Nagpur and Hyderabad

The grind of having to read this post has been on for you guys for the last month or so.

So, combining two days into one, to minimise pain.

Have taken no pictures in the last two days. 

Got into Nagpur yesterday pre lunch, much before schedule. We were terrified that the place was dry as the elections are around the corner. 

Only difference in the drive to Nagpur was that I had a large presence sitting next to me. He had been nice enough to fly in to Bhopal to spend the evening with me in Ratapani. And, drive the stretch to Nagpur and fly out to Chennai. 

For the first time drove with both front windows open. There was a head wind, great weather. Thin rain almost all the way thru. 

Stopped at a dhaba halfway. Had some aloo parotha and eggs. Place was owned by this ancient sardar, who insisted on wanting to show me his dog. Went along to see this massive fellow lying on a khatiya. The dog was covering the cot. The story I got was that he had been ordered online, and then brought from Russia by truck. Well, whatever the truth, great looking massive dog.

We were stopped as we entered Maharashtra and searched. Elections. One and a half bottles of whiskey taken away. Post that, major thought driving in to Nagpur was hoping that the bar would be open. First question into the hotel was about our sanity. Fortunately, bar sales were open till 6pm that evening. Must you then ask. Enjoyed the beer, with some Napgur style biryani. 

Interesting fact, all rooms were named after sports personalities. The hotel was owned by an Everest climber !!

Entertainment continued in the evening. Younger daughter's friend who works tigers that area came in for a beer. Bought two as soon as he came in, so beat the 6PM rule. He was good enough to bring in some single malt for me. Needless to say, all was polished.

Departed this morning for Hyderabad around 0600. Poured for the first half hour. Then cloudy all the way thru. Was giving up hope of getting any breakfast,  saw this tiffen place. Got idlis and sambar. Drove on, well sated. 

Reached Hyderabad by lunch. Staying at a hotel on the highway past Hyderabad, opposite Ramoji Film City. It does not have a food place, So have to step out to local dhaba.

Tomorrow plan to leave early, as I head back Chennai.

So, this diary closes here.

Thank you. Hoped you enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed writing this. 

See you.