Temporary Suspension of Life

Life in the Indian village is always in abeyance.

Put off for a while - reasons unknown. There is a different rhythm to the day. It doesn't flow like it does in the city. It is more restful. Afternoons are particularly mellow.

The unnameable reticence of modernity is visible in the pervasive dereliction of all things. Perhaps that, in a twisted irony, gives everything in the village an elevated character. The algae covered walls, paint peeling off, bright colours that don't go together, textures of hand cut stone, uneven floors. Most of all, the faces of those who are left, yet not ready to move to uglier cities. Perpetually waiting for those who have left to come back for a visit.

अब पहुँची हो सड़क तुम गाँव
जब पूरा गाँव शहर जा चुका है
सड़क मुस्कुराई
सचमुच कितने भोले हो भाई
पत्थर, लकड़ी और खड़िया तो बची है न!
- महेश चंद्र पुनेठा