MY PAPAJI

MEMORIES OF MY BROTHER

Chander Shekhar Mohlajee

By His Anuj 
Mahender Partap Mohlajee 

Portola Valley, California

(2010)

  

1.      VERY FIRST MEMORY OF PAPAJI

(AUGUST 1940)

The Palki (Palanquin) halted all of a sudden. There was talk of someone being injured. The hatos (Palanquin riders) put down the Palki and ran towards the accident. I peeked through the Palki and saw Chachiji standing next to a Pony and saw someone comforting her. I ran towards her and found Papaji with her. Chachiji had fallen off the pony. She was prone to motion sickness and that may have made her fall off the pony. None of the family was around; they had marched ahead. Our family was on Yatra(pilgrimage) to the Amarnath Holy Shrine in August 1940. The person riding in Palki was our Dadiji (Grandmother) and I, being small and sickly, was with her in the Palki. 

Young Mahender Partap

I understand that Papaji walked with Chachiji all the way to the Shrine after the accident.

The scene of Papaji and Chachiji standing on the side of a hill is eternally etched in my memory like a carving on a Shila (stone slab). It is vivid to me even now as if it happened yesterday. This is the first memory of Papaji in my life.

We stayed at Pahalgam after the Amarnath Yatra and both Shiv Bhai and I were taking a bath in the courtyard. All of a sudden I was crying having bitten by a Bhoond( a wasp). I remember Papaji comforting me.

According to Chachiji(Smt Dhan vatiji-our mother), most of the family travelled from by bus to Sialkot and onwards to Srinagar. The family travelling by bus: Dadaji(Pt.Har Narainji), Dadiji(Smt. Karam Deviji), Bauji(Pt. Mohan Lalji-our Father), Chachiji, Shakuntla Bhua, Phupadji(Pt. Ram Lubhayaji Jhingon), Bhuaji(Smt. Padma Vatiji), Papaji, Shiv Bhai(Shiv Kumarji), Madan Bhai(1+year old) and me.

Chote Tayaji’s family travelled to Srinagar separately. Chote Tayaji (Pt.Ram Narainji), Taiji (Smt. Krishan Pyariji), Sharda, Gargi and Gomti Bhenji and Krishan (Chote Kaka).

Chachiji said that we all stayed in a home on the bank of river. Most of the family returned to Lahore after the yatra. Just our family and ShivBhai stayed on Pahalgam and other locations.

Dadaji was addressed as “Chachaji” and Dadiji as “Jhaiji”. However, prefer to use Dadaji and Dadiji to avoid any confusion to our coming generation.

PAPAJI’A EARLY LIFE IN LAHORE( 1925-1947)

Tradition holds that a pregnant mother would go to her parents’ home to deliver her baby. Upon the birth of a baby, Nanaji  and Naniji would go to the baby’s paternal home with the news and gifts for the family. Since our Nanaji passed away when Chachiji was a child and Mamaji’s home was not in Lahore, Papaji was born in our old house.(The old house was demolished in 1937 and the new house was built in 1938 and the family moved in 1939). Papaji was the first child of Bauji and Chachiji, the first grandson of Dadaji and Dadiji and first great grandson of Bhaiyaji. I would imagine there would have been lots of celebrations and distribution of sweets, etc. to the Brahmins and the poor and lots of gifts to the married daughters of the family. Chachiji, Chote Bhuaji(see Chachiji’s family) would have brought baby clothes, sweets and gifts for the family on behalf of Chachiji’s family. Papaji was named after Chander Shekhar Azad (Bauji used to mention this). A few days 21 days exactly, Chote Tayiji gave birth to Sharda Bhenji. Both of them were very fair, Papaji had curly hairs and light eyes. As children they were inseparable. Played a lot together and taught with each other too. Sharda Bhenji related to us (in June 2009) as children they used to play quietly around Bhaiyaji (his eyesight had gone weak then) but he would recognize them and shower them with Ashirwads (Blessings). Both went to the same convent school (Sacred heart convent school) near Tayaji’s Kothi.

Tayajis kothi wall

After certain years boys were not allowed in that school hence Papaji had to go for another School? Later Papaji joined D.A.V.College. I do not know which college Sharda Bhenji joined (she was in Hans Raj Mahavidyalaya, Lahore). He had lots of friends in Government College and usually seen there more than in his own D.A.V. College. Papaji was liked by everyone in the family, relatives, our Panchjati in Lahore and Amritsar. He was ‘kaka’ later on when krishan Narain was born Chote Tayaji’s family started calling him ‘Vada Kaka’. Everyone called Krishan narain ‘Chota kaka’. According to Chachiji he was always on the move as a child, not a restless child but very inquisitive, very social friendly, helpful and resourceful. He was never demanding; anything in particular. Everyone knew me as kaka’s brother or Chander Shekhar’s brother. The RSS Sevaks always called him Shekhar. It was customary in Punjab that married women would be escorted by someone, even a boy or a girl when she would go out of home. I used to accompany Chachiji on such occasions. Once, Chachiji had to visit an Optometrist (probably in 1944-1945 winters) for eye check-up. The moment we reached the shop, he said Namaste to Chachiji but in next breather motioned me ‘so you are Shekhar’s brother’ I was really proud to be called his brother but was amazed as to how did he know. Probably Papaji had mentioned to his RSS friend that Chachiji would be coming for any eye examination.

DEATH OF DADAJI

(Mahan Shivratri, February 1941)

A few months after we returned home, we children (Raj kishori Bhenji and Prem Bhai) saw from the mag (sort of dumbwaiter opening on the ceiling leading to a floor above or below) that Dadaji was lying on floor in the Hall (living Room). There was lot of commotion in the house. Everyone was crying. We heard whispers of his passing away. Someone motioned towards me and soon enough steady hands of Papaji were whisking me away from the scene. He led me through our lane to the Maasiji’s home in the adjoining lane to spend the day. Of course everyone in her house was also whispering. As Dadaji’s arthi (cortege) passed her house, my eyes were glued in locating Papaji in the throng. As night fell, he came to fetch me back to the house. I was reassured that all was well when comforted in the arms of favourite Raj Kishori Bhenji.

    
      CHACHIJI’S FAMILY

Chachiji was the youngest child of Pt. Durga Das and Smt. Param pyari (Jhingan) Sharma. Her ancestral home was in Bal Mata Gali, about 10 minutes’ walk from our house in Lahore. Bal Mata Gali was on the way to Shah Alami Gate from our house. Her Dadaji used to live their until his death.

