Riding through the rain - a day in Kolkata

This particular day I was in Kolkata on a weekday, taking a leave from NIT Durgapur, to obtain my migration certificate from WBUT. So it was pretty crucial that I complete the task that day only. And the rain started, as if to spoil my plans only.

However, regardless of the rain, I started, and got my work done. This post is to describe that day with special reference to the refreshing ride through the empty rain slashed streets of Kolkata. I am careful of my gear when it comes to riding, specially the shoes. It might sound wise to use a pair of floaters in heavy rain, but my all time favourite are the canvas, which, even if drenched completely, gets dry quite quickly. Similarly importatnt are the waterproof coats, and a full covering helmet.

Once armed completely, comes the enjoyment part. I really don't care whether another car is splashing on me or not. It is part of the game. On the contrary, I take special interest to glide through the pool of stagnent water, fast enough so that the gay onlooker from the rear seat of the sideby SUV also gets a proper feel of the splash.

The feel of the rain pinching on the bare hand is awesome. Adds to it the spray of water from the bike ahead. When it comes to a under-construction flyover, there will be huge gush of water draining out from some outlet on the road itself. You will see most vehicles taking a stop and avoiding the fall, but believe me, a direct shot through that flow of water makes my day.

The policemen are specially considerate to the riders. I often get invited to wait in a shelter, specially under the flyovers, even if that means crossing the stop line in a red signal.