Home is where the heart is, but there are some places which may make you feel like home. I may be writing from the viewpoint of someone away from his home country, but I expect similar situations and places exist even otherwise? These are the places of solace, of familiarity and comfort in a faraway land, and you are content that you are among your people. It was the first time that I saw so many people in such a small area, in the last 50 odd days. And it felt really awesome.
Not being much of a religious person is never an excuse to pass a moment like a festival, when you are elsewhere. Being straight jacketed due to the lack of a transport option, any way to head out is a luxury. And I am glad that I went to the Temple this Shivaratri.
There were people, young and old, the religious and the agnostics, .There was a mingling of language and cultures and there was camaraderie. There were anxious looks for 'someone you know', then you realise that the chances of that happening were one in a million. There were distinct exchanges of greetings with everyone. Grandparents looking after grandkids while the kids prayed. The sights, sounds and smells were familiar but if you looked hard, something would be amiss.
There were kids running around, bumping into everyone. And hey, we do not have to be apologetic, as we are in the island. These are things, as you know it and you unlearn. For the first time in my life I saw a board which said 'DIY Darshan'. And hey, I did.
Although the Bhajans were sung in a slight accent, and although many of the folks have been away forever, every detail was taken care of, to replicate the atmosphere of a temple back home. Kudos to the organisers and volunteers for this wonderful event.
Where's your island?
Not being much of a religious person is never an excuse to pass a moment like a festival, when you are elsewhere. Being straight jacketed due to the lack of a transport option, any way to head out is a luxury. And I am glad that I went to the Temple this Shivaratri.
There were people, young and old, the religious and the agnostics, .There was a mingling of language and cultures and there was camaraderie. There were anxious looks for 'someone you know', then you realise that the chances of that happening were one in a million. There were distinct exchanges of greetings with everyone. Grandparents looking after grandkids while the kids prayed. The sights, sounds and smells were familiar but if you looked hard, something would be amiss.
There were kids running around, bumping into everyone. And hey, we do not have to be apologetic, as we are in the island. These are things, as you know it and you unlearn. For the first time in my life I saw a board which said 'DIY Darshan'. And hey, I did.
Although the Bhajans were sung in a slight accent, and although many of the folks have been away forever, every detail was taken care of, to replicate the atmosphere of a temple back home. Kudos to the organisers and volunteers for this wonderful event.
Where's your island?
Nice write up bro...this sure has more personal touch that kept me reading through!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment dude. Trying to make people see through my mind :D
ReplyDeleteVery nastalogic..i liked it
ReplyDelete