Nanaji was employed with the Railways and was posted in Amritsar. During an epidemic, Nanaji passed away. Chachiji was 7 or 8 years old then. Chachiji had two siblings:

·         Pt. Des Raj Sharma, Mamaji, was educated at Khalsa College, Amritsar. He completed his M.A. in Sanskrit and was appointed a research fellow at Punjab University, Lahore. He was sent to Kashmir to study ancient documents/manuscripts there. Later on, he joined the information and Broadcasting Department of the Indian Government as a librarian and was posted in Simla. During World War II he was permanently posted in Delhi. He used to live on Turkman Road, now a Power Station. [Khalsa College is now Guru Nanak University]. He retired as chief librarian. Mamaji wrote Sanskrit text books for the 7^th, 8th, 9th, and 10^th classes. The books were published by Bauji under Chander Shekhar & bros. imprint.

·         Smt. Param pyari Jaitley, Maasiji, was already married and had given birth to Chintamani Papaji at the time Nanaji died. She lived in an adjoining gali to our gali (alleyway). Both gali’s had the same name Kucha Bulo Mal. She was alive at the wedding of Chachiji and Bauji. She died after giving birth to

Pummo Bahinji. Maasiji was tall like her brother; Pt. BAL Mukand Jaitley was our Maserji.

·         Chachiji was raised by Mamaji and Mamiji. Mamaji taught Chachiji and his daughter (Bimla Bahinji) at home. Both of them were well versed in Hindi, Sanskrit, and mathematics. Aside from academics, both were taught to sew, cook etc. and were very knowledgeable about the modern world and were liberal in outlook, very adjustable to the changing world; a tribute to Mamaji’s teachings and upbringing.

·         Chachiji had two Bhuaji:

o   Bade Bhuaji was Pt. Pyare Lal Mohla Mamaji’s mother. I do not know her name. According to Chachiji she was very fair and tall like Mamaji. I guess Pyare Mamaji inherited his color and features from his father. Pyare Mamaji’s ancestral home was about 5 minutes’ walk from our house, near Sutar Mandi. He and Chachiji were very close to each other like buddies. Mamaji was employed as Chief Electrician of Ayodhya Sugar Mills, Raja Ka Sahaspur near Moradabad.

o   Chote Bhuaji (Smt. Gopal Devi) was also fair and tall like Mamaji. Chachiji resembled her a lot; her blue eyes were very prominent. She was our Dadiji’s favourite companion for religious activities and trips (yatras) to Haridwar, Mathura, etc. She used to dote on Chachiji. To us, she was our Naniji. Almost every week she used to bring some goodies to us and to Chintamani Papaji’s home. She had only one son, Pt. Salig Ram Sharma Mamaji. He was an auditor with Army controller. He used to be posted at different locations. He was very prominent in religious activities. He retired as Chief auditor. After retirement, he lived in Delhi and was very active in the religious festivities and various organisations as a leader of our Lahore Panchjati.

PAPAJI AND RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH(RSS)

(July-August 1941)

Papaji was very much dedicated to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). I do not know whether he ever joined the morning sessions but he must have attended the evening sessions. Bauji did not like him going to the detriment of his studies. He often used to return home late after the RSS sessions. Bade Tayaji used to open the door for him. At one time Chachiji locked him out and asked Tayaji not to open the door. Next morning Bade Tayaji found him sleeping on the entry stoop as he was going to Ravi river for walk and bathing.

During 1941 summer, Chachiji asked Papaji to accompany her to Pyare Mamaji’s home as Raja ka Sahaspur, near Moradabad. Pyare Mamaji was the chief electrician at the Ayodhaya Sugar Mill, owned by a Lahore Seth. Chachiji humorously related to me that no sooner had they reached Mamaji’s home, he begged her to let him go to Nagpur for the RSS training session. Of course Chachiji could not stop him.

CHINTAMANI PAPAJI’S WEDDING

(Basant Panchami, February 1942)

After Chintamani Papaji’s marriage, he used to take me to Maasiji’s home. I used to admire as to how friendly he was with Bhabhiji and made her comfortable in her new surroundings. I was awed as to how Chintamani Papaji would spend time in setting up his camera and take absolutely superb photos of Bhabhiji. While both Papaji would be doing that, I would sneak down to the lower level to play with my sister and brother. Maasiji always had my favourite Gajar Halwa or some other sweet dish for all of us to enjoy.

February 8 1942

Both Papaji and Chintamani Papaji wore similar woollen suits. A gift received from Inlaws of Mamaji. Bauji had suits tailored. In a photography with Bhabhiji, Chintamani Papaji is wearing the suit, a great cloth with vertical lines.

Growing up both Papajis used to accompany Chachiji to Simla to visit Mamaji. They always used to play together. However, when they were in fighting mood they would not talk to each other. Chachiji would say “They were always with me at the Mall; one would walk on the right side of the Mall and other one on the left side. They would throw glances at each other without a single word”. They could not live without each other.

Chintamani Papaji was probably four years older. After the wedding, Papaji used to visit Chintamani Papaji and Bhabhiji often at night. I used to accompany him. He used to be on very warm relationship with Bhabhiji’s as one would visualise Bhabhi Devar relationship among Punjabi Families. He used to humour her. She was respectful of Papaji. He used to help Chintamani Papaji with shooting set up and photography. Chintamani Papaji was a fabulous photographer and used to take forever to set up his shoot. He would always address Chintamani Papaji as “Maharaj” and in turn Chintamani Papaji would say “Aaa Bhraa Chander Shekhar” (Come brother Chander Shekhar).

Incidentally my photography at the stairs going down floor at our house was taken by Chintamani Papaji’s Guru, who taught him photography. It was taken at his Guru’s studio. I was 5 then and was wearing a readymade dress purchased by Bauji in Chennai during 1942 visit.

2.       PAPAJI’S SECOND VISIT TO KASHMIR

(July-August 1942)

Sometime during summer, Chachiji was probing through the steel trunks stored at a loft in Bade

Loft above Tayaji's kitchen

Tayajis’ floor. She was looking for winter clothes for Papaji and Shiv Bhai. The family elders were discussing among themselves about Papaji and Shiv Bhai going on a holiday and study trip to Kashmir. I recall asking the elders as to how Shiv Bhai will survive the journey. He had vomited a lot on the last trip to Kashmir due to motion sickness. Like Chachiji he was prone to motion sickness. I wondered whether the elders had gone out of their mind by sending him on another bus trip. Papaji was a grown person in my child’s mind and would take care of Shiv Bhai. He was only 17 then and Shiv Bhai was probably 3 to 4 years younger.

