The Touch of Winter, The Season of Peace
At the end of the year, when winter arrives, our hearts are immersed in a new feeling. The misty winter mornings, dewdrops on the grass, the cold breeze, and the gentle chill in the air seem to present the aesthetic beauty of nature. This season carries the unique message of gentleness and tranquility.
Winter gives nature a new form. When the first rays of the sun break through the mist and spread light around, nature becomes even more enchanting. The winter vegetables scattered in the fields, the yellow glow of mustard flowers, and the dew collected on the branches of trees add a new dimension of peace to our minds. The mild cold breeze of winter nights seems to freeze the world; everything slows down, and the birds slowly emerge from their nests.
Winter also means a feast of food. Hot pitha (traditional sweets), steamed pitha, date juice kheer, and chitoi pitha make this season even more memorable. The taste of pitha with hot tea in the winter morning creates a unique sense of unity with nature. The winter food festivals on the city streets, with a variety of pithas and sweets, double our joy.
However, alongside this gentleness of winter, the severity of the cold brings hardship to the poor. Without warm clothing, their lives become unbearable. Therefore, standing by the poor and helpless at this time is our social and humanitarian duty. Distributing warm clothes, and blankets, or organizing winter relief efforts not only alleviates their suffering but also serves as a shining example of human compassion.
Winter is also deeply connected with our culture and heritage. In rural Bengal, during this time, gatherings for Jari, Sari, Baul songs, and Marfati-Murshidi songs take place. In the past, this was also the season when theatrical performances and folk dramas would flourish. Although these traditions have faded somewhat, their bright presence in our memories remains unblemished.
A special feature of winter is the unique adornment of nature. The beauty of roses, jasmine, marigolds, chrysanthemums, and bakul flowers surpasses the harshness of the season, adding an extraordinary charm. Just as winter decorates our lives in a new form, it also reminds us of our sense of responsibility towards society.
Winter is the season of peace and joy. It brings with it the aesthetic beauty of nature and the message of humanity. We can all share this gift of nature, especially if we stand by those suffering in the cold. By enjoying winter and fulfilling our duties, winter will truly become a season of joy for everyone.
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