It's hard to say Good-Bye

This post has been published by me as a part of the Blog-a-Ton 15; the fifteenth edition of the online marathon of Bloggers; where we decide and we write. To be part of the next edition, visit and start following Blog-a-Ton.

Himesh, the station master at Gauripur railway station, had a routine day and night work viewing signals, and supervising the train traffic system in and around the village.  Having a home just at the backyard gave him flexibility to come to work as and when required. 

35 years back, he got this job on compassionate basis after his father’s death. At first, he was not fond of these mundane tasks.  But slowly, that became his passion – the sounds of train engine, station bell, whistles, the hustle and bustle of the crowd getting into the trains and moving out, the petty shop walas – It turned out to be his life. 

To the villagers, Himesh stood for his honesty, hard-work, and helping mind.  This was one station where even the regular passengers from train will get down to meet Himesh, and have a brief chat with him.  The Head of Village Panchayat was more than happy to have his daughter wed-locked with Himesh.

He had his distinctive style and approach to break his humdrum tasks and to make the work exciting.  He went beyond what is required for a station master, and tried to establish a good bonding with local villages and passengers, entertaining the children, supporting and advising the petty shop walas. 

His office had toys, funky masks and dolls to amuse children, a music system in the waiting hall, and anything and everything to comfort passengers - spending a few bucks on his own was a worth it!  It became the most beautiful and pleasant railway station in the whole of India.  Goes without saying, Himesh was honored as the outstanding Station master last year from President Abdul Kalam. 

Today, the entire village was gathered at the railway station, with flower and sandal garlands, carrying a mourning face.  They could not imagine a tomorrow without Himesh.  He is no more to be seen in this railway station, to cheer up the passengers.  He is not going to be here to help the needy people; He’s not to be seen around anywhere to catch up with a sweet chat, or to entertain the children!!! 

The new station master came out to ring the bell, and wave the green flag!   Villagers were almost in tears now, and shared their final hugs and greetings to Himesh. The train gradually started moving.  The entire crowd waved their hands to Himesh and Tanuja, with tears in their eyes!!

Yesterday was Himesh’s last working day as station master.  He had taken voluntary retirement, and is leaving to Amreeka today to be with his Son and daughter in law for some time.   Although the village was happy for him, they found it hard to say good-bye to their dear friend.

 

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Credits
Image - Alston Station by Wandering Soul
Courtesy - www.deviantart.com via www.blogaton.in