Pratap Bhogilal Journey Through Life

Author(s): Rauf Ahmed
Publisher: Bhupendra Singh Anand

Page 33

THE JOURNEY | 27
Memorial, which stood in the sea. The tour was a great learning experience for Chandrabhai and me as we were left to fend for ourselves without any restrictions on spending money as long as we did it sensibly. I was very grateful to Bapaji for the thoughtful gift he gave me.
Deccan College was a memorable experience
In 1932 I joined the Deccan College, Pune, and stayed in a hostel. College days were very pleasant and carefree. I remember, one full-moon night as we were boating on a river nearby, some students insisted that I smoke. Though I was reluctant initially, I decided to give it a try for the heck of it. Luckily, I choked on the first puff and never smoked again!
Studies were smooth as I had the benefit of private tuition from Professor E.A. Wodehouse, a cousin of the legendary novelist P.G.Wodehouse. He was the Principal of the Deccan College. He charged Rs. 20 an hour, which was very high by the local standards in those days, but then, Professor Wodehouse's stature was such. Bapaji wanted the best possible education for me. He was keen that I was thorough with the English language and my diction was flawless.
I was never considered a good student in college, but I passed my'inter'with good marks...
Once a month I would go to Mumbai by the popular train Deccan Queen to spend the weekend with family. Those days Deccan Queen took two hours and 40 minutes one way as against the three-plus hours it takes now. I had purchased a bicycle in Pune, and after college hours and over the weekends, when I was in Pune, I would go cycling with my friends, see movies or Marathi plays. I was impressed by the famous singer Bal Gandharva as an actor. More often than not, he played the heroine's role. Pune used to be famous those days for its educational institutions. I was never considered a bright student at college, but I managed to pass my 'Inter' with fairly good marks.
He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything - Arabian Proverb