Page 30 - Govind 70th Birthday Book

From when do I start or which one – was the question and then the thought – why not from Day 1. Me thinks it was round end of 1956 when an ever smiling, young lad won hearts all round with his bewitching smiles and cheery antics, specially his love for Watermelon. And years elapsed, Bhaiya
came to my city as a VIP, albeit junior one, as he was barely 8 years plus. Mothers with little girls eyeing him as a prospective groom for their little
angels. The couple of days in my city led us to Muzaffarnagar and our saga began. For me Bhaiya was and will always be a doting baby brother, a solace in time of turbulence and also a mentor when doubts assail. Back to our story – time and dates might vary, but as I recall it was time for Welham Prem School. Holi saw Bhaiya join us but without all his chubby self. Welham ate it all away. Holiday dawned and knowing I am scared of Holi he hid behind the door and as I came out of my dressing room red water was all over me. Still remember that. Did not want him to go back, I doubt anyone did. But he had to. Holidays were to be fun and be pampered but Ammaji wanted me to get him to study as well. A battle of wits and patience, where I was given the upper hand. Bhaiya was mulish, quietly refusing to budge – annoying! But had a mischievous smile alongside. Fortunately gave in after a while and it was great for me, I am not so sure about him! Welham, Doon, Cambridge, a trip to Japan thrown in after school. He shone and had a rollicking time. Was everyone’s darling at Mussoorie Bridge parties. Between Cambridge and back he was caught hook, line and sinker by a lovely petite lass, all of which added spice and jest to Muz life. Prior to 1977, UP Steels, a company we had set up started going negative. His love and respect for his elder brother led him to a crossroad.
Never was a deprecating remark! It saw him as a mentor and solace to me.