Perhaps originating in the days of the zamindar where landlords surrounded themselves with moshables or sycophants and whiled the days in idle gossip. Or perhaps its roots lie in the village, where elders used to discuss local politics during open public forums.
The ‘adda’ reached its height of sophistication during the literary days of Tagore when prose was rounded off by exquisitely prepared snacks and delicate cups of tea.
The ‘adda’ however is much more than merely making conversation. It’s traditions are perhaps best expressed by Amartya Sen in his eminent book ‘The Argumentative Indian'. Here Sen brings to light the great tradition in India of informal debate.
The ‘adda’ is something of a conference without the stuffy suits and predestined agenda. A platform for folks of all walks of life to share thoughts and philosophies. One of my favourite pass-times has become dropping into a local tea & snacks shop to keep my finger on the pulse of issues affecting the people.
And to drop my two rupees worth every now and then …
