Something very magical happened a few minutes back. Google Photos prompted me with our pictures taken 14 years ago. These pictures were from a trip we had taken as newly-weds. We went to Yercaud where we stayed at a beautiful resort, had delicious food, and enjoyed the laidback lifestyle of a remote place for a few days. This was very different from the fast and hectic lifestyle we were used to, in Bangalore. Coupled that with the fact that this was our second trip after marriage, the overall experience was idyllic.
I was looking at these pictures wistfully and admiring a much younger and vigorous me, with a headful of hair. My husband stood beside me in one of those pictures, looking much younger and reminding me of the boyish face I fell in love with. It was the last picture on my screen that prompted this post today.
That picture was of a young man, early 20s, standing proudly next to his autorickshaw. It would be accurate to say that even the second before I saw this picture pop up on my screen, I had no recollection of him. But when I saw this, many memories came gushing back..
This enterprising and friendly young man had taken us to visit local spots during our stay there. At the end of our stay, he also took us back to the nearest train station. (Honestly, I don't remember this, my husband reminded me.)
As I was processing my emotions upon seeing this picture, my husband loudly wondered what that man must be doing now. As I heard that, I was reminded of so many people who I met at a certain point in my life, and I didn't even get to say goodbye when we parted. I am reminded about my help, Lakshmi at my apartment in Bangalore. Lakshmi couldn't speak any language other than Kannada and my vocabulary in Kannada could be counted on fingers. We communicated in sign language, yet we understood each other completely. As anybody living in metro cities of India would confirm, the tempers of house help are legendary. Lakshmi was as far from this as possible - she barely spoke and never gave me a reason to complain. I hope wherever Lakshmi is, she is happy and living comfortably, with her family.
I am also reminded of Bijoy - another young man from Odisha who cooked food for us. Unfortunately, Bijoy's temper lived up to the legend and one fine morning, Bijoy walked out of our house when our tempers clashed. He never worked for us again, inspite of my pleas. I cringe at the recollection of my behavior, although the blame didn't lay with me solely. I hope the older Bijoy has found a better paid job and living off comfortably, with his family.
So many people, some remembered but most forgotten. A lifetime of yearnings, memories, and sighs - perhaps that's what makes everything more memorable.
And finally the picture that served the inspiration for this post. :)
I hope your spirit is still intact, my friend. Thank you for your kindness to a young tourist couple.
