A Day in Darbha

Travelling from village to village in one day, enjoying the sunshine and the rain, mingling with the village folk, and sharing their joys and sorrows brings many questions about their lives to the surface

I t was a beautiful morning as I made my way to Kamanar village through splendid roads winding through fabulous trees bearing attractive red flowers. The rising sun and the early morning breeze energized me and I wanted my ride to last forever. Before I knew it, I had reached my destination and I wondered whether I had reached early because of the speed of my bike or because of the overwhelmingly beautiful panorama that had put me into a trance.

Still deep in thought, I heard Sumani didi greeting me, “Johar, dada.” I responded saying, “Johar, didi.” She invited me to her house where everyone had assembled to celebrate Diyari (a post-harvest festival). I parked my bike and followed her to her home, which had a thatched roof. As I entered, I saw Gangadei, Boda, Dasmati, Gagri, Rambati, Jayati, Lakhman, Guneswar and others, drinking landa (rice beer). I was greeted enthusiastically by everyone.

Sumani didi brought a doni (sal leaf bowl) to serve landa for me; I was hesitant at first to accept the drink but because she insisted with so much love and affection I have it, I decided not to resist.