ROI III: Bus

The Exteriors: A hot tin body and a hot tin roof characterizes the public bus on a typically hot day in India. Flat-nosed, and does not have much to boast of in terms of style.

The Interiors: Four rows of seats on four walls distinguishing the women folk from the rest of the pack (the arrangement may be different). The empty spaces (if any) filled in by anxious-looking passengers. All wooden interiors and the seats not of much comfort.

The Staff: The driver is tucked away in an oblivious corner or even better when it’s a totally secluded chamber. The treasurers (usually two) take charge to “conduct” all passengers to pay the proper fare of travel. They are often foul-mouthed and unconditional supporters of women and children (wish they were working for UNICEF).

The Passengers: “A museum of grotesque”, is how a famous author quotes it when describing them. Indeed it’s a treat to both eyes ears (if you haven’t fallen asleep already) and often your sense of smell. For most it is a challenge to stay in upright position for the whole journey. Seats are at a premium and, sorry, no musical chairs here, just raw competition