Today I reached Hyderabad for a meeting and learnt that I would be staying at the Golconda Resorts. It is a fabulous property next to the Gandipet Lake on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The ambience is nice, the rooms are wonderful, the staff is helpful and the morning walks are peaceful.
But the last time I stayed here, it was 26/11 and Mumbai was attacked. I remember sitting glued to the TV in my room, horrified of what was happening. India was under attack and we seemed like jokers to the world. A few terrorists had killed with gay abandon and held the country to ransom for three days. It was India’s 9/11. It hurt our psyche and changed us forever.
As I checked into Golconda Resorts, I could not but help remember the last visit. I had this strange premonition that this day would be historic. It was indeed.
Sachin Tendulkar has scored 200 runs in a one-day cricket match against South Africa. Today, India has come together to rejoice in one of the greatest sporting feats. No one had broken the 200-runs barrier in a 50-overs match. There are only 300 balls to be played and one expects an opening batsman who stays the entire time to face roughly 150 balls. Sachin did it in 147 balls. And he did it against South Africa, which is currently one of the best bowling sides in the world.
My only regret is that I was traveling and could not see Sachin's historic innings live. Well done, Tendy. Thank you for all the good times you have given us. Thank you for uniting us as a Nation to rejoice in your feat. This is not just your moment. It is ours too.
We will not and must not forget 26/11, but we should also remember 24/2. I will always remember Golconda Resorts for these bitter-sweet memories.
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