Cocktail In The Rainbow - Chapter - 17

 

Chapter – 17

 

“You are most welcome Sir! Please take your seat.” I said.

“Oh! No problem. Your glasses are empty. Steward! Scotch please.”

Chanakya Nag requested us to keep our glasses on the tray and himself handed over to us two new glasses of Scotch. He took one and poured soda water in all the three glasses.

“Cheers! Sorry Sumanta, I could not talk to you freely during these days from the date of your joining us. I was awfully busy. Nag said and occupied one chair. “Please don’t mind for my sitting on the chair without your permission.”

“Sir, you are at your liberty to sit anywhere.” I said.

Atanu could not complete his story due to sudden arrival of Chanakya Nag amidst us. Seeking our permission Atanu left the spot and mingled in the crowd with his glass of Scotch.

“Why are you standing? Sit down please.” Nag said.

I occupied the chair lying in front of him.

“That’s good! Now you get yourself easy. Sometimes I get fed up with my job of GM. It’s like walking on toe all the time. See those boys. They are really happy. I found somebody reciting Shakespeare and somebody dancing and singing like Elvis Presley. To them ‘King is dead, long live the king’. Nobody bothers for Santanu Majumdar who loved them and fought for them. But nobody fought for him. Had they really loved Santanu, they would have boycotted this cocktail party. Even a fool can guess that Majumdar did not leave the company, he was removed.” Nag paused looking downward.

I was surprised to hear from Chanakya Nag regarding his comments on the departure of Santanu Majumdar from Rainbow. So far I heard from Atanu and Fatik Nandi, Nag was greatly responsible for the removal of Majumdar.

Nag consumed good amount of drinks, but he was not drunk. Probably drinks made him penitent and veracious.

Taking a long sip he said, “How funny! Mandakini also blamed me. She felt that owing to my good relation with Rozario, I could have convinced him to desist taking such an unjust decision. She maintained admiration for Santanu who was my good friend. See the fun! Everybody blamed me, but nobody realised my position as regional GM in Rainbow. I will tell you the story.” He paused for few seconds and continued looking at me. “I don’t know whether you have heard, I used to work for Bombay pharmaceutical company before joining Rainbow as their medical representative. At that time Rainbow did not have any office in Calcutta. Rainbow International used to get their medicines manufactured under loan license by some other medium pharmaceutical company having additional production capacity. Kipling and Kingsley were sole distributor of Rainbow medicines in India. There were only five products at that time. Cough syrup, Vitamin B Complex capsule with Vitamin C, Multivitamin syrup and drops for children and a nerve revitalization tonic. For whole of eastern region there were only two medical representatives. One of them was quite old and used to cover half of Calcutta city, Howrah, West Bengal, Bihar and Orissa. Another representative was of middle age and used to cover other half of Calcutta, North Bengal, Sikkim, Bhutan and all the northeastern states. After I had joined Rainbow regional territories were shuffled by Gregory Antony who was at that time Field Supervising Officer of the company for all the four regions.”

Chanakya Nag paused for few seconds as he lighted his favourite 555 cigarette and said, “I think, you get surprised to learn that for whole of our country there was only one field supervising officer. Yes! Rainbow’s sales promotional infrastructure was like that. Mr. Anderson was having a very small office in Flora fountain area of Bombay. Because he had to get many jobs, indoor and outdoor, to be done by one person, he recruited a male stenographer cum personal assistant and that man was Mr. Rozario, our MD. Total number of medical representatives was eight, two in each region with one Field Supervising Officer, based in Bombay. In the office, besides Mr. Anderson, there were two other persons, Mr. Rozario, his stenographer and Thomas, peon cum office attendant.

In my previous company I was medical representative for north eastern states with head quarter at Gauhati. In Rainbow besides same northeastern states I got central Calcutta as territory. Obviously my head quarter was Calcutta. My senior colleagues did not like my entry in Rainbow as I could feel they had considered me as an encroacher in their dominion, as if I had occupied a portion of their long established domicile. I tell you the pattern of daily work in Calcutta of one of my senior colleagues under whom I had the field training. He asked me to meet him at the gate of Medical College sharp at 10 a.m.. Yes! He was there waiting for me exactly at the time given to me. Then he took me round the hospital touching half dozen departments and meeting two dozen doctors including professors, readers and lecturers. Entire job was done in two hours. On his request I went to his residence for lunch and rest. We again went out in the evening and visited one dozen medical stores in two hours. Three days’ job was done in four hours! So he advised me take rest for next two days.

I was taken by surprise to hear from Chanakya Nag that twenty-four calls were made to doctors for detailing the products and twelve calls to medical stores for business only in four hours.

Probably Nag realised my amazement and said, “You get surprised, isn’t it? It’s because you did not work as medical representative. I tell you how it is done. While visiting a department of a medical college, in professor’s room, sometimes you may get more than half dozen doctors, besides the professor. Assistant professor, reader, lecturers, clinical tutors and House surgeons are found very often in professor’s room having meeting or discussion on various matters. If visiting card is sent to the professor, he grants interview to the medical representative of multinational company in no time even in presence of other doctors. Further, due to regular visits for months or years, a senior medical representative develops personal rapport with the doctors. So in single visit, multiple calls are made and in two hours, it is not at all difficult for medical representative to make twenty-four or more calls during his visit to a medical college. He does not bother whether calls are effective or not. He will fill in his call-card for doctors showing exact numbers of calls he is expected to make per day.” Taking a long puff of his half-burnt cigarette Nag said, “So you can easily understand the quantum of Rainbow sales at that time. It was only whirling round the same figures. Not only in eastern region, condition was same in other regions. Exactly in this background the great English gentleman Mr. William Anderson appeared in Indian scene. He appointed young science and pharmacy graduates with one or two year’s experience in the same line in all the regions. Within a short time Mr. Anderson succeeded in procuring licenses from both central and state governments for manufacturing few basic drugs and proprietory pharmaceutical products in the name of Rainbow India Private Limited under quality control of Rainbow International. Three floors, each having area of seven thousand square feet were occupied for registered head office of the company in lofty multistoried building at Nariman Point in South Bombay overlooking Back Bay of the Arabian Sea. A beautiful modern factory was set up in north suburban area of Bombay facing Mahim Creek. In eastern region also sales developed by leaps and bounds. When I got my independent territory, I started visiting doctors according to my own plan. I did not meet the specialists in medical colleges or hospitals. I used to meet them in their chambers, mostly in the night or according to their convenient time and general practitioners in the morning hours. I would meet each house surgeon individually and give them sample and literature. I would enquire from the medical stores regarding inflow of prescriptions from the doctors. Sometimes they used to suggest me to visit particular doctors with samples for easy flow of prescriptions.

Within a short time sales in my territory i.e. central Calcutta and northeastern states shot up by more than hundred percent. Mr. Anderson sent me a congratulation letter followed by letter of promotion carried by him personally to Calcutta. I was made Area Sales Supervisor of Rainbow India for eastern region. My senior colleagues were placed under my supervision. According to my suggestion few more medical representatives were recruited for Calcutta and upcountry towns. Gradually, changes took place in distribution system. Company’s agreement with Kipling and Kingsley regarding marketing and distribution was terminated by Mr. Anderson. Fatik Nandi was brought from Kipling and Kingsley to assist me in establishing a divisional office cum godown for Rainbow pharmaceutical products in Calcutta. I was elevated to the rank of Divisional Manager, in charge of whole of eastern region. I got chauffeur driven company car, fully furnished flat, membership card of most aristocratic club and full liberty in entertaining company’s guests in lunch or dinner in any five star restaurant. So after becoming DM I could take dinner with my family at home hardly for ten days in a month. One day Mandakini, I mean my wife, told me that she was more happy in old small flat which I had occupied on rent in a lower middle class locality in Calcutta when I was medical representative. Frankly speaking, I also agreed with what she had said. I missed badly the delicious food; she used to cook for me.

