OUT TO TAME THE TRAFFIC SNARLS

I finally gathered courage; courage to wade through the old city traffic during the peak hour. I felt like a warrior, a young and an inexperienced one at warfare, out to wage a battle against the tyranny of the four wheelers and heavy vehicles.

After a few tense moments and a deep breath, I look at my partner (my bike) and asked “Do you think you can go through this ordeal? You look pretty sick, you need energy (Petrol)". I was put at ease by the reply I received." My energy lies in the hands of my master. I am confident that I will be utilised in a manner which postpones the proposition of you walking me to the doctor (petrol pump)." I checked my partner’s pulse, put on my helmet saying out a small prayer.My confidence at high levels; grabbed his hand and off we were to the battle field.

Our first brush with danger was with one four wheeler. He drew first blood. He tried to squeeze us from the side.We eyed each other, exchanged tirades. All the while, I advised my partner to have patience, "We will dominate him, he is heavy and we are stronger". And finally we did overpower him to leave him behind, but not before we became a victim of his most dangerous weapon, vehicle exhaust.

Gaining confidence, we reached the next stage in the battle, traffic stops with the watchmen in white, guarding them. It was a cake walk for us. I was kind of very intelligent for a young warrior. I applied strategy, took shortcuts and U turns on the slightest opportunity. Then we came across road blocks, the most gruesome part of the battle. My partner puffed and panted and we finally squeezed through.

Aah, finally, I could see my destination. I reminded myself, the battle is not won yet. I have to return to my base with the prize catch. I patted on my partners back and said “Let’s do it again, I am proud of you" He beamed with pride, a beam so powerful that blinded the enemies.

With relative ease, we were back at our base, Victorious. The enemies were now ranting and honking at our valor. We made them taste dust. With the bruises and stains of the battlefield, I looked into my partners eyes, could see him blink with appreciation.

I sang along my victory song "Hum Hogaye Kaamiyab, Is Dinnnn...”, and offered myself for someone to come and hug me; Alas, could find no takers.

I won my small battle but I am pretty sure that there is a bigger war ahead. So,battlefield, throw me a challenge and Ill enjoy locking horns with you.