Monsoon not just a season in Delhi but an experience

When the mercury soars, the rains come as a huge respite for most Indians. But for Delhiites, these bring a double respite — because not only the temperature dips but also the AQI to ‘satisfactory’ levels and they can breathe easy.

There’s something poetic, even cinematic, about Delhi in the rains — the petrichor wafting on tree-lined avenues, the bustle on tea stalls, and the romance of grey skies against the backdrop of historic buildings.

Most people who get drenched accidently or voluntarily find joy in hot cups of adrak chai, while some listen to their favourite rain songs.

I often enjoy the rains on my terrace, or I drive to the Ridge, Delhi’s green lungs, windows rolled down, wind in my face, the car stereo playing Masakali. The rain-kissed Ridge, with its lush foliage, offers the perfect escape in the monsoon.

Or I stroll through Connaught Place, stopping at roadside stalls for pakoras, samosas, or a hot cup of chai and see others of my ilk indulging themselves similarly.

There are more monsoon joys — blooming Amaltas trees, carts laden with mangoes, and if one is lucky one can spot a peacock, its feathers unfurled, celebrating the rains with joyful cries.

Monsoon isn’t just a season in Delhi — it’s an experience.

Sabir Nishat, Guwahati