Chanakya Nag paused for few seconds and said after sipping Whisky, “Progress of Rainbow India under Mr. Anderson was fantastic. Company started expanding speedily in all directions. Four divisions were made four regions and Divisional Managers were promoted to General Managers under whom branch offices were opened at important state capital cities headed by Branch Managers. Besides long range of proprietary medicines and few bulk drugs, company introduced various home products under licence from Rainbow International. A separate division was made for home products under all India control of Phuchkanwala. Antony got all India charge for pharmaceutical products and this poor fellow, I mean Chanakya Nag was made

General Manager, East.”

“Excellent decision of the company! You deserved the position Sir.” I said.

“Thank you Sumanta for your compliments.” Nag said. “But you know my dear friend, service is service. It’s the occupation of a servant. All are same. Even then the servants like us suffer from complexity of status. I find many senior managers carrying air of egoism around them and look down at others as if from the top of lofty tower. Fools! They do not know, tonight they are entertained with Scotch and sumptuous dinner and tomorrow they will be treated with golden handshake, of course without gold. Any way, forget about designation. I am tired of 555, please get me your Filter Wills.”

Having a long suck of the lighted Filter Wills like a hemp-smoker Nag said, “You know Sumanta, sometimes I feel myself to be guilty for departure of Santanu from Rainbow. He joined Rainbow leaving permanent job of Gujrat Chemical Co. only on my persuasion. Again, virtually on my persuasion, though I did not want it, he had to leave Rainbow. Had I not met him accidentally at Kathmandu Airport, I would not have to bear this burden of guilt consciousness.”

Nag bent down his head and paused when I said, “Sir, sorry for my interruption. Please do not injure your delicate sentiments by the recollection of bygone incidents. Let us enjoy this merry get-together.”

“Sumanta, you are absolutely right. But, you know a man feels light-hearted only when he unloads agony from his heart to some trustworthy person. I like you, that’s why I tell you all such nonsense. If you don’t like, I won’t tell.” Nag said.

“Sorry Sir. I did not mean that. Please continue.” I said.

“As I told you I met Sumanta at Kathmandu Airport where he was waiting for the announcement of departure of Calcutta flight. Mr. Anderson, Mr. Rozario, Mr. Antony and myself were also scheduled to come to Calcutta by the same flight. I introduced Santanu to my bosses and in the plane I requested Santanu to sit beside Mr. Anderson.

At that time we were looking for a Divisional Manager for our home products division, started very recently. It was decided by the company to insert advertisement in the newspaper for getting a suitable candidate. Since Santanu was working in Gujrat Chemicals for their non durable consumer products I suggested his name to Mr. Anderson who endorsed it immediately and asked me to request him to join us at dinner at Hotel Emperor Intercon.

So Santanu joined Rainbow. Since Mr. Anderson was happy with him, he got all the benefits of Rainbow DM from the date of his joining the service. Good salary, air-conditioned cabin with beautiful Anglo-Indian secretary, chauffeur driven new car and other parks. Since he had a good rented flat, he did not desire company’s flat. So he was given house rent allowance.

Within a short time Santanu became very popular in the office. Even sales people of pharma division developed love and respect for him. He captivated everybody by his sweet behaviour. That’s why I wondered why he could not win over Rozario. So you tell me Sumanta, if a multinational company’s manager can not win over the MD and other bosses, how can he retain his job? Do you know what happened once?

Nag paused and looked at me. Sipping the rest of the Whisky from his glass in one gulp, he said, “After becoming MD, Rozario visited Calcutta along with Antony and Phuchkanwala. We had conference for the whole day and in the evening gathered in the suite of Rozario at Hotel Emperor Intercon for drinks. After few drinks we went down for dinner in the Banquet Hall and again came back to his suite as Rozario had expressed his desire for playing Rummy. We were seven who participated in the card game. Rozario, Antony, Phuchkanwala, Talukdar, Santanu, Kumar Sengupta and myself. Within a short time we changed to Flush from Rummy as wished by Rozario. Though Santanu expressed noviceness in card game at the beginning, ultimately he won most and worst looser was Rozario. You can easily understand the reaction of our new MD. He could not assimilate his loss. So this was the first offence committed by Santanu. As done by others, he should have packed his cards to allow the MD to win the game.

Second offence of Santanu was heavier than the first one. Though game was over, Rozario was having chats with us. Whisky glasses were still in our hands to give him company. Suddenly Rozario looked at Santanu and said, ‘Well Mr. Majumdar, I understand you are having good number of girl friends. Why don’t you telephone somebody to join us for drinks.’

Santanu said immediately, ‘Sorry Sir! I don’t have any girl friend. You have misunderstood me.’

Rozario said, ‘That’s nice of you.’ Looking at us he said, ‘Ok gentlemen! Goodnight! We will meet tomorrow.’

Next morning entire group left for Bombay. We all saw them off at the airport.”

Chanakya Nag got up from the chair and said, “Ok Sumanta, thank you for your company. Now I will have to announce for dinner. We will meet again.”

COCKTAIL IN THE RAINBOW - Chapter –12

 

Chapter-12

 

“Good evening!” Welcome to this evening party!” I greeted the VIPs and shook hands with Kelvin, Rozario and Nag who whispered “Well said Sumanta. I am proud of you.”

Nag suggested Talukdar to stand beside me to welcome few more very important guests of the company as being almost new in the organization I was not expected to know them. Though being vexed to some extent as he could not stay with the VIPs, Ramani Talukdar stood beside me and said, “It’s my pleasure to be with you. Don’t worry, you will know everybody and everything very shortly.”

A middle aged tall, handsome, robust and fair complexioned gentleman in blue coat and trousers wearing crimson bow-tie and handkerchief of the same colour peeping out of the chest pocket came before us smilingly along with a beautiful lady, slightly bulky, dressed in blue chiffon georgette and blouse matching her escort.

“Welcome! Welcome! Mr. Bhatia! How are you? How are you Mrs. Bhatia?”

Talukdar received the couple and requested them to proceed further. Nag came forward and accompanied them to the spot where Kelvin, Rozario and other head office bosses were chatting.

“Have you heard of Bhatia and Sons pharmaceutical distributors of Lord Clive Street, now renamed Biplabi Sarani?” Talukdar asked me.

“Of course! I know. They are very big pharmaceutical distributors in Calcutta like Kipling and Kingsley of bygone days.” I said.

“You are right.” The man you met is Om Prakash Bhatia, key-person of this pharmaceutical distribution company who are super stockist of Rainbow ethical products for Calcutta and suburbs. His wife Manju Bhatia, one of top socialites of Calcutta and active member of Venus club.” Talukdar said with a crafty smile.

“Hallow Mr. Saha! Welcome! Welcome! Both Tarit Ganguly and Ramani Talukdar shouted together.

