Nurungukal

   A shriek and vibration from my mobile phone, which is an  inseparable companion, since a few years, disturbed my attempt to fix a drop of medicine into my eyes. I reluctantly withdrew from my attempt and reached for the instrument. It was my nephew, reminding me about the importance of the day. It is my Birth day in Christian era. Several other calls came, all wishing me many more happy years to be on this earth with health. Unfortunately nobody was bothered about my wealth ! which over the years was depleting at an alarming rate. An equal number of colourful messages with much more sentiments  bloated the columns of my flat box. As usual I shared each one of the expressions with my wife, who with a silent nod dismissed them, indicating that she had already celebrated the day with a sumptuous meal a few days ago i.e in Malayalam era. That deluged my hope of enjoying a fair Sadhya  once again. After a pause I tried again to drop the medicine. Each attempt was interrupted one by one. After a while my perseverance enabled me to soothe my tired eyes.

     It was noon and after a frugal lunch I slowly slipped into my usual siesta. Gradually an unusual dream seized me.

               “My mother in an attire and hairdo akin to Karalite style, awakened me early in the morning and persuaded me to go to temple as it was my birth day. It was the only day in the year we are made to feel a celebrity status. Most importantly we can enjoy a self declared holiday and, sometimes a set of new cloths depending on the fiscal health of the family. But surely an enjoyable Sadhya with sweet and savory items is a must to my mother. I accompanied by my kid  brother dashed to the temple after a hurried dip in the pond. Our enthusiasm for the trip was to enjoy the Thrimadhuram  which the old poojari prepared to with a unique taste.

          The lunch was serverd in the traditional system. There were no tables and chairs .We had to squat on the grass mat. Today I had the privilege to occupy the first place in the row next to our father. On the top of the row were placed a lighted bronze lamp, water and rice in respective containers and thulasi leaves and incense sticks.. Before the feast, mother with all reverence blessed me with thulasi and rice in the traditional manner by placing a little of them on the knees, shoulders and head. As always it was a wonderful delight to enjoy her preparations.  She served each item to her satisfaction and I, without any reservations enjoyed them.  My tummy was full. ……….”

       Once again the shriek and vibration. It is time for the next drop. The illusion slowly mellowed, awakening me    to the woods…………….……….