Celebration

Ours is a country full of different festivals and reasons to celebrate. From birthdays to engagements to marriages and so on.  Ever wondered why someone, somewhere, some long time ago must have thought of this concept? So many reasons that one would be surprised to understand. The most common of all is to bring people together and closer - to give everyone an opportunity to forgive, forget, and unite.  It is just a reason to smile, enjoy and share the joy with all fellow beings. 

Apart from above, there are other reasons too.  There were no HRs and departments with hi-fi concepts, excel sheets, data analysis and management and research etc.  There was only one simple thing - UNDERSTANDING.  Understanding the needs of the society - not only in the present but also in the future.  Such celebrations were also the basis of providing employment to many.  For eg. A flower vendor who would make his profit for an year during such celebrations only.  Divine offerings made would pave for sellers of coconut, sweets, incense sticks, candles, firecrackers, colours, items for decorations, etc. This was a society where there was room for everyone.  There was space for emotions, sentiments and opportunities for everyone.

I remember in my childhood, my parents would bring so many crackers during festivals and they used to be mix of crackers that only look good and the ones that burst out loud. We as children were not fond of that made a lot of noise, in fact, used to be scared.  However, when we went to purchase, my father would insist to buy all.  Jokingly, would say how is a celebration possible without fireworks and lots of noise.  He himself was not the one who would burst crackers, still would purchase all of them. Now when the time comes to light them, he would call all the boys and girls in the neighborhood who would be around and ask them to light it up.  There was no concept of my crackers and their crackers.  It is our festival.  All must enjoy. At that time, I never understood the depth of it.  Now years after, when I look back, I understand that how deeply he understood and tried to make us understand what real celebration is.  I remember when our neighbors used to light up their limited stock and would be watching us continuing with the firecracker bursting ritual, my father would call them to join and the smile on their faces is incomparable. He would also never portray as if he is doing a great thing, instead would tell them, "Look I bought all these crackers, but these kids (pointing at us) are afraid to burst these crackers, why don't you do it?" So, it used to be a bonus for them. There is no embarrassment to join us, and on top of it, it is as if they are helping us out in a tricky situation wherein, we have bought crackers but are unable to burst it.

Those were celebrations.  Lots of joy, sharing, caring and understanding. There could be no celebration where there is no sharing - sharing not only things but also emotions!

Take Care 

Regards

SRN