My first jump! – Bungee

19th November 2004, 9pm: It was the day before I had to leave for the US on my first onsite assignment. It was a hot day, but the night was very pleasant in Noida. Decided to treat my friends in the PG I was staying in, and we went to Atta market. We saw this huge crane (120 ft high) with lots of floodlights and people around. Got close to see what’s going on, and guess what! a bungee jump. Not a lot of takers, so there was no queue at the ticket counter. I initially had no intention of doing it, but this friend of mine (a sardar) was all excited and was like… JK, let’s do it. It’s going to be fun! You will not regret it. We stood there for about 10 min to see at least one person do it. Finally, one brave soul did it, and we decided to go for it too.

All geared up and the elastic rope tied to my leg, I had to hop to a small compartment attached to the crane. At 120 ft, the night view of the Atta Market was simply amazing. The chill breeze flowing past me was a catalyst to the experience. I was now asked by the staff, “Do you want me to give you a push, or are you going to jump yourself?” I told her I will jump myself. The reason was I wanted to experience every single moment of it. A push might take it all away.

Trust me, this was the most difficult part. Hands stretched, legs tied, and trying to tell your mind to push your body forward so your center of gravity can fall in front of you and you can make the jump is not easy at all. Every time I try to push myself forward, my legs will not allow it, and I just can’t do it. After about 15 seconds, I gave all I could to push myself forward. The next few seconds were bliss. At this moment, there were two things running in my head. First, “WTF am I doing???” and second, “Why am I not able to feel the elastic tied to my leg???” 🙂 After a few seconds, when you reach a point where the elastic cord pulls you up, that’s when the rope tightens around your leg and you get your “life” back. I literally mean this.

Those who have stage fright should try this. When you go on stage the next time, just think of this moment, and fear will no longer be in your eye. Called up home and told them what I did. Yeah, it started off with my mom scolding me, “Is this the time to do such crazy things? You are traveling tomorrow, and you are doing all this nonsense.” 🙂

Learning 1: You never know if opportunity will knock again. So when you have the chance, go for it.
Learning 2: If you want to do something crazy, do it first. Listen to no one but your instincts. Else it might be an opportunity lost.

#Adventure