Calicut - real queen, hats off

I went to calicut few days back. Got down at the railway station at 5.30am. The city was very reluctantly opening it's eyes. People on footpath had already left for their morning chores. Police man was sleeping soundly in the Outpost room. I decided to walk slowly through the SM street. Some are leisurely sitting and puffing there beedies. The dawn was still hot and humid. I reached in front of Calicut nursing home, where my friend is working and is my today's landlord. Took out my HTC mobile and called him. Sleepish voice answered. He agreed to keep the door open. Watchman reluctanly permitted me inside and to the first floor where my friend is staying.

I entered the room which resembled a garage. Several years daily newspaper was piles up everywhere even on toilet flush. Soiled and cleaned clothes were nicely bundled up together. Only few square feet were available for me to keep my feet. I requested him to continue his sleep which he readily agreed. I went ahead boldly with my morning rituals, I mean brushing, bathing etc.
I called my another friend who is organizing the get together of my batch. To my joy, he had already arranged an innova from Hotel Renaissance, Palayam. I made up my mind to get out of this den. I set out towards Palayam. The road was full of petty vendors collecting there goods particularly fruits. The union leaders and others were shouting at the height of there voice. Small teashop was having heavy business. People were relishing there morning tea and 'Pathiri' a calicut specialty.
I wanted to eat some thing. Went directly to Hotel Ansar. Took some time for the waiter to recognize me. 'Noolputtu' (noodles) and egg curry was served. I wanted to have a tea but could not fulfill the desire as my watch showed I am running short of time.
I inquired to one taxi driver the whereabouts of Hotel Renaissance. Calicut people are very special in this regard. They will be ready to help you and see that you reach the correct spot. Same phenomena recurred. When I was standing near the entrance of the hotel I could recognize my older friends passing by even though could not exactly decipher the names.
We reached the place where the actual get together was arranged. Greeted by my friends whom I could, by Gods grace could recognize. Some have lost there hair and grown there paunch. Most of them have built there family in strength. Minimum was two kids. I could not find the basic instinct of some, who were considered as chronic irritants. Very polished, speaking only relevantly.
I returned back to calicut town with my soul full. I could spent time again, as a student among my friends. I went to KR Bakery in Palayam. From there went to Jaya auditorium, Tali to meet another friend and his family. I preferred to walk. No much changes.
He took me to his house where I took my food. I had luck to visit calicut beach. We both sat on the newly structured beach wall. Even though time was over 11pm people were still there on the beach, thanks to the humid climate. Except for a clash (minor) with a drunk beggar who wanted fiscal help, which we summarily rejected, everything went on well.
My return train came in the fourth platform, which I was unaware of the existence. There also calicutian helped. I rushed towards the new platform through the neo-overbridge. Luckily I got the train......