Remembering college friends and elections

Memories of my alma mater, Cotton College (now Cotton University) in Guwahati remain forever etched in my heart. I had nurtured a long-cherished dream of studying at this iconic institution. When I finally secured admission in 1988, my happiness knew no bounds. During my under-graduation years, I made many friends. One of them, Rupak Roy still remains my best friend and confidante. We often shared meals in the boarders' rooms and savoured samosas and tea at the canteen. Those were moments of camaraderie and bonhomie — discussing studies and more, though sometimes there were heated debates, too. Yet, there was no animosity.

I loved wandering the campus spread over a large area with abundant greenery. There were typical Assam houses all over the campus with their many doors and windows. Sadly, such architectural marvels are increasingly giving way to concrete (and most times ugly) high-rises.

I vividly remember the college’s union society elections. Rupak won the post of social service secretary. But the person who won the post of general secretary was none other than the present Chief Minister of Assam, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma.

I am grateful to my alma mater that made me what I am today.

Sabir Nishat, Guwahati