Experience breathtaking landscapes, immersive cities, and thoughtful reflections. From distant horizons to personal insights, travel becomes a journey of both place and mind.
In 2007 Baghdad, amidst ongoing conflict, travel became a chaotic ordeal with limited options, relying on Jupiter Airlines. The experience at the airport was a stark contrast to modern standards, marked by disorganization and chaos. Boarding was a frenzied push for space, while flights felt more like overcrowded village buses. Despite the absurdity, this journey mirrored the unpredictability of life in Baghdad, embodying the resilience and determination of its people amidst hardship.
The Chhinnamasta Temple in Rajrappa, Jharkhand, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Chhinnamasta. Located at the confluence of the Damodar and Bhairavi rivers, it holds spiritual importance for Shakti worship. The temple's historical and geographical significance, along with the divine experience it offers, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper spiritual connection.
Tagore Hill in Ranchi, Jharkhand, holds cultural and historical significance as the home of Jyotirindranath Tagore, a prominent figure in Indian history. Jyotirindranath's artistic and philanthropic contributions enriched the hill, making it a sanctuary for reflection, creativity, and spiritual contemplation. Recent efforts by the Jharkhand government to restore and preserve the site ensure the continuation of its cultural legacy, attracting visitors and scholars alike.
On June 12, 2019, a magical morning in Kolkata saw Judhajit and me exploring Tiretti Bazar, a vibrant morning market renowned for its Chinese heritage. We delighted in freshly steamed pork momos, setting the stage for our culinary adventure. Next, we savored the legendary rasogollas at KC Das before enjoying a classic English breakfast at Flurys. This journey through Kolkata's diverse flavors showcased the city's rich cultural tapestry and left us with cherished memories.
The Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati marks a significant annual Hindu festival, celebrating the goddess Kamakhya's menstrual cycle and the divine feminine. The temple, rich in mythology and history, closed its doors for three days out of respect for this natural cycle. A personal narrative reveals a thwarted journey to visit the temple, underscoring themes of devotion, longing, and the influence of divine timing in spiritual journeys.
Despite meticulous planning, our train journey from Birgunj to Ranchi turned chaotic. Delays, dirty coaches, and a water shortage tested our patience. Despite prompt response from Railway Customer Service, the journey continued to be troublesome. Missed connections and inadequate communication added to our frustration. Now, waiting for a bus to Ranchi, we reflect on the rollercoaster of emotions and hope for a smoother journey ahead.
The Hati Kheda Temple, nestled in the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Jharkhand, is a unique testament to the fusion of faith and local traditions. Legend has it that the temple's clay elephant idols stopped devastating elephant attacks, leading to the establishment of the Hati Kheda puja. The temple's customs and significance reflect the enduring spiritual traditions of the community.
Our adventure began in Ranchi as my wife, Tania, and I awaited the delayed Hyderabad-Raxaul Express. After returning home, we finally boarded the train and reached Raxaul just 15 minutes late. We then traveled to Birgunj, Nepal, via a tanga. The Indo-Nepal Gate marked our entry into Nepal. Exhausted but excited, we arrived at the Annapurna Hotel, eager to explore Birgunj and participate in my training.
The medieval period evokes vivid images of knights and castles in European history, but the Middle East has a rich medieval tapestry as well, particularly in the Kurdish emirates. A recent exploration of Dere, Dwin, and Khanzad castles in Erbil revealed their historical significance. Dere Castle, dating back to the 19th century, stood witness to the region's past, while Dwin Castle's connection to Kurdish hero Salahuddin and Khanzad Castle's defensive role underscored Kurdistan's enduring heritage and resilience.
The Dubai Fountain, the world’s highest-performing fountain, captivates with its water, light, and melody symphony. Free for all, it mesmerizes with choreographed water jets, music, and iconic Dubai views. A tribute to innovation, it's a must-see marvel, transcending boundaries and leaving visitors spellbound with its beauty and resilience.
