Temperature
The Delhi CM, Mrs RG, recently unveiled her rather distinctive understanding of science. In an interview with NDTV, she explained – quite confidently, that the Air Quality Index (AQI) is, in fact, a “temperature”. And no, she didn’t pause there to let reality catch up. She went on to add that this “temperature” can be measured using any instrument. While her critics may dismiss this as bizarre, this blogger prefers to see it as evidence of a far deeper scientific sensitivity – particularly towards “temperature-related phenomena” in Mrs RG and her party. For proof, Dilliwalahs will recall the last-minute removal of Poonam Pandey from playing Mandodari at a Ram Lila in Delhi. Temperature again. Ms Pandey is widely known for her temperature-raising photos and videos, which perhaps would have pushed the mercury a little too high for comfort, prompting her abrupt exit from the cast. Scientific consistency, one must admit, deserves applause.
And while Dilliwalahs remain preoccupied with their air and the AQI, a report quietly reminded them that even drinking water is no longer safe. Data submitted by the Central Groundwater Board to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) revealed that over 20% of groundwater samples in Delhi contain nitrate levels above permissible limits, with some samples exceeding the safe standard by more than 22 times. Clearly, Delhi offers a complete sensory experience – lungs, stomach, and nerves all engaged.
As if polluted air and poisoned water weren’t sufficient, Dilliwalahs woke up on November 23 to yet another cause for concern. Four jackals escaped through an opening at the rear of their enclosure in the Delhi Zoo. Authorities promptly assured citizens that the animals had been caught. Mostly. There remains a tacit admission that at least one jackal may still be at large. The real fear, however, is not that a jackal is roaming free – but where it might end up. Dilliwalahs fear is that if the canine gets into Lutyens Delhi then it will be difficult to single out the one that came out from the Zoo!
State-of-Delhi Suggests: While winter in Delhi means happily sampling gazak, rewari, and gajar ka halwa after almost every meal, Dilliwalahs remain fiercely loyal to their kulfi-faluda, cold weather notwithstanding. So head to a Kuremal Kulfi outlet – there are now quite a few of these scattered across the city and take your pick. This blogger recommends the classic kulfi-faluda for purists. For the more adventurous, try the jamun kulfi, served with a light sprinkle of masala – a nudge so that that one need not unnecessarily obsess with temperatures!
