Its a place which is tucked away in the heart of Bombay’s western suburbs. Borivli has been developing with pace of lightning. Incidently McDonald’s recently opened shop here (its the biggest in Bombay), and that according to many Bombayites, is the defining point of development.
Borivli stays awake till 11:30 to 12:00 in the night, after which it becomes perilous to stay out at night. Talking a nightwalk after 12:00 is completely fraught with danger.
Yes I’m talking about the gangs of Borivli. They operate in all the deep and dark arroyos without any element of fear in their bloodshot eyes. There are gangs operating in each and every lanes of the suburb.
And then there are gang-wars.
The accomplices of the boss start giving their approval as the night draws to a chilling still. The boss makes his way across the lane to entice the members of another gang to a war. An equally petulant front man of the other gang makes his way across the lane. Experience tells them to show no mercy as they wade through the chilly night breeze blowing across their faces. The gang back-up stays in their respective lanes, ready to attack with blitz-krieg if their master commands. The stage is set for a gory battle, a battle which never ends and which is fought almost every night. Suddenly a spark ignites between two members of the opposite gangs and the battle breaks out……..
…….and then I wake up irritated by the loud barks coming from all around my building. I curse them and go back to sleep. Its a daily routine.
By the way, Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you.