If you want to observe different kinds of people and their behaviour, there is hardly a better place than a railway station. Spending just an hour there can teach you a lot about human nature.

I once spent an hour at a railway station while waiting for my uncle, who was arriving from Pune. I had checked the train schedule incorrectly and reached almost an hour before the train was due. However, I did not mind the wait at all because it turned out to be quite interesting.

As usual, the platform was crowded. Families sat beside piles of luggage, patiently waiting for their trains. Some young children were crying, while their parents tried to keep them calm with snacks and chocolates. The porters stood nearby, watching the passengers and hoping to find someone who might need help carrying bags. Several stalls on the platform were selling newspapers, magazines, books, tea and snacks. Small groups of people gathered around them. Others walked up and down the platform, checking their phones and waiting impatiently for announcements.

I also noticed some people throwing wrappers and other rubbish on the ground. A few were even spitting on the platform. It was disappointing to see such careless behaviour. Why could they not use the dustbins provided? Why make a public place dirty? I even stopped two boys who had dropped a packet wrapper on the floor.

A couple of stray dogs were wandering around in search of food. One of them came near me and sniffed at my shoes. Just then, there was sudden movement all around. The loudspeaker came alive with an announcement. My uncle’s train had finally arrived! I stood up quickly and looked around. In such a huge crowd, how was I going to spot him?