"Be the Alisha for your passion"

"Every other person is traveling, every other person has a photography page, every other person is a blogger... in the race of being different, we ended up being the same person in a different skin."

The lines she read in her blogger's meet-up, Alisha was a blogger claiming to be distinct... Umm.. looking for some more adjectives to define her life. She had been raised in the one of the defense families of India. Yet, she was self-made woman writing to the world. She was a child at heart, matured for her age and a complete entertainer.

"I have been waiting to talk to you, where are you?" asked Tasneem

"I was on cloud 9" joked Alisha

"Haa haa, not funny. Tell me where are you?" Tasneem inquired again

"I am at a blogger's meet in Mumbai" replied Alisha

"About the vacation?" asked Tasneem

"Are we going?" asked Alisha

"You idiot, don't answer a question with a question. Bloody blogger" shouted Tasneem

"He he... ya we are going, I would see you at Chennai on Friday. We have our flight from Chennai scheduled Saturday morning. Anything else Ma'am" laughed Alisha

"Super cool, do u know I have a date tonight." excited Tasneem

"Huh! well, you would be at work instead of date tonight" laughed Alisha

"Why the hell would you say that. He said he will meet me tonight" angry Tasneem

"Ha ha, ya why not. I was kidding. See you on Friday" signed off Alisha

At midnight, Alisha woke up to the ring of her hotel room phone beep.

"You are the worst person ever" shouted Tasneem at the other end

"Middle of the night you called me to tell me something, I know is wrong. I am awesome. But, what happened?" calm Alisha

"He did not come, he wasn't granted leave by his commanding officer. You are not my friend" upset Tasneem

"Ha ha... I was kidding, I never knew.." laughed and laughed Alisha

Friday at Chennai... two friends hugged each other... ate the lavish buffet saying good bye to work out and embracing vacation mode. The other name for Alisha was "positivity", full of life and an aura which made guys go weak in their knees. She settled for someone more important than a life partner... She settled for "Friends". She touched innumerable souls, making some decisions, guiding some and bring happiness in everyone's life. She made a choice between her passion and profession, every one was glad she chose passion... distributing ample of time for herself.

"Be the Alisha for your passion"

"Let's get lost together"

“Are you seeing someone?” inquired her mom

“No, and how many times are you going to ask me the same question?” replied Jonita

“I am just asking to confirm, iss mein naraz hone wali baat nai hai beta” mom smiled

“Main naraz nai hun maa, but aap har baar ek hi sawaal kyu puchte ho. Aapko hamesha yeh bolun ki maa I m a failure in love” raged Jonita

“What did you just say? Why are being so negative about the marriage thing? Did we force you to do anything?” a swarm of question fired on Jonita

“Aap nai samjh rahe mumma, I never told that you are forcing thing or me. But, sorry I don’t agree to the concept of marrying a stranger” replied Jonita

“I also married your dad, he was a stranger and I had no idea what I was doing in life. I wanted to work, but I had responsibilities for which I gave up my dreams. Kabhi maine tumhe kaha ki give up your dreams. I also want you to experience the feeling of being loved. But beta kuch cheezen nai hoti hain humare haath mein” , here goes mom lecture

Dad enters the room in a heated conversation and everything subsides. Jonita drowns in her Kindle, reading ‘Into the Wild’.

“I am tired of this girl, kabhi baat hi nai karti apne problems ke bare mein. When you won’t tell us about it, how we would sense it or provide you with a solution” worried mom speaks to dad

“Ok, chalo… let’s make a deal. I would travel to any place I want for few months and no one will ask me to return and all that crap. In case, he wants to travel with me… he can choose a place and we would come to know about each other. Done?” Jonita in super-excited tone looks at her dad

“Yeh kya baat hai, India hai yeh… Tumhe yeh nai samjh aaraha kya?” Dad replied

“Wohi main keh rahi hun mom dad, India hai… I want to know his life… whether he loves mountains or sand, whether he loves seafood or thukpa, whether he loves cars or bikes, whether he is a book lover or just another photographer as a hobby. Aap mat baat karo Aunty se, I would talk to Sameer about this if you agree” Jonita tried explaining herself

The next moment, Sameer and Jonita were traveling to their favorite destination- Mcleodganj in the Northern part of India….