I had no idea where they were going to stay, never asked anyone. I remember that upon return Shiv Bhai complained a lot about Khatmals (bed bugs). Chachiji had to wash their clothes in Phenol and dry them out in sun.

Now upon reflection I think the second trip to Kashmir may have been arranged to keep him from going to Nagpur for RSS activities.

3.      PILIBHIT TRIP

(Summer 1943)

Chachiji, her Bhuaji, Pumuro Bhenji, Omi Bhai, and me visited Nanaji at Pilibhit. We also went to see Pyare Mamaji at Raja-ka-Sahaspur(near Moradabad) and Bade Mamaji in Delhi. And later to New Delhi to visit Mamaji. I do not recall what Papaji was doing while we were away.

4.      

      PAPAJI AT CHANDER SHEKHAR & Bros. BOOKSTORE

(July-August 1944)

Bauji's Book Store

Bauji used to go on various trips from time to time. It was the summer of 1944 and Colleges had closed down for Summer Vacation. Bauji and his two friends decided to go on a pilgrimage to various Hindu and Jain temples in the Modern states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The friends accompanying him were Shri Som Dutt of Doaba House, Lahore and Shri Jain of Jain Book Depot, Delhi.

Papaji was asked to manage the Chander Shekhar & Brothers bookstore in Bauji’s absence.

Papaji was asked to manage Chander Shekhar & Bros bookstore in Bauji’s absence. He used to go to the store around 10am and return by 6pm. He used to close the store earlier than Bauji’s closing time (just before 9 p.m.) so that he could attend RSS meetings later in the evening. The shop assistant used to come to our home to pick up Papaji’s lunch. Somedays I would accompany the shop assistant to the book store and lunch with Papaji.

Chander Shekher & Bros. Shop

One day a stray dog was following him near the store. He tried to shoo away the dog by kicking it. The dog bit him on the foot. He had bandage on his foot and lots of painful injections. Even though he was in lots of pain, he would never cry or make any noises or complain. He used to lie on the sofa in the hall all day and sleep during the night with ceiling fan on. He used to hop around on one leg.

WITH PAPAJI ON DELHI TRIP

(August 1944)

Later that summer, Papaji, after his recovery, took me to Delhi to stay with Mamaji and Mamiji. The railway journey is still very memorable to me. I remember we travelled by Frontier Mail (used to go from Peshawar to Bombay Central). When the train stopped at Saharanpur, Papaji woke me up for my first treats on the trip. The train used to stop for a long-time. He bought my favourite mango (big size, scented and green skin-langra) and hot milk for me to enjoy.

I remember the train stopped at a signal which woke me up. In the faint early sun rays, I could see vendors hawking tea and other edibles. A few passengers were outside by the rails waiting for the signal to turn green. Papaji ordered toast and tea for us. The train started again. As it was negotiating a curve, I could see vendor carrying trays of food jumping from car to car and passing trays on to the passengers. Finally there was our tray. The smell of charcoal-burnt toasts with dripping butter is what I still relish and remember. The toast and tea with lots of sugar prepared by Papaji was a very special treat for me. Since any kind of goodies from Bakery or tea were not allowed in Mamaji’s home.

6.      RSS SABHA AT OUR HOME

(Summer 1946)

To this, I have wondered as to how come Bauji allowed such a meeting in our home. Being a gracious hostess, Chachiji had prepared snacks and we served with cold drinks to the attendees. I was worried about Bauji getting upset but Bauji never talked about it. Bade Tayaji must have talked it over with Bauji before the meeting.

In converted Kashmir, Narendra Sehgal (Utpal Publications, Delhi 1994) writes in Chapter 19:

  “Sh. Madhav Rao Mulle, has given information about this historical fact (of a meeting between RSS chief Sh. M.S.Golewalker and Maharja Hari Singh for accession of the state to India” in the book “Shri Guru Samagra Darshan” Sh. Madhav Rao was praant (State) Pracharak of RSS in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir.”

Sh. Madhav Rao Mulle was probably the person who presided over the RSS Sabha held at our Lahore home in 1946.

7.      PAPAJI AND PALMISTRY

(Winter 1946)

Dadiji always wanted Papaji to read her palm. She wanted to know as to when her life would come to an end and she will join Dadaji in heaven. One particular session that I remember happened in the winter in her sleeping room on the 3^rd floor, probably around 1946. She was sitting in her bed with Papaji studying her palms while consulting a book. The book was Palmistry by Cheiro. He kept examining her palms and smiling. Finally he commented on her long life. Such sessions continued over her life even in Delhi.

8.      CHILDHOOD MEMORIES OF PAPAJI

(Winter 1946)

I do not remember him sleeping on the roof terrace. Most often he used to sleep in his room with the fan on. Since he used to sleep late, he would wake up late. We would all take turn to coax him to get up to play with us. One time we tried to lift his leg while playing, we could not do it. I felt how strong he was.

One time I was sick with cold and cough. Chachiji complained to him that I am always eating Aam Papad (mango jelly slabs) during the recess brake at school. That is why I always suffered from bad throat. She asked to take me to a doctor. He kept smiling and without scolding he took me to a doctor friend for examination. He had numerous friends in all walks of life, it appears to me. One time I accompanied Chachiji to an optician for eye testing. The moment we reached the store, he asked whether I was Shekhar’s brother.

Every winter, Chachiji would open trunks full of winter clothes lodged in a loft at Bade Tayaji’s floor. Out would come Papaji’s old winter clothes. We all would wear his warm half –pants, sweaters and coats after alterations. A few would be selected for alterations and fitted on me. We were very proud to wear his old clothes. Pockets of most of his half pants and coats would have holes in them. Bauji used to remark that this was result of Lattoos (spinning top), marbles etc. that he used to play with.

Each winter we all used to eat various nuts, dry fruits, rewaris (jaggery or sugar candies coated with roasted sesame seeds) and gazaks ( layers of jaggery or paper thin sugar slabs mixed with roasted sesame seeds to look like bars). His most favourite was peanuts. He would eat lots of them even if he was coughing badly.

