Monsoon Brings Joy

Pallav Bhusal

Every year, as June leaves room for July, I find myself eagerly anticipating the arrival of the monsoon rains in Kathmandu. This period, marked by heavy clouds and refreshing downpours, has a charm all its own. While some may bemoan the inconvenience and disruptions that accompany the monsoon, I revel in its beauty and the life it breathes into our city.

Kathmandu transforms remarkably during the monsoon. The parched, dusty streets are washed clean, and the air becomes crisp and fragrant. The sight of rainwater trickling through the ancient alleys and filling the courtyards of old Newari houses brings a sense of rejuvenation. The verdant hills surrounding the valley come alive with an intense green that is both soothing and invigorating.

One of my favourite monsoon rituals is walking through the city's narrow lanes during a gentle drizzle. With an umbrella in hand, I navigate the puddle-filled paths, soaking in the sights and sounds of a city coming to life under the rain. The usually bustling Durbar Square takes on a quieter, more contemplative mood. The rain-slicked temples and statues glisten, adding a mystical aura to the historic surroundings.

There is something deeply poetic about the monsoon. It’s as if the sky and the earth are engaged in a passionate, albeit turbulent, conversation. The rhythmic drumming of rain on rooftops is nature’s own music, a symphony that drowns out the chaos of everyday life. I often find myself sitting by the window with a cup of hot tea, simply watching the rain fall. It’s a moment of pause, a time to reflect and reconnect with oneself.

Kathmandu’s vibrant culture is interwoven with the monsoon season. Festivals like Ropain, where rice planting is celebrated, take place during this time. The sight of farmers, knee-deep in muddy fields, singing folk songs as they work, is a testament to the harmonious relationship between our people and the land. These traditions remind us of our roots and the enduring spirit of our community.

Of course, the monsoon is not without its challenges. The city’s drainage system often struggles to cope with the deluge, leading to waterlogging and traffic snarls. But even these inconveniences have a silver lining. They force us to slow down, to adapt, and to find joy in the unexpected. A delayed journey can turn into an opportunity for a spontaneous conversation with a stranger, a chance to explore a new part of the city, or simply a moment to enjoy the rain.

The monsoon also brings a sense of solidarity among Kathmandu’s residents. Sharing an umbrella with a passer-by or offering shelter to someone caught in the rain fosters a sense of community. We are reminded that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same city, enduring the same rain, and cherishing the same moments of beauty. As the monsoon progresses, the initial excitement may wane for some, but not for me. Each rain shower feels like a gift, a reminder of nature’s cycles and the promise of renewal. The rivers swell, the crops flourish, and the city’s spirit is invigorated. The monsoon, with all its intensity and unpredictability, is a celebration of life itself.

Living in Kathmandu during the monsoon is an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. It’s a time when the city reveals its true essence, resilient, vibrant, and eternally hopeful. So, the next time the clouds gather and the first drops begin to fall, I’ll be there, umbrella in hand, ready to embrace the rain and all the joy it brings.