The Indian Railways’ first-class coupe is not just a means of transport; it’s a sanctuary for Divya Dugar and her trio of adopted indie dogs. As she chuckles over the remarkable feats of her loyal companion-who has hidden from ticket-checkers for 55 journeys-Dugar shares an endearing bond that goes beyond mere travel. Her latest book, Chaos in a Coupe: Travelling across India with Three Dogs (published by Harper Collins), paints a vivid portrait of her experiences and celebrates the often-overlooked desi dogs of India.
For a decade, Dugar has traversed the length and breadth of India, embarking on 75 train journeys and 40 road trips with her indies-Tigress, Marco Polo, and Pari. Each adventure is carefully planned, offering immersive experiences that transcend typical tourism. “I started travelling with my dogs in 2016. It was never intended to become a book; it was all about the journey itself,” she explains, noting that these explorations lacked any strict itinerary or checklist. This off-the-map philosophy also fostered invaluable connections with local communities.
Her social media presence, particularly on Instagram (@chaosinacoupe), serves as a roadmap for other pet owners, sharing practical tips on dog-friendly travel, particularly on Indian trains. Key advice includes booking two first-class tickets and requesting a coupe in advance, avoiding peak travel seasons, and even sending handwritten letters to the Chief Commercial Officer for special arrangements. Notably, she emphasizes the importance of bringing along essential items like a first-aid kit and blankets to keep pets comfortable during the journey.
Dugar’s storytelling skillfully highlights the adaptability and intelligence of her dogs, particularly Pari, who overcame a traumatic past marked by abuse. With love and training, she transformed into a well-behaved travel mate. Yet, despite her progress, certain triggers still evoke hesitation. “Pari was traumatized when I rescued her. She is at her best behavior in luxury hotels but still gets anxious around groups of small boys due to her past experiences,” Dugar shares.
Currently based in Bangkok with her family and dogs, Dugar credits her companions with teaching her to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of life. Her heartfelt anecdotes are both educational and enriching, revealing that train travel with pets is indeed achievable. “The key is to find a train that originates at your boarding station,” she advises, “and to reach out to the reservations team ahead of time.”
While her travels have been filled with joy, Dugar does not shy away from the pain of loss; she lost Tigress, who had been her loyal companion for 16 years. “Writing the book forced me to relive those moments. Grief is unavoidable when recounting such heartfelt experiences,” she says.
Ultimately, Chaos in a Coupe serves as more than a charming travelogue; it issues a critical call to re-evaluate our perceptions of street dogs in India. Dugar articulates a passionate plea for empathy: “Street dogs are not just nuisances; they are companions each with their unique personalities.” She hopes to inspire a shift in attitudes toward adopting these indies, advocating for a deeper understanding of their struggles.
Priced at ₹499, this poignant narrative is available online, offering readers a chance to embark on a journey that transcends travel, urging them to appreciate the beauty and complexity of India’s canine companions.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/books/furries-in-first-classa-tale-of-three-extraordinary-furry-first-class-travellers/article70215926.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-11-14 16:25:00
