“Beta, do you want a Barbie doll or a smartphone for your birthday?” an indulgent, sari-clad woman, asked her four-year-old niece. Aunt and niece were part of an entourage that had boarded the train at Currey Road station, after their darshan at Lalbaugcha Raja. Everyone was in a good mood. After all, it’s no mean feat to negotiate queues and crowds to seek the elephant god’s blessings at this sought-after destination.

We were curious to hear the little girl’s reply to her aunt. “Smartphone!” she exclaimed, in a second, her wide-eyed expression driving home the thrill of receiving such a gift. The girl’s mother smiled on, and the group continued to plan the birthday that was just a few days away. But the idea of receiving a cell phone had got the girl in a cute little jig; never mind the crowds that looked on endearingly. That exchange was merely a reflection of how middle-class India – of which the local train, represents a sizeable, ideal platform for this observation. This trend is more obvious as one gauges the extent to everyone has gotten hooked on to this palm-sized wonder toy. We looked around the compartment, and there was further validation.