We got up early morning to watch 26th January republic
day parade at India gate after securing our passes. We drove till Lodhi Garden and parked our car there
and then walked down till India gate. There was huge rush to get inside as lakhs
of people came to celebrate the festival of democracy. Parade starts at 10 AM
but people started queueing up from 7 in the morning in Delhi’s winter to get
front row seats. Generally, security is beefed up ahead of republic day and it
was no different this time too. As we were getting inside from our respective
gate for which we had passes, we were checked thoroughly if we have any
prohibited items except mobile phones. My two friends got in and I was just behind
them. As my turn came I was asked to empty the pockets and keep everything in
hand. As soon as they saw car key in my hand and asked if it is a remote enabled
one and they got affirmative answer from me, I was told in stern voice that I cannot
be allowed to get in and alerted all the official around not to allow this
person. I didn’t know that remote enabled items are not allowed otherwise we
would have taken cab to reach at the venue. I was dejected that I can not see
my first parade at the grandest stage. I tried to persuade the security official,
but they didn’t budge, and their concern was quite legitimate.
I came out but did not want to miss the parade. My friend who
was inside called me to pass the key inside, but I did not want to breach the security.
I thought to hide the key somewhere or dig it but there were so many people and
it could have been lost.
I asked police personal cordoning outside the gate if he can
keep the key. He told that we keep moving around and I may not be here after
the parade is over and, they put on the jammer once prime minister arrives, so
phone network will not be there. I told him you please take it now and I will
get it from you wherever you are and if not today may be tomorrow because I
just wanted to get in. He finally agreed and that allowed me to get inside but
by the time I reached, we lost the front row seats. He could have simply
refused but he understood and helped me witness one of the greatest events of the
largest democracy.
I watched full parade with lot of pride and took so many
photos and videos. It indeed is a different experience all together. Watching women
march in unison, seeing jhakis of some of the states beautifully embellished by
live act and music, catching firefighter jets high in the sky.
Once the parade got over, I was thinking about my key. I
tried to call him as I had got his number, but his phone was unreachable as
jammer was still on. As soon as I came out I saw the gentleman standing exactly
at the same place where I handed him the key. I was delighted not just to get
my keys back but by the thought of it that he took it upon himself not to
bother me. It was a true class act.
His name is Mohit and he works for Delhi Police.
I have his picture as well but not posting as I do not know whether I am
allowed or not. Give him a big shout out if you happen to meet him.
