Tandoori delight

The glorious sounds and sights and smells attack Mr. M as he cautiously edges into the crowded shophouse. The exquisite fragrances of freshly baked naan, sizzling tandoori chickens, and exotic varieties of curries and gravies transport him into aromatic bliss. The bustling crowd eating, drinking, talking, laughing, and the pounding rhythms and ethereal melodies of traditional Indian music tease and pamper his ears, playing his mind into fantasies of sweltering India, where spices and culinary pleasures abound.
A friendly worker balances a plate of steaming chapatti as he ushers this awestruck gentleman up a steep, narrow flight of stairs to an empty table by a window. Makan (What would you like to eat, sir?) ? The able, earnest-faced worker speaks almost no English. Er...tandoori satu, garlic naan dua, bagi daging dada (One tandoori, two garlic naan, breast meat please).
The worker shakes his head in recognition and rushes off to attend to another customer.
Our quiet gentleman removes his silk tie, loosens his starched collar, and carefully rolls up his sleeves. He walks over to a nearby sink and meticulously washes his hands, a must for those intending to fully indulge in the North Indian dining experience. He returns to his seat and waits expectantly.
Presently another dark-faced, bright-eyed worker hands him a cup of cold water and a banana leaf to eat out of.
The earnest-faced worker returns, this time armed with a plate of tandoori chicken and a basket of steaming naan. The succulent chunks of chicken are dyed a deep red, framed by shreds of onion and carrot. Mr. M thanks the earnest-faced worker, says a quick prayer of thanksgiving over the victuals and sets to. From the curry pot on his table, he scoops generous helpings of dhall curry onto his banana leaf.
Ever so slowly, he downs the naan, a tender chunk of chicken nestled in the fold of each curry-soaked piece. The powerful aroma fills his nostrils with each bite, enveloping him, carrying him to heights of gastronomic ecstasy.
All too soon, the meal is over. His empty banana leaf stares mournfully back at him. His digestive system cries out for mercy as it struggles to digest the mountain of food that has just been sent down the tracks. Leaning back, he contentedly rubs his full belly and partially stifles a deep belch. Satisfaction...