PARKS AND RECREATION: DELHIITES PICK THEIR SPOT
Residents are once again out picnicking in the city’s sprawling spaces enjoying spring’s last lap
Picture casseroles of food, flasks with chilled juice and hot tea, fat books, frisbees, footballs and badminton racquets. With spring slowly on its way out, Delhiites can be increasingly seen making the most of the remnants of the season.
The tradition of settling down under plentiful trees over cooling cotton bedsheets to feel the late afternoon breeze on your face is an old one. And, be it to celebrate birthdays or have extended gossip sessions, picnickers are leaving no stone unturned. Come weekend, and a lazy day out with friends and family at these places often turns into the perfect break for many in the city.
Of play dates
Lodhi Gardens is a favourite for those looking to enjoy some time outdoors before the new academic session begins. “A long trip is reserved for the summer vacations. Therefore, my wife and I thought of bringing the kids here for a picnic,” shares Mohd Abulqasim, a city-based engineer. Playing with the kids and lazing in front of the historical tombs, he says, “The kids can play and enjoy the local history of the place. Even if it gets hot, it’s usually accompanied by a cool breeze. And we can always bring homecooked food and fruits as well as toys, to keep their energy up.”
Order in, celebrate out
At Millennium Park, a group of friends gather to celebrate the birthdays of two among them. “This is one common point that is close to where all of us live,” says Nandini Roy, a BA (Prog) student at Maitreyi College, DU. Munching on chicken wings from a fast-food chain, Roy and her friends feel life is good amid the serenity of the calming verdure. Roy adds, “We’ve been here since morning and even after the sun was strong in the afternoon, we didn’t feel hot at all due to the sweet breeze. Bas yahi best time hai to be here as the flowers are also in full bloom!”