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Students across the country often travel by train to their hometowns and it sure is bittersweet. Here’s how I’ve come to love the experience of it. 

I remember being seven and fussing over a tasteless sandwich that was given to me by the staff onboard a train to Delhi. In all the remnants of memory from that day, I recall only how much I whined about having to sit in one place for hours. Fast forwarding, the train from Delhi to my hometown this past month has given me unparalleled delight. An abundance of them has changed over the years, and my hopeless romanticism has played a big part. 

After starting college, I quickly realised that the Shatabdi was going to be the most convenient form of transport to and from my city, for several reasons. I now travel through it often and thoroughly enjoy it. On travel days, I have little habits that have almost become rituals. I make sure to pack the night before in order to have a slightly less stressful morning. I wash up and get an iced latte from the café which is adjacent to my building (I know, I got super lucky). I then make my way to Connaught Place, which is really close to the railway station, for some exploring. I try to find a new bookstore each time and get my hands on a new read for my travels. If I have company, which is mostly the case, then I also make sure to find a new eatery for good lunch and a quick chat before heading out. ‘Khan Chacha’ is my current favourite for anyone wondering. 

As crude as this sounds, my first instinct once I’m on the train, is to judge the passengers beside me. God forbid, if there’s a crying child or a gossip head talking on the phone, my perfectly fantasised adventure is already over. More often than not, however,  I’m joined by a friend or my dad. So, this problem usually takes care of itself. The food they serve on the train to Delhi has gotten better, I must say. In fact, I’m a fan. My train mostly travels through empty farmlands and it makes for a perfect view of the sunset. That’s really the cherry on top. I want to be honest here so I’m letting it be known that I do go up to the open coach door and stand there to feel like the main character for a brief moment. 

It was intriguing for me to think about how this came to be. Growing up, especially far from home, can really beat you down in some ways. Adjusting to living alone, learning how to take care of your responsibilities, and trying to find friends and a community is hard enough in itself. On top of it, focusing on academics while feeling so lost was a battle for me initially as well. But if there’s one lesson that I took from it all, it’s this: life is simply not to be taken too seriously.

Each stumble is a very tiny part of the big picture and if you give it too much thought, you might just drown in its gloom. I know there are a million movies you’ve heard this said in, but life really is about the little moments. And, this very realisation was the root of my newfound optimism. I’ve turned my perspective around and now try to find a silver lining in every scenario and search for joy everywhere. So, do I pretend to be a mysterious character from a vintage film while on the train? Yes. Is that a tad bit delusional? Yes. But, has it made my life significantly better? Absolutely. 

It’s also interesting how much gleeful thinking I get done on the train. While coming home after a semester, I reflect and reminisce about what the last few months were like and feel gratitude. When going back to Delhi, I plan all the ways I’m going to do better than ever before. And I feel hope. 

I wish to always remember feeling this way. So full of all this dramatisation. Oh, how I’m going to miss being a romantic when I’m old. Although it’s in me so intrinsically, I don’t think it’ll go away. I mean, I just wrote at length about what it is like to sit on a train.

Feature image credits: Pinterest

Read Also: The Romanticism of Mental Health

Arshiya Pathaniya

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Visitor’s say it’s polluted, messy and always so crowded but have you ever asked a Delhite? They would probably talk about comfort in the chaos. A million people and unspoken stories, small happenings and heartwarming feelings all reside here.

If you’re planning to take a day off from classes and go around exploring, this might just be the most authentic way to experience Dilli, a local’s tried and tested guide.

1. Start from the campus
Both North and South Campus are home to the top colleges of the city; and of course, the top eateries. The canteens of the colleges are famous for their savories, often popularized by Bollywood films. Have some chai at the hangout spots like Sudama’s Tea Stall set up on the University bylines. You can also head to seminars being held in colleges or participate in the events, specially with fest season around the corner.

Tip: Do not forget to carry your college ID card. The guards won’t listen otherwise, you know.
2. Head to Majnu ka Tilla
Majnu ka Tilla, or Aruna Nagar is a Tibetan settlement in North Delhi, known for its quaint little cafes, bakeries, boutiques and souvenir stores, it is home to multiple monasteries and a huge Tibetan market. To get there, take the yellow line metro and get off at the Vidhan Sabha metro station. A rickshaw ride later, you will find yourself in streets that smell like the coffee your body so desperately needs. The streets have pretty architecture that can add up to your Instagram aesthetics.

