Athithi thum kab jaoge

 

Covid-19 cases are mounting as a second wave lashes mercilessly and a third wave is likely to follow on its heels. According to latest WHO reports there have been 19,22,84,207 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 41,36,518 deaths, globally.

Life, a couple of months ago appeared promising, showing signs of limping towards a new normal, albeit, unsteadily. Lockdowns were becoming history and restrictions were fewer. A sense of complacency set in and caution was thrown to the winds. Rallies, religious festivities, partying and every form of socio-politico-religious gatherings picked up momentum in gay abandon. However, the deadly virus had been lurking, mutating, metamorphosing all the while - ready to strike with menacing monstrosity. The result – looked as if life had begun a retrograde march. Only very briefly!

Even as the Delta variant is traipsing around the globe at a scorching pace, rumours are rife on the emergence of the lambda Covid-19 variant. A highly infectious mutant which could perhaps, evade vaccine antibodies, it is believed to have first surfaced in Peru last year. The noxious microbe has apparently spread to 30 countries in the world, most recently.

Man and virus, are both running amok.  Though barely 4% of the Indian population has received both doses of the vaccine, social mobility is increasing at all levels – local, national and international. Use of proven public health measures including hand sanitisation, masking, social distancing have become inconsistent as people are becoming wary of the pandemic, now well into its second year. Inter and intra State movements have resumed under revised norms without much emphasis on quarantines. ‘Revenge Tourism’ is the name of the game as holidaymakers make a beeline for just any destination if only to break free from the year-long hibernation. Backpackers are everywhere – they are temple-hopping, trekking, visiting sanctuaries and pursuing adventure activities in resorts. Men and women across ages, fatigued on multiple levels from home confinement, seek to rid themselves of the fetters imposed by Covid-19. They are becoming defiant; determined to disregard the danger that yet lies in wait.

The viruses are just as tenacious and decisive. They are going to continue their discordant and demoniac dance, set to no particular rhythm or tune. These intruders in their various avatars, though plainly unwelcome, continue to hold us to ransom. Can we ask, athithi thum kab jaoge and expect the devil to respond with departure! Perhaps, the cake is not worth the candle. Wisdom lies in being cautious as we are still not out of the woods!

 

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