Musings

A shroud of darkness covering her tight Away from the emptiness, she ran with all might A burden unknown dragging her down A more difficult endeavour she had not known A small step forward, was it so difficult Caught in a trap, gripped by powers occult Drowning in a whirlpool in its fiercest form Flailing like a small speck caught in a mighty storm   Like a dark cloud covering the sun Fear and despair ruled supreme and made fun In the midst of millions, alone she stood Strangers she found, wherever she looked With desperate urgency, she called out for help Words caught in her mouth, she could hardly yelp Shadow or substance, what was swishing past? Fathom she couldn’t, despite looking hard and fast A tiny ray of hope crept in without her knowing She reached for it – it was nothing and everything

The idea of a trip to Kashmir was born in 2012. My aunt suggested a trip to Kashmir and we were completely sold. I instantly agreed and so did my mother. Soon, more people joined the group of enthusiasts and by the time we booked the trip in Early December 2012, we were 8 family members – aunts, cousins, uncle, my Mother and I. The trip was booked for May 2013 – It was a 9 days and 8 nights group tour organized by Kesari travels. The itinerary included Srinagar, Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Katra and Vaishno Devi. As the day got closer, preparations began. With all airlines reducing the weight of checked-in baggage to 15 kg, we were careful to pack less to allow for some shopping in Kashmir. Finally, after a long wait of 6 months, the day arrived and Kashmir beckoned. Here is a day-by-day account of our tour, experiences, adventures and misadventures. 15 th May – Day 1 We had a very early morning start from Bangalore. Being a late riser, this was the first time in more than...

With a heart full of anticipation On an evening which was a celebration Running on cobbled streets with a preoccupation Walking by cafes and shops without hesitation Turning familiar corners without cessation With a spring in her step, she hurried towards the destination Cheeks glowing pink from the warmth of her dash Walking into a dazzling room, blinded by a flash With the heavily perfumed air making her teeth gnash Catching a glimpse of familiar smiling lips and a sash Frantically hunting for a quick getaway to avoid a rehash A sudden gaze from the far corner made her face go grey as ash Years of memories flashed in front of her eyes It had all started with covert glances and her persistent nays, Until the moment when it was time for goodbyes There were countless happy and blissful days A million thoughts raced through her mind Long after they parted, she believed they were two of a kind Life’s mysterious ways, what wou...