Summer memories of Allahabad

Summer is the season when nature manifests its anger, with some sweet relief in the shape of melons, cucumber, and mangoes.

- HIMANSHU DHULIYA

Though some retreat to vacations to colder latitudes, the large majority have to slug the heat to make ends meet.

The summer is in full bloom; the monsoons are awaited, and the temperatures are being monitored. The birds search for water in streets and doorsteps of concrete structures! The dogs gasp with elongated tongues; the world moves on!

Summer brings many memories. I was staying in a multi-storey apartment in Mumbai; it was Saturday, and I was at home. Work was in progress in the flat opposite to mine. The previous occupant had vacated the flat, and it was being prepared for the new occupant; therefore, a mason and one helper were in the flat. Occasionally, they would press the door bell and request for water to be filled in their plastic bottle, and our domestic help would oblige; this was going on for a few days, and our help, therefore, was a little irritated.

When the door bell rang for the second time that day, she gave water but told them firmly that water was also available in the taps of the house where they were working. I was hearing this and quickly told her that it was O.K.; maybe they expect clean, cold water from our residence, and the matter ended. I was aware of how in Vishakhapatnam I would read regularly the fatality count on account of 'Heat stroke'; most who died were poor labourers working on the roadside without shade and who did not have the freedom to stay secure at home.