‘Hijr-e-yaara na satha bewajah’ playing the  background…

“You haven’t heard of this song?” Sameer asked Jonita in complete shock

“No, I haven’t.. But, I feel I kinda like it” Jonita smiled

“I knew it. Coke Studio is my favourite” Sameer replied

“Mine too, but any day… Coldplay” Jonita laughed

“English gaano ki baat nai ho rahi hai, bewakoof” Sameer laughed

Jonita was busy crossing every checklist point and giving marks to Sameer. It seemed like Sameer would win this competition… She secretly kept staring at him, while he was busy playing his guitar at the camp fire…

“For the first time, I want to lose in life… and I would love to lose my heart to Sameer” (message sent)- Jonita

“ J “ her Mom replied

Cheers to Vegas of India

“For the kind attention of the passengers flying to Goa, you are requested to proceed towards the Gate no.14 “

With the announcement, all the passengers headed towards departure terminal gate. There came minion dressed hurricane running towards terminal gate.

“Here, my boarding pass. I hope they didn’t leave me.” catching her breath Anagha uttered to the security

Rushing to the bus, she dashed into one of the cutest guy. Anagha busy cursing herself for doing this again. “Why it's me, who's falling or bumping into someone? You silly girl. Keep calm”. The guy stood there looking at this girl, busy talking to herself, struggling with her things. He lifted her book and handed onto her. Still going unnoticed.

“Is she crazy? She could have said thank you at least” thought Jatin

Boarding the flight to Goa, Jatin and Anagha were heading for their vacation. Anagha was heading for her friend’s bachelorette and Jatin was heading for another mandatory defense vacation in Goa with coursemates.

That evening at Anjuna, a group of crew cut fellows playing beach volleyball made Elisha go weak in her knees. Elisha, was Anagha’s friend who was getting married soon.

“Anagha, yaar they are so handsome. I guess they are from the defense force” Elisha pinched Anagha busy reading at the beach front basking in the sun

“Oh! Ok” Anagha replied

“Let’s talk to them” Elisha in excitement

“Are you crazy?” Anagha in confusion

“I am getting married… I am in Goa and I can do anything. Now, let’s go” Elisha dragged her

“Hi, can we join you guys?” Elisha asked one of the guys in aviators

“Hi Ma’am, sure” said Arpit

“Call everyone, Anagha.. We will play a match. Who ever wins party tonight on them” Elisha announced

“Deal Ma’am. This is Arpit, from Dehradun” smiled Aviator Arpit

The match began and bored Anagha headed back, followed by Jatin.

“Hey, I saw you at the airport.. We were on the same flight. I am Jatin. I am the guy who helped you and you didn’t even say thank you.” conversation initiated by Jatin

“Ok, I am so sorry. Thank you and so … you are that folk.. Who would say … if I tell you, I'll have to kill you” laughed Anagha

“Cliche, who uses that today” laughed Jatin

“What would you like to have, Ma’am?” asked Jatin

“Breezer, cranberry” Anagha replied

“What..?? Seriously, you are in Goa” Jatin laughed uncontrollably

“Yes, but breezer” smiled Anagha

The chemistry sparking between the two… He convinced her and she settled for beer…

“Cheers to Elisha’s bachelorette…” Anagha too high on him.

“Drink it out my friend… Goa is the Vegas of India” both of them laughed hard

“I have never dated anyone, but I would definately want to date someone.. I want to experience what’s so hype about all this?” drunk Anagha utters

“Oh lady, frankly speaking there is nothing great about it. You become puppets for each other” Jatin replied

“How many have you dated?” asked Anagha

“You don’t want to know this” winked Jatin

“Innumerable… which is why I don’t trust any of your kind. Handsome as hell, casanovas..” Anagha irritated

“Is the alcohol speaking the truth?” Jatin laughed on

Anagha leaned forward and kissed him...lying in his arms for the rest of night.

One of the best memories Anagha had from her Goa diaries

Turning new leaf

“I hope we can close this assignment by this week”, John (Leandra’s manager)

“Yes, we would… It would be in the next cover of Mumbai Mirror. We are almost done with the photo session. We are working on the cover interview. I would get back to you on Wednesday.” Leandra dropped a text to John

“Sounds cool and I hope it doesn’t get messy like the Roadshow event last month” John replied

Deep in thoughts, Leandra was busy working her ass off. This project was her baby and she wanted to take the next leap with it. She had been running across the city, with photographers. She was the one working one every single detail of the assignment. An assignment which she chose to do- Fishermen of Bombay. It was that plunge she wanted to take deep inside the Media world.

