It was October of 2022. I went to Amritsar for an ophthalmology conference. In the evening, my wife and I were just whiling away time and strolling around ghala mala chowk ( chowk between Medical College and Ram Lal Eye Hospital, on Majeetha road). Suddenly, I spotted a ‘Bhalla ultrasound’ nearby and got a brain wave to have an ultrasound ( my favourite pastime at this ripe age). We entered the place, little realising what lay in store for us. Deposited the fees. Being doctors, got impatient and barged into the radiologist’s chamber. On entering the chamber, had a glimpse of the young doctor and immediately immersed in feelings of nostalgia, love and affection, whispered into my wife’s ear, “oh Teri, e taan bhalle da munda hai”). The young doctor was an exact replica of our classmate Vijay Bhalla. He shouted, “tussi bahar jao ji”. I said, “ We are going out but let me have a good look and fill my eyes with your image”. Taken aback, the young doctor asked my wife, “who is this man and why is he talking like this?” My wife asked him, ” tu Vijay bhalle da Munda hain, 74 batch??” He immediately called me back and there were smiles, bear hugs all around. I told him that I was one of the people who went to see his mother at her workplace when his father shied away from meeting her, during their courtship.
I took Bhalla’s address from his son, and went to his house right away. He was not very well but, as usual, was in very high spirits , waving fists. We were thrilled to see each other after so many years. I met his wife, Neelam, lovely young daughter, graceful daughter-in -law and lovely grand kids. It was an overwhelming experience that will always remain fresh in my memory.
Rajeev Sood
