Days of Youth

Days of Youth

Ali Hamid Khan

10.02.16

In the soothing lights of the lamps we listened to the gramophone
The long play record played the hit songs of Hindi cinema
We listened and talked softly of the movie and the lyrics
Though Indian films were not allowed but we managed song records
They were played on, latest introduction in the market, the record changer
Automatically records were changed as soon as the song was over
They were talk of the town and everyone wanted to have one
This was the evening ritual after the day was over we gathered in the living room
Television was also popular but it was telecast for few hours
There were films we loved and made sure they were not missed
Homework quickly done we grabbed a seat in front of the television
If seat was not available we sat cross legged on the floor
Eyes glued to the TV screen hours went by till time for dinner and retiring to bed was announced
The halcyon days of youth were quiet and peaceful
There were no news of bombs exploding and life ravaged