More poojas after the Inaugural Special DEMU is reversed onto PF-1! (Pawan Koppa)

A look at the DEMU on PF-1 where every inch of viewing space was taken up by public. At the far end of the DEMU was the RM Special which was parked a few meters behind. (Pawan Koppa)

A thank-you note at the rear end of the DEMU! (Pawan Koppa)

Here we go...or so we thought. The starter and advance starter turned Amber and Green respectively a good 1 hour before departure! Scheduled dep : 10:30 hrs, Actual : 12:30 hrs! (Pawan Koppa)

Soon we head off from CBP amid cheers of joy and whistles! (Pawan Koppa)

This is what accompanies you throughout the line - breathtaking views of fields, hills and pristine village life all around! (Pawan Koppa)

Look at that for a reception - as the DEMU enters Shidlaghatta station! (Pawan Koppa)

A train finally chugs into Sidlaghatta station after 17 years! Just see the enthusiasm amongst the people to catch a glimpse of the train! (Sant Kulk)

The crowd teeming, bursting, exploding all over - the RM special followed us after a few minutes into each station. The crowd were more eager to witness that than our Inaugural rake! The sequence was this - we arrive at station, wait few minutes, RM speci

How's that! A human box around our Inaugural DEMU! (Pawan Koppa)

A sea of humanity everywhere! (Pawan Koppa)

A DEMU never got so much attention ever! (Pawan Koppa)

Brilliant views in and around Shidlaghatta from the FOB! (Pawan Koppa)

We race ahead from Shidlaghatta - the lovely views never end! (Pawan Koppa)

Next stop - Chintamani and its action replay! Kids run along to welcome our train! (Pawan Koppa)