Not without my mask
Updated On: 08 June, 2020 07:00 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona Fernandez
This columnist wonders how certain Bombay species typical to the city, will possibly behave as they get on with their professions in the 'new normal', wearing that all-important mask

Some of these fisherwomen at Akurli Road, Kandivli, seen without their masks as it probably constrains their haggling with and yelling out to customers. Pic/Satej Shinde
Mr zippy-fast: The autorickshaw driver, our very own version of Speedy Gonzales; this species is sure to have a tough time mouthing gaalis, spitting paan and calling out to his friends with the mask now that the gag order has zipped up his outlet of delivery. Who knows, he might find a way out and invent his own version of the mask, jugaad-style. After all, gaadi toh chalaana hai.
Maushi Machhiwaali: Gosh! She is going to be in a fix. Who will we get to hear those decibel-defying shouts of "Machhi ka paani; side mein ho jao" at most railway platforms during morning rush hour? Or even as she has to yell out her trademark shout to customers at the neighbourhood fish market: "Bhau, ikde ye na; taaji paaplet aahe." She too, we suspect, might come up with a custom made fishnet [what else!] mask to ensure she gets her way in these post-lockdown times.




