It was a pleasant coincidence, the day I reached Saddi Dilli. I was so enthralled by the lovely greens visible from the wheels of the journey from Mumbai to Delhi, wide roads ready to embrace me. The waft of familiar smell transcended me to the memories associated with this city. This led me to question the ethereal beauty that Delhi is. And as soon as I reached my abode, TV was exhibiting the enchantress that Delhi is.
Now that I have returned from the heavenly trip, I reckon this is the best time to define my own Delhi. What it means to me? The signature Delhi; which has defined and nurtured the person I am today. Here goes my very own and of course very biased explanation. :P (as I love to reiterate “I am a true blue Delhiite :P”)
There is a soul to this city, with which, I find an instant connect unlike other cities. Meandering lanes, lush parks, manicured avenues, they all find a place in my childhood memories. Innumerable trips to Chandni Chowk for those ever-so-spicy chaats to those early morning swimming classes at the beautiful Talkatora stadium to the strolls at evergreen, ever grand, ever regal Connaught Place to the bylanes of Nai Sadak which had my eyes roving in delight with all the papyrus waiting to find takers. Excursions at Lodhi Gardens to the educational ones at planetariums and science museums, constant adventures and the thrill of driving on the roads of Delhi. Being surrounded by people whose main business is to mind other people’s business (yet we all enjoy those juicy tid bits.. don’t we?) which brings a sense of comfort when the need arises in difficult times. Fun games at children’s park to that yummy ice cream at India Gate. Amalgamation of various states and their cultures at Dilli Haat to the serenity clad Lotus Temple. Truly majestic Akshardham Temple to the grand opulence at Kingdom of Dreams. You have options galore.. and this is just the beginning !!!
For me Delhi is much more than this. It has given me some innumerable, timeless memories with my family and friends…Its heritage rich belly has opened my mind to countless topics to ponder on. From my school to my undergrad days and finally the MBA; the people, the places (all so different and so vivid) have left an indelible mark in my life. The closeness, the comfort which I feel here cannot be experienced anywhere else. All the cities seem to alienate the outsiders but Delhi.
Thanks Delhi for letting me play in your arms… for sheltering me in your cradle... above all thanks to my parents for choosing Delhi over any other city!!!! J
This feeling of attachment with the place where one has spent the childhood holds for each one of us. I would appreciate if you can answer the same for yourself “Aapki/ Aapka <insert your hometown> kaunsi/ kaunsa hai??” and I, gladly, would like to read your interpretation of your hometown.
