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Chalo, after a conversation with Nilanjana, here's another one.
ND was furious. He had not been selected in the school's annual day cultural event. The reason? Indian instruments were not allowed and he couldn't play the drums. "Shitass people. I can play the Pakhawaj, Mirdang, Tabla, Nal, Khol; and these bastards had the nerve to tell me that I couldn't participate!!!' In a fit of rage he punched at the seat in front. The weak wood-support took no time to show a few cracks.
ND was a really popular guy in school.... Really good at cricket, high jump, music and academics as well. There had been a huge uproar against the decision taken by the Cultural Secretary- Uday Swaroop, who happened to be ND's rival. ND studied in the 8th grade at that time and he vowed that by the time he reached class 12, he would be the BEST drummer in the history of the school.
Next month, during the summer holidays, he decided to go to Joshua Grant, India's famous Jazz drummer. He was warmly welcomed by Joshua. "So what brings you here ND? I've heard a lot about you from my friend Srijan." Srijan was ND's classmate and a drummer. He had felt really bad that day.
"I have come to you to learn drums, Joshua. I want to be the greatest.: Joshua did not laugh off this proposal. He was well aware of ND's prowess as an Indian Rhythm percussionist, and he respected ND's dedication.
"Alright ND, I'm willing to teach you. But mind you, the road ahead is not easy. You'll have to struggle."
"Nothing is impossible with a strong willpower and yearning to learn and excel, Joshua. I'm ready."
"Fair enough. I'll look forward to see you on Friday, 10am."
ND knew that not even 1 per cent of his work was complete, but he was glad that Joshua had accepted him as a student.
Sunday, 9:56am: Joshua's doorbell rang. "Good heaven's ND!! I didn't expect you to come before time!" ND gave him a lopsided smile. "Now then. Let's begin, ND" Together, they headed towards the room where Joshua's Drum-kit was kept. Tama StarClassic; Birch/Acoustic shells, 9mm thick; Remo Weatherking Pinstripe drum-skins; Iron Cobra double bass pedal; Zildjian ZBT bronze cymbals. :ND was awestruck.
Joshau began by teaching ND a few rudiments whci ND picked up in no time. Then they started with sight-reading, grade1 drumming.... and within a month, ND had successfully completed his Grade1.
