Happened to read that Mr. T.N Shanbhag of the Strand Book Stall passed away.
For a moment, it seemed difficult to comprehend he was no more, and I recall meeting him over a decade ago, when I was staying in Mumbai. I was always on the look out for book stores and especially those where I didn’t have someone always hovering around me while I browsed around, asking what I wanted to buy. No doubt such people try to be helpful, but once in a book store, I prefer being left alone to explore all there is on offer 🙂
The Strand Book Stall in Mumbai is a treasure trove and I used to frequent the place a lot, quite often just in the hope of finding a book I’d long wanted to own or even just to browse around. Mr. Shanbhag of course was always helpful and would even suggest books or authors similar to one’s interest.
I remember asking him for the unabridged version of “The Scarlet Pimpernel“, which my Mom was keen to read, having seen that book once, many years ago. Unfortunately, this book was not available at the Strand, and Mr. Shanbhag was quite vexed about that and promised to try and obtain it.
Rest in peace Mr. Shanbhag, you will be missed.
