And so the Diwali, Dhanteras, Bhaubheej week is over. And my ‘Dhan’ has somewhat lessened. Have you noticed how the vacuous smiles and vociferous ‘Happy Diwali saab’ from watchmen, liftmen, security guards and assorted government personnel starts long before Diwali? In fact it kicks in gently and persuasively just post Navratri. By the time the first phooljadi hits the street, the request for ‘bakshish’ from these gents is deafening.

Not a problem, except for the remainder of the year neither help nor humour from them is forthcoming. First off the blocks, ringing my doorbell, are six telephone guys, none of whom I’ve ever seen before.