The Curious Mamma

Renewing an important document like a passport or a driving license always feels like stepping into a battlefield. You have to check the expiry date (and hope it hasn’t already passed), figure out the renewal window, and set reminders. When the alarm goes off, you have to fill out the online form, pay the fees, and book an appointment. You might think, "Well, the internet is there to help," but trust me, it's actually filled with confusing information at each step, making it even more overwhelming. And after all that homework, you get to enjoy the privilege of waiting endlessly at the appointment. By the end of it, you’re so drained that the relief of not having to deal with it again for a few years feels... muted. But guess what? I recently updated my driving license, and it wasn’t as bad as it used to be! It really gave me a sense of how much digitization has improved things in India. It’s saving people like us time, money, and a lot of frustration. Honestly, I felt a l...

The last two months have been quite hectic, with a viral infection affecting the whole family, kids’ exams, and the hustle and bustle of the festival season. In the midst of all this, my riyaz seemed to get lost, and today I found myself feeling a bit lost too. On days like these, what lifts my spirits are books, often biographies of people I admire, or movies. Today, I turned to Netflix for some cheer, and I’m grateful I did. It suggested the movie Little Women , based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott. The movie did exactly what I needed—it made me feel better and filled me with hope, reminding me that life, in its own time, can be kind enough to bring what I’m searching for. The novel Little Women has been a companion of mine since my college days, when I first read it. It felt so warm, so real—full of life lessons without ever being preachy. The story revolves around a family with four daughters and the people in their lives. Each of the girls has a distinct personality: one dream...

Hey everyone! Long time no see! Sorry I left my Rajasthan diaries hanging – got caught up with some important stuff. Before I could finish that, guess what? We went to Sikkim! Another travelogue series, you ask? Nope! This time, I’m keeping it short and sweet, wrapping up everything I want to say in just a couple of posts.  Why Sikkim, you ask? You’ve probably heard of itineraries involving Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Nepal, but a trip solely to Sikkim might sound unusual. In the summer, Bangalore's weather is so much more manageable than most of India's that picking a vacation spot seems as futile as searching for ice in the desert. I gave the cold shoulder to cooler options like Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh because it feels like the entire population of India flocks there in the summer. Those dreamy spots are calling my name, but I'm biding my time until they're as forgotten as Pappu's last joke. Left with only the desi option of the North-East, I eyed S...

  Entering the world of 'Mast mein rehne ka' feels like diving into a whirlwind of emotions, where laughter intertwines with suspense and drama to deliver a treat for the mind. This movie seamlessly mixes various genres, creating an enjoyable blend that lingers in the minds of viewers even after it ends. It sheds light on the people's struggles in urban solitude while challenging our perceptions of right and wrong, good and bad. All packaged in a mesmerizing cinematic experience. In terms of performances, Jackie Shroff shines brightly, delivering a compelling portrayal of a 75 year old introvert person that resonates with authenticity. Neena Gupta, as always, graces the screen with her undeniable talent. Observing these performances, it seems like many actors from their era deserved better chances back then; they could've truly shined. While they've delivered many great roles, there's untapped potential waiting to be unleashed through more roles like these. The ...

Hello, everyone! Following a brief break after Diwali and some thrilling travels, I'm thrilled to return with the next installment of my Rajasthan diaries. Get ready for an engaging narrative that will showcase the varied spectrum of my experiences in Jaisalmer, offering insights into both the positive and challenging moments. Jaisalmer earned its nickname thanks to the unique yellow stone that graces its buildings, imparting a warm, golden hue. Whether you're exploring the iconic Jaisalmer Fort or wandering through the captivating havelis, this local stone adds a touch of magic. When the sun paints the sky during sunrise and sunset, the entire city transforms into a breathtaking panorama of gold, creating a scene you absolutely shouldn't miss. Jaisalmer City and it's Iconic Fort Transportation, Lodging and Lounging We started towards Jaisalmer from Chhotaram Prajapat’s stay at around 7.30 AM and covering a distance of around 275 KM, we reached our destination between ...

For me, the essence of travel extends beyond lavish stays and exotic food and ticking off famous landmarks. It's about delving into the fabric of people, culture, and the nuanced backdrop that shapes a place. Jaisalmer, renowned for its golden forts, havelis, arts and music, unfolded a narrative far beyond the tourist brochures. Behind its grandeur lies a captivating history, both intriguing and, at times, veiled in shadows. The recent chapters, largely unknown, carry lessons worth unraveling. If you're one to seek more than the surface, continue reading as I delve into a few significant aspects. Iconic Jaisalmer with Fort Backdrop The Legend of Jaisalmer According to the ancient myth, Rawal Jaisal, the visionary founder of Jaisalmer, was said to have been guided by a dream where Lord Krishna suggested establishing his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. Captivated by this divine counsel, Rawal Jaisal selected the Trikuta Hill as the site for his new fortress, giving birth to the i...

