Banking professionals have often been at the receiving end of the famous jibe ‘A banker is one who lends an umbrella when the sun shines and withdraws it when it is raining’ ! That speaks uncharitably about the banker’s quality of service & disposition but it says so much for the humble ‘umbrella’ as a protector against vagaries of weather and of life. Unsung it’s one of great inventions that has selflessly served mankind by exposing itself.
It’s functional symbol of a class and city that moves and who’s physical mobility cannot be dampened by unexpected downpours and showers that may descend suddenly. Hats, coats and umbrellas have been for ages known to be a part of traditional British attire more for tropical reasons, that are not dictated by sartorial preferences. Nearer home, specifically in ‘Amchi Mumbai’, the benign ‘Chata’ is an integral part of the daily travel kit that all kinds of commuters : students, housewives, senior citizens & working class invariably possess, for the three monsoon months. Of course with climate change it can rain anytime anywhere and predictions can fall by the wayside.
Despite the severe competition from smart, colourful raincoats that young may prefer for style statements & more protection, the ‘umbrella’ has held its own indispensability ! That’s because it’s such a convenient, portable accessory for individual protection and can be folded & tucked into a small bag..Not only does it offer protection against rain, the heath conscious use it for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays and sunburn.
The umbrella remains utilitarian without any fanfare. Imagine rushing for an important meet and the downpour comes. The umbrella helps you to reach nice and dry, only since you carried it along. It fosters a sense of preparedness and independence. It’s one of the things we don’t share in our family. Yes, ‘To Each Her Own’ is our credo ! Learning to keep umbrella safe, in working condition is a practical life skill, promoting well being.
Yet, even the umbrella can lose its austere simplicity in a different situation – when an attendant is seen holding it for someone, it is a ‘Celebrity’ or ‘Mantri’ being sheltered ! But when two unknown people agree to share an ‘umbrella’ it’s just fellow-feeling. Yet, when a couple on a date decide to share an umbrella, there’s could be romance in the offing. When a young man offers his own umbrella to a ‘damsel in distress’ with grey clouds hovering above and heavy showers, things might just brighten up for him !
Whatever your scene, be armed with an umbrella for you never know when you’ll need it. And even if it’s not destined, try be the umbrella for someone caught in life’s storm !
Working on Living 