Though those outside Delhi's informed circles must find it amazing, the fact is that few people in active public life ever wish to be elevated to the high office of President.

Delhi is alarming when its calm. Peace here feels scary. A quiet day makes everyone anxious. A day without a crisis seems ominous.

Why don't you people realise that Gandhi doesn't sell anymore; today's voter is no longer willing to chew him, you see!” Rajiv Gandhi once shocked his Congress seniors.

I have just returned from a week-long trip to the UP hills which took me through several cities and towns, all of them in a state of utter decay.