A Village Childhood and Its Enduring Charm
Back in the day, many of us spent a significant portion of our lives in the tranquil settings of small villages. My story is no different. I am from a village called Pallathur, located 10 kilometers outside the main town, Karaikudi. My experience in a village not only shaped my early years but continues to influence me as I live in the bustling metropolis of Dubai.
Village Life and Surroundings
My village, Pallathur, offers a unique blend of agrarian life and natural beauty. As one travels along the main thoroughfare from the town to my village, one can observe a picturesque landscape dotted with fields rich with sugarcane, potatoes, cauliflower, and other local grains. The fields serve as a canvas for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, which are a sight to behold. Despite the simplicity, the village is home to around 500 families, with the majority engaged in agriculture or working as daily wage laborers in the nearby town.
One of the most delightful aspects of village life is the presence of green spaces and home-grown produce. Despite the lack of personal greenhouses prevalent in big cities, each household in the village boasts of its own pea chilies and coriander plants. Additionally, most homes have at least one coconut tree that provides a sweet splash of summer. The village also boasts a well-designed water management system, including rainwater harvesting and a well-laid street design that directs water towards the village’s lakes. This ensures a consistent supply of water, even during the driest seasons.
Subtle But Enduring Transformations
Life in a village changes the mindset and perspective one holds. As I transitioned from my village to the district headquarters, Sikar, in Rajasthan, I found myself immersed in a different culture, albeit with familiar and comforting elements. I spent four years of my school life in Sikar and later moved to Jaipur for my graduation in 2008. However, even as I grew older and moved to Dubai for work, the memories and markings of my village childhood remained etched deeply within me.
The last time I visited my village was in November 2017 for a family visit, where I had the unfortunate but poignant experience of visiting my grandmother, who was around 90 years old. She had recently lost her sense of recognition, and upon my visit, she didn't even recognize me. Despite this sadness, the village continues to play a significant role in my life, particularly through family functions and, occasionally, through brief visits that remind me of the simple and oh-so-enduring beauty of village life.
Preservation of Traditions and Rural Charm
Life in a village, while simple, is rich with tradition and charm. Beyond the fruit trees and crops, the village houses and streets are designed with thoughtful consideration for the environment. Buildings often feature natural ventilation and large windows, which help moderate the intense tropical climate. The entrance to my village is marked by a road lined with trees, transforming it into an 'arch of green,' a scenic gateway that symbolizes the gateway to a world of tranquility and simplicity.
Furthermore, the village is not just a place of pastimes and simplicity; it is also a place of resilience and resourcefulness. One can still find Ayurvedic medicines, which are used to treat everything from insect bites to more serious ailments. The village is also known for its cuisine, particularly its Chettinad non-veg dishes, and the nearby town of Chettinadu, which is renowned for its famous palace.
In conclusion, my journey from Pallathur to the bigger cities and beyond has taught me that the essence of village life—its charm, traditions, and enduring charm—transcends the physical. It is a part of who I am, and no matter where life takes me, the memories and lessons from my village will always play a significant role in shaping my perspective and values.
Keywords: village life, rural charm, life in a village