Nighttime was absolutely quiet. No sounds. No lights, with street lamps being rare or nonexistent. There was absolutely no traffic. The eerie stillness was calming too. Not that daytime was bustling; even during peak hours—or what could be considered peak hours for this area—you could walk in the middle of the main roads without any fear of accidents. In fact, you’d feel strangely happy if you even sighted a vehicle, even a bicycle, or a lone person walking. Restaurants? They were hours away, and who went to restaurants regularly in those days? No restaurant could match the taste of home-cooked food.

With all these real or imagined impediments, obstacles, or simple difficulties, was life a bore?

No way. First and foremost, it was our house. OUR HOUSE. OWN. No landlord. No monthly rent—though loan installments were another story. Two bedrooms, a hall, a big kitchen, our own bathroom and toilet, not to be shared, and land around the house for a Brindavan-like garden. Heaven was here, and so was bliss.

Houses were far apart, yet everyone knew each other. Despite the isolation in a place mistakenly called part of the city, we never heard of thefts, burglaries, or robberies. There were so many workers moving about in all directions, many staying at the construction sites, but there was absolutely no fear. In fact, they acted as unpaid guards for the entire locality.

On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, when the newest sensation—Television—came into our lives, our family would keep it outside on the verandah. Popular programs like song sequences from movies and even the movies themselves were broadcast. All the workers from the nearby construction sites would gather in the night, sitting on the paved area outside the verandah to watch. They were happy to get some entertainment after a week’s hard labor, and it made us happy to provide it. This became a routine for quite some time. To be honest, our entire family, including our two small kids, would sometimes sleep on the paved area outside the verandah, within the house boundary, using just straw mats and pillows to enjoy the fresh air. We never felt any fear or anxiety.

Though there were few vendors, they knew exactly what each household needed and would bring it without fail. Personal, close relationships naturally developed, with each relying on the other. The ladies would go out together for their day-to-day requirements, chatting and keeping each other company. Doctors were far away, but how often did one really need to see a doctor in those lovely times?

Going to the movies, which was a rare occasion, was an event in itself. The entire day would be spent on movies, a visit to a restaurant, and travel. It was a true family outing.

So how was life? Despite all those difficulties mentioned, life was simple, pure, relaxed, and happy, with happiness shared wherever possible. Unforgettable days. Deep nostalgic memories etched for eternity.

To be continued... 64 - How and How Not - Pain and Pleasure - Part 4