Let me start with a confession. In Bombay or Mumbai, as it is known, we don’t really have what other states of India called ‘Winter’. What we do have is a change of season. So, from the end of October onwards when there is a slight nip in the air and we need to switch on the lights earlier in the evening, we know that winter is on its way.
Now, for us Mumbaikars ‘Winter’ is about 26 degrees and dipping to a modest 22 degrees in the evening. However, we are not known as optimistic folks without reason, for we consider that to be our ‘Winter’.
This change of season brings about changes in my everyday routine and food habits too. Winter and Chai are a great combination and I find my hands curled around a mug of hot tea often though the day.
When plump red winter carrots call out to you on every trip to the market, can making Gajar ka Halwa be far behind? Slaving over the stove for hours, getting a good arm workout is so worth it when doing so gets you to savor spoonfuls of this warm halwa. Also, Carrots are good for the eyes no? Golpapdi is another winter delicacy I can’t get enough of! The fact that it takes just 10 minutes to make ensures that we have it often.
The winter sun is an invite to air my mattress, duvets, and pillows, as often as I can. Sinking into a freshly plumped-up by sunlight pillow or wrapping a Dohar smelling of the sun around me is what I look forward to. The winter sun is less harsh than its summer cousin, so oiling my hair with my special oil as the sun warms my scalp is so soothing and part of my Sunday ritual. Massaging mustard oil on my limbs, as I dhoop-seko, conditions the skin and keeps it from flaking. Winter is also when my skin, otherwise breaking out on a whim, is on its best behavior. This means trusted face packs are used and new ones are tried.
I am someone who feels colder than most other people I know. My feet get cold fastest so, I am known to wear socks often. The childhood winter ritual of massaging Vaseline on my feet before I put my socks on is another thing I love. No matter how many face creams I have tried, a mix of chemist store Glycerine and Lemon Juice, in the proportion of 2:1 applied on a freshly scrubbed face before bedtime gives my skin a glow as none another can.
Treating my hair and skin well all through winter ensures that it looks and feels good all year through.
Wintertime, November to March, is also the wedding season and Christmas season both opportunities to dress up and meet long long friends and acquaintances.
The season of winter is also the time to indulge in seasonal delicacies like Makke Di Roti and Sarson da Saag, Gajar and Shalgam ka Achar, Undhiyun, and Pinni! To meet friends for cups of hot chocolate. Wear fabrics and clothing that would make you sweat during the rest of the year.
Winter is also the time to make peace with the year that is making an exit and plans to usher in another brand new year waiting in the wings.
This post is a part of the Blogchatter Blog Hop and was written for the prompt, ‘My Favorite Things About Winter Are.’
WINTER IS ALMOST A SEASON OF COMFORT.
Such a warm post to read. I get cold easily too, so I could relate to a lot.
Yes, I get cold than most people I know as well. That vaseline and socks ritual is a must for me! Also, apply lip balm or malai every night.
You have taken all my words for my love for the winter season. Being always in Delhi, I simply love the season for all the reasons you mentioned.