As life takes this unexpected turn and we attempt to adjust to the new normal, some of the old practices are reintroduced into our lifestyle. One of them is reclaiming our rooftops. As eateries are closed down, these spaces in our homes regain their former glory. Be it kids wanting to run around or teenagers passionate about table tennis, this area in our homes is an ideal location to stay safe and do all these outdoor activities that are impossible otherwise.

In a metropolis like Lahore, not everyone can afford to have a large grassy lawn. Also, this is the time of the year when dengue fever hits back again, so sitting near plants would not be an option to consider. Therefore, rooftops are the best go-to place.

With more people living in apartments in other countries, balconies are seen to be used more, as the residents come out at a pre-decided time in the evening to lighten up the mood in this atmosphere of anxiety and panic. They sing, dance and play musical instruments within those few feet. Likewise, rooftops and terraces in our part of the world have also come back to life. We go up to make a call for prayer (azaan) at 10 every night, without fail, and see our neighbours doing the same, making it echo across the country at the same time.

Saying salam or hello, maintaining physical (not social) distance, is also quite possible because of these spaces as they replace our drawing rooms during this pandemic. Also, showing solidarity with the frontline workers is made easy this way, without breaking the quarantine.

Those of us who used to go regularly on evening/after-dinner strolls, can now take a little walk on the said part of our houses.

In gallis and mohallas, rooftops are no longer used to dry clothes or do laundry as they now serve as assembly points for the family members who spend time together in the open air. All three generations gather in one place and the day ends well.

I’ve always had a thing for rooftops. When you go up, you feel like leaving all the worries down behind. It’s my best escape when work-from-home becomes too burdensome and stress starts taking over. A little walk amid the chirping of birds and some light breeze brightens me up, making me feel like I’ve spent some time outside the house. It actually allows me to step out without violating the lockdown.

This whole concept of looking at the world from above without being noticed, gives you a feeling of being invisible — a state where you see them but they can’t look at you. Also, you feel as if the world has shrunk enough to fit into the palm of your hand.

Ever tried taking a photo placing all the landscape on one hand? Do it and you’ll surely feel that nothing in life is impossible!

When geography was my favourite subject in school, the 360-degree view would always make me feel like I was looking at a map where any place you name could be found on the very same page. Some places would appear surprisingly closer than I had thought, which would further clarify the concept of aerial versus road distance.

Even as a lecturer, I enjoy teaching more on top floors. Be it the views of the old Lahore (from NCA) with domes and red bricks all around, or the modern district of the town (from FCCU) with skyscrapers forming a symmetry along the road dotted with cars — it’s always an experience quite different to teaching on ground floor. A little phonography freshens me up after an exhausting lecture.

The author previously taught at NCA, FAST and PU, and presently teaching writing, communication and linguistics courses at FCCU. Can be reached at maheenzia03@gmail.com