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Soaking in elixir of life

Its raining ecstasy that invites monsoon-lovers to get drenched in the spring of joy, says G.B.S.N.P. Varma

Heavenly bliss Getting caught in a downpour can be lotza fun

The monsoon magic is beginning to unravel and people need no prodding to break into celebrations and savour the life-inducing potion.

Saurav relished the pleasure of feeling the first drops of rain kissing his face, the joy of getting fully drenched and the magic of seeing the dry earth turning lush green, which is in stark contrast to the hot wind that smacked his face like a whiplash, singing his nostrils. His job kept him outdoor in the scorching heat for hours at a stretch and the poor soul could do little but to pray for a monsoon shower.

A happy soul now, Saurav can hardly stop admiring tiny drops of rain dancing on the leaves as if to celebrate their existence and the gentle breeze whispering sweet nothings to the swaying trees. One wonders if everything around has taken a new meaning. Children eager to feel the thump of the pitter-patter rushed to the streets and watched in awe life and monsoon doing a tango.

“The long wait was not easy. The respite is uplifting,” teenager Ahana heaves a sigh. For four-year-old Anjali, it was hard to resist the temptation of an inviting downpour. Arms stretched in opposite directions, the girl ran amok in the front yard, soaking in the blissful moments. “I simply love this,” she gushed splashing water in exuberance.

Rains have given farmers too a reason to smile as they expect a good monsoon this year. The clouds finally obliged Lakshmaiah who waited patiently for the dark clouds to pour their heart out. The old man broke into a gape-toothed smile as drops of life fell on his summer-scorched wrinkled face.

Trees that stood denuded got a new leash of life and the roads are no more deserted. The shower of happiness also ushered in a change in the lifestyle. It’s time to clear the dust off the multi-hued umbrellas, raincoats and windcheaters stowed in shelves. “Schools have re-opened and children can’t do without raincoats. I have kept them ready for their use,” says Sunita, a mother of two children.

For the younger lot, rain means sneaking out of the house and splashing in puddles. On the flip side, a downpour can result in clogged drains and the inevitable power cuts. A slight wind makes the power lines go wobbly.

“Being splattered with mud water by a vehicle zooming past you can be really upsetting,” says Mahesh.

The distinct fragrance that fills the air following the first shower smells deliciously tempting.

Trees and leaves turn fresh after the crusted dirt is washed off; the roads seem cleaner; birds cool off in the rain and gossamer vapour-shrouded mist hangs in the air.

Rains are inspiring; evoking romance that has a unique appeal.

“It’s impossible to lose your temper when you are dripping wet," says Sudheendra prompting his friend to chip in: “I know you can’t.

Because you can’t hit the other guy and run for your life in the slush.”

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