What is your idea of a picnic spot? I like the simplicity of that question, because it reveals not just a lot about the person answering, but how our idea of time off has changed. Responses that tend to crop up these days range from cynicism about the word 'picnic' itself to comments about how they make sense in Europe or North America alone. It's an important question though, because, once upon a time, we really did go on them.

It wasn't very long ago either. These gatherings involved packed lunches and snacks, mats and disposable cutlery. I have memories of many, all vivid, all beautiful. They dotted my childhood and adolescent years like diamonds sparkling in acres of coal. I remember picnic spots scattered across Bombay, from beaches to parks, and although those places may remain unspoiled in my imagination alone, it always amazes me that they are never mentioned by those I speak to these days.