Missing!

March is the month of nostalgia. The undulating flow of life hits abrupt similar turns during this month of late spring. Generally associated with gushing winds that used to flutter the question papers of exams held in these months, the month of March brings forth hidden memories. Alas! Not all of them remain as pleasant as they were at the time of their creation. The ever universal nature of mobility of time manifests itself in a melancholic manner. March is indeed synonymous with missing a part of your life- tangible and intangible. 

Allahabad is a beautiful place during this time of the year. The blooming Gulmohar and roads carpeted by dry leaves lay down a perfect setting for all sort of rendezvous. Ganga glistens in the afternoon Sun which does not warm the banks, making it comfortable to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature. Accumulation of wooden splinters around all the major roundabouts acts as a continuous reminder of the imminent festival of Holi. What a build-up for the release of pent-up of emotions of the whole year! Sophistication, however, has deprived us of the rusticity which is necessary to enjoy the raw emotions that drive our existence. Consumerism has changed the form of Holi but the underlying spirit still remains. Allahabad, most probably, misses the intellect of Nirala and regal outpourings of English professors.

March is also identifiable with the immortal feeling of endless love that has found its place in the mythical presence of Radha-Krishna, perhaps the most platonic couple in the annals of human existence. Folklore and folk songs are full of reference to their unconditional love devoid of any expectations. Marked by the values of sheer surrender and devotion their story must guide the acid throwing and blood thirsty youth of today. Entry of ego results in the exit of love. What exists then is nothing but a socially acceptable arrangement to fulfil carnal desires. Those who have ever experienced love in its purest essence are bound to miss their beloved in this period. Oh, Allahabad! You have so many unfinished love stories buried in your heart. One can still trace the footsteps of that anonymous lover who could never express himself. Not because she was afraid, but for the reason that she was overawed by the overwhelming feeling that could be only experienced and not expressed. 

May be, someday if not in their bodily form, then in some other soulful manner, these stories shall culminate in the way they ideally should have. Completion brings to end all the excitement and ecstasy associated with love. Sometimes I feel that beauty of love and Allahabad lies in its incompleteness. That way you have an eternal excuse to meet the loved one again and again.

It’s the middle of the March and I am sure those associated with Allahabad in any manner would surely be missing it. Hey, watch there! Sudha is still looking for Chandar in the Company Bagh…..

-Prashant