The Nostalgia of the 90s: What We Miss and Why It’s Unforgettable
As we look back at the wonderful and carefree days of the 1990s, many of us are filled with a heartwarming nostalgia for the simpler times. From department stores and ice cream shops to the sheer joy of watching movies with friends, the 90s were filled with iconic moments that have made their mark on our personal histories.
The Rise and Fall of Venture
One thing that truly stands out is the department store, Venture. Located close to my place, Venture was a hub of activity, offering everything from clothes and books to home decor. The last time I visited was back in the 90s, and I remember it being a lot like Target or Walmart today. My fondest memory is having a class trip to Venture one evening for Christmas shopping, followed by a visit to Victoria's, the local ice cream shop. These days, Venture has closed down, and Victoria's is now a Starbucks. It's a bittersweet memory to cherish, especially during the holiday seasons.
The Nostalgia of Growing Up
My hair and my vision are just a couple of things that have changed as the years have passed. Along with my physical growth, my emotional and mental states have evolved over time. I often reflect on the transition from childhood to adulthood, wondering what made those days so special.
As an SEO professional, I can't help but connect this transition to the golden days of the 90s in India. Those were the days of no responsibilities, no stress, and no social media. Festivals like Diwali and Ganapati brought joy and excitement, as we spent entire nights watching four back-to-back movies with chawlslum friends. And for the Ganapati festival, a big white screen was set up in the open ground, showing movies for ten nights straight. These were community activities shared by an entire neighborhood, creating a sense of togetherness.
The Magic of Movies in the 90s
Every Friday at 11:20 PM, we would gather to watch a Hindi movie broadcast on Doordarshan. This was a particularly special event, especially when it came after the classics like 'Alif Laila.' Watching films with a crowd is an unparalleled experience, which we took for granted back then. The experience of listening to songs from cassettes was also a highlight, where we would rewind and forward the tape multiple times just for fun.
The 90s were also a golden age for horror and superhero movies. Movies like '20 Saal Baad,' 'Poorana Mandir,' and 'Do Gaz Jammeen Ke Niche' were immensely popular, and so were some English films like 'Evil,' 'Death,' and 'Vampires.' These movies offered a different kind of fun, mocking the rigid social norms of the time and creating an atmosphere of shared excitement among families.
Embracing the Past to Improve the Future
While it's easy to dwell on the past, it's important to remember that the 90s were a unique era with its challenges and joys. By reflecting on these memories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the changes that have occurred and those that are yet to come. Nostalgia isn't just about missing what's gone, but also about cherishing and learning from the experiences that shaped us.