9.      
     HINDU-MUSLIM RIOTS IN LAHORE

(March-August 1947)

We were all living peacefully and enjoying the spring, when the events of

March 1, 1947 shattered it. There were Hindu/Sikh/Muslim riots in Rawalpindi that day. Hindu and Sikh refugees started arriving in Lahore and Amritsar and retaliatory killings started two days later. I remember our elders and neighbours discussing with concern of our safety.

From that day on, Papaji did not return home. He was safely staying at Chote Tayaji and Choti Tayijis at their Mcleod Road Kothi. We would hear of his well-being from his friends, family and neighbours. Naturally, it was stressful period for all of us. A few days later, we learnt that he was living at Seth Ram Saran Das’s Haveli. The Haveli was the headquarters of the Refugee relief committee set up by Lahoris. We were told he was on a mission to take care of the refugees. Shiv Bhai was deputed to deliver clean clothes and food to him periodically at the Haveli. I used to accompany him on these missions. We would go inside the Haveli and were told to leave the clothes and food in a room. We would always ask to meet him but were told that he was away on some important mission. They would not let us see his room or leave packages in his room. A gentleman did come out and pointed to a right hand side second floor corner window. He told us that Papaji stayed in that room. Whenever we used to go to Haveli, we would stare at the window with anticipation that maybe we could have a glimpse of him. We would pick his soiled clothes and return home disappointed. We kept hope alive that may be one day we would run into him. No such luck!

Unfortunately, I had failed to mention the location of the Haveli to Ajaya on his recent trip to Lahore. However, subsequently I learnt from a Lahore blog, citing an article in Dawn newspaper, that Seth Ram Saran Das’s Haveli was demolished.

1     BADE TAYAJI AND FAMILY TO DELHI

(July 1947)

Prior to the partition, Punjab Railways was divided in West and East Punjab Railways. Bade Tayaji was actively involved in the partition of the assets between the two railways. East Punjab Railways was to be headquartered in Delhi after Independence.

Bade Tayaji was transferred to Delhi in July 1947. Bade Tayaji, Tayiji and the family left for Delhi sometime in late June. They settled at 22/6 Railway colony, Kishan ganj, Delhi. Around same time, Chote Tayaji and family went to Dalhousie for Summer holidays after Punjab High Court closed for Summers.

Lots of homes and buildings were set on fire. Since our home was surrounded by Muslim Gallis, it was felt that our home was safe. For this reason during June-July, Bauji moved most of the books being stored with printers and the binders to our home. We were going on with our lives, when Bade Tayaji returned to Lahore all of a sudden one day. He was sent back to settle some Railways’ partition issues at the Lahore headquarter. He asked Bauji to go to join Bade Tayaji and family since Kishanganj quarters were new and not safe. Phupadji was asked to come from Amritsar to bring Dadiji and Shakuntla Bhuaji to Amritsar.

1    


     OUR FAMILY TO HARIDWAR & DELHI

(Late July 1947)

Without any knowledge of Papajis’ whereabouts and any contact with him, Bauji, Chachiji took us (Omi Bhai, Prabha bahin and me) to Delhi in early August. After visiting Haridwar on the way, we reached Delhi and Stayed with Bade Tayiji. We had been there only for a few days, Bade Tayaji returned sooner than anticipated. One day while he was at his Lahore office (near Lahore Railway Station), he was advised by his Chachaji ( Pandit Paras Ramji Mohla) not to return home because of the Hindu-Muslim riots in the old town. On his advice, Bade Tayaji took Frontier Mail the same night for Delhi.

1     IN SEARCH FOR PAPAJI’S WHEREABOUTS

(1947)

The border between Lahore and Amritsar at Wagah was closed even before Independence day. Chote Tayaji and family returned to Amritsar but could not travel to Lahore. So they came to Delhi. Dadiji did not accompany Chote Tayaji. She would not leave Amritsar without news of Papaji’s whereabouts and his being safe in India.

Prem Bhai and his friends had joined RSS Shakha in Karol Bagh. One day, he learnt that a RSS pracharak (leader) will be holding a meeting at Hindu Mahasabha building on Mandir Marg. The building is east (?) of Birla Mandir. Prem Bhai, I and few of his RSS friends and our neighbour Brij Chadha went to meet leader. The meeting was held like any other Shakha, everyone sitting in rows. We sat there patiently listening to the speeches.

After the speeches were over, we went over to talk with the leader. He was the same leader who had held meeting at our Lahore home. We introduced ourselves mentioning the meeting held at our home in summer of 1946.he remembered the meeting and seemed to know Papaji very well. I am not very sure whether he recognised us or not. We inquired about Papaji. He listened to us calmly and assured us that he was safe and sound in India. We were told that he was on very important mission. He could not disclose any information about him or about his mission. We gave him our message to Papaji, our Kishen Ganj address and a message that the entire family was safe and living in Delhi. He assured us that our message would be relayed to Papaji and that he would meet us in the near future.

1     PAPAJI ON A MISSION

(1947-1948)

We used to visit Mamaji often on special occasions. Mamaji and brothers and sisters would tell us tales of Papaji stopping by on various occasions. He would be driving a jeep or truck or motorcycle. He would be on some mission(s). He would be on some mission(s), sometime carrying supplies. He would not disclose the contents or his destination(s). He would assure them that he would meet us one day. He was avoiding us for the fear that the family would stop him from fulfilling his mission, which to him was more important at that time. I do not know how Chachiji or Bauji or the elders felt after hearing such adventure tales. I used to feel very proud of his dedication to his mission. To me he was following the footsteps of his namesake, Chander Shekhar Azad, by assisting refugees in free India.

1     IN SEARCH FOR PAPAJI IN FEROZEPUR

(Late 1947)

Dadiji would not leave Amritsar without some news about the whereabout of Papaji. Sometime late in 1947, we received a message from Amritsar that ChamanBhai(Madan Bhai’s elder brother) had learnt from his RSS friends that Papaji was staying in Ferozepur, so Shiv Bhai was deputed to go to Amritsar. Both Shiv Bhai and ChamanBhai travelled to Ferozepur. There was no train from Amritsar to Ferozepur. The refugee relief camp was headquartered at Dev Samaj College. A happy coincidence, my wife, Shyama Parashar was a professor of the same college.

When they reached the camp, they were advised that Papaji had left on some important assignment. None would disclose the purpose and the destination of his mission and would not disclose when he would return. They were very impressed with the quantities of various food items and clothes etc. that the local people had contributed for the cause. While they learnt that Papaji had made numerous trips across the border to bring back families and individuals stranded across the border.

