We eagerly await the monsoon season after enduring the scorching summer months. It brings a much-needed refreshing change and serves as a relief for humanity and the environment, which is undergoing a remarkable transformation.
The rains wash away the dust from the trees, causing the grass and foliage to turn a vibrant green. Everywhere, there is a palpable sense of positivity and relief in the air.
Beyond providing respite from the dryness of summer, the monsoon brings joy into our lives.
Having experienced the monsoon in various parts of India and at different stages of my life, I have cherished its beauty and significance.
During my childhood in Kutch, near the Great Rann of Kutch in western India, the monsoon season lasted only about four months in this arid desert region. Although the rainfall was limited, I eagerly awaited the heavy showers that allowed me to play in the rain and get drenched. The enchantment of a rainy day multiplied with the unmistakable aroma of wet soil.
One of my all-time favourite activities during the monsoon was making paper boats and setting them afloat in the rainwater collected in a small pond in our garden.
Another delightful aspect was the chai party organized by my mother for our neighbours and friends. The pleasant, cool weather during the rains provided the perfect excuse to relish hot samosas and pakoras with ginger tea.
During my college days in Mumbai, I experienced the monsoon in a different setting.
With dark clouds looming over the sea, waves crashing on the shores, and the cool sea breeze gently caressing my face, strolling along Marine Drive or walking on Chowpatty Beach was an experience that left a lasting impression. And who could resist the allure of hot tea and pakoras enjoyed on the beach?
While in college and later during my office days near Nariman Point, I made it a point to take a leisurely walk along the beach after office hours to savour the light showers and the soothing sea breeze.
For the past three decades that I have been in Bangalore, I have witnessed the awe-inspiring display of nature’s beauty during the monsoon season.
Places near Bangalore, such as Coorg in Karnataka, become mystical and almost unreal as rain cascades over the lush green coffee plantations. It feels as if one has stepped into a fairyland.
The flip side of the rain
Bangalore experiences monsoon twice a year, from June to September and then from October to December.
However, it is essential to acknowledge the flip side of the rain when the city comes to a standstill during heavy downpours. Unexpected torrential rains can cause extensive damage, including flooding and fallen trees.
“Rain didn’t make things messy. People did that all on their own.” — Barbara Delinsky.
I cannot agree more with what Barbara Delinsky has said. The quote suggests that rain is not responsible for creating a messy or chaotic environment. Instead, it implies that the messiness or disorder we may observe during rainy conditions results from human actions and behaviours.
Human behaviour, such as littering and neglecting proper waste management, contributes to the messiness associated with rainy weather.
Conclusion
Monsoons are genuinely a gift from nature to humanity, continuing to bring joy into our lives. The experience of rain immerses us in the beauty of nature.
Embracing the rain allows us to witness the enchanting magic that unfolds when water falls from the heavens, revealing the wonders of the natural world.