“I want the story line and interview details to be in sync with the pictures, I need to finish it by Tuesday.” Leandra commanding Piyush

“Chill dude, we will do it and before your big day” Piyush replied with a smile

Late night working at office on Monday, almost through completion. Tuesday was a big day for Leandra. She hadn’t been home for two days, sleeping in office, shower in office and all she knew was she had to do this. 

Tuesday morning- Leandra was all set for the presentation and John was in a good mood today. She hoped for the best and with her team she walked in the conference room. The presentation began, the board seems pretty much impressed. John was still not convinced and he asked her to rework, putting every other project for her on hold. He announced that it wasn’t the one he would buy and left the room. An angry Leandra, packed her stuff and headed home.

“John wasn’t angry, he wanted something unusual from you. He knows you are the best” texted Piyush trying to convince her

On the other side, Leandra was busy packing her stuff- books, glasses, shorts, slippers, toiletries, snacks. What else… Ummm… ok I would stop by the bakery on the way.

“One box of red velvet cupcakes” Leandra ordered at her favorite bakery

“Anything else, ma’am” asked the counter guy

“No, that would be all. umm. ok, one birthday candle and one cap” replied Leandra

Walking to her car, her next stop would be the departmental store on the highway. She was making her mind conversation. Yes, she was. I should hit the reach the place by 11:30. Let’s roll.

Leandra was driving all through to her birthday destination. She was heading to this heavenly abode, driving all the way towards Pune. The clock struck 12 midnight, she stopped by lit a candle, sang happy birthday for herself, made a toast under the star-lit sky and ate those mini cupcakes. 

Turning into new leaf, she sat there on the bonnet of her car drinking her coffee. She realized all the hard work she did, yes, she deserved a break from everything. Her phone wont ring until she switched it on and she would be at peace. 

She started off her journey asked, driving all the way alone… Coldplay was her inspiration that birthday night… ‘Lights will guide you home’

She was home... Home of her thoughts... Home to her dreams.... 

She was too sleepy, at the break of dawn…she stopped by… puffed fog … standing at the cliff and breathing fresh like never. 

She switched on her phone, called her mom, “Mom good morning, thank you for bringing me into this world”.

“Where are you? We called you last night, are you ok?” a swarm of questions her mom asked

“Yes, mumma. I am fine, was in a meeting which failed badly after my three months of effort. Anyways, I am heading to Pondicherry. I wanted to celebrate it with myself” replied Leandra

“Seriously? If that’s the case then yes, go ahead, enjoy it. Call us when you reach and send us pictures” her mom replied

“Bye Maa” Leandra disconnected

She got lost in the mountains of Western Ghats to find herself. Being born again at an age of 27.

Live for your passion

"What plans dude tonight, it's Friday? ", the excited Ishika asked

"Well, I am in dilemma" replied Vanshaj

*ping *ping *ping

"Why?"

"What happened?"

"This doesn't suit you"

And here we go... no one can beat Ishika with the messaging thing. Growing up in a small town, she has faced really hard time in life, judging and drifting between right and wrong, good and bad. A girl who is facing the world with all courage she has. At times, enraged by the things happening around her, at work or home. She wants to talk all day long, she wants to be heard... she is scared of the silence inside her. She is scared of every smile on her face... yes that's sums her rude, stone-hearted attitude towards everyone.

"Remember, that Stand-up comedy I was telling you the other day. I want to go for that but I am nervous or rather in two minds." replied Vanshaj

Vanshaj on the other hand was like "Jack of all trades", he was a happy soul. He wanted to do everything in life and maybe he wished for a day with 34 hours. That extension would be enough for him to pen down thoughts on Paris, make people laugh, manage outings, drink to death and dance to sign-off the day.

"I think you should go" replied Ishika

"Let's see" - Vanshaj


Two hours later,

"Where are you going then?" - asked Ishika

"I am still thinking about it." replied Vanshaj

"Yaar, you should go at least you ll come to know about your performance." Ishika trying to motivate Vanshaj (that's funny how she manages to motivate others and fails to pull-out for herself)