They were treated very well by the staff. They stayed there three or four days waiting for his return. They left a message and our Kishen Ganj address for him. Dadiji joined us in Kishen Ganj after the birth of Ashwini Bhai.

1    ANTICIPATION OF PAPAJI’S RETURN

(1947-1948)

There was only one train running between Delhi and Ferozepur, Punjab Mail (before partition it used to run between Bombay Central and Karachi via Lahore). The train from Ferozepur used to reach Delhi around 6 a.m. The train invariably would stop at a traffic signal, which was located a few yards from our home. We kids used to imagine him walking down the embankment to our home. And every time the train would stop at the signal, we, if awake, would peak from the window for his appearance.

We kept hearing from various RSS Sevaks and leaders that he was safe and would meet us soon. In the meantime Mahatama Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948. RSS and Hindu Mahasabha was banned were banned. My hopes were dashed. How can he come now being a RSS leader? RSS leaders were being arrested. Lots of Sevaks were protesting and being arrested. We were hoping that he would not participate in strike and voluntarily court arrest. We kept hoping, praying and waiting. There was nothing we could do.

1     SURPRISE, HERE IS PAPAJI!

(Winter 1948-1949)

Then one day during winter of 1948-49, Punjab Mail stopped at the railway signal. Someone remarked, probably one of us kids, that the main train has stopped today to let Papaji off the train. But no one peeked out of the window.

Lo behold, within a few minutes a knock on the door and in walked Papaji!!!!!!!

I cannot describe the joyous reaction of the entire family on meeting him after waiting for 20 plus long months. All our neighbours poured into our house with greetings and well wishes and joined us in celebrations.

He was dressed like a typical Maratha, dhoti, short checked coat, cap and moustache. He looked just like Raj guru, Bhagat singh’s partner. He was carrying a leather bag, similar to one the doctors carry on their home visits. We were very curious about the contents of the bag. While he was talking to the elders in main room, we kids peaked into his bag. To our horror, we found a large and heavy pistol which I could not even hold in my hand. Poking further into the bag, we found a very sharp long knife like a butchers’ knife. It was longer than my forearm. We just returned the items in his bag. He did not respond to our enquiries about the articles.

Both Prem Bhai and I felt proud that our meeting with the RSS pracharak made it possible for Papaji to return home.

1     RE-BIRTH OF CHANDER SHEKHAR & Bros. IN DELHI

(1948-49)

Things started happening for the betterment of our lives. Thanks to his friends in the Government Refugee Relief Department, Bauji was allotted a shop on Esplanade Road, the road going from Chandni Chowk to Jama Masjid. Additionally his friend helped, a loan was approved so that Bauji could re-start his business. Almost all of the Lahore publishers were allotted shops on Esplanade Road. Se we were neighbours again.

At the suggestion of another of his friend, we went to see a vacated house in Lal Kuan area. Chachiji and Bauji took me along. The home smelled of meat. The rooms had no doors. The cooking area was open in one corner of the veranda (porch). The house would be allotted to us and later we could exchange for a new home in one of the colonies being built for the refugees. Chachiji did not like the place at all. So the matter rested there.

1    PAPAJI’S VISIT TO LAHORE

(Summer 1949)

Both Indian and Pakistan Governments had agreed to seal the business establishments of the refugees leaving each country. During the summer of 1949, we heard that the Pakistan Government was allowing Indian refugee businessmen to return and remove their inventories from the sealed establishments. A few of Publishers travelled to Lahore and were able to bring their inventories to Delhi. Papaji asked his friend who was posted at the Indian consulate in Lahore for help in securing a permit to visit Lahore. The friend arranged for the permit and also confirmed that the Chander Shekhar & bros. store on Mohan Lal Road was still sealed. Papaji travelled to Lahore to bring our inventory from the store. He and his friend went to the store with an official from the Pakistan Refugee Department to unseal the store. To their amazement they found the store wide open without any inventory. On enquiry the neighbours told them that someone had come and broken the seal and removed the contents of the store. Evidently a person had been tipped of be a Pakistani employee of the Indian consulate. Naturally it was a big disappointment. Afterwards they decided to visit our house in Suttar Mandi. They probably started from Shah Alami gate. The street from the gate goes past Bal Mata Gali(Chachiji’s ancestral home, our nanihal-maternal ) to Kanpatta chowk, from where the street continues to Suttar Mandi Chowk.

Before they made to Kanpatta chowk, a person named Illahi Bux, a cowherd, knew our family well but had no love for Hindus. The tone of Illahi Bux conversation made them very uncomfortable and they decided to return to Shah Alami gate and not to continue to Kucha Bullo Mal. At the Wagah Border he saw the books published by Chander Shekhar & Bros. being sold for a few paisas each.

1    CHANDER SHEKHAR & Bros.AT ESPLANADE ROAD

(1948-1951)

Naturally, this was a big disappointment. However, Bauji and Papaji started publishing books again. In Lahore, we did not have to market our publications, because of our family’s status in Sanatan Dharam Sabha. Bade Tayaji was very active in the Sabha’s religious and social activities and Chote Tayaji was active in Sanatan Dharam College and School Management. The books were prescribed in various Sanatan Dharam Schools in West Punjab. Most of our school Book sales were in West Punjab.

Now we had to visit schools and convince headmasters and management officials to prescribe our books, Bauji, Papaji and Shiv Bhai took over the task of marketing the books. Bauji and Shiv Bhai concentrated on marketing the school books in Punjab( which included Haryana and Himachal Pradesh at time). Papaji took over marketing college books in Punjab and Uttarpradesh, upto Allahabad. Papaji’s friends in Hoshiarpur and Kanpur agreed to be distributors for college books. The authors like Professors Kalia, Mohan, Seth and Bombwall were of great help. ShivBhai being so young in age met stiff resistance from headmasters to listen to his sale pitch.

LIFE AT 22/6 RAILWAY QUARTERS, KISHAN GANJ, DELHI-6

All residents of Block 22 and of other neighbouring blocks knew of Papaji being away and were aware of his RSS activities. They all were of great moral support to us and looked with anticipation for a day when they would meet him. Our immediate neighbours, 22/8 Rajkumar and Sheila Bai Chasha, his younger brother Mohan, his parents, and 3 boys were all part of our extended family.22/7 Bhasins; relatives of the Chadha, 2 brothers(both railway employees) and their families were our extended family. They all joined with us in welcoming Papaji and he became their friend, elder brother and advisor. He became a close friend and younger brother of Chadha Chacha and Chachiji.22/8 became gathering place of his admirers of the entire block. Very often he used to spend nights with Chote Tayaji( RN Mohlajee) and Tayiji, Shiv Bhai also used to do the same. After we moved to Jalandhar, I guess he used to divide his time between the two homes.

