A canoodling that will resume now

When India’s three-decade-long canoodle with Maggi was rudely interrupted by the authorities — not unlike unsuspecting amorous couples being set upon by censorious policemen in parks — there was predictable outrage and despair. As the comeback commercial now avers, all manner of Maggi lovers and purveyors wondered whether they had indeed undertaken dangerous activities rather than indulged in one of life’s basic pleasures — not even a guilty one, at that. They can all breathe easy again as Maggi is back. The tale of its advent, rise to popularity, elevation to iconic status, sudden ignominious exile by dubious means, epic battle to avenge its sullied fair name and final triumphant return to the bosom (or a more alimentary organ) of its people, is a story that will resonate with many Indians, particularly at this time of the year.

Indeed, that a brand of noodles is being welcomed back on Diwali with the jubilation meant for the triumphant return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, is perhaps apt for our changed times. It is also a slurp on the face of the authorities that had deemed it unfit (for consumption). An apt epilogue to this heroic tale of redemption would be for packets of Maggi to be ceremonially consumed along with other more traditional naivedyam and prasad on Diwali.