue silk saree isn't something to be stared at in India. But then he shrugged it off and walked with his wife. He assumed that his car would be there at the parking lot. But then, he saw something that he never expected.
Aparna had pulled off the greatest surprise by buying a twin spark
thunderbird 500cc. She had assiduously saved up and traded in her
Libero. Ganesh was awestruck. Startved of words to describe his surprise, he just gave a big kiss to Aparna and hugged her in the glare of all his colleagues. All the weird expressions shown by the security guard made sense to him. People who passed by just wanted to get photographed with Aparna and her t-bird. Why not? After all how often do you see a saree clad lady riding a bullet in India.
The wife drove her hubby backhome. Wherever they went, the traffic would stop and leave way for the lady. Definitely everybody leaves way for the bullet. Ganesh suddenly remembered the statement bullock cart. Today the bullock cart became a bullet cart. Will he ever regret the statement?
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