      CHANDER SHEKHAR & Bros. BRANCH IN JALANDHAR

(October 1949 to June 1952)

We used to ship books to stores by Bijli Pahalwan’s Amritsar transportation Company. However, the Punjab booksellers used to complain that it was very inconvenient for them to travel to Delhi to purchase school books. So Bauji decided to open a branch store in Jalandhar and we moved there in September 1949. Bauji, Chachiji, Omi Bhai, Prabha and Shashi bahin's and I moved to Jalandhar.

Papaji with the help of Shiv Bhai was to run the main store on Esplanade Road in Delhi. Publishing business is very seasonal; the text book sale is just around the school openings.

      PAPAJI JOINS PUNJAB NATIONAL BANK

(1950)

Chote Tayaji arranged to have Papaji join Punjab National Bank sometime in early 1950. He rarely visited us in Jalandhar, being busy with his new job.

       RAJ KISHORI BHENJI’S WEDDING

(Winter 1950)

This was the very first wedding in our family after the Partition. The wedding took place in Amritsar. We were living in Jalandhar. Wheat, rice and sugar supplies were subject to rationing. Rajkumar Chadha, our 22/8 neighbour at Kishan ganj helped us a lot in obtaining wheat and rice. He also brought wheat from Delhi that Rajkumar Chadha Chachaji had arranged for. Pyare Mamaji arranged for Sugar supply. Papaji went to Raja ka Sahaspur, near Moradabad, to pick up 2 bags of sugar and transported to Amritsar. We were all amazed his ability to smuggle it across the state lines and octopi chokies (check posts) along the way. I guess his refugee relief work was of great asset, maybe he had his RSS workers (Sevaks) assist him. Chachiji wrote the ‘Shiksha’ for Bahenji’s wedding. Bauji had it printed by his friend in Amritsar. The ‘Shiksha’ was sung by Sukhdayal Trikha Chachaji.

      PREM BHAI’S ACCIDENT

(Summer 1951)

Prem Bhai was cycling to his office when he was hit by a tonga (single horse driven carriage). Right after higher secondary, he had started work with an insurance company upon the recommendations of Chote Tayaji. He probably was 17 then. His right leg was hit and he was taken to Rana Mardhar Hospital off Delhi gate. Papaji was of great help in rounding up doctors and surgeons. Luckily an expert American neurosurgeon later on fitted a brace for his right leg so that he could walk without a limp. He would bravely play cricket with the braces. When I visited Delhi during that summer, it was shocking to see him in that condition. Everyone was so appreciative of Papaji’s connections and resourcefulness during Prem Bhai’s tragedy. However, one comment of Bade Tayaji (SN Mohlajee) shocked me then. He mentioned that Papaji was asked to go into the operating theatre to enquire from the friendly doctors and surgeons about Prem Bhai’s prognosis; especially being able to walk. He would not respond to this request. Years later, I asked him about Bade Tayaji’s requisition. He looked at me and uttered something like “I cannot stand blood” and turned his face away. I could see some deep emotions hidden from all of us. I did not press him for response. I understood that there may be some incidents during 1947 partition. This is the first time I am disclosing this incident.

      ELECTION CAMPAIGN BY PAPAJI

(Winter 1951)

Papaji went to assist a RSS personality running for a lok Sabha seat in Kangra District of Punjab (before partition into current Haryana and Himachal Pradesh states) The person was a professor, his name slips me now. He was deputed by Lala Jodh Raj Bhalla, Chairman, Punjab National Bank for campaigning. Papaji spent about 2 to 3 weeks campaigning for him. The professor lost the election. However, he won a seat in a subsequent election in 1957. Papaji did not mention much about his routine there except that he visited lots of villages. Much later on he mentioned that he went to Jammu and Kashmir for what purpose. He would not divulge. As it was style, he took half sleeves sweater, a coat and a few clothes all in a standard luggage carrier (I guess it was called Hold all). When he returned we were all excited to learn of his activities-just as his other RSS activities were off limits to us.

      BAUJI’S STOMACH PAIN

(Summer 1952)

After Papaji joined the Bank, Shiv Bhai was running the Delhi store. After Raj Kishori Bahenji’s wedding, the family decided that he should join a college. He also moved to Jalandhar and enrolled in D.A.V. College. Bauji would travel back and forth from Delhi to Jalandhar. A shop assistant would open the Jalandhar store and manage it. Shiv Bhai and I would supervise him after our classes. Chachiji visited Delhi for a short trip and brought Omi Bhai with her to live with us. Dadiji also joined us during winter; she was visiting relatives in Amritsar then. Dadiji strongly urged Chachiji to return to Delhi and arrange for Papaji’s marriage since he was that age. Chachiji, Omi Bhai, Prabha and Shashi Bahins and Dadiji returned to Delhi leaving Shi Bhai and me to complete our education and supervise the store. The shop assistant used to cook meals for us. Sukh dayal Chachaji and Chachiji were always available for emergencies and meals.

During the 1951 summer school recess, Shiv Bhai returned to Delhi for vacation. In the meantime the Punjab State had decided that the medium of instructions would change to Punjabi with Hindi a second language. So we had to have our school text books translated into Punjabi. A series of Hindi books from girls schools, meri Sakhi, for 5^th to 10^th class, was to be translated into Punjabi. Bauji employed a Professor of Khalsa College Jalandhar, for this work. Madan Bhai was visiting us from Amritsar. He had been taught Punjabi already. He used to read the Professor’s manuscripts to Bauji to assure him that the translator had followed closely the intent of the original Hindi books. One day after lunch Bauji was sleeping on the Shop floor. When he suddenly woke up with excruciating pain. He complained of bloatness and unable to pass gas. He used to take Soda Bicarbonate in water to relieve gas problems. The shop assistant gave him the remedy. It relieved his pain. But at night he had another episode. Madan and I gave him the same dose. Our neighbour Mr Kapur called in a doctor next morning. But despite medicine, the pains kept recurring. We contacted Sukh Dayal Chachaji. He took him to a prominent Vaid( Ayurvedic medicine practitioner) also a local congress leader, Bauji felt much better with Ayurvedic medicine. But a few days later the pain returned again. Meantime we informed Papaji in Delhi of Bauji’s condition. He took him to a civil surgeon, who happened to be his RSS friend. The surgeon advised him that Bauji had kidney stones and may need an operation. He advised Papaji to take Bauji to Delhi. Again, it was Papaji who came to our rescue and thanks to his friendship Bauji’s pain was diagnosed correctly.

