Winter in rural India brings a unique charm, as the days grow shorter and everyone seeks warmth in the cozy embrace of bonfires (angithi). In 2009, I found myself reminiscing about my childhood while documenting one such winter evening at my village home in Mohad, Kareli, Madhya Pradesh. My Nana, a well-known English teacher, and Mama welcomed me into our old hut, made from mud bricks, wood, and khapre—a traditional style of dwelling that carries a sense of nostalgia. The crackling fire not only provided warmth but also served as a backdrop for an evening filled with stories and shared experiences.

As we sat around the angithi, I recounted my adventurous journey through Ladakh and Kashmir, filled with challenges and breathtaking landscapes. My Nana listened intently, his eyes sparkling with interest as I described the rugged terrains and the encounters along the way. In return, he shared his own tales from the days of the British Raj, painting vivid pictures of his travels by bullock cart across poorly constructed roads. His stories were a glimpse into a different era, filled with resilience and a spirit of exploration that resonated deeply with me.

Mama chimed in with anecdotes from his engineering days, which I found interesting drawing parallels to my engineering life. It was fascinating to see how the past and present intertwined, connecting generations through shared struggles and triumphs. That evening, spent away from the noise of modern life and the distractions of screens, became a cherished memory. The warmth of the angithi and the richness of our conversations created an intimate space for bonding and reflection, reminding me of the invaluable lessons passed down through generations.

#Year2009 #Mohad #Kareli #MadhyaPradesh