I have had the fun of experiencing heavy monsoons in different parts of the country – the ones that will stay with me for life are the rains of Coorg and Mumbai.
My time in Coorg was largely during school holidays. By the end of the month, there was a constant drizzle all day long and heavy downpour by evening. But this never stopped us from going about our plans. ‘Gum boots’ and umbrellas on, we would walk everywhere – to the market, to visit relatives.
When we returned home, we would head straight to the backyard. There, inside a tall upturned wicker basket, was a pan of hot coal sprinkled with some wonderful smelling benzoin resin (Sambrani). This simple apparatus was like a warm hug on a cold, wet day. We would sit there for hours talking, while the clothes dried out on the basket.
Much later, we moved to Mumbai. Whatever is said about Mumbai rains – is true! The experience was frustrating and rewarding. To add to the mix, we chose to live in the outskirts called – Marve. The area was not as crowded but it meant, we frequently took the ferry.
My days during monsoon were dictated by the high or low tide of the sea! Lashing rains took over Marve early each morning and sitting in the comfort of my home, I had to decide if I was ready to brave it all or not.
During a high tide, the city roads would be gushing with flowing rain water, rising by the hour. The ferry would stop plying for some time, till the tide went down. And all you could do was wait.
But without a doubt, I have also enjoyed Mumbai rains. This was most often on the days off work and school. There were many times we drove to the beach, or stayed home reading by the window with a cup of tea in hand, or just splashed around in the playground with the kids. No complaints, what didn’t break me, only made me stronger 😀
I hope you have taken the time to enjoy rains too. We would love to hear your stories this monsoon
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