"Ok fine, will go" convinced Vanshaj

Minutes later

"Will you join?" asked Vanshaj

"Umm.. I am busy with work, but what time you leave?" replied Ishika

"In about half an hour" texted Vanshaj

"Ok I will finish work and meet you at the place" last text Ishika sent Vanshaj


Battling the traffic, running off to a cafe is the ultimate escape on a Friday. A hungry girl grabbed a packet of biscuits and juice trying to reach out the elevator ASAP. Her twisted ankle wasn't doing any good to hear, but making it worse with every step she took. Ishika managed to reach the cafe- location for comedy nights... Friday night. She was delighted being at an event which she had never been a part of. All thanks to Vanshaj she thought in her mind conversation. When she entered the cafe, she saw Vanshaj fidgeting nervously with his phone. A smile exchanged and he starts introducing to every performer tonight. Whoa, a huge applause to us that we chose sitting in that cafe on a Friday night (thougth Ishika). With the start of event, a so-called Stand-up comedy open-mic ... it wasn't funny at all. But then thanks to the talented people with great comic timing, Ishika could not stop laughing. It was after months that Ishika was laughing her heart out. On the other hand, Vanshaj was the only "young" guy in the room waiting anxiously for his turn. Yes, he was second last performer of the night. Everything went well...ya.. Vanshaj screwed it, but she wasn't suppose to tell him this though he was amazing being a "newbie". He just wanted to finish it off, without even cracking up some of his best punches. (She was like what the hell dude, why not the funnier ones).

It was over and Ishika was jaw-locked, suffering from the pain as she didn't laugh her heart out since ages. In her subconscious mind, she is all lala-lala.. thank you Vanshaj for inviting me over. Vanshaj on the other hand is troubled with his performance. On the way back home, Ishika was busy cheering him up for his first stand-up comedy act.

In the middle of conversation, Ishika said "I think you should do this"

"Why do you say this? it wasn't that good" Vanshaj still cursing his bad jokes

"When you know you are good at it, make it your passion. It will keep you going" Ishika and her motivational lines gosh... she reads way lot

The conversations, planned-unplanned meets and failure sums up the bonding Ishika and Vanshaj shared. She wanted him to break the chains and rule with mic in hand. He wanted to be perfect. Well, the endless conversation and motivation kept the souls alive. She managed to fed in him that he was great, which was actually true. At the corner of her heart, she wished she had the same passion for colors, palette and canvas. Ishika saw the spark in his eyes when he stood for himself. Yet, she fails to see the fire in herself.

That Instagram stranger!!!

Kavya still in thoughts of her date, who ditched her second time.. logged into Instagram. Well, she had different plans in mind rather than scroll and hitting a heart. She was busy hunting for her date, the tags or any location where she could track him down. After sometime, she figured out that he is dining at a French restaurant somewhere in Mumbai. She started cursing herself for believing in a guy again. She was unable to sleep that night, and kept checking the Instagram posts. Unknowingly, Kavya clicked for a person, random one. Now, the profile picture can quite attractive... in two minds whether to withdraw the follow request or let it be, she waited anxiously to be approved. After half n hour, there pops in a follow request in Kavya's Instagram account. Ohh.. no, this can't be... Kavya smiled and approved it. She was waiting to be approved for her follow request as well. But, Rishi didn't approve her to follow.

Angry Kavya... she decided to DM Rishi (DM- the word for texting on Instagram, phew... direct message).

Kavya- "That's not fair"
Rishi-  "What?"
Kavya- "Trespassing through my account, without approving me"
Rishi- "Ha ha...So sorry, the network sucks here"
Kavya- "Oh! it's alright"

Rishi approved Kavya, she was delighted and kept scrolling down to admire the pictures, his swag in aviators, his photographic skills and curious to peep through into his life. That night passed by with a little introduction, with a lighter moment... with a stranger.

Few days later, he posted a picture... alright a lot of them... (Five was lots for Rishi in a day)

She DMs him again. "Nice picture, been traveling?"
Rishi- "Yes, on a vacation"
Kavya- "Parvati Valley is beautiful.. but ek problem hai"
Rishi- "What?"
Kavya- "Todha smile kaam karte ho. Smile karte toh pic aur achi aati."
Rishi- "Haha..next time dhyan rakhunga"

Few days passed by again, Kavya returned from trek and decides to DM Rishi.

Kavya- "*picture*"
Rishi- "mesmerizing, where is this place?"
Kavya- "Coorg"
Rishi- "Nice yaar"
Kavya- "I returned just now"
Rishi- "alright"

That night a few texts were exchanged between them about the trek, Himalayas and life lessons.

Weeks passed, Kavya had this strange feeling inside her about him. Though, it was evident he wasn't even thinking of flirting with her anytime.

