Shravani G Kumbhar
As dark clouds begin to gather overhead and rustling leaves create a calm and breezy atmosphere, the first drops of rain transform Goa into a sea of greenery, misty landscapes, small ponds, and endless waterfalls. While the monsoon brings relief from the summer heat, it also evokes emotions, memories, and a sense of calmness among many people. Studies suggest that rainy weather can have a soothing effect on the mind, encouraging reflection, fresh ideas, and a deeper connection with one’s surroundings. For singers, artists, writers, and photographers, the season often serves as a powerful source of inspiration, shaping their creativity and artistic expression.
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CAPTURING MONSOON MEMORIES THROUGH THE LENS
Monsoon turns our environment into a picturesque place, creating a sense of green therapy. The smell of wet earth, known as petrichor, takes us back to our childhood memories when we played in the rain with our umbrellas open, ran and jumped in puddles with friends, or made paper boats. Rain is something that will always remain nostalgic. “Yes, monsoon photos make us nostalgic. People have shared their childhood nostalgia with me through my photos, especially memories of how their childhood was during the monsoons in Goa,” says Rohan Fernandes, a travel and stock photographer from Navelim, Salcete. His observations highlight how monsoon photographs often serve as reminders of childhood experiences, connecting viewers to memories of rainy days, village life, and the unique atmosphere of Goa during the monsoon season. Adding further, Rohan says, “Monsoon happens to be my favourite season after winter, as I love shooting in the heavy rains. The main reason I enjoy shooting during the monsoons is that our surroundings turn green, there is a sense of coolness in the atmosphere, and I get beautiful frames of monsoon activities, especially nature and the interiors of Goa. Monsoon scenes in villages near the Western Ghats in Goa have a different look, which makes me go wow, and it gives me more inspiration to shoot.” The monsoon transforms Goa’s landscapes, offering unique visual experiences, while the lush greenery and scenic beauty of the Western Ghats continue to inspire creativity behind the lens.
A SEASON OF SONG AND RAIN
As the rain falls, it seems to sing in high and low chords, creating a soothing effect on the mind and soul. Monsoon becomes a companion for singers, motivating them to continue singing with a heart and voice in full bloom. The rhythmic sound of rainfall and the droplets falling from one leaf to another create a powerful theme for songs. Gautami Hede Bambolkar from Ponda, a singer who has sung the song ‘Pavs Piso’ and many more, says, “I love singing while it is raining and I am sitting at home.” Adding to it, Gautami states, “One of my favourite classical ragas is ‘Miyan Ki Malhar’. I especially enjoy singing this monsoon raga during the rainy season as the weather becomes cool and windy, making singing even more enjoyable and giving me a wonderful feeling.” As the rhythm of rain echoes across Goa, monsoon songs will continue to live in people’s memories, inspiring singers and their melodies for generations to come. Gautami says, “I believe monsoon songs will always remain popular in Goa because the state is known for its greenery and scenic beauty. People naturally connect with songs that reflect the season they grow up with and experience every year. Whether the songs are in English, Marathi, Konkani, or any other language, Goans enjoy music that celebrates the rains.” She says that she feels blessed that her song, ‘Pavs Piso’ has been loved by audiences not only in Goa but also in places like Mangalore. Adding further, Gautami explains jokingly, “People often joke that whenever they hear the song ‘Pavs Piso’, it starts raining heavily because we are calling the rain piso (mad).” This shows how people share a deep connection with the rain and its serenity.
NATURE’S PALETTE IN THE RAIN
As Goa covers itself with a blanket of greenery, artists are tempted to paint the hills covered with clouds. Such monsoon beauty not only makes one go astonish at nature but also becomes a natural pill to relax and spark new ideas. Saeel S Pednekar, a visual artist, explains, “While painting, I associate rain with calmness. It creates a peaceful environment and helps me connect with nature more often.” Adding to it, he says, “The monsoon inspires my art through its dramatic skies, rich colours of nature, and changing light. It influences the way I look at a subject and inspires me to understand nature more closely. I often observe the rain and how it changes with the flow of air. While watching it, I sometimes get new ideas for my work.” His experience shows how the season serves as a canvas of ideas, encouraging artists to explore new forms of expression.
WHEN RAIN MEETS THE SOUL
For many people, the monsoon is more than just a season of beauty, it is a time to stop, breathe, slow down, and reconnect with nature. It becomes a way of exploration and writing. Shivya Nath, an author of the books ‘The Shooting Star’ and ‘Rootless and Restless’, who grew up in Dehradun, says, “When most tourists leave, I try to find my way to Goa.” Reflecting on her experiences, she writes, “I’ve spent so many monsoons slowing down in Goa, and I can’t recommend it enough.” Describing the sensory appeal of the season, she adds, “I love sleeping to the show of lightning, thunder, and the sweet feeling of lashing tropical rain.” Goa’s monsoon offers a sense of calm, reflection, and emotional comfort, making it a cherished experience for nature lovers. It also shows how Goa’s monsoon is not only visually beautiful but emotionally enriching, evoking feelings of peace and a deeper connection with the environment. She states, “If I were a season, I’d be monsoon.” This highlights how the monsoon not only inspires but also becomes therapeutic when one closely listens to and feels the rain.
THE LASTING IMPACT OF SEASON
Monsoon is one of the seasons that brings nature into full bloom, with fresh leaves, flowers, and new shoots embracing the land. In the same way, it nurtures people’s minds and creativity. Whether through music, photography, painting, or writing, the season induce individuals to see beauty in their surroundings and express it in unique ways. The monsoon has a profound effect, helping people find calmness within themselves while encouraging fresh ideas and new perspectives. More than just a season of rain, it becomes a source of inspiration, reflection, and personal growth.
