AN EVENING AT MACHAN

Evening means different things to different people.Some enjoy the solitude, some prefer a brisk walk, still others spend it in the company of near and dear ones. Atmosphere, aura, ambience-these make difference to a dull,drab and sultry place.Boredom is conquered.Even non-appetising meals become sumptuous, delicious, easy to remember. The decoration, frills and a particular way of presentation attract and delight. These help in relaxing, conversing,refreshing and healing. One tends to chill out without a hard drink AND post meal, sink into a bed of mink. Have a sweet dream and what not...........?

An October evening spent at Machan on the top floor of Dona Plaza,Guwahati will be memorable in ways, more than one. They were on time and absolutely prim and proper. While he impressed with his height, purse, physique and overall sense of humour, she sizzled and giggled to a temporary glory. Her curvaceous figure made prominent by a tight red and white dress earned her gazers if not fans during the semi-dark evening. Poses for photo session with a natural smile and grace against the background of animals, antique pieces and look-alikes of natural jungle were extempore and amazing. Same was noticed not once. But several times.......,before the soup, afterwards, before the '7Up' and in course of 'gup-shup'.

The topics and themes were so tantalizing that hunger or lust for food was almost set aside till a gentle reminder came from well dressed waiters and a haggard banquet manager. While waiting for compliance of order, it was observed that a 50 plus crowd was immersed deeply in the semi-dark, light musical backdrop. Like any other place, tiny tots in sufficient numbers were jumping all over. They would occasionally show their tantrums. While their parents relished their own talks and whispers, the kids appeared flavergasted at the sight of electric powered squirrel, birds, python,monkey and elephant.

Lighting was perfect, so were the cutlery and upholstery. Arrangement of chairs and tables was upto mark but food left much to be desired. It was in random but stylish order. There was nothing special about the typical delicasies, the management had promised to serve...........compared to the exorbitant prices shown in block capital letters in a menu card, weighing at least 20 grams.

When the crowd began thinning close to mid-night, we religiously rearrange chairs and tables to facilitate privacy, better relaxation and another bout of fruitful photo session. Soon the incredible view became a setting or nursery for instant creativity. While focusing, adjusting and clicking, we were not paranoid as such, but the very idea of creating something with a fair dose of joy had simply struck in our heads. We were speechless and spell bound with every shot. Two and a half hours spent drinking, sipping, eating and photographing is going to be deep in our thoughts. Afterall, the clock too had come to a stand still.

Towards the end, like a shrewd businessman, the manager promised to improve and add-on till we make another appearance. He displayed an infectious smile while offering us some appetiser. We did not fail in capturing him and his faithful waiters on camera. The grand finale turned out to be a memorable shot of an African tribesman.

Overall it was cozy, not noisy. It was fun and frolic. Not fantasy. In a world, full of ecstasy. The 'couple' added to the charm of the evening by their unusual appearance, conduct, manners and presence of mind.

Walking carefully down the stairs from the fifth floor, I whisper-"Good luck Machan. May you celebrate your second birthday soon. AND I take a plunge together with footfalls of compatriots of the 'couple' from Delhi.