A drunk Kavya returned home, DM's Rishi- "Hello Sir"
Rishi- "still awake?"
Kavya- "you look smoking hot in the post"
Rishi- "Haha, thank you"
Kavya- "Oops! I am drunk. I am sorry if I utter anything non-sense tonight"
Rishi- "Haha, its ok"
Kavya- "Soo, permission granted?"

She waited and dozed off to sleep. Next morning, the first thing that she did was check her phone. Every time, she would drunk call or text some one, silly girl. She was relieved, it was Rishi and no conversation worth to be embrassed about.

Kavya- "Good morning, I am sorry for last night I was drunk"
Rishi- "Its ok, I didn't mind and you didn't say anything"
Kavya- "I would have if you would have answered the last question"
Rishi- "I thought to reply, but I slept"
Kavya- "Ok cool, then leave it"
Rishi- "Tell me, don't be a spoil sport"
Kavya- 'I am not, but one thing was true... you are smoking hot"
Rishi- "Ok, Permission granted"
Kavya- "Ha ha .. really, that was the permission to flirt with you"
Rishi- "Ha ha.. Shit man, missed some saturday night fun"
Kavya- "Yes, you did well I am pretty decent when I am not drunk, you see"

They shared a smile and the conversation ends with some cheesy lines, this time it was Kavya.

Every time, she use to ping him with some question or the other.. related to his blog, his songs, his write-ups, his profession (yes, she was way too much in to that). Every time, Rishi would laugh at whatever she would say. Finally, it was the day when she decided and said it to him.

"Hi Rishi,
You know what, talking to you soothes me... cz you never try to compliment me or flirt with me to get into my pants. I am sorry, I am being too vocal about it"

Rishi- "Ha ha, I would never do that... I am beyond all this crap"

Kavya- "Thank you"

That evening, sipping her coffee by the window side... Kavya thought, how strange it is people say internet is filled with desperate people.. Tinder, LinkedIn, Facebook and so on... This was the first time talking to a stranger always felt good. That's when she decided....

Kavya (DM's Rishi) - "So, Friends???"

Still waiting and she didn't receive a reply from Rishi.

Stay forever in Gokarna

I am still pretty much in the hang over of my vacation earlier this month. I feel privileged about having a friend who takes care of where are we suppose to stay during the vacation.

The morning I hopped out of the bus in the town of Gokarna, jumping in an auto with a door with a window as well, isn't that super cute. My bad I could not click it, which I realized later ("Sometimes you just sit back and enjoy the view"). The plush green surrounding mesmerized my soul and brought me to this beautiful resort "Sanskruti Resort".

Here's all you need to know about the Resort

About the location- Located some 5-10 minutes drive in that cute auto described in the beginning. It is located in nature's lap on the OM beach road.

About the resort- It is a beautiful resort which would be a saviour for you, if you don't wish to sleep on shacks available readily in Gokarna. The shacks would be a fun experience though with an added advantage that they are cheaper, costing you close to Rs. 250 or so per day per person. Pretty good deal. Well, in case you have cranky make-up, hygiene queens with you then I would suggest go for this resort. There are some close to 20 cottages and some premium valley facing rooms, with a swimming pool to relax after the beach trek, activity room and silence where you could hear only the cicadas around.

Resort view

Luxurious cottage

Morning by the pool side - lavish life

About the staff- The experience wasn't that good for the hospitality. But, yes the Manager of the resort took special care to return back from his trip and listen to our problems, providing us discounts and yes, a smile of course. I guess, they can be pardoned this time. Second chance, for we would definitely return to the Land of Shiva.

Reception Area

About the connectivity- I would suggest forget your phones, there is no network. If you are lucky enough with your service provider you might get connected. When in a place like this, you need a vehicle to travel through the place. The autowalas can rob you in case you don't hire one scooty. It is an advantage of hiring your vehicle, you can stop by any place and enjoy the serenity. Cheapest mode of transport. 

Mode of transport

Drive way - en route to Om Beach

Overall rating- 4/5

Sometimes, the plan back fires when the lady is busy, pre-occupied with formalities on her farewell day or suffering from the bad-internet services. That's when we decided to venture around shacks to shacks, home stays to resorts for accommodation. Some of them were located in deep forests which looked scary (my friend refused to drive that way), some were too shady for us to stay (being snobbish), some were beach facing (only to disappoint us, yes we are BOOKED). Well, the bad news was we didn't any place to accommodate our big family (Yes, Friends are Family). Indeed, I would like to review a place where we visit and it left us spell-bound.

Zostel- "Follow your heart", as they says!