The man who got such a warm ovation from both Talukdar and Ganguly, was of short stature having enormous bulky body and large tummy vibrating under his glossy silk kurta. His over-oily hairs were parted from the middle and teeth were blackened for chewing betel and tobacco leaves. With the exception of two thumbs and two little fingers, other six of his two hands were decorated by gold, silver and copper rings studded with fortune stones of different colours subjugating major planets. Ganguly escorted Mr. Saha to the spot where the VIPs had been waiting for more wanted guests to join the inauguration of the cocktail party.

“He is Gajendra Saha, sole proprietor of Saha Distributing Agency, a division of Saha Spice and consumer products company. SDA, I mean Saha Distributing Agency are the sole distributor of Rainbow Home Products for Calcutta and greater Calcutta. Not only Phuchkanwala and Rozario, Anderson also used to visit the office of Gajendra Saha, whenever he was in Calcutta. So you can well understand the importance of this hippo in Rainbow.” Talukdar said. “I am expecting another important person, oh! He has come.”

“Namaste! Namaste! Gurujee! Welcome to Rainbow! Hallow Rakesh! How are you? Please escort Gurujee to that side. Mr. Rozario and others are awaiting him eagerly.” Talukdar said.

Seeing Gurujee from distance, Nag came forward and welcomed Gurujee. He then escorted him to Rozario and Kelvin.

Gurujee as addressed by both Talukdar and Nag was also a man of enormous size both in length and breadth. He was having long hairs and beards with matching thick moustache and cloaked in long silk kurta and pyjama of deep orange colour. With round vermilion mark of almost one-inch diameter on his forehead above the eyebrows and half a dozen necklaces of wooden and glass beads hanging down his big tummy, he looked like tantrik monk, one of the self-made saviours of mankind.

“Very very important person to Rainbow. Gurujee is from Darbhanga of Bihar state and discovery of Rakesh Tiwari, our Institutional Executive for ethical products in Bihar. Through Gurujees’s influence over state and central ministers, Rainbow got business of several lakhs of rupees. I will tell you more about him afterwards. Talukdar said.”

“Good evening Mr. Khan! Welcome to Rainbow. Please go that side, Mr. Nag and our big bosses are waiting for you. Oh! PK! Please escort Mr. Khan.” Talukdar said.

After Mr. Khan had gone inside with P. K. Sanyal, Talukdar said, “He is very powerful senior police sergeant and good friend of Nag and mine. Khan looks after the traffic regulation of our office area. Rainbow cars always escape penalty for traffic violation only due to courtesy of Nawab Khan.”

Nawab Khan was really like Nawab in appearance. He was tall and handsome having well shaped muscular physique. I saw him twice on the road junction controlling traffic in his white uniform. This evening he was clad in casual dress i.e. half-sleeved printed shirt and black trousers.

“Good evening Dilip! Where is Mrs. Sen?”

Talukdar asked Dilip Sen, sales tax consultant who was accompanied by a middle aged gentleman.

“Sorry! She is not well this evening. Meet Mr. Mondol, commercial tax officer of our area.” Sen replied.

After they had gone inside, Talukdar said, “We do not bother for sales tax problems as Dilip has got tremendous hold with the department.”

Binoy Bhusan Bhar escorted one gentleman and introduced him with Talukdar and me. He was Mr. Pal Choudhury, superintendent of excise vigilance.

“Good evening Sir! You are most welcome to Rainbow. Bhar! Please look after Mr. Pal Choudhury.

“Here comes Chotan Dastidar, our local guardian.” Talukdar whispered to me.

“Good evening Mr. Dastidar! You are most welcome to Rainbow.”

“Where is your Nag? Hope Rozario has also come.” Dastidar said in his hoarse voice.

“Oh yes! Everybody is there. We will meet them right now.” Talukdar escorted Dastidar to the VIPs and came back immediately.

He said, “Have you heard of Chotan Dastidar anytime?”

“Yes! I saw his name in the newspapers.” I said.

“He is the same man and local don of our office area. Any transaction regarding house, flat, construction of new building, demolishment of old building or opening of a new office, Chotan must be informed, as his approval is necessary. You know, our office area was once a purely residential area of well-to-do families. Old palatial buildings are being demolished and high rise buildings are coming up. Private companies and government departments are shifting or opening their offices in these new buildings. Some old buildings are renovated and housing offices of big companies like Rainbow. So, persons like Chotan Dastidar are making their fortune. Without being member of state assembly or parliament, he moves like a minister with red light on his car and gets salute from the traffic police. He is personal friend of senior police officers and trusted person of a powerful minister who always protects him from rape and murder cases.

Without support of Chotan Dastidar, candidate for assembly or parliamentary seat will never win the election from the constituency.

Such a man like Chotan Dastidar is a patron of Rainbow. Besides Scotch whiskey bottle time to time, Nag has arranged a permanent monthly levy for Dastidar and Rainbow is free from all local problems including staff agitation.” Talukdar paused as probably another VIP appeared before us.

“Hallow Sir! Good evening! Welcome to Rainbow.” Talukdar said and without knowing his identity I also smiled and said, “Good evening Sir!”

A middle-aged man with square-cut stern face and hairless scalp was a senior officer of the local office of defence store and supply. He was escorted by Uttam Das, Institutional Executive Rainbow Pharma Division. By courtesy of this officer i.e. Major Batra, entire order for multivitamin tablet and cough syrup comes to Rainbow. Though officially, Uttam Das is under Ramani Talukdar, DM of Pharma Division, for all matters i.e. commission and gifts for government officers, the former discusses directly with Chanakya Nag. Talukdar does not know anything about such transaction and also does not dare to know either from Nag or from Uttam. “This is the system of Rainbow.” Talukdar said. “Majumdar wanted to know the reason for anomaly of the system, and so, he got to leave the company.”

Without waiting for the direction of Talukdar, Uttam went inside with Major Batra. I looked behind and saw Nag coming forward to receive Major Batra and Uttam Das.

“Bose! Be very careful of the hypocrites.” Talukdar whispered.

“Sirs! Please do come to the inaugural ceremony of the cocktail party.” Gouri Chatterjee requested us.

Rozario, Kelvin, Nag, Mrs. Nag, head office managers, various honoured guests as received by us were standing in semi-circular form with Rainbow office and field staffs, some with their wives behind them.

Rozario was wearing a full sleeved casual printed shirt having pictures of the wild animals of African jungle. Kelvin was wearing white sports banian with a red heart printed on the chest pierced by a green arrow. All other head office managers were in the same dresses, only without their neckties. Nag and Talukdar changed dresses in their cabins like me and were wearing casual shirts and trousers.

Chief service steward of Tiny Tavern was standing nearby. Nag looked at Rozario and getting his signal told the chief steward, “Gentlemen! Service please!” Within a minute half a dozen steward came forward with drinks on their trays. As per direction of Nag, the chief steward himself handed over the glasses of Sherry to Rozario, Kelvin and Gurujee. Head office managers and other important guests got Scotch. Kelvin inaugurated the cocktail party by raising his right hand with the glass and said, “Cheers!” From all sides and corners of the roof there had been reverberation of ‘Cheers’ for few minutes.

 “Che Sara Sara – what will be, will be”, Samuel Biswas and his orchestra started their melodious music on a very popular old song. Twisting legs and shrugging his shoulders Kelvin said, “Thrilling! I feel at home!”

