Spring fever in full swing

H.C.Gera

30 March, 2012

Imagination fascinates me. The flow of ideas becomes immense. I always find a strong link between imagination and ideas. While constructing the house my imagination was at its peak.

SUDDENLY AN idea struck that there should be a beautiful tree with dense foliage in front of my house. I planted a sapling of Barringtonia tree about 25 years back. Today, it has grown in full size. During summer months the green leaves are dense and provide shade to the passersby. Sometimes, vehicles are also parked under this tree.

Come March, and there is a plethora of problems. This tree gives me an indication that autumn has arrived. The whole courtyard at the front is full of fallen leaves. It invites the wrath of my wife, neighbors and our maid servant. The leaves are seen scattered here and there giving the surroundings a shabby look. The frowning of the maid servant is writ large on her face while cleaning and removing the leaves. It is a daily ritual and always becomes an ordeal in the entire month of March.

Chaitra Navaratras bring respite. The falling of leaves is usually complete. New leaves start coming. Suddenly, the barren tree transforms and wears a new look with green figs and leaves. Gradually, this tree assumes the original shape. This brings smile on the faces of every one in my family and the neighborhood. The tiny beautiful birds start chirping on this tree.

Simultaneously on the backyard a small grape tree also becomes green. The flowering starts and the grape twigs become strong to bear the weight the cluster of fruits. Varieties of birds start visiting and keeps on waiting till the fruit is ripened. The spring fever is in full swing.