About the location- Situated on the beach facing side of Gokarna beach, at the cliff of the Brahmin colony. It is a 5 minutes drive from Kudle beach and maybe close to 15 minutes drive from Gokarna Beach. The location of Zostel would leave you mesmerized, a view where you could see the sun setting at the Gokarna beach. The fine sand sparkling in the moonlit sky, trust me its a place you yearned to stay since ages.

Sparkling waters- Arabian Sea

About Zostel- I never had a clue that they exist, driving through the place one of my friend started briefing us about what Zostel is all about. Then, I thought.. ok the usual thing, IITians and stuff that they do, bringing in change across. Driving in the orange board gate of Zostel, something inside me propelled me to utter the magical words "I love it". The graffiti wall of recreation room cum reception would make you smile. There are cute beanbags laid all over with game boards, music and good music to accompany travelers.

View from Zostel recpetion

Graffiti @ Zostel

Activity room- Zostel

About the staff- Well, we didn't get any room vacant or even the dorms to stay here. Yes, the staff was pretty friendly telling us about the tariffs and other facilities.

About the connectivity- It is pretty much accessible and located on the drive way itself to be found without any Google Map assistance (if you are lucky your GPS might work).

Overall rating- 4.5/5

Tips: 1. Bookings to be made in advance, so that you don't miss these beautiful places to stay
2. Off season traveling help you grab good discounts
3. Female travelers (solo), Zostel provides female dorm at reasonable rate and it is safe here.
4. In case of any assistance regarding hotel bookings, contact me (I have a friend whose a discount queen and helps you grab the best deal for good money, oops... good deal for best money).


"I wish, I could stay there forever - Gokarna"

"I want to grow old with you"

Everything around us, seems trending...
Photography- DSLR trending
Foodies- trending
Blogging- trending
Traveling- trending
Marriage- trending

Oh wait! What did I just say? "Marriage" yes, trending very much on the social media. A topic that would never lose its charm. Being jealous by the bridal look of the nerd you made fun at school... Being amazed by the handsome senior in sherwani, yes your old crush in college... Being shattered by the honeymoon pictures of your ex on Instagram. Haha... well a lot to see through life. And then you have friends who make it miserable for you.

For those who are married, they would say "Don't get married enjoy your bachelorhood" (Mind you they had a love marriage)

For those who spent a month with a stranger would say, "It is an experience you will die for, maybe he is the one who have been looking for" (These are the ones who had an arranged marriage)

For those who are single would say, "Just one more year, I want to live my life.. travel, booze, party... Thug life and what not"

Many of them tried to explain the concept of "Marriage", some defined it as a blessing, some defined it as suffering. Yes, many of us might have been happy leading a "so-called Bachelor life" but somewhere we yearn to be by the side of someone saner than us, someone supportive enough to live the passion inside us, someone who make you feel special at the end of Life (not just a day or two). With time, I have understood the fact that things fall in place, right things come to you at right time. All it takes is a person to knock that the door with innumerable locks, he has the key to all of them... All it takes is a person to dive into your life and give meaning to every proverb you have read or heard. All it takes is that one person in your life and you would make peace with every conflict inside your heart.

"Joy of being together" Yes, it was arranged :) 

It takes a lot of courage to say that "You are ready for it". Every one has been there, some are preparing and some would soon be there... Remember, each one has to cross by this junction in life. I won't say I am ready for it all of a sudden, but yes I want to make peace with myself. I want to rush back home think what to cook for dinner, I want to plan vacations with families, I want to cry well aware that I would have a shoulder, I want to laugh together in the middle of night and scare the hell out of neighbors. I know my parents weren't ready when they tied a knot, still they are a perfect couple with an imperfect life... a broken car, a rented house, two beanbags (Daughters) and a society. Yet, I love how they are growing old together... planning for my wedding, thinking about my future,  dad helping in kitchen when mom is sick, mom cooking his favorite dessert before he even asks for, dad buying cake ingredients for mom hadn't baked for a while. Yes, I want a telepathy communication...  "I want to grow old with you". I hope you listen to this before I make a decision about you.

"I want to grow old with you"

Life transformation

Two years back, I was thrown in a city where I knew nothing. A new world, the so-called Corporate World. I made a brave decision, abandoning my fear and moving ahead, without my best friends and comfort zone. Maybe it was all for the good, I thought. Indeed, the journey in the "City of Nizams" made me realize that there are innumerable people who can influence you at the same point of time. Every moment, I craved for returning back to my "First Love" - Bengaluru. In the span of two years, things changed. I hated being in Bengaluru, yes it's crowded... over crowded. I hate being here, the reunion made me realize that. It is not the place which matters, all that matters is "People".

