I returned to Kolkata on the 29th after a rather tiring tour of UP and a brief visit to Patna in Bihar. I don't know whether it was the fluctuating weather, the long car journeys through the dusty countryside or if it was the "cheap" hotels I've had to stay in, no sooner had I arrived in Kolkata, I fell ill. I don't know what's wrong. I have low grade fever and a terrible cough. Hence, my plans to go to Bolpur upon my return and then on to the project from there, is now on hold. At least I have Raj and Mitali to take care of me here in Kolkata. There's no one in Bolpur and it would be suicidal to go to the project while ill as there are no doctors there!
So I'm trying to rest as much as possible. Watching TV, catching up on mail and paperwork. And hoping that I'll soon be well enough to travel to the project. Meanwhile though, I have been in touch with Roldih through Bansi, whom I call occasionally. He seems well settled. The project seems to be functioning without a hitch. And they managed to celebrate Republic Day without much help from me or Bhola. I'm a little disappointed that I could not be there as the occasion gives me the opportunity to talk to the villagers. The next opportunity I will get is on the 8th of February which is Basant Panchami, a day when students celebrate Saraswati Pooja.
Bhola has been in hospital in Burdwan all this while. The doctors confirmed that he has brain tumor. But since it has been detected at such an early stage, he can be treated with medicines. He will, however, have to go for monthly check ups. I've asked him to take it easy till he is completely well. His father informed me that they have sold his van. So Bhola will not be moving around too much. Just as well.
I have not been able to talk to Renee or Lucy, their phone seem to be switched off all the time! Or at least when I try to call. But Bansi tells me that they are ok and seem quite happy spending time on the project with the children. I suppose he's right because if they had problems, I'm sure they would have called.
