Sir Pherozeshah Mehta would have never imagined that he’d be tapping his feet to the catchy tunes from modern-era music that was being belted out by a young performer and her band on a crisp November evening. He was seated at the Cooperage Bandstand to catch the show before his weekend walk with Lady Flora, since the folks at NCPA were back with their outdoor music performances. Dr Viegas’ nudge was enough to get him curious. “This was such a wonderful idea, Viegas,” a beaming Sir PM glanced at his friend; he was also grooving to the upbeat music. “I wish Lady Flora were here; should would have…; in fact, she’d be rather cross if she learnt that we planned this without her knowledge,” Sir PM’s worried face was self-explanatory. Dr Viegas gave him an assuring pat on his shoulder, “Not to worry, Pheroze. We’ll zip it up!”

After an hour, the gig wound up, and Dr Viegas said his goodbyes before heading home. Sir PM noticed the reading centre near the Bandstand, and smiled. It was a lovely initiative to offer less privileged kids a space to study and read. ‘What a useful idea! I wish the city had more free spaces to read and study,’ he thought. Just as he neared the Regal cinema building, he spotted his friend step out from a side exit; there was a spring in her stride. “My Lady! What are you doing here?” he exclaimed, part-surprised and part-curious. “Well, lucky me to have met you here. I decided to catch the recently restored film, Casablanca, in this gorgeous Art Deco cinema; sadly, Percy informed me too late to intimate you.” Sir PM smiled, “That’s alright, My Lady,” relieved that they were even; he quickly changed the subject, “You know, I never noticed that reading corner near Cooperage; it’s extremely helpful for students who have no peaceful place to study.”