New Delhi, Friday June 23 Power outages are common episodes in India during summers due to an incurable demand-supply mismatch that the country is coping with. Shortage of energy, unable to meet peak power demand leads to power-cuts (load shedding) in both residential and industrial areas. But the going gets tough when one is back from work after a tiring day and instead of the comfort of a fan or an air conditioner meets a dark and stuffy home. Though battling without electricity in the heat may be like second nature to most Indians, we have outlined some fun activities to do when the lights are out.
Eat an ice cream or two: Head out have an ice-cream with family and friends. You can choose to drive to the coolest hangout place in town (India gate, Marine Drive, Hussain Sagar Lake, Victoria Memorial, Marina Beach, Brigade Road or take your pick) and chill out with ice creams or ice lollies. Or if it is too much of a trouble just march out and you will surely find an ice cream vendor out there, trying to make a quick rupee by selling cold relief in otherwise hot environs.
Play hide and seek: Well this might sound childish and a little dangerous too in some cities but one can try this out if living in a gated or secure community. And what is the harm in bringing back some childhood memories by playing hide and seek, as power cut provides a natural cover. This good old game can divert your attention away from the hot sultry weather and also lighten your mood.
Share a scary story: Scary stories are best told and enjoyed in complete darkness. Ask your grandparents to pick a ghost story from their collection and narrate it. Or one that your friend or sibling read or saw last week. You will feel the horror rather than heat.
Head for a walk: Enjoy a neighborhood stroll with your family or neighborhood friends. And if power cuts are very common in your area then this neighborhood stroll can be your evening or post dinner walk, something that your doctor or family was unable to talk you into. That is fantastic way to stay healthy and beat the heat.
Stare at the stars: Go to your terrace or the nearest park with a mat and lie down to stare at the stars for a change. Busy lives give us no time to appreciate nature’s bounty and the sky would a perfect watching point from a power devoid locality. Not only that, the view of a starlit sky is amazing on a dark night and gives you a spiritual kick when you feel near the universe.