Tip: Talk to the locals there and not just for directions. They have great stories to tell.

3. Explore Chandni Chowk
Chaotic and unbelievably busy, Chandi Chowk in Old Delhi is often recognised as Delhi’s retail market. It is hub to a number of food places, jewelry shops and clothing items. You can also find some unique and hand-crafted stationery and accessories. Visit the Jama Masjid, Lal Mandir and Sis Ganj Sahib Gurudwara and witness the religious harmony co-exist. Grab some lunch in Paranthe wali Gali and put that tick on your checklist.

Tip: Keep notes of Rs10 and 20 handy with you and commute through e-rickshaws. Enjoy the hustle bustle of the street at its fullest.

4. Spend the evening cycling at Lodhi Colony
Started in 2016 and officially inaugurated in 2019, Lodhi Colony is India’s first public art district. The walls and bylines are adorned with beautiful art and graffiti, providing visual delight, and making the ride extremely pleasant. Rent the cycles from Jor Bagh Metro Station Gate No.1 for Rs 60 for an hour. There are theatre nearby so you can also watch a play at Indian Habitat Center or Lok Kalayan Manch.

Tip: Chauhan Ji’s chhole bhature are quite the ‘World’ famous here. Just in case you had some space left in your stomach.

5. End the day at India Gate
This place is always brimming with picnickers and vendors selling ice cream, bhelpuri, fruit chaat, soft drinks, packaged food, colourful toys and so much more. While it does seem to be pretty cliched, a night visit here must be on top of all the to-do-in-Delhi lists. Surrounded by grassy lawns, the 42 metres tall monument is brilliantly lit every evening. At a closer look you’ll find the names of brave martyrs engraved all over its surface.

Tip: Play some Rang De Basanti music, the vibe is always worth it.

Feature Image Credits: D for Delhi

Aishwaryaa Kunwar
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A lot has been said about Kashmir’s beauty and hospitality through the cinema, literature, the media, etc. Here’s adding more to that pool, while also coming up with pragmatic reasons why you should visit the valley that has not lost its charm all these years.

Before going on any further, click on this link and see for yourself what Kashmir has to offer to a tourist: Aerial View of Gulmarg

Being a Kashmiri, and writing about Kashmir, it becomes impossible to not bring the conflict perspective into the narrative. In all honesty, if you are worried about shutdowns or curfews, I won’t blame you. Although slight, there are chances that you might witness a brief spell of disorder, but I can guarantee, you won’t be affected by it. The narrative that is propagated in this case is that the Kashmiris are extremely hospitable – it stands in all tests of verity for me, yes. But I also understand that this may not necessarily be enough substance for assurance. What we also need to understand is that tourism is the main industry of the valley, and the people won’t harm their ‘customers’ as opposed to the vague term ‘guests’.

The Dal Lake
The Dal Lake

• Trigger warnings and suggestions:

1. If an exceeding amount of military presence daunts you, don’t visit.

2. If you need uninterrupted internet, make sure you make arrangements beforehand.

3. Kashmir is mostly a dry region, so if alcohol is important to you, it might be just a little difficult to find.

• Reasons why you should visit:

1. The geography of Kashmir allows it limitless royalties for being a top tourist destination. It is almost like a bowl surrounded by the most majestic of mountains; you feel disconnected from the rest of the world.

 

2. The food of Kashmir can be compared to the likes of Persian, Afghan, and Mughal cuisines. Although primarily non-vegetarian, there are options for vegetarian food as well. Besides these, drinks like kahwa and noon-chai (salted tea) are some things you must try.

 

3. The history of houseboats dates back to British times. Because of the infamous article, non-inhabitants could not buy land in the valley. As a solution to it, the British decided to live on the water, in these uniquely styled boats – which came to be known, quite simply, as houseboats. The interior is a beautiful amalgamation of Kashmiri and British decor. The ones at Dal Lake are the most famous. Perhaps the best thing about houseboats is that every morning there will be vendors on small boats or shikaras, selling everything from fresh produce to flowers to imitation Kashmiri shawls.

 

4. Kashmir is a great shopping destination, with souvenirs like the Kashmiri Shawls, carpets, saffron, honey, papier mâché, wood-carved decoration pieces, among many others.

 

5. I have mentioned this before, but the people of Kashmir are extremely hospitable.

 

6. The weather of Kashmir is a pleasant 20 degree these days, less than half of that of the capital. This should be enough reason to make you visit.