Most of the field staffs dispersed with their glasses like the bees of the pierced honeycomb to different corners of the roof. Sky was absolutely clear and the bright stars could be seen atop with the glorious moon. That evening, was also the fourteenth of the light fortnight, ‘Sukla Chaturdashi’ as is said which I could learn from Binoy Bhar. He told me further that he had personally collected information from Alipore Meteorological office that weather would be favourable for an open-air party and there was no possibility of rain or thunderstorm till next morning. So the decorator did not cover the whole roof by canopy. However to remain on the safe side some emergency folding canopies had been kept at one corner of the roof beyond anybody’s view. All sides of the roof along the parapet were fenced by six feet high plywood sheet decorated gorgeously with magenta red velvet and primrose yellow satin.

Opposite to cocktail service counter and on the other side of the roof there was long buffet service counter table covered by milk white linen. On the table there were silver trays containing various items and slowly heated by brass stoves fitted below. Behind each tray there was a service boy standing like a statue in his red and white uniform. On the starting point, glass plates, forks, knives, spoons and napkins were heaped side by side. There were small plastic slabs placed before each tray on which names of the food items were written in bold letters. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian items were separated by the sweets kept in the middle of the long service table. So vegetarians and non-vegetarians would meet at the middle starting from opposite ends. Plates, knives, forks, spoons and napkins were kept at both the ends of the service table.

Though there were so many ladies and gentlemen scattered here and there I was moving alone with glass of brandy. Excepting the managers, I did not know much of the office and field staffs. Field staffs of pharma and home products division coming from Bihar, Orissa, Nepal, North Bengal and North Eastern states were absolutely unknown to me. There were many coloured plastic chairs and sofa sets placed along the parapets on two sides of the roof. But nobody was sitting on the chairs; some were standing or strolling with glasses in their hands and chatting amongst themselves. Some formed groups like honeycombs and were discussing about latest national and international events.

Nandi came beside me with his glass and said, “Sir, please don’t mind. I saw you moving alone and that’s why thought of giving you company.”

“So nice of you Mr. Nandi. What’s there in your glass?”

“It’s Sherry. When the big bosses went to other side, I requested the cocktail steward to get me Sherry.” Nandi said with low voice.

“Why should you be shy in choosing your drinks? In a party you can have anything as per your choice.” I said.

“You are right Sir. But I heard that Sherry, Champagne and Cognac were specially reserved for VIPs. Just to have a taste of this Spanish wine I managed to have one.” Nandi said.

“I am sorry Mr. Nandi to learn about such discriminating arrangement. But how could you know about that? I think service of drinks started only few minutes back!” I said.

Nandi almost whispered, “One medical representative wanted to have Sherry from the cocktail steward after he had served to Rozario, Kelvin and Gurujee. Gouri Chatterjee asked him to go for Scotch Whiskey, Rum or Beer.”

I did not ask him further regarding this matter as I had already developed distaste for such arrangement. Colours of Rainbow seemed to have lost brightness, that’s what I felt at that moment.

to be continued........

 Previous Chapter: Chapter - 11

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

COCKTAIL IN THE RAINBOW - CHAPTER - 8

Chapter – 8

Swapna Ganguly went upon the dais to collect the prize as joint winner in Bridge tournament. Her co-winner was Chanakya Nag who was out of the auditorium. Rozario was sitting on his chair with serious face ogling at Swapna’s heavy hips and protruding breasts. When Mandakini was about to hand over the prize, a leather case containing two packets of cards to Swapna, Chanakya Nag came upon the dais from the side door and collected the same jointly. Nag of course handed over the leather case to Swapna saying “Keep it for your practice to win the next year’s trophy.” Swapna Ganguly almost sprang like a baby waving her bobbed hair, hips and breasts and came down from the dais with the trophy.

Other recipients of prizes got to wait for sometime as Rozario and Nag were engaged in serious discussion. After few minutes Nag got up from his chair and announced without microphone, “Ladies and Gentlemen! After the prize distribution is over, please do not leave your chairs as there is another important item which I will announce shortly. Thank you!”

Gouri Chatterjee called Budhadeb Sinha of stores department to come upon the stage for collecting his first prize for recitation in Bengali. Mandakini handed over to him complete works of great revolutionary Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. After Budhadeb came Jolly, daughter of Chanakya Nag and Mandakini to collect her prize for “Bharat Natyam” dance and Amit, son of Ramani Talukdar and Keya for vocal music. Consolation prizes were given to Badal, son of Jagabandhu Adhikari and Basabi, daughter of Fatik Nandi. Lastly Ramchandra, personal peon of Chanakya Nag got a special prize for his obedience and sincerity.

“Ladies and Gentlemen! I am now happy to announce about the farewell party of Mr. Santanu Majumdar, our ex-Divisional Manager, Home Products. After serving Rainbow India for five glorious years, Mr. Santanu Majumdar left us for betterment in his personal career. We extend our best wishes to him. Today, I mean, this evening we have arranged a farewell party for Mr. Majumdar. Unfortunately he has not been able to attend this function, as we understand, suddenly he got indisposed.” Chanakya Nag paused for few seconds.

Rozario spoke something to Kelvin who shrugged occasionally.

Nandi whispered from behind, “Sir, it’s an absolute imposture.”

Nag said again, “Ladies and Gentlemen! We would have been happy had Mr. Majumdar been with us at this auspicious moment. Anyway since he has not yet turned up, we will send the farewell gift to his residence.” Nag showed a wristwatch to the audience.

He further said, “Third session of our today’s function is cocktail and dinner. Perhaps most of you have come here with your children and some from distant place. So I request those members, especially ladies with small children to wait for few minutes for dinner in the office hall. Those who desire to participate in the cocktail party may kindly be present on the terrace of our office building sharp at 8 p.m. However on behalf of Rainbow Calcutta I invite all adult members to join us at cocktail this evening. Thanks!”

Audience who remained seated in the auditorium with so much patience and discipline started moving out through the main door like stampede as seen in the cinema halls after the end of film shows. We, I mean managers and executives got to remain inside till the departure of VIPs from the dais through side door. Before going out Nag advised Tarit Ganguly and Gouri Chatterjee to see him in his cabin.

Gouri Chatterjee, the thin and tall bearded young man was a personal appointee of Chanakya Nag as recommended by his wife Mandakini who got to oblige one of her co-joggers in front of Victoria Memorial. Being the student of a Calcutta English medium school, Gouri could speak English fluently in Anglo-Indian accent. Very often he used the word “Bloody” even while talking to seniors. He spoke some words in his own accent and sounded something else to others. As for example instead of speaking ‘Well’ he would utter ‘Boel’ and similarly ‘Buil’ instead of ‘Will’. Nag was very much impressed by spoken English of Gouri and appointed him as a Medical Representative in pharma division under P.K. Sanyal. Within a short time Gouri became a top favourite of Chanakya Nag as he was the only person who could procure original Scotch whisky and virgin girl friend in shortest time for entertainment of Rainbow guests and big bosses. There was a confidential rumour that Iris Stephen was one of such virgin girl friends of Gouri Chatterjee. She applied for the post of secretary to GM (East) of Rainbow India as per direction of Gouri who had brought her to Chanakya Nag long before her final selection by Rozario. Gouri once told his immediate boss Prodyot Sanyal that as per prediction of his family-astrologer, he would rise up to a senior position in Rainbow very shortly. Fatik Nandi was standing nearby and he heard Sanyal saying pointing towards Nag’s cabin, “I also foresee, you are occupying that room very soon.”

