We are in the early eighties; Mumbai is still called Bombay; India is starting to appeal to westerners for its unique blend of spirituality, drugs, and cheap adventures.
The Gateway of India, designed with a combination of Hindu and Muslim styles, is the first monument that visitors arriving by boat would see in the city of Bombay.
It was used as a landing place for English governors, and other distinguished personages.
It is also a favorite for anyone visiting to absorb the choc of civilization.
At the end of the day, while the sun slowly sets on the horizon, the dozens of merchants actively dispose of their displays under colourful lights.
The aromas of grilled peanuts, seafood, and fried samosas are laced with the sea breeze while snake charmers and kids handling monkeys are in full action.
Many gather at the end of the day to have a glimpse at the sunset, walk along the esplanade, relax after a hot, busy day or just enjoy the effervescence of the gathering.
You may find the widest range of cultures,; wealthy Indians, from Bombay or other states, Middle Easterners in traditional long white outfits, some western tourists, backpackers, and businesspeople from the Taj Mahal hotel across the road.
One man of European asseorigint is gazing at the skylines, unfazed by the activities around him, absorbed in his thoughts, or perhaps in contemplation.
He is in his early twenties, lean and tooall; his brown eyes are warm and childlike while the face is smooth and deprived of any traumas while responding candidly to any attention with a timid smile.
‘You seem touched by the beauty of the sky" says a voice in a soft, well-spoken English.
“You may be right, but I am also trying to absorb some jet lag."
"Oh, I see, this is your first day…Ffirst time in India?”
" Yes, first day; first time."
“I hope I am not disturbing your contemplation, my name is Manish, and you are?
The westerner takes a look at the man; he looks quite ordinary, simple, white shirt, neither rich nor poor, nearly bald.
What intrigued him wares his soft, well-spoken words, and manners.
“My name is Gaetan, but my friends call me Jay."
“What do you do in this town" asks Jay “Are you a guide?”
“ I teach English part time, in local schools, and also work for an export company."
Jay feels comfortable in Manish's company. hHe is polite and doesn't seem to have any agenda besides having an interest in him.
” What do you do back home?” asks Manish in his soft-spoken words. “Well, I have been in hospitality, but I am also looking for a change, a new direction."