A good morning at office, every one smiled... fought like college students... break time was all about "Girls time"... night out.. dinner.. shopping... movies... everything worth investing my time into it. Some idiots come into your life and change every bit of you, you start building faith, you start transforming, you started analyzing, you start investing in yourself...  One fine day, everything changes... its not a city which changes... It is the cycle of life which gets transformed.

Hyderabad- it was!

In the bazaars of Charminar

Bengaluru- I have a lot of friends, though no one has time. I have a lot of time, though there is too much traffic on the roads. I have a great office, yet no one to crack silly jokes. I have a home, yet no one there to behave crazy. I have a mall nearby, yet no one to enjoy late night illogical Bollywood movies. I have weekend, though no one around to click selfies... instead the sky and nature here treats me well being my companion.

One fine morning at Nandi Hills

"It is lonely here, without you guys"

Hyderabad you are missed and Bengaluru I am trying to find a reason to stay forever.

North vs South - Rivalry of Beaches!

Escape into the Sea

Once in a lifetime, you must have planned a vacation to Goa with the gang... Inspired by the road trip movies, Dil Chahta Hai. Of course, being the biggest inspiration for every youth in India for the Go Goa trip. Some of us manage to make it - a dream come true moment. I took a chance with my bunch of favorite people and headed to make that one dream of mine come true. The discussion made me feel sick in the gut, ok.. so we were suppose to choose between North and South Goa. Oh man! Crap.. how are we gonna do that.

Driving through the Western Ghats

Beautiful western ghat asked me to get lost in the serene nature and drive way, let the others make the decision. The smart lady in the gang had already chalked out the plan, yes we were heading to North Goa. Goa is all about everything you want to do - booze, get stoned, hook up, that's what the movies have fed us with. Well, it is all about beautiful western ghats, pristine beaches, sun kissed selfies, sea food, lavish shacks to laze around. 

Beaches of North Goa

Vagator- It is the northern most beach situated in Bardez, A must visit beach for party animals, where you enjoy the sunset at the beach. In case, you visit during Sunburn Festival then its the venue. Chapora Fort (Dil Chahta Hai featured) is the one situated at the Chapora river on this beach. 

Vagator Beach

Sunset at Vagator

Somewhere find the glimpses of Chapora

Anjuna- The beach is famous for its flea market (every Wednesday) and hosts numerous trance parties round the year. There are numerous shacks and cafes to try sea food and Goan cuisine. 

Curlies at Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach

German Bakery serves best Calamari @Anjuna

Baga- One of the most crowded beaches of North Goa, no.. I should quote as most crowded beach in the world may be. Alot to experience in terms of food, shacks, stalls and crowd, yes of course. 

In my time duration, I did get time to visit a few of them. Few things to take care of - When you have the best company you should not care about hopping places, sunsets are beautiful when they are by your side. Don't take any luggage, one or two pair of clothes would be fine. You would get a lot of trendy, funky stuff to shop. 

The last time we visited Goa, we were unable to cover South Goa. Yes, this time we didn't even plan to be in Goa. But, yes destiny... or maybe hidden love for Goa brought us here. Even this time, it is suppose to be a short trip where you can't cover up everything. 

Beaches of South Goa

Colva Beach- One of the cleanest beaches I have ever visit. The water is so clear, in case you are lucky enough you can spot starfish right next to your feet. The sea shore has a sea shell bed rather than rock bed. The fine sand lures you to wake, take a plunge, even lie down on the beach. The walk way through the restaurant, Mickey's opens up to this beach. 

Tats the beauty of Colva Beach

Starfish at the feet

Sea bed at Colva

Swacch South Goa

Staircase to Heaven

Call of the Sea

View from Mickey's

Varca Beach- We tried our luck hard, night trekking to this beach. Instead, reached Club Mahindra Resort at around 2 AM. It is one of the famous beach to spot Indo-Pacific bottle nose dolphins. It is famous for the water sport activities. 

Betalbatim Beach- One of the beautiful and serene beaches of South Goa, where you can sit back and enjoy the sunset. It is renowned as the "Sunset beach", it is the place which would remain in your memories forever. 

