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Monsoon wedding

It is the season when you have no time to save the joyous moments for a rainy day, says HARJEET KAUR ALLAGH

SHOWERS OF JOY Rains mean different things to different people

The very sight of dark clouds and the cool zephyr blowing after a hot spell of merciless summer awakens the desire to soak oneself in the delight of rainy season.

After a harsh summer, the first spell of rain is like the manna from the heavens. Showers of tiny droplets cool the parched surface of the earth and the habitually hot breeze turns generously fresh and cool. The monsoon is arguably the most romantic of all the seasons.

To celebrate rains, we have songs, poems, paeans to the rain Gods and movies based on rain theme . The smell of the wet soil after the first rain cannot be compared to the richest of perfumes.

For people in the city, of course, it also means clogged drains and blocked roads. The inconvenience seems worth tolerance when the cool showers touch and calm down the restless souls. The current year unfolded a surprise for the denizens. Rain played hide and seek for a long time. It seemed elusive even by the dawn of Mrigasira.

Paper boats

Come rains, and people break into frenzied shopping for raincoats, different footwear (preferably water-proof) and colourful umbrellas. It is also time to pull out from the wardrobe your favourite pullovers and jerkins, which have been gathering dust.

For school children, it is the best time. Because, a downpour can also mean an unofficial holiday when they huddle and vie with one another in making paper boats and releasing them in the puddles.

The first spell of the shower provides a healing touch by helping one in getting rid of the prickly heat of summer. "Zooming off on my bike with a smart jacket and the gusty wind blowing in my face is how I celebrate rains," says Amit, a software professional.

The wet climate also reminds us that it is time to put aside crisp cottons and bring in fast drip-dry clothing.

The monsoon sets the perfect mood for a lively span ahead. Markets are flooded with bright and colourful raincoats -- cartoon prints for tiny-tots and funky logos for wacky teens.

The age-old dreary black umbrella is replaced with the one scintillating in bright colours of rainbow. Chasing a rainbow is something that all children love to do. It looks like an interesting journey with an unknown destination.

Element of romance

"Despite repeated chidings by my mother, I never miss a chance to get soaked in the rain," gushes a chirpy Madhumita.

"On a wet day, the best thing to do is to dig into junk food like hot pakodas and mirchi bajjis. They can be either homemade or dished out by a push-cart vendor at the street corner," says Mayank, a collegian.

The rains usher in greenery in the surroundings. The dry and dusty leaves are washed anew with the gentle touch of the fresh drops of rain.

Long drive

Prakriti is in her `30s and loves to curl up by the window with the latest best seller in one hand and a piping hot cup of tea in the other. For guys like Avinash, it is the best time to go for long drives with someone they love.

"Nothing can be more romantic than the pitter-patter of rain drops on the car windows and a lovely company beside you," he says. Children love to play in the puddles and don't mind getting their clothes soiled in the slush. Witty Neelesh offers a solution to her mother by reminding her: "Surf Excel hai na!" The clock has come full circle. The monsoon is here again.

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