Come October and the air is filled with delight and ecstasy.
Yes, it marks the beginning of endless celebrations and cooling down of the
atmospheric temperature; relieving the people from the monotony of daily chores
and the hot and humid summer. What is remarkable is the vibrant nature of the festivals
that take place during this season; starting with Durga Puja and Navratri to
Dashmi celebrations, followed by Deepavali or Diwali. Bakri Id and Christmas
also take place in the latter half, when nearing Winter!
During the Puja celebrations, all Puja Pandals are decorated
with idols of different Gods. The streets become colorful with bright lights and
the entire city streets are flooded with people in the best of clothes. I have
memories of celebrating these festivals with my family. I used to wait for the
new dresses and to go out in the evening to visit the different Puja houses and
dine outside in the best restaurant in town, which again used to be flocked
with people. I have also celebrated these festivities in Delhi and Bangalore. This
year too I can’t wait for the time to arrive. It is enthralling to realize that
the celebrations are only a week away. It is time to put on the best of dresses
and venture out of the house each evening to be with the people on the streets
– to rejoice, celebrate, have the best sweets and food in town!