Gouri came out of Nag’s cabin and approached Iris who was chatting with Leda, Rupa and some other ladies standing near to me.

“Iris! You have got an exciting responsibility! Do you know what is that? You are to show Mr. Kelvin some of the historical relics of British Calcutta. Go down and get inside the air-conditioned limousine for a nice time to Victoria Memorial. From there you will proceed to Dalhousie Square and show Mr. Kelvin G.P.O., Writers’ building and Octorlony monument before taking him to Hotel Intercon for freshening. However, you must see that you come back to Rainbow house at 8 p.m., as Mr. Kelvin is the guest of honour in the cocktail party. Anyway I am coming down with Mr. Kelvin within a minute.”

Gouri delivered lengthy instruction to Iris and proceeded towards Nag’s cabin. Within two minutes he came out with Kelvin and went downstairs for Limousine and Iris.

I decided to spend the period of intermission in the office only. I was not married at that time. My mother was quite old and my sister was allergic to cocktail party. She never opposed my taking drinks in official parties of previous employers, as I would always keep myself confined within limits. But she questioned me many times why official parties could not be confined within tea, coffee and soft drinks. Though I had tried to quote many historical royal parties and modern banquets arranged by country or state heads in honour of visiting heads of other countries where French Champagne, Spanish Sherry and Scotch Whisky were served, I was unable to convince her of the utility of alcoholic drinks.

Chandan, sales executive of my division came to me and asked me when he would be promoted to the rank of DSM. Though I did not like his untimely quest for career development, I smiled at him and said, “Oh yes! Why not? Very shortly.”

Tactfully I avoided his further question and moved towards my cabin.

I had been relaxing on my chair stretched in inclined position for ten minutes or so when Nandi entered my cabin and said, “Sir, sorry to disturb you.”

I said, “Not at all Mr. Nandi! Welcome! So what are the news? Please take your seat.”

“Most disturbing news Sir!” Nandi said comfortably.

I brought my chair in normal position and looked at him curiously.

“Sir! Do you remember Swapna Ganguly? I mean Tarit’s wife?

“Yes I do.”

“She accompanied Mr. Rozario for marketing.”

“It’s alright! What’s the problem?” I asked Nandi.

“No problem Sir. You asked me about latest news and I told you about that.” Nandi said with depression.

I realised that ever jubilant Nandi did not appreciate my total indifference towards latest news provided by him. As a matter of fact though I welcomed Nandi and offered him to sit before me, I was totally preoccupied with my new assignment in USA. Fortunately, I did not accept official flat of Rainbow as one of the perquisites besides official chauffeur driven car for twenty four hours as I had four roomed rented flat in an excellent locality of central Calcutta. My landlord was a NRI settled in USA like millions of immigrants from all the countries of the world who had migrated to this golden continent in search of platinum currency i.e., US dollars. USA also sheltered these immigrants as their citizens. My landlord used to visit Calcutta once in a year and meet us normally on the day before his departure for USA. He was very friendly to me. So in my absence there would not be any problem for my family to stay in the same flat. I decided to inform some of my distant relatives and close friends to look after my mother and sister for some time.

“Mr. Nandi, you did not finish your story of Kipling and Kingsley. So far I remember, you stopped somewhere when Mr. Anderson indirectly invited you to meet him in his hotel room.” I said to make the situation light.

Nandi smiled and said, “Sir! You remember everything so vividly!”

“Yes! I met Mr. Anderson in the hotel same evening. Such a great man he was! Immediately on being informed by reception, I was asked to go to his room. Door was kept open for me. When I entered into the room, Mr. Anderson almost jumped from his chair and said, “Hallow Fatik! Welcome to my room. Like some drinks?”

“What did you say?” I asked.

Nandi became shy to some extent and said with a smile, “I said, most welcome! I am at your service.”

I was about to burst into laughter but restrained on hearing a knock on the cabin door. Nag entered my cabin and said, “Sumanta, I am extremely sorry to tell you, without your permission I asked your driver to take out Mr. Rozario for marketing. If you need car, I will arrange something for you.”

I got up from my chair and said, “Sir, you have done excellent job. There was really no necessity of asking for my permission. I will not go out anywhere before the end of the cocktail party. Mr. Nandi is giving me jocund company.”

Nandi had got up before Nag entered my cabin and seeing him in person felt very much uneasy. Probably Nag understood the mind of Nandi and said, “Well done Nandi. Why don’t you take out Mr. Bose to the hall, some ladies and children are taking dinner. I am sure, he will enjoy.”

Nag further said, “Sumanta, you can come afterwards to my cabin and enjoy cards.”

I said, “Thank you Sir!”

Nag left my cabin.           

COCKTAIL IN THE RAINBOW - Chapter - 4

Chapter – 4

Family members of office and field staffs assembled in the main office hall. Binoy Bhar requested ladies and children loudly to enter the auditorium and take their seats, as the head office bosses would arrive at any moment. They would be accompanied by Chanakya Nag. Ramani Talukdar had already come to office to arrange for the reception of foreign and Indian dignitaries.

Talukdar showed me the blueprint of the protocolic reception as outlined by Chanakya Nag seven days back. Three Divisional Managers i.e. Divisional Manager Ethical Products alias Ramani Talukdar, Divisional Manager Home Products alias Tarit Ganguly and Divisional Manager Agro Chemicals alias Sumanta Basu i.e. my poorself would stand in front of the reception group at the office gate.

Air-conditioned foreign Limousine carrying Robert Kelvin, Lionidus Rozario and Chanakya Nag would be attended by Ramani Talukdar. Other two Ambassador cars carrying Gregory Antony, all India Manager for Ethical Products, Homi Rustam Phuchkanwala, all India Manager for Home Products, Chandranath Gupta, all India Manager for Agro-Chemicals, Narayana Govinda Subbarao Naidu, Manager – Manpower and Man-Management, Dr. Pradip Kiran Mehta, Manager – Ethical Technical Service, William Vincent Fernandez, Manager – Sales Promotion and Mahendra Lalchand Soni, Assistant Manager – Audio Visual Training System would be attended by Tarit Ganguly and myself.

Behind Divisional Managers would stand second ranking managers like Atanu Samanta, Product Manager – Ethical Products Division, Prodyot Sanyal, District Sales Manager – Ethical Products Division, Deb Pratim Dutta, District Sales Manager-Home Products Division and Chandan Purakyastha, Sales Executive of my division i.e. Agro-Chemicals.

Binoy Bhusan Bhar would stand just at the gate of Rainbow House along with Haldhar Jana and Ramchandra Mondol on his right and left sides.

On the first floor entire group of dignitaries would be received by Mandakini Nag, wife of Chanakya Nag. She would be aided by Keya Talukdar, wife of Ramani Talukdar and Swapna Ganguly, wife of Tarit Ganguly at the main door of the auditorium.

This year’s special attraction was the Rainbow’s own auditorium. Till last year foundation day of Eastern Regional office of Rainbow India used to be celebrated at the banquet hall and the attached lawn of nearby three star hotel. This would normally cost high to the company and cause inconvenience to the family members.

