My first train journey

### A Nostalgic Journey from Kollengode to Pazhani

The year was 1957, a time when the simplicity of train travel held a charm that has somewhat faded in the age of rapid modernity. My first train journey from Kollengode to Pazhani is a memory etched with the vivid strokes of innocence and wonder, accompanied by my family which included my parents, grandmother, and cousins. This particular travel not only marked my first experience on a train but also a memorable family trip that remains cherished to this day.

The journey began at the Kollengode railway station, a quaint structure that came alive with the shrill hisses and the steam puffs of the arriving train. As a child, the sight and sounds were nothing short of theatrical; the large locomotive appeared as a giant beast from a storybook, breathing clouds of steam as it slowly halted by the platform. The excitement was palpable among us children, our faces beaming with joy as we clambered aboard, eagerly ushering in an adventure.

As the train departed, the initial jerks of the carriage soon smoothed into a rhythmic motion, the wheels clattering melodically over the tracks. The journey was as visual as it was auditory; the periodic whistle of the engine added to the symphony of sounds. Seated by the window, I was captivated by the blurring scenery—a mosaic of green as trees danced past swiftly. The view was an ever-changing landscape, offering a glimpse into the rural heartlands of the region as we crossed into Tamil Nadu, moving through stations like Udumalpet.

The true magic of the journey lay not just in the sights and sounds but in the shared experience with my family. Stories were exchanged, snacks were passed around, and laughter filled our humble carriage, creating bonds that would be fondly recalled at family gatherings for years to come.

Upon reaching Pazhani, our journey transitioned from the industrial to the rustic as we swapped steel wheels for horse hooves. The transfer from the train to a horse cart brought its own delight. The rhythmic clopping of horse feet and the occasional commands of the cart driver provided a perfect countryside symphony as we approached the famed Pazhani Hills. This leg of the trip, though less mechanically impressive than the train, was imbued with a charm of its own. The pace was slower, allowing us to absorb the sights and sounds of the approaching town, the air getting cooler as we ascended towards the hills.

The final destination was not merely a geographic location but a culmination of joy, bonding, and the thrill of a new experience. The Pazhani Hills, known for their spiritual significance and breathtaking views, were a fitting end to our journey. As we explored the area, the sense of accomplishment was profound—not just in reaching the destination, but in the shared journey that brought us there.

This train journey from Kollengode to Pazhani in 1957 remains a treasured memory, not only for the nostalgic embrace of a simpler time but for the joy and unity it fostered among us as a family. It stands as a testament to the enduring magic of train travel, capable of weaving unforgettable narratives and experiences that resonate through generations.

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