Tag: India

Sarzameen-e-Firdous: A Photo Essay of Srinagar

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 

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

Goa: Art, Architecture and A State of Mind

When I think of Goa, one thing that remains beautifully vivid in my mind is the sight of thick clouds looming over the sky and palm trees gently swaying to the rhythm of the wind. It takes me back to the time when I arrived in this coastal land just in the middle of monsoons. … Continue reading Goa: Art, Architecture and A State of Mind

Stroke the artist in you

After a lot of YouTube tutorials and pocket full of inspiration, I pulled up my socks and decided to dabble in some watercolor art today. I assembled my paints, the tools, and the entire paraphernalia, and boy, the joy I felt in that moment. To fill up the blank space with cheerful colors, naïve brushstrokes, … Continue reading Stroke the artist in you

A Parsi Café for the Soul

On the days we crave for some comfort food, SodaBottleOpenerWala is something we unanimously agree upon. This Parsi café not only brings delectable food choices to the plate, the warm and inviting atmosphere of this place also draws you to it time and again. Red and white checkered tablecloth, round tables, classic bentwood chairs, walls … Continue reading A Parsi Café for the Soul

Of Birds, Bees & Books: The Literati Bookshop & Cafe in Goa Had All My Heart

The days were balmy, the clouds had strewn itself across the sky and the sun would sporadically play peek-a-boo, the tropical dampness could be felt on the skin all day at this time of the year. This was the month of May. Yet there were moments of respite when the cool wind would blow my … Continue reading Of Birds, Bees & Books: The Literati Bookshop & Cafe in Goa Had All My Heart