Opportune moment came to Chanakya Nag when the adjacent block on the same floor was about to be disposed of by a Delhi based company willing to wind up their business in Calcutta. He convinced head office bosses and tackled the landlord very efficiently by paying him handsome non-refundable advance money. Entire floor with huge area came under occupation of Rainbow with exclusive right of the roof. Except two big shops, one departmental store and another automobile distributor on the two sides of main gate, whole building appeared to be owned by Rainbow. Being so happy with big amount of non-refundable advance amount, landlord of the building changed its name to Rainbow House from old name Jagattarini Bhawan.

Nandi said, “Sir, landlord got the overall benefit. Besides getting huge amount, he succeeded in getting a job in Rainbow for his son-in-law staying with him. It’s the job of stamp clerk having no worry, no tension!”

“Stamp clerk?” I exclaimed.

“Yes Sir. His job is to stamp the medicine packets or bottles scheduled for government supply.” Nandi said.

“But such stamping is the job of the government Inspectors!” I said.

“You are right Sir. So far as the system is concerned, Inspectors will check up the medicine in respect of specifications mentioned on the labels, order form and challan. If everything is O.K., packets or bottles will be stamped by the Inspectors before final packing in cardboard cartons or wooden cases, not the suppliers.” Nandi said and smiled at me. Without waiting for my next question he said further, “If the system is followed, both the parties will be losers.”

I could not follow Nandi and hence looked at him with curiosity. He said with seriousness on his face, “Sir, one thing I must tell you, Rainbow is very much particular about maintaining quality of the medicine. Because it is for government supplies, quality is not degraded. Multinational company like Rainbow is always conscious about quality, dignity and popularity. But these three virtues can not fetch business. For procuring government order two essential factors play important role. One, the lowest price and another, unofficial arrangement starting from top to bottom including these Inspectors. To cope with the second clause, only alternative is to supply less quantity with the cooperation of the Inspectors who are normally overwhelmed with the warm hospitality of Rainbow.”

Ramani Talukdar entered my cabin and said, “Bose, let us go down. They are coming.”

We stood like army regiment in “attention” position as per blueprint on the footpath in front of the gate. Everybody was silent and checked up necktie knot. Within five minutes, the large air-conditioned black Limousine followed by two white Ambassador cars arrived below Rainbow House. Chanakya Nag was beside the driver of the Limousine. He got down from the car and opened the door of the rear seat to help Rozario and Kelvin get down. Though Talukdar tried to throw his body for opening the rear door, he missed the big catch. Chanakya Nag advised him to look after other guests and proceeded towards the gate along with Rozario and Kelvin.

Talukdar introduced me with Gregory Antony, Homi Rustam Phuchkanwala and other guests. I knew Chandranath Gupta as he had been with Rozario during my interview in Bombay.

Chanakya Nag showed Kelvin and Rozario the new glow-sign board of Rainbow House and company’s nameplates written in English, Hindi and Bengali on both sides of the gate. Glossy brass letters shining like polished gold were fixed on black stone. Entire group reached the first floor walking up slowly on the thickly carpeted wide staircase.

Mandakini Nag was waiting at the auditorium gate with smiling face along with Keya Talukdar and Swapna Ganguly standing on her both sides. Their faces seemed to be glittering with more brilliant smile like the smiling stage girls standing on both sides of the magician exhibiting his magic skill.       

On arriving at the auditorium main gate Rozario shook both fair and soft hands of Mandakini Nag by his blackish hard hands and said, “Halloo…Halloo Mandakini! How are you?”

“Very good! Thank you Sir!” replied Mandakini.

Though waiting for warm “shake hands” from the two big dignitaries, both Swapna Ganguly and Keya Talukdar were disappointed as Rozario and Kelvin did not do that. Instead, Rozario entered the auditorium along with Kelvin keeping his left hand on Mandakini’s lower back. However Rozario did not disappoint Swapna Ganguly. While entering the stadium he patted softly Swapna’s plump cheek with his finger and rubbed her protruding breasts with his right elbow as if not intentionally. Being excited with sudden ecstasy Swapna jerked her bobbed hair and said “Thank you, Sir.” Keya Talukdar stood aside with pale face and looked at Swapna. Tarit Ganguly observed the entire episode standing beside me and seemed to be delighted with the performance of his wife. He introduced Swapna with Homi Phuchcanwala, his all India boss who shook hand with her and entered the auditorium hand in hand. Tarit Ganguly followed them.

Ramani Talukdar seemed to be thoughtful, whether due to poor performance of his wife or his failure in attending Rozario and Kelvin as per blueprint, I could not make out at that moment. But this much I could understand that he was a practical salesman. He changed his facial expression instantly seeing his divisional all India Manager Gregory Antony talking to Chandranath Gupta before entering the auditorium. He almost dragged his wife Keya and brought her before Antony for introduction.

With ready-made smile Talukdar told Antony, “Sir, I told you many times about my wife Keya? Here she is.”

Gregory Antony shook his masculine hands with thin dry hands of Keya and said, “How do you do fair lady? I am so glad to meet you.”

Keya almost jumped up an inch above the ground and said “Thank you, Thank you.”

Talukdar seemed to be tremendously happy and escorted his wife and Antony to the auditorium. So far I studied Talukdar within few days, he would prefer to be satisfied with buttermilk to pure milk not available when desired.

“Nice door-ballad! How do you feel Mr. Bose?”

I looked behind and found my departmental boss Chandrakanth Gupta smiling. He seemed to have enjoyed the reception of big bosses. I did not comment anything, simply smiled at him. I requested Gupta to enter the auditorium as I got to take care of other head office managers. Fortunately Gouri Shankar Chatterjee, who was given charge of conducting the function along with Binoy Bhar, came out and escorted Gupta into the auditorium.

Though Atanu Samanta, Prodyot Sanyal, Deb Pratim Dutta, Chandan Purokayastha and Binoy Bhar were standing behind me, I requested Subbarao Naidu, Pradip Mehta, William Fernandez and Mahendra Soni to get inside the auditorium. After they had gone, I requested all my other junior colleagues to enter the auditorium in spite of their resistance. However they complied with my request.

I felt a pat on my shoulder and looked back.

“Bravo Sumanta! Well done! I am happy with you.” Chanakya Nag said.

COCKTAIL IN THE RAINBOW - Chapter - 3

Chapter –3

Binoy Bhar came in and said, “Sorry to disturb you Sir again.”

I said, “You are most welcome Mr. Bhar, tell me what I can do for you.”

Bhar looked at Nandi. I could understand that he wanted to talk to me something confidential in the absence of Nandi. Probably Nandi also understands Bhar’s mind and left the cabin saying, “With your kind permission Sir.”

Bhar checked up his tie knot and clearing his throat said, “Sir, is your car free and can be spared for some time?”

I said, “Yes, it’s absolutely free and you may use it without any hesitation. I am not going out anywhere.”

“Sir, you are so kind. Actually it is not for me. I will have to send to Mrs. Nag.” Bhar said.

“Of course you can send to Mrs. Nag. But I suppose Mr. Nag’s car is free for her use as he is busy in pharma conference in Hotel Emperor Intercon.” I said.

“Yes Sir! You are right. But Mrs. Nag requires two cars as she is having some guests.” Bhar said politely.

“That’s all right. You may ask my driver to go to Mr. Nag’s residence with the car.” I said.

“Sir if you kindly advise Mansij, I mean your driver, it would be better as the fellow does not obey anybody other than General Manager or Divisional Manager under whom he works.” Bhar said scratching his fatty chin.

Bhar was correct in his assessment of Mansij whom I had already known for his trickery and slyness.

