October 1, 1964 was the day when Brindavan Express was introduced. It completed the 358-km journey in five hours with stops at Katpadi and Jolarpet. It was the favourite of families, the working class and students alike. It has seen engine changes — from diesel to diesel/electric with a changeover at Jolarpet which was then electric. The number of stops increased. It was then ironically classified as being “superfast”. It had first class, later replaced by air-conditioned chair car, but now has only second class coaches with the introduction of the double decker train. The oldest staff member serving in the catering unit in my memory was Srinivasan who joined as a youngster and worked till past 2000. He was known for his familiar smile.
George Vergese,
Chennai