 

7. Kashmiri slopes are world famous from their powder snow and skiing, a summer alternative for that is water-skiing. Many companies provide the service at Dal Lake, and it is a safe, guided and extremely fun experience.

 

8. We all know of the cultural and religious diversity that exists or existed in Kashmir. This gives a rich architectural history to the place, and the valley is littered with shrines of various gods, goddesses, monks, and saints.

 

Pather Masjid - A Shrine in Kashmir's Downtown area.
Pather Masjid – A Shrine in Kashmir’s Downtown area.


• How to get to Kashmir:

  1. Either a short 1 hour 25 – 1 hour 45-minute trip, depending on the airline, will get you to the valley. Although many hotels or guesthouses are not where the airport is, the city centre is just a 15-20 minutes’ drive away. Srinagar airport is an army airport, therefore make sure not to take any pictures there, in addition to this, you might also be asked to lower the window sheets. This is all security protocol, and you need not panic. This mode will gain you a plethora of Instagram-worthy pictures of flying over the snow-capped mountains, much above the clouds. The skies are cleaner, bluer, and better.
    Airport Authority Contact Number: 0194-2303311
  2. The train to the valley only goes till Banihal, after which you have to take a cab, or a bus – both of which are fairly cheap. The best part about this journey is that right after you cross the Jawahar Tunnel, which is a 2.5 km long tunnel, the entire scenery will change! It will feel almost as if the tunnel teleported you to a different, beautiful land. The journey after this will be your quintessential Old Bollywood Romance setting. The bus or cab will drop you at the Tourist Reception Centre, which is in the heart of Srinagar, and 2 minutes from the Dal Lake.

    View-from-airplane-1
    View From the Airplane.
  • Places to visit:

Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Dal Lake, and the Mughal Gardens are all some places you have to check off of your list. But besides these, here are some off-beat places you could visit:

  1. Doodhpathri: A rather new tourist spot, this place is quickly gaining more attraction, and for good reason. Doodhpathri is a specimen of what a Kashmiri vacation spot should look like, minus the crowd. In Pahalgam and Sonmarg, you can still spot more than a few other groups of tourists. Doodhpahri is comparatively quieter and more solemn. (Don’t miss on Pahalgam and other famous places, though. They are famous for a reason!)
  2. Downtown: The Kashmiri downtown is absolute heaven for photographers, historians, or generally anyone who is interested in the culture of a place. The locals are the most polite and helpful people, and will readily serve you noon-chai if you ask them (or even if you don’t). Make sure to visit the rose water vendors, the spice vendors, the houses, if you are allowed, and just sit on the banks of the river Jehlum. Downtown is also famous for all the shrines that were mentioned earlier.

    Dargah of Khanqah-e-Moula in Downtown, Srinagar.
    Dargah of Khanqah-e-Moula in Downtown, Srinagar.
  3. Shankaracharya is a hill located in Gupkar, and a short hike to the top gives you a view spanning the Dal Lake, the main city, and the adjacent mountains. There is the temple, as the namesake, at the top of the hill.
  4. Kishtwar is a place famous for its ruby and sapphire mines. Another attraction is the natural hot spring, Tatta Pani. With numerous health benefits, there is hardly a reason why you wouldn’t take a dip.
  5. Dachigam National Park has numerous species of birds and wildlife animals, but the most majestic of these is that Kashmiri Stag, or Hangul as it is locally called. Make sure you say hello to the Hangul before you return.
    Dachigan National Park Contact Number: 0194-2462327
  6. If you are feeling particularly fancy, do visit the Khyber Resort, Gulmarg, even if just for a lunch. This 5-star has the most picturesque landscapes and the most beautiful of views.
Khyber Spa Resort tucked in the hills of Gulmarg.
Khyber Spa Resort tucked in the hills of Gulmarg.

Link to Khyber Resort’s website: Here

 

Important Contacts: 
Director Tourism, Kashmir: 0194-2502279
Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar: 9596098882
J&K Tourism Helpline Number: 1-800-103-1070
J&K Tourism Official Website: Here
Police District Headquarter, Srinagar 0194-2455047

 

Kashmir exists above and beyond its conflict. If you are thinking of taking a trip to the valley – you must go now!

 

Feature Image Credits: Pinterest

Maumil Mehraj

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There exists a lovehate relationship with travelling for students, but here is why you should consider moving closer to campus.

