We had the most wonderful Bhau Beej at home. I am still in a bit of a trance. Since most of the fire cracker enthusiasts had exhausted their stock by Day 4, we were saved from the annoyance of having to deal with noise pollution. I have never understood the 'fun' derived through ear shattering bombs or even the smoke spewing anaars. Marine Drive was a nightmare the previous evening with hundreds of Mumbaikars 'enjoying' themselves while cops looked the other way. Diwali is the time for love ansd peace - not pollution. People show scant concern for animals and birds - so many get seriously injured because of those wretched rockets . Six of our unsung and brave firemen died trapped in an elevator dousing flames in a flat that had suffered a rocket attack. I couldn't bear to read the account, it was so tragic. Ditto for reports of dogs and other pets suffering third degree burns on account of spoilt, careless kids chucking burning crackers at them. I am sure parents of these sadistic brats don't as much as scold ,much less punish the monsters. What about patients recuperating in city hospitals who have to put up with deafening blasts late into the night?? Sheer cruelty.
Next year, I hope more citizens protest and ask for bans on offensive 'distractions'. Soon Mumbai will see new local representatives taking charge of the Assembly. One of the measures we must demand is an end to this menace.
Back to work. .....I am happy my brother Ashok was there for the Bhau Beej last night. As I touched his feet and sought his blessings, my mind went into instant replay as a thousand childhood memories came rushing back.
I missed my mother terribly. Happy Diwali, Aie. Wherever you are....