Dominique

Now it is time to introduce Dominique, our Driver.  We feel so fortunate to have him as our Indian Companion.

Technically, Dominique’s job is to be available to drive us around 6 days a week.  But, that is hardly the description I would give him.  Certainly, he is our driver, but he is also our Concierge, Tourguide, Bodyguard, and Our Friend.    

Dominique lives between Rene’s work and our hotel.  Dominique’s day starts early.  He drives his motorcycle 30 minutes to our hotel, which is where our car is parked overnight.  He switches to the car and drives Rene to work (1.5 hours).  Then: (a) If Benjamin and I don’t need him or are not here, he spends his day outside of Rene’s plant hanging out with the other drivers.  (b) If Benjamin and I would like to go somewhere, he drives all the way back (1.5 hours) to drive us around…and then returns to pick Rene up from work.  Keep in mind, that after he drops Rene off at the hotel, he then parks the car and still has to drive his motorcycle home (30 minutes).  Rene has been working some VERY long hours, so that translates to very long hours for Dominique. 

What does Dominique do while he is waiting outside Rene’s work?  He talks with the other drivers, he talks on his cell phone (which rings ALL the time), he sleeps, he eats in Rene’s plant…and I learned this weekend that sometimes he draws.  I hope to see some of his drawings soon. 

Rene and Dominique have developed quite a friendship.  If you spend 3 hours a day in the car with someone, I think that is very natural.  They joke together, sing, and have a good time.  Since we have been here, I can see how easy this is.  Dominique is great.  He has lived in the Pune area his whole life, so if I ask, ‘Do you know someone that can make some clothing alterations for me?’  He say ‘Yes, Ma’am.’  Oh…by the way, all the Indian workers call us Sir and Ma’am. 

Rene was tied up at work on Saturday, so Dominique took Benjamin and I to a couple tourist sites.  It was great.  He gave us a little history, shielded Benjamin from too much attention, and even helped with carrying Benjamin.  Benjamin likes Dominique.  This is great, because he has grown a little tired of all the attention he gets for the hotel employees, but still likes to see Dominique. 

Yesterday, Dominique brought his wife, Neeta, to our area of town to meet us.  She was excited to meet us and we were naturally excited to meet her.  She was a bit shy, but I think the next time we meet will be more comfortable. 

Dominique has 2 children.  His daughter, Aville, is 6 years old and his son, Kevin, is 5 years old.  They live in a 2 room apartment (not sure if it is 2 rooms or 2 bedrooms), that they share with Dominique's mom and I think his sister (need to check on that).  He said his son sleeps in the room with Dominique and his wife and that his daughter likes to sleep in Grandma's room.