Memories of ‘Simla’ before touristy times

I grew up in Simla, as it was called then, long before it became the Shimla of today's bustling tourist brochures. It was more than just a town then — it was a close-knit family, wrapped in a tapestry of love, respect, simplicity and shared joy.

Each season was welcomed like an old friend, and community celebrations. Winter was a season we prepared for like a sacred ritual. Before heading down to warmer plains to visit relatives, home would be stocked with coal wood and kerosene oil. But what truly made the winter magical was the ice skating rink. Come November, the town buzzed with excitement because of the skating season ahead. Skates were either bought or hired from Capital Boot House and Ta Tung. The season's ceremonial start was marked by a grand red balloon, hosted high atop the municipal corporation building. The rink also achieved stardom as shooting of many Hindi films would take place here.

Summer festivities had their own charm. The most anticipated was the summer festival on the Ridge. Here, under the open sky, renowned Bollywood singers would grace the stage with melodious performances. Audiences were just as graceful, no jeering, or unruly behaviour.

March brought in the soft rustle of new notebooks as the school year began. The Indian book depot, near the Janki Das building, would see long queues of children and parents.

Life moved at a gentle pace — children walked to school or college, or university. Today, concrete has replaced cobblestone and honking has replaced bird song.

As I look back, I am overwhelmed by the warmth of those days, the authentic human connections, the uncomplicated joys and the intimate bond with nature. It pains me to witness what we have lost to urbanisation. What once was a nurturing cradle for culture and community is now fast becoming a memory clouded by noise and haste. Yet, memories of Simla live on not just in photographs or fading buildings, but in the hearts of those who truly lived it.

Smriti Rana, Shimla