I did not get the car and driver on the first day of my joining Rainbow. Some formalities were to be complied with by the office. Second day he came with the car which was parked on the road in front of the building in which I used to reside. He appeared before me in white uniform bearing insignia “Rainbow”.

 He saluted straightening his body in upright position and said, “Good Morning Sir! I am Mansij at your service.”

He took my briefcase in his hand and led me to the car. He opened the door of the back seat and requested me to get in. He behaved upto this stage like a gentleman. But on my way to office I felt little uneasy for his undesired question.

“Sir, I heard you were better placed in the previous company, why you have come to this dirty place?”

Though little irritated I said calmly, “Today will be my first day. How do I know which is dirty or which is clean? Let me go to the office and work for sometime; only then I will know whether it is dirty or clean, O.K.!”

After sometime he said, “Sir! Please excuse me for my impertinence. My only defect, I want to be free and frank with my boss.” I saw his cunning face in the rear view mirror above the driving seat. He eyelids were quivering below thick brows.

He was driving very fast. I asked him to slow down the speed.

Reducing the speed to a great extent he said, “Sir, I was scolded many times by my previous madam for the same reason. Bad luck! She was so nice lady, but I left her services. You know, now my madam is a minister. Had I stayed with her, I would have become a government servant.”

“But you should not repent. You are well paid in Rainbow.” I said.

“You are perfectly right Sir. But there is no security here. In government service even if you do not work, your service is hundred percent secured.” Mansij said touching his forehead with his right hand.

I felt very much amused with this man and said, “When you are so much repentant, you should have gone back to your Madam. I think she would have taken you back.”

Mansij suddenly looked behind and said, “Sir you have told perfectly what I had thought. But my second wife did not approve of my going back to her.”

“Why?” I said in exclamation.

“Sir, it is difficult for me to tell you the reason as I feel shy to express in words.” Mansij said with quivering eyelids as I could see in the rear view glass.

“If you feel so, you need not tell me.” I said.

 Car was held up at the traffic signal for a longer period behind so many vehicles as the police gave away smooth passage to a VIP car following pilot motor bikes and followed by a fleet of cars and police vans. I became very much impatient though there was sufficient time to reach the office, because there would be terrific jam on the streets ahead already traversed by the VIP, his foregoing and following security personnel.

“Sir, I am illiterate, uncultured and a rural man. May be I am wrong, but it’s beyond my imagination when I see these leaders of public are so much afraid of public. In my childhood I saw leaders and ministers travelling in open hood less cars taking salutation and ovation from the public.” Mansij said with seriousness. His eyelids were normal, not quivering.

“Those were the bygone days which you can not get back.” I said.

VIP fleet was gone. As anticipated even after getting green signal, car was crawling at a snail’s pace. Mansij kept silent for sometime. Suddenly he said, “Sir, do you know what was my wife before marriage?” His eyelids started quivering.

I was bit confused for his odd query as how could I know what had been his wife before their marriage.

“She was lady’s-maid of my Madam, I mean my ex-employer.” Mansij said without waiting for my reply.

I kept silent and looked at my wristwatch being worried of reaching office in time.

The chatterbox could not remain silent for a long time. He said, “That was the only reason why she did not allow me to go back to my Madam. She was envious of Madam’s affection for me. Madam was never beautiful, rather her face looked ugly due to her protruding foreteeth. But she was very young having robust health and well-shaped body even at her middle age, which made her attractive specially……” He could not finish his lecture as the car was about to hit a Rickshaw-puller crossing the road suddenly. I asked Mansij to be careful and not to talk further before reaching office.

Bhar was awaiting my instruction to Mansij who entered my cabin with clasped hands.

“Mansij, take the car to General Manager’s house and meet “Memsaab”.” I told him.

“Thank you Sir.” Bhar said.

Looking at Bhar obliquely with concealed rage Mansij left my cabin saying, “Thank you Sir!”

“So your problem is solved.” I told Bhar.

“Terribly Sir! You are great.” Bhar said and left my cabin.

Within few days it was not possible for me to know much about office environment as I got to be busy whole day for planning the marketing strategy of the new division to make it a profit center. That was my answer when I was interviewed by Rozario in Bombay in his chamber.

“Tell us why we should select you for the position?” asked Rozario.

“Because I will make the Agro-Chemical Division a profit center.” I replied.

“Any other question, Mr. Gupta?”  Rozario asked Chandra Nath Gupta, all India Manager of Rainbow Agro-Chemicals.

“No more Sir. We have got the correct answer.” Gupta said.

Shaking hands with me Rozario said, “So Mr. Bose! You are selected for the post of Divisional Manager, Eastern Region for our Agro-Chemicals. We will shortly start laboratory chemicals which will also be looked after by you in your area. Congratulations!”

After coming back to Calcutta from Bombay initially I recruited one Sales Executive namely Chandan Purakayastha for my division. Chandan was recommended by Chanakya Nag. When I would appoint Area sales Representatives, Chandan would become District Sales Manager. Nag advertised for a lady secretary for my division and assured of recruiting a beautiful girl for me.

I was very happy to get cordial and friendly treatment from Chanakya Nag who was overall head of eastern regional establishment of Rainbow India. He was meticulous in maintenance of office, manager’s cabins, conference room, anteroom, toilet, etc. he left strict instructions with Binoy Bhusan Bhar to move around the office everyday for a check up fifteen minutes before the beginning of office hours.

On the first day of my joining the office I reported to Nag who after introducing with all the staff members accompanied me to my cabin.

“You like your room?” Chanakya Nag asked me.

“Thank you sir. It’s excellent.” I said.

I leaned from Nandi afterwards that Santunu Majumdar, ex-Divisional Manager, Home products used to sit in this cabin which was specially designed by Nag for his good friend. After his departure from Rainbow, Chanakya Nag did not allot this cabin to his successor Tarit Ganguly who was given the cabin of Ramani Talukdar. All these changes were done very recently.

That was about allotment of cabins. I could learn further from Mansij regarding reallotment of cars. After being elevated to the post of GM (East), Chanakya Nag got one new Mercedes Benz car sent from Bombay. His brand new Ambassador car was allotted to Ramani Talukdar who had been using so long one four door standard Herald. Santunu Majumdar got a new Ambassador car for his use which I got along with his driver Mansij. Tarit Ganguly got the old four door standard Herald so long used by Ramani Talukdar.

Fatik Nandi entered my cabin and said, “Sir! Mansij is down with diarrhea. He could not go to Mr. Nag’s house with your car.  

COCKTAIL IN THE RAINBOW - Chapter - 2

Chapter – 2

In the morning hours all pharma sales people, including Ramani Talukdar and Chanakya Nag were out of the office. They were busy in pharma sales conference. Though there was an official holiday for the office, managers of other divisions and essential staff members like Binoy Bhar, Fatik Nandi, Jagabandhu Adhikari and Leda Joseph, telephone operator cum receptionist were requested by Chanakya Nag to remain in the office.

So I was there in my air-conditioned cozy cabin relaxing on the soft revolving chair in an inclined position with my eyes fixed on the slow moving fan.

“Sir, may I come in?” Nandi appeared before me. “Sorry to disturb you. Should I come after some time?”

“Oh! No! Please take your seat Mr. Nandi.” I said.

Nandi sat on the chair opposite to me across the table and said, “Thank you Sir!”

