Mugdha Singh

This photograph was taken on my 1st birthday. Exactly 21 years, 11 months and 26 days ago. Im sorry about the perforations on the print, but that just goes on to show the innumerable times its been up on the soft board in my room. It is a favorite firstly because of the occasion it was taken on.I think it was since this very moment, my fascination with “my birthdays” began. I was, as is very evident from the glee on my face, absolutely smitten by the concept of a birthday and I still am! So that has not changed at all.

Secondly, I love this photograph because of the legendary tale it carries of my hair. I was born with such coarse and rough hair that it took seven “mundans” or shaving of the head, to get me to my present state of hair, which im afraid isn’t much better. But then again, this picture is sort of a documentation of what my hair was like then.

Also, thou shall not miss the bindi on my forehead. I was this huge dressing up fanatic. But isn’t everyone?! Loved to drape that dupatta around my tiny body like a sari, put that bindi and walk around as a grown up. Loved to be the guinea pig for older teenaged cousins, who had just discovered the art of make up. Loved to play with anything that was remotely feminine. In that sense, yes I have changed; don’t like wearing any make-up, except for a kajal and, a liner for very special occasions, that’s it.

Another thing that this photograph reminds me of is a comment made by a dear friend. She said I looked like that doll from Child’s Play (the movie) in this photo. It was the 1st time that I had seen this picture from that perspective and I must admit, I totally agree with her. You just can’t miss that evil streak in that expression. Maybe it’s the eyes, maybe it’s the smile. But this was one observation that I wanted to put here. I certainly wasn’t evil then, and I am not evil now, but this photo does stand out in that respect.

I don’t think much has changed, face wise. I am sure most people can make out that it is me in my kid avtaar.

Only that then, there was a little more innocence on the inside and of course, the carefree attitude to carry that mischievous look on the out.