AN ENCOUNTER WITH A BREATHING EXERCISER

It was a train journey in a Howrah bound superfast. I had two berths: for me and my wife in second AC coach. My son and daughter-in-law accompanied us to L T T railway station. Inside the compartment, there was none else in that enclosure of four berths. Our two suitcases got pushed beneath the berth and were securely fastened. Considering the possible road traffic jams, we reached the station in advance. So it was a gift of half an hour of family togetherness.

Memories of distant past journeys were replayed and enjoyed -- how the compartments in those days were horrible sights. One used to carry a lot of luggage -- trunks, hold-all, boxes and bags of various shapes and sizes. A meal carrier was a must as it contained eatables specially prepared at home for consumption during travel. Vendor items were not to be used, nor were such items available with them. The only thing that was most sought after at station was a water-filled 'surahi'. This earthen pot was indeed very useful but also troublesome. Many a time, in a crowded compartment, it tilted or gave way. Water ran from one end to another in the jerk giving train.

Now as the departure time zeroed in Arvind and Smita took leave and got down. Smita reminded us for taking medicines on time. Though there was no real hunger, yet we opened our meal pack and took a little to provide base for night dose of medicines. After taking the medicines she occupied lower berth. Detouring past journeys, lying on upper berth, I was overpowered soon by deep sleep.

At around 5 a. m. I was woken up by a peculiar roaring sound. Someone on other lower berth was snarling vehemently. Thinking who can be this new traveller I tried to sleep. But again that noise woke me up. My wife was not on her berth. Moving slightly the enclosure curtain I came out. She was there sitting on the vacant side berth. I went to toilet and on return just sat beside her. She was waiting for tea. Everybody passing through the isle wondered and peeped in. The lone fellow inside was doing a breathing exercise. The tall dark complexioned figure with no clothe on his upper body squatted on berth. He shut his one nostril with thumb and exhaled forcefully from the other. His closing - opening of nostrils made such big bang exhalations that one could feel the attack on other berth.

Suddenly his mobile rang. He picked it up and started pouring all abuses, threats and warnings. After releasing his venom, he resumed his nasal warfare. Again the mobile interrupted. The TTE who was looking for a break entered in. Simultaneously I also moved in to my proper seat. Seeing us he silenced his phone and wrapped a sheet over self.

I was fascinated to talk to him. Through his revelation I came to know his puzzled state of mind due to his dwindling agricultural business and unsupportive family. Being eldest he takes all decisions but his sons do not obey his instructions. He hated all and wished to punish them.

'What about your wife?'

'She is the root cause of all troubles. She always takes their side.'

To change the topic, I asked about his yoga interest.

'I have come to know that pranayam increases life span and practice of breathing exercises brings longevity and prosperity'.

'But the way you were doing was not proper. Where you got it from?'

‘From a TV channel.'

I explained to him that such exercises are to be done in open airy environment. In this small closed place you inhaled what you exhaled. Also a vigorous and speedy breathing is not good for your health when you are a senior citizen. I further told him that his intense anger harms him first and then reaches others.

He seemed quite eager to continue talking but his station arrived.