Amusement Sans Electronics

Times have changed, but the old world charm still remains. As India goes into the 21^st century, we see the younger generation changing their lifestyles. Children nowadays prefer huge amusement parks with a variety of rides. The huge merry go rounds, torra-torra, water rides provide a different kind of thrill. But there was a time when children used to wait for the Mela (local fair) to arrive at their place to have such amusement. And these rides used to be operated manually.

When festivities arrive, Batla House in Delhi travels back to the days of yore as the streets are filled with shouts of laughter as children enjoy themselves on these rides. Burst a balloon, the Columbus swing, merry go round are all on the streets as immigrants from outside Delhi tent themselves for a couple of days to let relive those wonderful days.

Various food stalls also pop up for these festivities. Aloo tiki and pani puri being one of the crowd pullers

Chinese toys have also made their way onto the streets. A small boy looks on to buy a fake sword to role play the dozens of Indian mythology characters that have captured the animation industry in India

Sometimes these rides are a continuing family tradition. Gullu, 12, is operating the rides this year single handedly

The Columbus is one of the most popular rides on offer. Children look on waiting for their chance to get on this high octane rush ride as it goes from one height to the other

Breaking from the monotony of daily life, these fairs bring relief and a sense of enjoyment

These fairs become an occasion for young and old alike and guarantee a smile across their faces