For Moolah One

What was the "aam admi" doing at the Buddh International Circuit this Sunday

Half of the city seemed to be at the Buddh International Circuit on Sunday. We were also among those headed for Greater Noida - for the sake of friends, and for want of a better plan.

Since we were neither a crazy F1 fan nor a privileged brat, we shelled out no more than Rs 2,000 (the least it took to be there) for an entry to the Picnic Stand. Also, since we could not manage a parking pass, it entailed leaving the car 16 km short of the venue (parking there cost Rs 400), and availing a free ride to the Buddh International Circuit in a non-AC and rickety school bus.

Once we got there, we realised why it was called as the Picnic Stand - it was as good as being at Lodhi Gardens on a bright Sunday. Patrons could make themselves comfortable anywhere on the grass. Only wish we were told to carry some sheets or mats along.

Soon, the clock struck three and the cars started to zoom past, making an unbelievably loud sound. The ear plugs provided to everyone at the entrance came in handy. We soon realised that most people in the Picnic Stand were like us - who had nothing to do with either luxury or sport, but here we were, watching the world's topmost luxury sport.

As the excitement to see the cars died down after the first 15 minutes, most people started looking around. For youngsters, it was a perfect occasion to pose for Facebook pictures and update their BBM status. As for families, menfolk got up and moved towards the food stalls to fetch something for their children and better halves.

Throughout the 90 minutes of the race, in spite of the ear-deafening sound, there were loud and animated conversations all over. "Shoe Maker! Shoe Maker in that car!"screamed the lady on my left to her young boy, pointing to a vehicle that she believed was being maneuvered by Michael Schumacher. As her husband came back with a tray full of wafers, biryani, cola drinks and beer, the trio got busy in eating and reclining on the grass – what with F1 and Schumacher.

... contd.

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