I don't remember the exact date, but probably it was in the month of August 1991. I was attached as a free lancer to a least know weekly “ The Democratic Forum” ; my fancy to give a try to my journalistic flair was the sole motive with that association. My editor, Late Mr M.L. Shah was the person who was encouraging me. That day he came to my office and asked if I was free in the evening. Fortunately I was and asked him back the reason. He said Mr Jyoti Basu would give a press conference at the press club, Kolkata and if I wish I could attend that. It was a pleasant surprise ; so I readily agreed. In the evening Mr, B.L. Shah of “Dainik Rooplekha” , a Hindi daily from the same stable of my weekly, fetched me from my office to the press club. We were early birds, outside the club , on the lawn people were sitting making circles and chatting with each other. I felt a fish out of water, as none knew me and so I. Turning to my companion, I found he was enjoying my discomfort! ...