In loving memory of my dear Nana, who peacefully departed from us this morning. Although circumstances prevent me from being there in person for his final moments, I find solace in expressing my feelings and paying tribute to him through these words. Nana had a big impact on the early years of my life. As a child, I felt his love, and as a student, I received his support and guidance in my education. He was always there, sharing in the simple joys of life, like watching movies and having treats together.  In my early childhood, Nana's home was a safe and happy place. It was where I could play without interruptions, feel the love from my aunts, enjoy the little things, and take a break from the daily routine. This house was more than just a place; it was a safe, loving space where I felt secure and free. As I grew older, Nana became more than just a loving grandfather—he became my teacher. In my early academic years, from social sciences to math to English, his old-school methods, t...

During the planning of my Rajasthan adventure , I embarked on a Google quest for 'village stays in Rajasthan,' and there it was, gleaming at the top of the search results – 'Chhotaram Prajapat's Homestay.' The photos exuded rustic charm, beckoning me to explore further. I reached out to Mr. Chhotaram, and as he described the package options, his authenticity and warmth won me over. I eagerly booked a 2-night stay, and somewhere deep within, I sensed that I was about to embark on an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. We took a cab for our trip to Salawas village, located 20 km before Jodhpur, where our homestay awaited. We set off around 7:30 AM, and the journey lasted approximately 6 hours, encompassing breakfast and lunch breaks, as well as our brief visit to the renowned Ranakpur Temple. The ride amounted to 4000 rupees. The poha and tea we had at the temple's canteen were enjoyable. However, the temple's unwelcoming ambiance, extensive list of dev...

Greetings, fellow wanderers! As we embark on our exploration of Rajasthan, allow me to regale you with my personal encounters and intriguing historical anecdotes centered around the remarkable Udaipur City Palace. This architectural marvel stands as an emblem of the city's glorious heritage and holds a paramount place in Udaipur's history. Nestled on the eastern shore of the picturesque Lake Pichola, the Udaipur City Palace offers a breathtaking vista of the lake's sparkling waters and the majestic Aravalli Mountains in the backdrop. It is not just a structure but a living testament to the opulence and grandeur of Rajasthan's royal legacy, which has captivated the imaginations of travelers from all corners of the globe. Join me as we delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the Udaipur City Palace, a true jewel in the crown of Udaipur's heritage. Udaipur City Palace (pc: Abhijeet) Palace Highlights Udaipur City Palace, initially constructed by Mahara...

Our journey through Rajasthan began in Udaipur, a city often hailed as the "Lake City" due to its abundance of picturesque lakes, with Lake Pichola standing out as the most renowned. During our Udaipur adventure, we immersed ourselves in the grandeur of the City Palace, discovered the enchanting Bagore ki Haveli, strolled through the bustling streets of Chand Pol and Hathi Pol Bazaars, and enjoyed leisurely walks along the serene and peaceful ghats. In my future posts, I'll whisk you away to the City Palace and Bagore ki Haveli. In today's post, let's delve into our accommodation, culinary delights, and the shopping experiences. Exciting, right? Our stay: Strategic but cramped We opted to stay at Casa by the Lake  due to its close proximity to the tourist attractions we planned to visit in Udaipur. Recognizing that Udaipur's charm would keep us out exploring most of the time, we didn't prioritize room size or service. The location was ideal, just a 2-minu...

While my trip to Uttarakhand was spurred by unconventional reasons , my exploration of Rajasthan held a more traditional charm. It was the mystical and solitary desert, along with the rich cultural mosaic, that beckoned me. The allure of the desert and its culture had already captured my imagination through books and iconic films such as "Lekin," "I am Kalam," "Dhanak," "Paheli," and others. Beyond these influences, a profound motivation pulsed within me, much like the rhythmic beats of my beloved Indian classical music. The tales of legendary Rajasthani musicians, the enigmatic charm of their lifestyles, and the timeless melodies they crafted had sparked an indescribable yearning. This longing guided me to the heartland of this musical tradition, or at least to a place that softly echoed its essence, in my pursuit of forging a profound connection with my art. Truly, this journey fully satisfied that yearning. Rajasthan is a veritable haven of cu...

In the grand saga of daily life's monotony, my reassuring companion is the calendar. Why, you ask? Well, it's all about those gleaming gems called "long weekends" that beckon from its pages, offering a golden chance to escape and embrace the great outdoors! With smooth roads and cars at everyone's beck and call, travel has shed its once-elusive charm, and we've become quite the roving enthusiasts. Tourist spots? They've grown as stale as a leftover pizza. Resorts? Because of those mundane work-sponsored resort trips, going to resorts feels as dull as watching a snail crawl. So, what's the secret sauce to my travel enthusiasm, you wonder? It's simple, really. I crave those  enriching, distinct, and delightful  experiences more than a cat craves a sunbeam. Because when life's a merry-go-round, it's these unique escapades that spin the tale worth telling! Well, folks, guess what? The long-awaited long weekend in September finally rolled around...