On the way we came across a tea shop. We stopped for some rest and tea. Children had cold drinks as usual. I inquired the man about food. Since it was an off season all shops on the way were closed and he was also planning to close in few days as tourists were not coming anymore. I requested him to cook some food for eight of us. It will take at least 3 hrs for us to be back and by that time he could keep the food ready.
He flatly refused and told that it’s a tea shop and not a food joint. I asked him politely if he could do it as an exception. He was not willing because he thought we may not like the food cooked by him. I told him whatever and howsoever he will cook, it will be accepted. I asked him about his food habits and came to know that these people usually take rice and dal as lunch. I ordered for rice and yellow dal. His 10 year old son was showing more interest than his father. Ultimately he agreed and my love won him over.
It was a dense forest ahead but we could reach Jhilmil Caves without any difficulties. It is remarkable cave in a mountain. Whole of mountain is hollow inside and you could see the sky from the peak of it. Maybe when stars are visible in night from inside, it gave a name of jhilmil gufa to this place.
We returned back and reached the tea shop. Wow food was ready and it was first experience for my friend’s wife and kids to have food at such a place. They were showing bit attitude, but I know they were hungry too. We took the plates from owner; he had brought these from his home for us. We served steaming hot rice with dal and enjoyed with onion salad. It was like a feast. Dal had tadka of mustard oil and was giving tingling sensation. Watching us, three of them also started and enjoyed the lunch. Children again had cold drinks with food. I had invited the tea shop owner and his son to join us. All of us were enjoying our hot food with cool mountain breeze. It is an unforgettable experience.
When everything was over, we got up to move. I asked him about the bill. I was shocked when he folded his hands and said “you were my guest today and we also enjoyed the time spent with all of you.” Now this was something like my previous experience at tea shop near Gwaldam. I took his hands in mine and persuaded to accept the payment. My friend and his family were watching us with surprised expressions. Ultimately he accepted a very nominal amount and wished to see us back.
My friend did not believe in what he saw just now. He showed his interest to accompany me on our next trips also. But I really wonder why strangers become so close to you and many a time people whom you consider close to you act as strangers. Why is it that unknown people have no expectations from you and known one can’t live without expectations?