“Welcome, it’s my pleasure Mr. Nandi.” I said, “You didn’t finish the story of Kipling and Kingsley. I am interested to know more about the company. What happened to those two English gentlemen?”

I relaxed on my chair again and started smoking. I offered a cigarette to Nandi. He refused with thanks as in Rainbow no office staff used to smoke in the presence of senior managers.

“What should I tell you, Sir,” Nandi said and paused for a moment closing his eyes.  “Entire office of Kipling and Kingsley was a garden of flowers. Except very few male members office was full of beautiful Anglo-Indian, Armenian and Jewish ladies. Secretary of Mr. Kingsley was such a paragon of beauty, all the male staff members were eager to have her eye-glance. I saw her other day in the Esplanade-Park Circus tram-car. Middle age could not eclipse her beauty. Miss Martin caught hold my both hands and expressed her immense pleasure of meeting me after a long time. Passengers of the tram-car were looking at me with curiosity.

“And I am looking at you with jealousy,” I said with a smile. Instantly I told him, “Sorry I am just joking with you, please continue.”

Nandi said, “Sir, I remember very much my days in Kipling and Kingsley and often become nostalgic for that period of my life, I can never get back.”

Nandi paused for a while and then said, “Worst disaster came down to Kipling and Kingsley office with the sudden death of Mr. Kipling, who was a confirmed bachelor. I mean unmarried, having no legal issue. Mr. Kingsley’s health broke down shortly after the death of his loving friend. His wife came to India once, only for a short period as she was very much afraid of Indian malaria which had taken the life of    Mr. Kipling in its malignant form. She constantly persuaded Mr. Kingsley to leave India disposing of his company and the property. Ultimately, the company along with all assets and liabilities was purchased by Mr. Topilal Sarbatwala.”

“Was there any change in salary structure or benefit, the staff members used to enjoy before the change over of management?” I asked.

Nandi said, “No Sir. There was no change for anybody. Rather Mr. Sarbatwala assured us of five-percent increase in salary after six months. All male staff members were happy and thanked Mr. Sarbatwala for his generosity. The ladies kept standing with their pale white faces. They seemed to be very much unhappy. Of course, when asked by Mr. Sarbatwala, they smiled.”

“Why the ladies were not happy?” I asked. Nandi started laughing and said, “Sir, I feel shy to tell you. Ladies used to earn much more from Mr. Kipling and Mr. Kingsley besides their salary depending upon their capacities in pleasing them and their guests.”

Suddenly Binoy Bhusan Bhar entered my cabin with Ramchandra and carpenter Khodabox having screw-driver in one hand and measuring tape roll in another hand.

“Sorry to disturb you Sir. I have come just for a check-up of the cabin. Is there any defect with your furniture Sir?” Bhar asked me.

“No thanks! Everything is all right. Nothing is defective.” I said with a smile, though I did not like his entering my cabin in such fashion.

 Before leaving my cabin Bhar looked at Nandi with vexation, probably because he did not like his sitting before me. In Rainbow no office staff except personal secretaries used to sit inside GM’s and DM’s cabins. Though I did not like this system or norm, as I was new in the company I did not break that. Since it was a holiday and everybody was in festive mood, I requested Nandi to sit before me.

After departure of Bhar I told Nandi, “Be easy. You need not worry for Bhar. If he reports anything to Nag, I will take care of you.”

“Thank you, Sir!” Nandi said with an expression of gratitude.

On my first day in Rainbow, Chanakya Nag introduced me with all the Managers, officers and staff members of the office. When we went to Nandi’s table, he said, shaking hands with me, “Good morning Sir, welcome to Rainbow India. Always at your service, Sir.”

After half an hour Nandi entered my cabin and told me, “Sir! Please consider me as your own person as you are from Kipling and Kingsley, my old company. I will remain always at your service.”

Since that day I have enjoyed company of Fatik Nandi, who used to come to me somehow or other evading falcon looks of Binoy Bhar.

Getting himself very homely again, Nandi told me more about his days in Kipling and Kingsley.

“After the changeover, almost all the ladies left the company for the future. Even some of the sales and medical representatives joined the services of the other companies. I remained along with few more office staffs. Mr. Topilal Sarbatwala recruited some new persons, both in the office and the field. He finalized new agency agreements with some Indian companies.

One day I heard that Rainbow International would terminate their agency agreement with Kipling and Kingsley as they had already finalized their factory site in Bombay after getting a license from the government. I too heard that Mr. William Anderson, overseas manager for Southeast Asia of Rainbow International got the charge of setting up factory in India and he would become the first managing director of Rainbow India.”

Nandi paused for a second and said, “When gossips regarding Rainbow cooled down, one day I was very surprised to find Mr. William Anderson in our office. Mr. Sarbatwala came out from his chamber to receive Mr. Anderson. I was standing very much near to the door of Mr. Sarbatwala’s chamber. While going into the chamber Mr. Anderson saw me and said loudly, waving his right hand, “Hallow Fatik? How are you?”   

Not only Mr. Sarbatwala, everybody in the office got stunned.”

“Did you meet Mr. Anderson beforehand?” I asked.

“Not once, many times” Nandi said with gravity and told further, “Whenever Mr. Anderson used to come to Calcutta, Mr. Kipling and Mr. Kingsley entertained him at their Alipore Bunglow. Though there had been official room booked in Hotel Emperor Intercon, Mr. Anderson was a special guest in Alipore Bunglow. Only two trusted persons were engaged to look after William Anderson. For indoor comfort Helen Martin, personal secretary of Kingsley and for outdoor job, this poor man, Fatik Nandi.” Nandi said with confidence.

There was a phone call for me. It was from my residence. My sister informed me that a letter had come from American Agro-Chemicals. It was about my appointment letter and obviously I dropped the receiver with a smile.

“Sir any good news?” Nandi asked me.

“Nothing special, please continue your interesting episode of Kipling and Kingsley.” I said.

“Oh! Really interesting. That was the golden time of my life. Do you know what happened that day?” Nandi asked me.

“How can I know unless you tell me?” I said with a smile.

“After having meeting with Mr. Sarbatwala, when Mr. Anderson was going out, he dropped his visiting card on my table. On the back hotel room number was written. I was sure he desired me to see him in his hotel room.”

Nandi did not complete his story, suddenly he got up from the chair and with my permission left the cabin.

I sank in my soft revolving chair with high backrest and closing my eyes thought about my new assignment in American Agro-Chemical. Within a fortnight I would have to complete passport, visa, foreign exchange and other various documents, besides making some new arrangement for my family.

Within ten or fifteen minutes Nandi entered my cabin and said, “Sir, I am sorry to go out abruptly. My wife and daughter were to come here to attend the function. So I went out to see whether they had come.”

“Have they come?” I asked.

“Not yet, Sir. They will come by local train from Canning. My brother-in-law will pick them from my residence and leave at the office. That was the arrangement.” Nandi said.

I said, “Please do not worry about them. Canning is quite far from Calcutta. Sometimes local trains are irregular. They will come in no time. Please take your seat.”

Nandi sat on the chair and said, “Some interesting news! Binoy Bhar may come to you very shortly.”

“He is most welcome. Anything special?” I asked Nandi.

Nandi looked at the closed door of my cabin and said in low voice, “Car politics.”
I stared at him and said, “Sorry, can’t follow you.”

Before Nandi could say anything there was a gentle knock at the cabin door.

I said, “Yes, come in.”