Nostalgia: through the lens of childhood

 

The Shadow of Bakul

      Whenever I reflect on my childhood, the first image that springs to mind is the special Bakul tree under which I spent my cherished childhood days. This is why my childhood is so closely intertwined with the scent of Bakul. The tree was located in the yard of our neighbor Aaita's house. We considered Aaita's family as our own and lived as one, which fortified our bond.

The affection from Aaita, Koka, and Bhoni Pehi kept me there throughout the day, and often, into the night. I would play various engaging games under the Bakul tree. Aaita would narrate stories, and I reveled in the afternoon meals with Koka. As a teacher, Bhoni Pehi would take me to school with her. I watched her teach the students, who mistakenly believed I was Bhoni Pehi’s son. Yet, her love mirrored a mother's.

Aaita's home played a crucial role in filling my childhood with joy and happiness. I began attending school in 2007, which reduced my visits to Aaita's home. However, any thought of the Bakul tree still fills my heart with nostalgic joy.

The Days of Mouchaq, Rongmon

      Reading has been an enjoyable hobby since my childhood. Buri Aair Sadhu, Koka-Deuta aru Nati lora, Jataka's Tale, and Aesop's Fables were my companions through which I learned to think, imagine, and create. Throughout history, we've often heard great personalities emphasize how the habit of reading aids us at every step. My childhood immersed me in the fantastic world of Assamese literature.

In May 2011, I purchased a copy of Rongmon, a popular monthly Assamese comic, marking the beginning of a new adventure. This charming world captivated me, hosting a monthly quiz competition. I diligently answered the questions from June's issue, and my uncle mailed in my entry. Come July 2011, the magazine published the names of the winner and participants. An incredible moment occurred when I spotted a familiar name—the publication included mine, along with my school's name. Seeing my name in print brought indescribable joy. I would repeatedly flip the pages, basking in the sight. This experience became a wellspring of new inspiration.

That same year, I discovered Mouchaq, another beloved children's monthly magazine. It illuminated my life, further fueling my passion for reading and writing. My first ever written article found its way into Mouchaq's December 2011 issue. I meticulously preserved every issue of Mouchaq from October 2011 to January 2019, a testament to their significance in shaping my childhood mind and imagination.

The Internet-free world 

      It's important to note that despite being born in the 21st century, our childhoods were devoid of the internet and smartphones. I believe a childhood without the internet was more enjoyable compared to today's childhood. Most children today spend their time watching YouTube videos or playing games on PCs. Reading and similar activities can't seem to satisfy their desires anymore. Their deep attachment to the internet and digital platforms makes reading and such activities seem boring and inadequate. However, our childhoods were filled with pleasure and joy without digital materials and the internet. Change is inevitable, but it should be within limits that are beneficial for us. Encouraging activities like reading books and playing sports could be enriching pastimes for today's children, fostering their mental and physical abilities. This sets them on the right path for a successful life. In this matter, parents play a significant role, as the great literary figure John Milton said, "The childhood shows the man, as morning shows the day."