The many homes

 

“Home is where you make it. “– Japonisme (book)

Chhindwara, Seoni, Jabalpur, Ahmedabad, Tel Aviv, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Noida.

 

In the fabric of life, these cities are the threads that have woven me into who I am today. From the place of my birth to the corners of the world where I found belonging, each city has left a mark on my soul. They are not just geographical locations but repositories of memories, experiences, and growth. Each one holds a piece of my heart, making them my true homes in their own distinct ways.

Chhindwara - a distant echo of childhood, a place shrouded in the haze of vague memories. It exists as a patchwork of stories woven by elders, relatives, and distant acquaintances who seem to know a version of me that I try hard to recognize. These narratives paint a picture of a little me, created by unfamiliar faces tinged with a sense of familiarity, evoking a poignant nostalgia for a time and place that feels both known and unknown.

Jabalpur—my sanctuary, my haven, my home for as long as I can remember. It's more than just a city; it's been my nurturer, my guide, and my confidant. From the very beginning, it played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.

In the heart of Jabalpur, I find myself. It's where the gentle flow of the river soothes my soul and the sprawling green landscapes welcome me with open arms. The scent of incense and the distant echoes of temple bells instantly transport me to a place of peace and belonging. From the familiar tunes of church hymns to the sharp sound of sports whistles, each sound resonates deeply within me, reminding me of the moments that have shaped my life.

It's in the rush of wind against my face as I play, the thrill of adrenaline coursing through my veins, and the warmth of friendship during sleepovers at friends' houses. The smell of home cooked meals, the sound of the tadka, even the hustle and bustle of exam mornings holds a special place in my heart.

Jabalpur is where I experienced my firsts— first breathe, the first step, the first joy, the first friend, the first medal, first joy, first crush, first love, first heartbreak, first injury, first pain, first loss, first of my being.

This city isn't just where I lived—it's a part of who I am. It's my beginning, and the constant in my journey, and my home in every sense of the word.

Ahmedabad—the city where I learned to unlearn and relearn, where the soft core of my being was molded by the ways of the world. It was a place of exposure, where I encountered countless unknowns and faced challenges that tested every fiber of my being.

In the beginning, I felt like a small-town kid lost in a sea of rich brats, grappling with feelings of inadequacy amidst the glitz and glamour. Yet, amidst the chaos, I found my tribe—others like me who eventually became my family.

It was a challenge, but I embraced it with all my might. I struggled, I doubted, I worked harder than ever before—enduring sleepless nights and early mornings in pursuit of my dreams.

Ahmedabad shaped me in ways I never imagined. It pushed me to my limits, breaking me down only to build me up stronger than before. It was here that I discovered layers within myself, not all meant to be exposed to the outside world.

But amidst the struggle, Ahmedabad also offered countless achievements, exposure, and friendships to be cherished for a lifetime. It was a city where dreams were realized, where I found my voice, and where I forged connections that would stand the test of time.

And though the journey was not without its setbacks, Ahmedabad remains a beacon of resilience and growth—a chapter in my story that will forever shape who I am.

Cut to Hyderabad—a city that briefly became my refuge amidst the turmoil of life. It was the beginning of something new—a fresh start in a new place, with new aspirations and endless possibilities.

Hyderabad gave me hope and energy to rebuild myself, both physically and mentally. Its vibrant atmosphere and warm embrace provided the solace I desperately needed.

And oh, the food! It filled the void left by the cravings for authentic South Indian flavors, comforting me in ways I never imagined.

But beyond the delicious cuisine, Hyderabad was also a haven of inspiration. I found people to look up to, mentors who offered care and love, and friendships that felt like a healing balm to my wounded soul.

In the midst of chaos, Hyderabad was a healer—a place where I could find peace, strength, and a sense of belonging. It may have been a brief chapter in my life, but its impact will be etched in my heart forever.

Noida—a city where I'm officially rooted, yet perpetually feel like a stranger. It wasn't a place I ever imagined myself settling in, let alone finding solace in. The Delhi NCR region, with its hustle and bustle, always felt abrasive and unwelcoming, leaving me feeling like an outsider in my own surroundings.

However, fate had other plans. Three years ago, when I reluctantly stepped foot into this city, little did I know that it held the key to my deepest desires. Amidst the chaos and clamor, I found him—someone who was unexpected, uncalled for, yet who slowly seeped into the very core of my being without me even realizing it.

He is unlike anyone I've ever known. Patient, caring, and understanding, he navigates the intricacies of my soul with a silent grace, observing, and absorbing the layers of my being. It's as if he was custom-made, sent to me from the universe, perfectly tailored to fit the voids within my heart.

With each passing day, he became more than just a presence in my life; he became my sanctuary, my anchor amidst the stormy seas of uncertainty. His unwavering support and unconditional love filled the cracks in my spirit, breathing life into my weary soul.

And now, as I reflect on my journey, I realize that he (my husband now) is the reason I can finally call this city home. His presence has transformed Noida from a mere geographical location into a place of warmth, comfort, and belonging—a testament to the power of unexpected connections and the beauty of love's quiet embrace.