Some students look at the commuting hours as ‘me time’, catching up on reading or brushing up their talents.

“It has some advantages too, I complete my work, and it also gives me time to read newspaper or books. The travel time is also used to compensate for the lost sleep,” says Anoushka Sharma, a second-year student of Delhi School of Journalism.But mostly, it is an exhausting task that renders them fatigued.

Metro stations like Noida City Centre, Dwarka, or Huda City Centre feature college students in their College or society T-shirts, at extremely early hours of the day, with a book in their hand, earphones plugged in, desperately trying and failing to attend that 8:30 lecture.

A four-hour-commute is not an uncommon occurrence for many students of the Delhi University as, due to personal reasons or otherwise, they don’t shift on-campus, or to a PG or hostel close to college.

However, research has proven that a long commute could have detrimental effects on the health of the subject. Be it short-term harms like irritability or fatigue, or long-term ones like hypertension, depression, or risk of heart-attack. Even though these may seem like a far-fetched outcome at the moment, there are, still, inconveniences that students face on a daily-basis.

Many students throughout the University have classes scheduled at 8:30 A.M., which to be fair, is a very decent time to begin education. But for that, students have to leave their abodes as early as 6:30 – 7:00 A.M., and are often late to lectures. A more convenient option for them is to skip that class, and miss on that particular subject.

Sakshi Arora, a first-year English Honors student of Gargi College says that her first lecture gets skipped often, because if she were to be in college at 8:40 A.M., she would have to wake up at 6. And it is fact widely acknowledged that early-morning sleep in winters is rather close to all of our hearts.

Delhi University is famous for its extra-curricular and each society demands a lot of time. In doing so, the commute gets pushed to later hours, which is a problem for a lot of the students, especially girls. “I have been commuting from Gurgaon to North Campus for three years now. While the metro is comfortable, I still consider taking a PG every other week because of the long college hours, thanks to being involved in multiple college societies and other ECA work,” remarks Bhavya Banerjee, a third-year student of Daulat Ram College. “I have a curfew which I cannot miss, and it means compromising on my college, or society work,” Jaishree, a second-year Ramjas student adds.

The Delhi Metro is applauded and appreciated by almost all of the students. “My sister taunts me by calling metro my second home. I am in the metro for 4 hours every day,” Sharma says. But the catch here is that the metro isn’t as well developed in the peripheries as it is in Delhi. Even after the end-stations, most of the students have to take a bus, an auto, or a cab to reach their destination. While metro could arguably be called a safe method of travel, it usually doesn’t put an end to all of the problems.

Another problem that students face is the holes that commute burns in their pockets. College students are anyway on a non-liberal budget, and a considerable chunk of it is spent on autos and metros every day. “I pay a lot more for commute in a month than my college tuition for a semester,” Sakshi added.

Many colleges offer on-campus accommodation for students and it does not get much more convenient than that. Imagine waking up at 8:15 for an 8:30 lecture, and actually making it to class on time!

The three or four hours spent going to and for could be put to better use. I won’t be preachy and say that you should study every minute you get. But think of improving your debating skills, or practicing extra with the theatre group, or helping the kids at the NGO for an extra hour. There is a lot you could do when you have 240 extra minutes in your day.

When you get home, your commute does not stop there, the hangover is still following. The fatigue demands at least an hour of rest, and another for procrastination. So the four-hours that are actually seeping from your day are much more than that in actuality.

Many great PG and hostel facilities are coming up, not just around the North and the South campuses, but near off-campus colleges as well. So if living conditions are a problem, you could check that off of your list. If budget is a concern in this case, these rooms are also available on double or triple sharing basis, which substantially reduces the cost.

We have students like Akarsh Mathur, who say, “travelling from Noida is so difficult, that I go to college once a month.”

I leave you all to be the better judge of your situations, and understand that time is the most important resource that we have. We must not waste it.

 Image credits: DU Beat

Maumil Mehraj

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“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

There has been a lot said and written about the term “travelling”, almost always glorifying it to the point that the everyday man believes it to be the perfect way to “find yourself”. The one thing I personally like about it is, the fact that travelling can mean so many different things to so many different people.

If looked at closely, travelling has always been a part of history, from voyages leading to colonialism to communities spreading to different parts of the world, it has been the foundation of the world as we know it today. While it is only recently that it has been connoted to a specific abstract purpose, travelling was only meant to fulfil a certain materialistic purpose earlier. It is the advent of modernity that has brought on the philosophical quest of this generation to ‘find themselves’ and the ‘true meaning of life’.

