I was coming back home from the gym when it started to rain the other day. The first rain of the year in Mumbai, after months. I was not prepared at all. I found a tiny tea stall near my gym and I quickly ran in for shelter. Usually I do carry an umbrella but this was the first rain of the season and I didn’t see it coming so soon. Home is just a 5 minute walk away from my gym and that’s precisely the reason, no rickshaw or cab would go such a short distance. But I couldn’t walk in the rain either. I thought it was just going to be a light shower that would last a few minutes. So, I decided to have a hot cup of tea and started enjoying the cool atmosphere, the serenading wind and the mesmerizing weather. I started observing. People were running helter-skelter because we were all tricked by the untimely rain. Big drops of rain pattered on the window panes of houses nearby, the trees were glistening, skies were absolutely white. Soon, there were puddles of water around me. I was waiting for nearly 15 minutes now and the rain just got heavier. I was too worried that I’ll get drenched and then catch a cold. I tried flagging for rickshaws but none would go. It was then I saw a couple of young boys walking towards a basketball court nearby. They didn’t have any umbrella and they were completely drenched. As soon as they reached, they all started doing their warm-up. I was really surprised and seeing my reaction, the chai uncle told me that these boys have been coming to train at the ground every day, since the last few months, for a national tournament. I was quite amazed at their dedication. And a little embarrassed that I was complaining about getting drenched. So, I plucked up courage, finished my second cup of tea, grabbed a few onion bhajias and started walking towards home in the rain – calmly, without hurrying.
And what a soulful feeling it was! I got reminded of my childhood when I used to dance, run and play in the rain! It felt wonderful to not care. It made me feel alive.
These photos were taken towards the end of summer and the start of monsoon – the time in between when you are expecting the rain and bidding adieu to the sun! And really, if people were seasons, I’d be monsoon. Wild and free.. once in a while, it is alright to simply let go! I’m not saying brave the thunder and storms, or ruin your favourite clothes or shoes. But just try it sometime. It is liberating.
Dress: Romwe
Photography: Stendor Sorout
And here’s ending with a touch of philosophy from Roger Miller: “Some people feel the rain — others just get wet”.
Till my next post!
Xoxo
Ritwika
