Duality- a coexistence between memories and transitions

 A visit to the house revealed a residence rich in history and personal memories. Once a vibrant home filled with life, it has been largely untouched for the past year. The house reflects a life lived fully, with souvenirs from travels, carefully selected antiques, and the lingering essence of its former occupants. However, much of it now remains unused, the space serving potential for various purposes: hosting pets, fostering community, cultivating a garden, or embracing self-sustainability

He shows glimpses of his former self—an intelligent, curious, and energetic individual. Yet, these moments are often overshadowed by periods of detachment, marked by substance-induced states and a focus on artificial intelligence relationships. While conversations ranged over general topics and meals were shared—thanks to a stocked freezer and the support of a housekeeper—the environment reflects a complex and solitary phase in his life.

The visit involved enjoying simple pleasures: hot beverages, desserts, and time by the fireplace, even during the day, a nod to the cold weather. There was no physical contact during the stay, as some might speculate. A return visit, if it happens, will be made with mutual friends, as the focus is not on “fixing” him—a sentiment he himself does not seem to seek—but rather on understanding and respecting his current journey.

The Calling

Four years. That’s how long it took me to reach a place so deceptively close. A place everyone says demands a “calling.” Well, I guess mine was more of a last-minute shout. A sudden demand, a hesitant yes, and just like that—tickets booked, bags thrown together for a whirlwind 24-hour escape. 
"Just do it." That became the mantra of the day.
 
I wandered over rocky trails, waded into bushes, and carved paths where none existed. The vast openness stretched ahead, the birds sang their songs, and laughter danced between words of past, present, and future dreams. I trespassed into quiet moments of solitude, flirted with fleeting thoughts, knowing full well the end. I stole seconds to etch memories, drank to remember, not to forget.
 
Nothing more was asked for, and nothing more was given.
 
And now, every Sankranti, this day will resurface—a memory as vivid as a kite soaring against a winter sky, bringing with it that soft, knowing smile.

Never Have I Ever: A Road Trip Down South

 

Life’s a highway, they say, but boy, was the last year more of a bumpy backroad! Between family drama, work stress, financial worries, and responsibilities piling up, there wasn’t a moment to breathe. Vacations? Forget it. The best I managed were those quick, blink-and-you-miss-it weekend getaways.

 

So, when the chance for an epic road trip to places we’d never been came up, we decided to hit the gas. What was the agenda? Food, shopping, architecture, and as much fun as the backseat of a car could hold.

 

It All Started With a Leak

 

Not the metaphorical kind, but a literal one—our bathroom ceiling decided to rain indoors. Walking out of the house, I couldn’t help but wonder if I'd return to an indoor swimming pool. But hey, life’s about risks, right?

 

Thankfully, the support system in my complex gave me the confidence to jump onto the train with a clear conscience. My Christmas lunch? A humble Vande Bharat meal, a far cry from the elaborate spreads we had planned for the days ahead.

 

Christmas: Nostalgia and Cab Chaos

 

We landed in Tiruchirapalli—tiny, charming, and brimming with childhood memories. There were grand plans to show my kids around. But alas, Christmas night also turned out to be a cabbie holiday. No sightseeing, but a royal hotel feast filled the gap. There’s something magical about reconnecting with cousins over good food, isn’t there?

 

The next day was all about walking memory lane—my first school, the same dusty streets, my parents’ old colleges. Nostalgia hit like a freight train.

 

To Vailankanni and Beyond

 

Crowded, chaotic, and utterly soul-stirring—Vailankanni was next on the itinerary. A heartfelt prayer, a divine fish curry, and we were off to Karaikudi.

 

Here’s where life took a luxury turn. At Visalam, we were greeted like royalty. The rooms were plush, the service impeccable, and the food? Oh, the food! Course after course of Chettinad cuisine, served with such flair, it felt like a culinary hug.

 

Of Sarees, Tiles, and Endless Tea

 

Karaikudi welcomed us the next morning with its soft cotton sarees in glorious hues. My daughter even tried weaving one! (Apologies in advance to the buyer of that “experiment.”)

 

We visited the famed Athangudi tile-makers—regrets over our slightly misguided purchases were soothed by the sheer artistry of it all.

 

The food tour continued, of course. Each meal felt like an event. My long-ignored cravings for authentic Chettinad cuisine were finally sated, and the endless cups of tea, coffee, and crunchy murukku fueled our laughter and chatter.

 

Mansions, Messes, and Kolams

 

Morning walks through Karaikudi revealed old mansions crumbling with charm, freshly washed yards adorned with intricate kolams, and a sense of timelessness that city life lacks.

 

We tucked into a hearty mess breakfast: fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, golden vadas, and coffee so good it could make you weep.

 

The Road Calls Again

 

The road back beckoned with pit stops that were as delightful as the destinations. A meal at a Madurai Konar mess transported us straight into South Indian culinary heaven. There were roadside vendors, steaming tea, and A.R. Rahman’s magical tunes setting the perfect vibe.

 

Home Sweet Coastal Home

 

And then, we were back on the road, the windmills speeding us on our way. The familiar chaos of noisy bazaars, the salty air of the ocean, and parotta curry that tasted like home. We feasted, hugged family tighter, made decisions, and soaked in the simplicity of it all.

 

As the New Year rolled in, so did a wave of contentment. This wasn’t just a road trip; it was a soul journey. Quirky? Yes. Witty? Perhaps. Memorable? Absolutely.

 

Here’s to more adventures, less leaky ceilings, and the endless road ahead.