      IAF 21^ST ANNIVERSARY

(October 1953)

The IAF anniversary celebrations were held in the ground past Qutab Minar. Prime Minister Nehru was scheduled to preside over the celebrations. I do not remember why I was with Papaji that day. I recall there were just a few of us at Chote Tayaji’s flat in Connaught Circus that time. Sharda Bhenji and Choti Tayiji decided to go and join in the festivities. Papaji drove Chote Tayaji’s car with five of us ( Tayiji, Sharda Bhenji, Bhabhiji, Papaji and myself). There was so much traffic going to the festivities that it took us almost 2 plus hours to reach. PM Nehru arrived in a helicopter. The IAF planes flew down to salute him and flew away. It was such a short flyover that we were all clamouring for more. Soon thereafter PM Nehru left the helicopter. It was so short that we did not have time to absorb the entire scene. We returned via Birla Mandir and had snacks at Gole Market.

I was really impressed with his driving, this being my first experience. The other unique remembrance was his demeanour. He was his usual calm, smiling and entertaining with songs, stories etc. Sharda Bhenji also kept us entertained with songs and stories. It was a memorable family outing.

      
      SHARDA BEHNJI’S ENGAGEMENT

(YEAR 1953)

Sharda Bhenji’s engagement was held at the Imperial Hotel, New Delhi. This was first wedding related family festivity in Delhi ( Raj Kishori’s wedding was held in Amritsar). Even though the ceremony was in Delhi, the atmosphere reminded me of such ceremonies in Lahore and Amritsar before partition. Chote Tayaji wore rose colored Pagri ( Turban-head gear). He offered a sovereign to Bhaiyaji (Mr. V.M.Kapuria) as was the custom in upper Middle class families of Lahore and Amritsar (A sovereign was a V.K.coin used for such ceremonies; its value was more than a pound). Papaji was very much involved with the arrangement; one heard his name over and over-someone needing something or someone wanted suggestions, etc.

After the engagement (maybe a day or two later), as was the custom then, the engaged couple met under escort. I remember one particular event. Papaji was escorting them one evening in Connaught Place. Do not know why he asked me to tag along.

Sharda Bhenji and Bhaiyaji were strolling in front of us. We were talking while following behind them. Sharda Bhenji or Bhaiyaji might stop once in a while to chat with us. Later on we stopped for refreshments somewhere. What impressed me the most was the love and affection between Sharda Bhenji and Papaji and how graceful and understanding of Bhenji’s mannerism. A very memorable evening spent with Papaji.

      PAPAJI’S MONDAY FASTS

(1952-54)

For whatever reason, he decided to fast on Mondays. He used to eat Parantha (multilayered wheat pan cake with filling of barfee -milk sweet- a cake) and yogurt. His fasting was another side of nature that something new that……….

      PAPAJI’S AND BHABHIJI’S WEDDING (JULY 1954)

             

In the preparation for the wedding, Papaji used to visit the Nai sarak Book store after work. He was posted at Mintu Road branch then. I can still see him sitting across from the bookstore in the marriage parties’ rental store, which was owned by a very nice gentleman called Babuji. He also immigrated from Pakistan. Bauji, Papaji and Bahinji would discuss various details of the arrangements. Sometimes they would be joined by Shri Som Nath Bhasin of Doaba House ( Of Lahore), whose store was right next door. I could see him (Papaji) smiling face deep in discussion and listening to his elders.

One discussion I remember very well was about the wedding invitation cards. Generally, the first name of the groom is stated in the card. However, with Papaji it became an issue. Some of his friends, including the bank colleagues, knew him as Chander S. Mohlajee but the RSS friends knew him as Shekhar only. So his full name Chander Shekhar, was printed on the card.

A few memories are:

·         So many relatives from Amritsar came along with Chachiji’s nephew from Varanasi. Almost each branch of our extended family was represented. This was the first wedding of a son of the extended family after partition.

·         The marriage was proposed by Shri Panju Mal, teacher at Sanatan Dharam School, of which Bhabhiji’s Mamaji was the Principal. Shri Panju Malji was headmaster of Sanatan Dharam Primary School in Vachovali Gali, Lahore. Shiv Bhai Prem Bhai and I attended this School, he was our Headmaster.

·         Bauji rented a Janjghar( Marriage Hall- a haveli for marriage or other functions) located inside Dariba Kalan-Chandni Chowk. We all stayed there including our friends from Kishenganj.

·         Even though, Halwais ( sweet makers) used to prepare the required mathis ( modern day deep fried Pancakes of flour mixed with ghee-clarified butter) etc. Bauji had made arrangements for a variety of breakfast specialities that the nearby Halwai shops were famous for, like Kachauris (a round flattened ball made of fine flour filled with a stuffing of blanched/shallow fried mixture of lentils, gram flour, black pepper, red chilli powder, salt and other spices etc. ) from Juma Masjid area; Halwai of Vachowali Gali- Lahore, who opened a shop in Lajpat rai market in Chandni Chowk to name a few.

·         For us Lahore Panchjatiwala’s, this was the first marriage in our family where the barat was served meals by the Bride’s family. In our marriages, the groom’s Barat was fed by his Parents before the Barat’s departure for the Bride’s house.Our marriages were called “Dhanga wali Shaadi” as distinct from ‘Barat’ wedding. The invited guests used to be fed right after “Saent” ceremony at groom’s place.

·         As ‘Barat’ reached near Juma masjid, Salig Ram Mamaji asked Band leader to stop the music. I remember asking someone about this. I was told it was the condition in the permit for the ‘Barat’ procession that no music can be played near Masjids or Pir Dargahs. Also this was the first wedding in our extended family that a band was used to lead the ‘Barat’. Normally a Pandit would lead the ‘Barat’ by playing ‘chunnas’ followed by the groom’s elders, the groom, and the rest of the ‘Barat’

·         Chachiji wrote the ‘Sehra’ for Papaji’s wedding. It was sung by Sukh Dayal Trikha Chachaji.

