I still haven't heard my name called. As we part, Patil turns to walk away, only to find the short line of people behind him with cards proffered, hoping for a moment of his time. This is not your standard conference. A bustle at the podium indicates that it is time to retreat to my table in the back. This seems to be second nature to Joshi, a task he relishes.
Cards flash and disappear in a twinkling.
We also agree to talk further as the meeting progresses and Rekhi departs for a hallway meeting. Joshi meanwhile, has mounted the podium, his brown face anchored by a huge smile as he looks at the crowd. More introductions are made. A woman at our table is attending today's meeting to prepare for her own presentation at the next monthly meeting. She is, she explains, trying to raise money here to produce a book or a program on how to prepare Indian food with American spices.