My photo essay Sarzameen-e-Firdous or Land of Paradise is a portrait of Srinagar — a city steeped in history and shaped by centuries of culture, craftsmanship and tradition. Nearly 15 years later, I returned to the valley in the spring of 2024. I photographed, I observed, and I absorbed as much of everyday life as … Continue reading Sarzameen-e-Firdous: A Photo Essay of Srinagar
Naukuchiatal’s unhindered beauty is a source of joy
Tucked away amidst rhododendrons and oak trees lies the pristine lake town of Naukuchiatal. Surrounded by verdant hills and lush foliage that drapes the landscape, this tiny Himalayan hill station—nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand—holds a quiet allure. It is a kind of place that beckons you to slow down, breathe easy, and reconnect … Continue reading Naukuchiatal’s unhindered beauty is a source of joy
In Amritsar: A Cinema Lost in Time
Look at the old, dilapidated building. Isn’t she a beauty? Weathered by years, worn by time. Sometimes remembered in stories—told by passersby and elders who saw her in all her glory—but now, she stands mostly forgotten. If not for the Phulkari dupattas I had planned to buy, I might never have stumbled upon this rundown … Continue reading In Amritsar: A Cinema Lost in Time
Finding Susegad in Goa
There is a perpetual longing for Goa. I can’t quite explain why, but something about this place brings me a deep sense of quietude and contentment––like a retreat for my soul. The countless times I must have thought of living here, in a typical Portuguese-styled house, surrounded by palm trees, coconut groves, colorful bougainvilleas, and … Continue reading Finding Susegad in Goa
Wat Pho, Thailand: A Sacred Space of Art, Architecture, and the Reclining Buddha
The very topic of architecture fascinates me. We see it in our everyday lives––in houses, museums, modern buildings, parks, historical monuments, churches, mosques, forts, and palaces. And then, there are these timeless wonders to marvel at, such as the Louvre in Paris, the grand Colosseum in Rome, the Baha’i Temple in New Delhi or the … Continue reading Wat Pho, Thailand: A Sacred Space of Art, Architecture, and the Reclining Buddha
Andaz Delhi: A perfect getaway
Lately, we have come to enjoy the eclectic charm of good boutique hotels. Every so often, my husband and I indulge in a luxury staycation, even for a day, simply to unwind and pamper ourselves.Just a bit of change of environment, free from mundane distractions like work meetings, phone calls, screen time, and social media, … Continue reading Andaz Delhi: A perfect getaway
Breakfast & Brew at Marc’s Cafe, Auroville
For a true coffee lover, finding the perfect blend is a constant pursuit. It is as much a ritual as it is fundamental to achieving the right balance of smoothness, aroma, and flavor in every cup. While I am no connoisseur, I enjoy exploring artisanal coffees and learning about their origins, the types of beans used, … Continue reading Breakfast & Brew at Marc’s Cafe, Auroville
On Pondicherry: Tiny things I discovered about this town
The year 2024 ended on a fantastic note: sipping filter coffee, enjoying leisurely meals, passing by bright, colorful colonial houses and heritage buildings, and rediscovering the city, falling in love with it all over again. This time, coming back to Pondicherry felt like coming home. The familiar scent of roasted beans and freshly baked croissants … Continue reading On Pondicherry: Tiny things I discovered about this town
A Day at Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
In our travel itinerary, one of the things that we absolutely do not miss adding is a visit to the flea markets. It is almost like a ritual for my husband and me to follow whenever we are in a new town. We set aside an entire day or two to exploring the local bazaars … Continue reading A Day at Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
The Metamorphosis of Life, Nature and its interconnectedness
As the season begins to change, I can see delightful changes around me. The days are now brighter and livelier, and nights longer. While the hot, humid summers are giving way to cool, gentle breezes, the leaves are slowly turning their colors from verdant green to burnt orange hues, marking a transition towards the autumn. … Continue reading The Metamorphosis of Life, Nature and its interconnectedness