When ‘Rimjhim Gire Saawan…’ became real

Hello, my lovely friends! I couldn’t be happier to be back to writing after an unintentional break. I wish I could attribute my absence to intelligent-sounding stuff like writer’s block, feign being occupied or invent a cock and bull story about having something important brewing. Nothing of that sort though. Life, parenting and family responsibilities took over and sent my grey cells into an extended snooze mode for the past few months. However, when rain gods finally decided to descend upon Mumbai the (now clichéd) romantic in me groggily woke up. Listening to ‘Rimjhim gire saawan…’ in Lata Mangeshkar’s golden voice while watching the pleasant downpour with a cup of chai in my hand is a surefire recipe for a nostalgic rendezvous, right?

From outsiders to Mumbaikars, Marine Drive is one of the most visited places in Mumbai anytime of the year. The beautiful view of the Queen’s Necklace is astonishing during the day and breathtaking at night. It attracts hordes of crowds and is photographed extensively. Signature bhel, iconic skyline and the pleasant sea breeze; it’s the perfect therapy for the perfect mood. Little wonder then that when I shifted base to Mumbai after marriage Marine Drive was topmost on my list. Confessedly, I wanted to live out my Bollywood dream of walking hand-in-hand with A, ‘Rimjhim gire saawan…’ style. ( Even our heights match Amitabh Bachchan and Mousami Chatterji! 😉 )

Our June wedding ensured that I arrived bag and baggage in Mumbai in peak monsoon season. Taking breaks from unpacking and decorating our home to enjoy watching rains from our balcony soon became my favourite thing. A’s fixation with following high tides and planning his travel around them often left me wary. Can one blame him though? The poor guy was stuck in the 26^th July deluge and had walked for hours, soaked and tired, to a relative’s place. I don’t envy him that scary experience. Anyway, one Saturday he wrapped up work early and suggested that we spend the rest of the day doing typical touristy things. Yes, Marine Drive was on the cards but what followed wasn’t.

Our lunch at Samrat was a huge thali that satiated us for the entire day. The waiters served with much love (manwaar, if you get it) leaving me so full by the end that I could hardly move. “We’ll walk it out.” A shrugged even as I held my tummy gently hoping it wouldn’t burst. By the time we strolled near the famous tetrapods it had started drizzling. I was about to find out, rudely, that high heels, digestive distress, one umbrella and unpredictable Mumbai rains are a catastrophic combination.

Within minutes, sudden howling winds turned our umbrella upside down leaving us with no cover. As I ran towards a bus stop for shade one of my heels decided to stay put and cracked down the middle. Drenched and embarrassed, I looked around to find no one giving me a second glance. A walked up to me, smiled understandingly and said, “It’s alright, it happens. Yahan koi nahi dekhta. Sadly, another umbrella martyred. Let the winds slow down. We’ll try and find a cobbler, though it seems tough. A couple of new sensible sandals are a must in this weather. You can comfortably walk on the promenade for now.” He held my hand and, captivated by his simplicity and ease, I followed him quietly carrying my broken heels in the other.

“Pehle bhi yun to barse the badal…

Pehle bhi yun to bheega tha aanchal..

Ab ke baras kyun sajan, sulag sulag jaaye mann..

Bheege aaj is mausam mein lagi kaisi ye agan…”

The song played in my mind as A handed me a chai he got from a roadside vendor. He was having a good time and it showed. “Unexpected twists make life fun. We must appreciate these experiences. Also, with your makeup washed out your face looks even better.” His unassuming words made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Wasn’t I looking forward to this very ‘Rimhjim gire saawan…’ moment? Although in retrospect, I was glad to be in a salwar suit than a saree. After all, practicality matters!

We completed 20 years of marriage this year and still fondly recall that day. A loves telling our kids how annoyed I was at first but eventually loved the adventure. Isn’t the fact that listening to this song instantly reminded me of that day proof of the wonderful memories still etched in my heart? Time to recreate them or make new ones? When it comes to enjoying life queen-size, Marine Drive always delivers, right? 🙂

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Varsh

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