Sitting on the Ambrai ghat steps, outside the Hanuman temple, bells ringing waking the God for prayer at dusk, a cool breeze is sucking the heat out of the day. People gather for prayer and to enjoy the cooling effect of dusk. The stored heat still radiates out of the stone steps almost making them uncomfortable to sit on for a length. They have been baking since nine this morning when the heat sets in and ten solar power is all too evident. Reflections move on the ripples still mirroring the waterline structures though the colour is leaving the water as blue purple hues start welcoming the night.
Kingfishers are busy hunting, wings flapping furiously as they hover mid air in search. Nothing. They move on a little and repeat the process. A dive and success. Their wings become a blur but it is still possible to distinguish a pied from turquoise winged bird. They have competition with the cormorants who are equally busy under the water, surfacing briefly before diving again.
There are many tour boats following a prescribed route, low impact, with many patrons standing snapping photos of the architectural beauty of the palace, haveli, hotel and temple all with similar architectural styles. Lights slowly come on as the last of the colour fades. Cupolas and arches illuminated, highlighting features, creating a fairytale style scene, the truth of the day shrouded.
Selfies are snapped continuously by young and old, each claiming a memory of time and space. Suddenly the sky darkens. Thousands of flying foxes take flight from across the water. It is Spring and mango season, fruit is a plenty. Micro bats join them erratically flying hunting insects over the water and around the lights. Noise starts to echo across the Lake. A mix of chants, call to prayer, performance and music now wafts away the daily noise as evening stillness settles.
The amount of water belies just how hot and dry it really is but it is a welcome respite.
No comments:
Post a Comment