Kirti Sharma
The first thought that comes to my mind upon hearing or reading the word “sunset” is the feeling of euphoria that accompanies it . The intense calm and satisfaction sunsets bring to us are no less than any other euphoria. Sunsets are one of the most beautiful natural phenomena that occur every day. They are a sight to behold, with the sky changing colours from bright orange to deep red and purple. The sunsets are a reminder of the beauty of nature and how it can bring peace and tranquillity to our lives. It is a time when we can reflect on our day and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
Sunsets have been a source of inspiration for artists, poets, and writers for centuries. The beauty of sunsets has been captured in paintings, photographs, and literature. Many famous artists have created masterpieces inspired by sunsets. Sunsets not only mark the end of daylight but also an end to the day’s war, as we see workers happily going back home to their parents, partners or children. When I was younger, I remember how on returning from school, I had to quickly eat and rush to tuition classes. On returning back home from tuition classes, I made it a point to head straight to the terrace and watch the sunset in peace. The immense calm this brought me cannot be explained in words. I continue this practice even today. Accompanying me on my sunset gaze are coffee and music. A water colour painting I made last year depicting the colours of the sky during a sunset hangs in my living room. From shades of pink and orange to hues of purple and blue, the sky transforms into a canvas of colours that captivates our attention and directly communicates with our soul. The way the sun slowly descends below the horizon and the colours gradually fade away is a sight to behold. It’s a reminder that every day is a new beginning, and that we should cherish every moment we have on this earth. I personally feel a sense of letting go of hard feelings and regrets while gazing at a sunset.
Sunsets also have a way of bringing people together. It’s a time when families gather on their porches or balconies to watch the sun go down, and friends meet up at the beach to catch the last rays of the day. It’s a moment of peace and tranquillity that we can all share, regardless of our differences.
In some cultures, sunsets hold a special significance. In Hinduism, for example, it is believed that watching the sunset is a way to connect with the divine. It is considered a sacred time of day when prayers and offerings are made to the almighty.
For centuries, humans have been obsessed with sunsets. In India, there has been no shortage of poems and Ghazals that have described sunsets in their mystical forms. Today also, people take time out to appreciate the serenity of sunsets. References to sunsets are easily found in today’s music too.
Nearly all smartphone users today take keen interest in capturing the skies in their phones, and the majority of these clicks are of sunsets. Today we see people spending hours climbing peaks just to experience certain sunrises and sunsets. Sunsets have been the muse for not just poets but also for painters. There is no count on how many sunset paintings have been created till date. Every kindergarten student who is just beginning to draw is at least once made to picture out a sunset scenery.
Sunset is said to be therapeutic to our senses. Watching sunset soothes our eyes and calms our brain. It is also believed that sunsets trigger a craving for something sweet in many. Sunsets also have a profound effect on our mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature, especially during sunset, can reduce stress and anxiety levels. It’s a time when we can disconnect from technology and our busy lives, and just be present in the moment.
As I sit here watching the sunset, I am reminded of all the beautiful moments I have experienced in my life. It’s a time for reflection and gratitude, and a reminder to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones. Sunsets may mark the end of the day, but they also signify new beginnings and endless possibilities. The best romantic date idea for an average adult today would be sitting with their partner, preferably near a sea, watching the sunset and talking slowly, expressing their deep love. At last, I would just like to remark that sunsets are the best paintings and God indeed, the best painter.