'Yes, auntiji, how are you?' the early morning calm inside the AC bus was shattered with these words. Those taking a power nap to catch up with the unfinished quota of their sleep and those trying to make sense of the Indian economy behind their business newspapers craned their necks to gauge the source of such commotion. But the man in question was oblivious to his surroundings. He went on to talk to the wife of his maternal uncle. He inquired whether she had had breakfast yet. Then playfully admonished her for being strict with his uncle. At one point he also asked to speak to his nephew. I guess there is strength in collective prayer because from the conversation this side of the mobile it seemed like the nephew was fast asleep. Thank heavens for small mercies!

You could almost hear a collective sigh of relief as the man got off the bus at the next stop and peace reigned supreme once again.