In a new book, a writer captures the thrills of a scenic, slow-paced life in her hometown, Nainital

One imagines life in a small mountain town to be laid back and slow-paced. And it is. Yet, small towns are also abuzz with idle chatter – ranging from world events to the most local affairs. Affairs of the heart, drunken brawls, witty repartees, household intrigues, club gossip, government dealings, lawyers’ protests, cleanliness drives, cross-country runs, mountain biking, local fairs, silent protests, ghost stories and endless tittle-tattle are the only interruptions in the clockwork routine of a Nainitalwala’s life.

Back in the day, social etiquette and cordial hill culture were adhered to with utmost attention. Discerningly monogrammed, handwritten invitations, delivered by couriers, were the norm. A few old timers still follow that tradition, though most have now switched to WhatsApp invites – overrun with emojis! One’s social calendar was always full: morning walks, sailing practice, boat races, at-home elevenses, Sunday tennis matches with cucumber sandwiches paired with a pot of tea – my grandmum’s pick was always Darjeeling or the fragrant orange pekoe. If the governor made it to a tennis match, it was a grander affair (most homes had a tennis court, thanks to the Brits’ meticulous town planning). Lunch parties, flower competitions, dog shows, fancy dress competitions or a game...

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