I was sitting at one of the iconic spots in the streets of Pondy, where tourists often capture memorable moments. The area provided ample shade and a refreshing breeze, a welcome respite from the sunny day. I'd been there for a while, engrossed in reviewing the photographs on my phone when I was interrupted by a voice calling out, "Madam."
I didn't fully raise my head but noticed a woman standing with cloth bags (called 'potlis') in her hand. I had seen similar ones before and even bought one on my last trip to Mahabalipuram. I remembered my grandma used to carry one around, and I received quite a few as gifts from my aunt. It's a craft found in Rajasthan and most likely in every household across India. So, I wasn't keen on buying any. Despite my disinterest, she persisted, standing there and calling out to me again.
Reluctantly, I looked up, initially prepared to give her a stern look and decline her offer. Yet, as soon as I saw her, any hint of a frown vanished. I glanced down momentarily before meeting her gaze again, this time with a smile. It was one of those moments where I found myself completely captivated by her face, unable to resist being drawn into the interaction.
With my attention fully captured now, she began showing me the options. As I politely declined, she sensed an opportunity to sway my decision. She exchanged a few words with her daughter, who then selected one of the bag and extended it towards me.
How could I not smile a little more at this sweet gesture? Despite maintaining an air of disinterest and claiming none of the options appealed to me, I couldn't help but be drawn to the bag chosen by the little girl.
The language was a barrier, yet I attempted to communicate, asking if she made these herself. Luckily, my photographer was able to help convey my questions in their language, mentioning that similar bags were crafted in our town from old clothes, thus explaining my reluctance to purchase one from her. As we conversed, she briefly set her baby down, allowing the little girl to timidly approach me. I extended my hand, saying hello to her. Her shy yet excited demeanor was evident as she playfully started hitting my hand a few times before running back to her mom, hiding herself in her mother's saree and then approaching me again. I could see that our interaction brought her immense joy. After a few more minutes of playful exchanges, I finally accepted the bag and compensated her, fully aware that she had asked for more than its worth. However, the priceless memory was worthwhile for me.
I requested to take a photograph of her and her daughter. She obliged and stood there with her daughter, smiling, while I held the daughter's hand . I sensed it was time for them to have their lunch, so I didn't press further. With a quiet goodbye, I held onto the hope of encountering them again in the future someday. As I watched her disappear around the corner, a weird feeling washed over me. I recognised my deep-seated desire to connect with people and create meaningful memories. While I often find myself in such situations, it's the fleeting nature of the moment that also breaks my heart a bit. But I guess that's the beauty of these interactions; no matter how brief, they can leave a long lasting impact. I hope the little girl also remembers me the way I will remember her💙
Comments