Sunset @ Betalbatim

Lost & found - Self

Oh! So close

Sit back here & enjoy

Bidding adieu

Yes, it is least that I have covered in Goa..be it north or south. I am glad every time it was with the same bunch of crazy people. I yearned for a vacation from the hectic life in the Silicon Valley, amidst the same traffic, pubs. I earned myself a vacation and returned back with bag full of memories, phone gallery running out of storage, beach sand that refuse to wash off from my shorts, gems from the sea bed in form of sea shells. Yes, I declare South Goa are the most beautiful part of Goa. 

Having said enough - "Beaches are holiday spots for some, escape for some". 

Every vacation, every walk holds thousands of thoughts in itself... my journey to Goa holds innumerable of them. 

Mystery shrouds

So... “What do you do?”

“I am a writer”

“Ha.. haa.. Really??? Aaj kal toh har koi khud ko writer kehta hai”

“Believe or not, but that’s the truth”  “Waise tum kya karte ho?”

“If I’d tell you, I’ll have to kill you”

“Gosh! not the cliche line from a uniform guy”

“Wait! how do you know I am...”

“Well, I observe and so I know everything”

Cuckooo... cuckooo.... (Alarm beeps)

Crap! what the hell, this has to be a dream. Babe! listen I saw one of the best incomplete dream ever, Ridhima calls her best friend.

Kriti- “Ridhima, why don’t you just go ahead and meet that internet guy of yours? Every time, it is something or the other. What is in him that is driving you so crazy about a guy whom you haven’t even met him”

Ridhima- “You know it. It wasn’t my fault. He provoked me and left me in my world of fantasy”

Kriti- “Why is it so important to you,Ridhima? He would be just like every ordinary guy”

Ridhima- “I haven’t felt this way for anyone since I broke up, maybe I am becoming too vulnerable. Oh wait! It has been four long years since I broke up. Ok! So, I am not vulnerable. I just need to find out about the repelling force, was it my fault each time or it’s all about the intimacy. You know what if I share this anyone they would say that I am always inclined towards guys and carve for them. But, you know it.. how badly it has been affecting me. I have been the repelling force always. With Angad, where I didn’t know that he was busy and I wasn’t a priority.”

Kriti- “Why don’t you cut the crap, this time and go ahead with what’s coming your way?”

Ridhima- “Ya, you are right. So, I am meeting him this weekend.”

That month, one weekend passed... another weekend passed. Phone rings, this time for the 50th time. It was Kriti calling for the third consecutive day.

Door bell rang!

Kriti (an angry, irritated bff)- “Wtf, what’s wrong with you. Why are you not taking calls from anyone? It has been weeks you called me. Do you mind telling me what is going on? Why are you in your pizza pyjamas? You want me to call up your dad or are you gonna open up NOW?”

Ridhima- “Kriti! I met him”

A long pause

“He was the most hottest guy, I had ever met. Well-mannered, disciplined... but...”

Kriti- “Sounds exciting, but bewakoof itna sadduu ban ke kyun bol rahi hai”

Ridhima- “Babe, it was the best ever date I had. But you know what he never told me how it went. He dropped me home and never texted me back”

Kriti- “yaar, maybe he must be stuck in some work. Chill, tension mat le. He will call you back”

Ridhima- “Read this” (Ridhima hands over the newspaper to Kriti)

Silence shrouds

Kriti- “IAF plane goes missing” (she reads aloud) “What do you want to say, Ridhs?”

Ridhima- “He was a fighter pilot.” (Tears rolled down her cheeks) “Kriti, aisa mere saath hi kyun hota hai yaar. I am the repelling force, I told him. I told him, I won’t meet up and he forced it. I didn’t know it would turn out to be my first and last date with him”

Kriti- “Don’t be so negative yaar. He would be fine. How are you so sure that he was on this aircraft?”

Ridhima- “Coz after our date, he was suppose to board a flight for Chennai. And I received a call from a Chennai number but I missed it. Then, I read this news. I don’t know even whether he was the one or...”

Ridhima hugs Kriti and cried her heart out.

Ridhima’s phone vibrates, this time Kriti answers it

Other side- “Ridhima, Hi.. I had an amazing time that day. I am in Andamans, sorry I didn’t get time to call you after that day. Ridhima...are you there?”

Kriti in excitement, gives the phone to Ridhima.

Ridhima- “Hi.. you idiot, why did you do this to me? Do you even know....”

Phone disconnects

Ridhima- “Wtf! mysterious date I have” (screams) wait karun ya na karun... baateyega koi!!!