So I was contemplating joining a walkathon in support of women’s cancer on Women’s Day, which you know is on 8th March. This meant clearing the path to the steel cupboard that now houses all the sarees. I put it off for 3 days, then of course, the guilt built up, and I decided to do it.
Opened the cupboard, removed all the pinks I could see. Shortlisted to one, but not before I admired the chiffons and silks you so enjoyed wearing. I frowned at the grey wedding reception sari. I ought to do something about it, no? Couldn’t help recalling my wedding day when I was busy helping everyone drape their saris and got scolded for not getting myself ready because, hello, bride!
Anyway, the next dilemma was the blouse. Found some contenders, but I cannot be sure because I need to try them on to see if they still fit.
Anyway, the longer I thought of it, the more convinced I am that I don’t really want to join that walk. I decided I’d rather donate to charity than spend a morning out with strangers. The agenda from 8 am to almost noon includes a 45-minute or less walk. I don’t fancy participating in cultural programs and gatherings where I don’t know anyone.
Okay, that’s not the real problem. The weather’s warming up, and let’s say I just don’t want to bake in the sun.
In any case, I will try on the blouses for future reference, as I do fancy wearing a sari. Perhaps I should wear every sari to air it and wash it. Gosh, I’ll never forget how your wedding sari turned into shreds when we washed it, and the thought of that happening to the few silk saris I have terrifies me. Still, there was the consolation that you did wear the 6 yard portion of that sari and I enjoyed the 3 yard portion as a dupatta for quite some time!
Meanwhile, I’m also looking for crop tops to wear with the saris. Infinitely more comfortable and no size issues. I did wear one for Gopmama’s 80th birthday celebrations, and everyone was fascinated. It was fun! Oh, by the way, today I saw some ready-to-wear saris that look lovely. So tempted to buy one! If you had been around, I would have definitely bought you one, Mi! And we would have giggled over it so much.
I felt so nostalgic when I ran my fingers over the saris, remembering laughter as we fixed the fall and hemmed the edges. Each one carries so many memories, and I wish I could turn back the clock just to relive them once again. There are a few I haven’t worn even once. I smiled when I remembered how you all laughed that I always ended up with shades of red, yellow and orange whenever I bought anything to wear. I’ve changed you know. I’m trying to give other colors more love now. Of course, red always makes me tearful –the last words we exchanged were, when you said, “Bring me that red top when I get discharged.”
Sigh. All I can do now is reminisce and cry into my coffee.
