The Season I Like Most

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Summer, the vibrant season of sunshine and warmth, holds a special place in my heart. Living in Bangladesh, I experience a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural festivities, and delightful experiences that make summer my favourite season. The scorching heat might be a challenge, but the rewards it brings are more than worth it.

One of the most cherished aspects of summer in Bangladesh is the abundance of fruits, particularly the magnificent mango. Known as the king of fruits, mangoes come in a variety of types, each with its own distinct flavour and aroma. From the succulent Himsagar to the sweet and tangy Langra, mangoes are a heavenly delight. Their juicy, golden flesh and irresistible sweetness are a highlight of my summer days. Besides mangoes, summer also brings an array of other delicious fruits like lychees, jackfruits, and watermelons, turning the season into a feast for fruit lovers. Juicy lychees, with their translucent flesh and floral sweetness, are a delicacy eagerly awaited as they ripen in the summer heat. Jackfruits, with their large, spiky exterior hiding tender, fragrant flesh within, are a staple in summer feasts and desserts. Watermelons, with their crisp, refreshing flesh, and thirst-quenching properties, offer relief from the heat and are a favourite for picnics and gatherings. These fruits not only tantalize the taste buds but also symbolize the abundance and vitality of summer in Bangladesh. They are enjoyed fresh, in juices, desserts, and traditional delicacies, adding colour and flavour to everyday meals and festive occasions alike. The joy of picking ripe fruits from local markets or home gardens, savouring their natural sweetness, and sharing them with loved ones is a cherished ritual during this season that I enjoy whole-heartedly.

One of the most anticipated aspects of summer for me is the summer break. Summer breaks come with a sense of freedom and joy, giving us time to relax, discover, and create wholesome memories. Families often take advantage of the extended break to plan vacations and trips. The rural landscapes of Bangladesh and their lush green fields, winding rivers and quaint villages provide a serene backdrop for a relaxing getaway. I particularly enjoy the sense of adventure that summer brings. Exploring new places, whether it's a hidden village path, a forest trail or a quite lake. These adventures, big or small, make summer vacations a thrilling experience, filling me with excitement and wonder. These simple pleasures create lasting memories, that are treasured for a lifetime.

Summer in Bangladesh is also marked by the arrival of Kal Boishakhi Jhor, or nor'westers, and thunderstorms. These sudden, powerful storms are a dramatic aspect of the season. They often occur in the late afternoons or evenings, bringing dark clouds, strong winds, and torrential rain. The sky lights up with flashes of lightning, followed by the rolling sound of thunder. Though they can be intense, these storms bring a refreshing coolness to the air and are a spectacle of nature's power and beauty. Watching a Kal Boishakhi Jhor from the safety of my home, seeing the trees sway and the rain pour down, is an exhilarating experience.

In addition to the natural beauty and weather phenomena, summer in Bangladesh is rich with cultural festivities. The Bengali New Year, Pohela Boishakh, marks the advent of summer and is celebrated with immense enthusiasm. On this day, people dress in traditional attire, often in white and red, and participate in various festivities. The streets come alive with fairs, music, dance, and colourful processions. It's a time of joy, renewal, and togetherness, reflecting the vibrant spirit of our culture. Special foods, such as panta bhat (fermented rice) and hilsa fish, are enjoyed, adding to the festive atmosphere. Pohela Boishakh embodies the hope and happiness that come with a new beginning, making it a significant and joyful part of summer.

However, summer also comes with its challenges. The intense heat can be overwhelming, especially during midday when temperatures soar. This can lead to discomfort and health issues such as dehydration and heatstroke. The power outages that often occur during this season add to the discomfort, making it difficult to stay cool and carry out daily activities. Additionally, the heavy rains and thunderstorms, while refreshing, can cause disruptions and damage. Flooding and waterlogging are common problems in many areas, affecting transportation and daily life.

Evenings in summer bring a respite from the day's heat. As the sun sets, a gentle breeze often begins to blow, making it pleasant to spend time outdoors. This is the perfect time for family gatherings on rooftops or in gardens, where we enjoy the cool air and the beauty of the sunset. These moments of relaxation and bonding are among my favourite memories of summer.

In conclusion, summer holds an irreplaceable allure that captivates my heart like no other season. It's not just the warmth of the sun on my skin or the vibrant colours of nature coming alive; it's the essence of freedom and joy that permeates every moment. Hence, summer in Bangladesh is not merely a season but a tapestry of experiences that evoke a sense of gratitude and wonder. It's a time when the warmth of friendships, the richness of traditions, and the abundance of nature converge to create memories that resonate deeply within me. For these reasons and more, summer will always hold a special place in my heart as the season that embodies the true essence of joy, beauty, and life itself.

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