Dehradun, March 4 -- It has been more than 55 years from the days of my growing up in Dehradun in the '60s. Changing landscapes, age and growth of the city make that a long time for some memories to vanish, and some to fade. But there are some that stay sharp, which even the avalanche of change has not been able to dim, submerge or bury.

The Daat Kali Mandir was and still is a major landmark of Dehradun. Everyone entering Doon from Delhi or Saharanpur, or leaving it had to pass by it. However, a new tunnel and the elevated highway has made it possible for travelers to now give it a skip.

It wasn't like that during my growing up days.

It seems just like yesterday that I was walking with my dad to it. It was near our bungalow. It was ear...