Reflections on Indian Railways: A Lifelong Affair Through Trains
Since 1976 to 2022, I have covered over 1.3 million kilometers of travel via Indian Railways, encompassing all classes, gauges, and types of trains - from steam, diesel, and electrical, to suburban trains and some even paddle-wheel steam ships operated by Indian Railways (IR). My journeys have taken me across the entire country, with the exception of the upper region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Travelling in Indian Railways comes with an array of remarkable and unique experiences. While it is a delightful adventure with reservations and companionships, it can be perilously uncomfortable when there are no reservations. Dealing with crowded trains, inadequate facilities like restrooms and dining services, and the chance of theft are just a few of the issues that come with unreserved travel.
Pros and Cons of Traveling in Indian Railways
Despite its challenges, the experience of traversing India by train is one of the most rewarding aspects of travel. The train ride offers a comfortable and safe sightseeing experience, allowing you to witness the country's varied landscapes freely. The conversations with fellow travelers, hailing from different regions, speaking various languages, and enjoying diverse cuisines, enrich your travel adventure with unique insights and stories.
A key highlight of my experience was travelling with Gandhi, the iconic leader, who returned from South Africa and chose to travel by train to understand and appreciate the country. It's a form of travel that helps people connect with the environment and the myriad of cultures in India as the view of rolling hills, dense forests, serene rivers, and cascading waterfalls pass by the windows of the moving train.
Personal Reflections
One of the most memorable instances occurred during a journey where an old woman and three gentlemen boarded the train. We engaged in casual conversation until everyone went to sleep in their booked berths. I was sleeping in the middle berth, and suddenly, a man who had been sleeping at the lower berth sat up and grabbed my hand. Despite being a married woman and a mother to a two-year-old child, I was unable to react or voice my discomfort due to the situation and the potential to be misunderstood.
From that incident, I pondered over several questions like whether I need to stop travelling alone, if I should compromise my independence, and how I should handle such situations in the future. This experience indeed shaped my view on safety, self-reliance, and the need for vigilance while travelling alone.
Despite such incidents, the loving nature of Indians combined with the inherent kindness of the people continues to amaze me. More often than not, people kindly offer assistance or space in their berths, overcoming the initial hesitation.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the enriching journey of Indian Railways holds a special place in my travel experiences. It is a source of educational growth and an eye-opening experience for travelers. The diverse landscapes, the vibrant cultures, and the interactions with fellow passengers all contribute to making Indian Railways a truly cherished travel mode. Regardless of the challenges, the beauty of India and the warmth of its people make every journey memorable.