Wadi Parla

Well, this one is from last yr. Just a little late in updating this but the memory is still quite fresh.
Monsoons bring respite to Mumbaikars and brings a lot of cheer to the locals in the villages surrounding Mumbai. This year was no different. I decided to enjoy the monsoons by talking a walk around Wadi Parla village. The village is on the outskirts of Mumbai. Jeeps carry locals for work from the village to the nearest town areas.

I decided to ride along with these locals and had a tough time trying to adjust with 17 people in a single jeep.The village offers a pristine view with lush green surroundings. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for these villagers. The village also boasts of primary and secondary medium schools. The joy of going to the school can be easily seen on the faces of these young kids from the  village. The locals are quite surprised to see my roaming around the village with my camera and backpack.

The villagers also have a handkerchief tied around the mouth. I showed a little curiosity to understand the reason behind it and got to know that Swine Flu is quite prevalent in the village. I quietly wonder about the impact that media can make even in a remote village and the role it plays in framing people's perceptions.One of the villagers tells me about the Vaitarna River and the huge dam built over it and offers to accompany me to the dam site. The humble old villager walks through the tough terrain with ease and I am left behind struggling to catch up with him. We walk through the forest and cross a muddy river. The fresh air and surroundings offer the most breathtaking view.I am happy that there is no sign of tourism here and hence the pollution levels are at its minimal.

After an hours walk we reach the dam. The magnificent dam is worth all the effort. Lachniman, the villager bids goodbye and walks the other way. The calm and serene surroundings makes this place the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of town. I take back memories of the helpful and cheerful villagers and hope that these self sufficient villages can continue to prosper and spread joy in the future.