Experiences

“What an odd place!” Vijay commented. “This is enroute to the fort up there,” Sandeep pointed to the top of the high hill. “But what was the need to build a fort in the middle of a tiger filled forest?” Suchita wondered. “Or they used the tigers as their natural defense,” Vijay speculated. “Against who?” Suchita looked at him. “Who will come attacking a fort inside a jungle?” Vijay’s eyes shone. “Ah, it’s not who they are keeping out—it’s what they keeping in!” he said. Suchita looked at him through narrowed eyes. “What are they keeping in?” she asked, knowing that her husband was on one of his flights of fancy. “Haven’t you watched Black Panther?” he asked. “Seriously! Bandhavgargh is Wakanda now?” Suchita huffed. “Yes, these hills are protecting an ancient knowledge, too dangerous to fall into evil hands!” Vijay said dramatically. Suchita laughed. “You’re crazy!” “Oh you laugh—poor ignorant woman! Little do you realize that the sure hand of fate has brou...

Yes, I have been about this year, mostly with my glorious travel companions. From sea shore to hills to deep jungles, we went everywhere. We baked in 45-degree temperatures, squelched and waded in monsoon rains, and walked endlessly in salubrious weather. The most significant thing about this is the subtle difference that has come over me as a traveler. Traveling has become a spiritual experience, at least in parts. It could be because I stop to observe birds, wild flowers, insects, and water droplets on blades of grass from behind my camera a lot nowadays, especially after learning the basics of macro photography. The point is in every trip, there is a moment I feel I understand the world, nature, and perhaps even God better. I feel connected. I feel integrated. I feel grateful to be here. Who else to describe what I feel eloquently than Subramania Bharathi: Ethanai kodi inbam vaithai iraiva Chithinai achithudan inaithai Angu cherum iym bhoothathu viyanula chamaithai Athanai ula...