        MY JOB AT PUNJAB NATIONAL BANK

(January 1956-December 1959)

Because of the lull in Bauji’s business, it was decided that I should start working elsewhere rather than running the bookstore. I was attending the Punjab University Camp College in the evenings. Papaji asked me to come to his office at Underhill Road for an interview in January 1956. I went to his office. His office was on the second floor in an Annex. I was introduced to his manager. Then Papaji took me to see Mr. A.S.Puri, Secretary Staff( Chief Personnel Manager) for an interview in the main building. The staff manager walked me into his office. Mr Puri asked a few questions about my education,etc then remarked to the manager, “ Will he shave his beard?”. The Manager responded, Yes Sir! He is so young,” and we walked out of the room. The Manager advised me to report Mr. Pahuja at Pahar Gunj Branch. That was it! I had a job conditioned on my shaving off me beard! I had a hard time believing my luck! But that’s how it was in the private sector in those days.

·         Why Pahar Ganj, I keep thinking? Soon found out, when I joined the Branch. The staff Union at Pahar Gunj was pro-management and the branch Union leader, Ram Nath Sehgal, was very close to Papaji’s Boss.

·         I learned a lot while I worked there for a month short of four years. Aside from gaining experience of different functions of banking, I realized that I was not suitable to work in a big organization with performing just a few functions. Pahar Gunj branch was mid-size but had a solid clientele. Each one of us was offered to rotate to work in different departments every so many months.

·         A few weeks after I joined the Bank, I came down with a severe case of throat infection. Papaji’s RSS buddy from Lahore, Dr. Suraj Prakash’s clinic was close to the branch. We all, including Chote Tayaji’s family, would call on him for treatment all the time. He advised Papaji that my tonsils were infected and should be removed. Dr. Suraj Prakash was on the Bank’s provider list. I do not know still as how Papaji rearranged to have the Bank pay for my operation. Dr. Suraj Prakash was either a medical student in Lahore or had just graduated at the time of partition.

·         When we moved to Moti Nagar, we would visit Dr. Nand Kishore ( a younger RSS friend) in West Patel Nagar for our medical needs.

       MY DEPARTURE TO U.S.A.

(December 1959)

Papaji was very instrumental in the realization of my dream to go to Australia or West Germany or USA for studies. To obtain a Passport at that time was not simply a matter of applying and being issued a passport in due course. A few years later the Supreme Court declared it to Indian’s birth right and could not be denied except for a cause.

Anyways, a Gazetted officer had to vouch for one’s character; a police officer had to investigate for a criminal background; someone with substantial bank accounts or had property had to guarantee for any loss that the Government might suffer for future repatriations, if needed. So on and so on, so many hurdles to cross. Thanks to Papaji’s efforts, I was issued a passport. But Lo behold, the passport Office had stamped the names of all countries that I could visit but not USA in my passport. The office closed right after I picked up the passport so nothing could be done.

Next morning, I returned to the passport office. I was told to come back in a week for a new passport. The US embassy had already notified me to pick up my Visa. The following day, Papaji came with me. He walked into the Public relations Officer’s Office. A few minutes later came out and said that we have to wait until after mid-morning tea time. We returned and picked up the new passport. Still to this day, I do not know what Alchemy he employed. I still wonder whether the officer, an older gentleman, was an RSS person!

Events progressed fast and I left for USA on 25^th December, 1959 by Frontier Mail from Delhi Railway Station to Mumbai ( Victoria Terminus, Now Shivaji Chatrapati Station). Chote Tayaji and Tayiji gave me a great surprise! I was filled with joy when I spotted them at the New Delhi Railway Station waiting for the train’s arrival.We had a very joyful and tearful farewell. From Mumbai Harbor to Marseilles, France by ship; from Marseilles to London by Ferry and train; from London by train to South Hampton; from South Hampton to new York Harbor by Q.E.II and the rest is history. I reach New York on January21, 1960. A message was waiting for me on a message board at the customs Hall. My customs agent showed me the message; I guess someone had alerted him.

The message was from Dr. Nand Kishore’s brother-in-law (wife’s brother). I was to call him and he instructed me to store my luggage at the customs Hall (which the custom agent helped me with) and gave me directions for a bus to the United Nations Headquarters. He would wait for me in his office. I had read about the use of tokens in novels. I asked the drive for one. He gave me tokens and instructed me to drop one in the fare box. I reached the UN and went to his office. What a sight of the Hudson River out of his office! Later he drove me to his home in Bronx.

3    MY FIRST VISIT TO INDIA

(July 1970-January1971)

When the plane landed at Palam Airport in July 1970, I was wondering who would be there to receive me. While walking to the Terminal (no bridges or buses then), I Bauji too. The elders had grown ‘old’ and young ones (some of them I could not recognize even) were now beautiful young women or handsome young men. Could not believe seeing

Pyare Mamaji coming from Moradabad and Phupadji from Kanpur. Manu Bhai had arranged for a bus to fetch all of them. The most difficult issue was my inability to converse in Hindi with Chachiji, Tayiji, Bauji and others. I met Bade Tayaji and Tayiji, they were in Ludhiana.

I very well still remember Chote Tayaji comment upon meeting, “I thought you will be coming back as an engineer, you have come back like a Marwari” He was referring to my having gained weight and looking like a Marwari businessman rather a slim ‘British’ engineer.

After a few days in Delhi, Madan Bhai and I left for Ludhiana to meet Bade Tayaji and Tayiji. Raksha was also there. During the trip to Ludhiana, Chandigarh and Amritsar, I practiced speaking in Hindi and Punjabi and reading Punjabi. By the time we returned back to Delhi, I could converse in Hindi and Punjabi.

The best of the trip was the time I spent with Papaji, Bhabhiji and Ajaya in Jaipur . All the sightseeing in Jaipur and surrounding areas with Ajaya’s ‘shudh’ Hindi commentaries was very enjoyable and memorable. They took me to see Ajmer, Pushkar Raj, Udaipur, Chittorgarh and Nathdwara temple It was very unique experience to see so much of Rajput historical places and visualize how Rana Pratap fought Akbar’s forces in Haldighati. Papaji also made arrangements for me to give a lecture to the Economics class at Jaipur University. It was very thrilling and exhilarating to discuss American Business Model with students. They asked good questions, seemed very interested in knowing how business was in America.

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