As an individual, my belief stands strong in people stepping out of their houses and venturing into unknown territories because this provides the opportunity to step out of one’s comfort zone, and face a world not quite familiar to oneself. It gives one space to look around and absorb the beauty the world has to offer, along with the opportunity to interact with new people in foreign lands and break away from the mundanity of city life. 

Travelling does not have to be about spending huge sums of money on luxurious trips, rather, ideally, it should be about exploring places and cultures never seen before, even if that means venturing to a place less frequented, like Old Delhi. Be it family, friends, or your significant other, pick a partner and gear up for an adventure of a lifetime, because life is short, and this World Tourism Day, do not forget to see a little more of it, after all, the world is your Oyster.

 

Feature Image credits: delhiphototour.com

Anoushka Singh

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What are you planning to do during the semester break? Have your thought of something your winter vacation yet? Breaks and holidays are usually spent lazying around binging on cheap Chinese food and addictive TV series. Don’t let the holiday blues get to you; pack a bag and go make some memories you’re your college friends!

College is the time to travel with new found friends, explore yourself, and enjoy to the fullest. These are some must-visit places that will remind you of good times during college years when you look back.

 

  1. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh

This small town, situated in the midst of beautiful hills, is an attraction for tourists all the year round. Known for its charismatic weather and pretty cafes, this place is generally quiet, away from the honks and loud screams of the commercialised world. This little town also has a remarkable Buddhist culture with monasteries and schools dedicated to the propagation of the religion in the city.

 

  1. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Known for its scenic beauty, calm vibes, and serenity, Kasol is one of the most loved places especially for students who reside in Delhi. They flock to Kasol to escape the scorching heat of the capital. One can also trek to Malana or go till Tosh(which is frozen during the winter months) through Kasol.

 

  1. Jaipur, Rajasthan

The city of palaces has always been a major attraction for tourists for its historical significance and aesthetic charm. Often flooded during the Jaipur Literature Festival, it offers a huge variety of sites to explore, while paying ide to literature. The accessibility to this city is also a bonus – it is not more than a 6-hour drive from Delhi via a car or a bus.

 

  1. Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

Known for being one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Agra is home to tales of grandeur and kingship. The Taj Mahal has, since time immemorial, attracted millions of people from all over the world to come and marvel at the monument of love. Fatehpur Sikri, around one and half hours away from Agra via road, is the land of the Buland Darwaza and the tale of Akbar’s son, Salim (later known as Jahangir).

 

  1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is the gateway to the iconic Rohtang Pass, the pretty cafes and alleys in Old Manali, and the amazing food! It has always been popular among travellers as a destination of exploration and finding the hidden love for the mountains within.

 

  1. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand  

Unlike any other hill station, Mussoorie is home to the ever favourite author Ruskin Bond. It is an overnight bus ride away from Delhi and the major advantage is that the author sits in his bookshop on Saturdays (that means a weekend worth of a change)!

 

  1. Amritsar, Punjab

Especially famous among the History folks, this place has seen the most traumatic phase of partition. Along with the famous Golden Temple and a rich history, it also has the Jallianwala Bagh which has the cries of millions still echoing within. Recently, the world’s first Partition Museum was inaugurated in Amritsar, and it is worth paying a visit to.

Make sure you go around all of them, and many more, before the three most beautiful years of your life come to an end!

 

Feature Image Credits: Mcleodganj Tours and Travels 

Ananya Bhardwaj

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Writing is liberating, empowering and a life changing experience but not many get the opportunity to showcase the same to the world. Presently working at McKisney & Company, Abhishek Gupta is an Economics major from Kirori Mal College who stands as a young example of how to make one’s dreams come true via writing. Author of India’s first ever travel photo-poetry collection – ‘Iridescence’, we got an opportunity to have an enlightening conversation with him about his dreams, aspirations and his current calling. Excerpts:

 

Q1. Being an Economics Major from Kirori Mal College, how did the idea of penning down a book come up?

Abhishek: Every person has this childhood fantasy, mine was to grow up and write a book. So as soon as I found an idea which could make a difference to Indian Literature, the first thing I did was to write the book.

 

India's first travel photo poetry collection, ‘Iridescence’
India’s first travel photo poetry collection, ‘Iridescence’

 

Q2. The title of the book – ‘Iridescence’ literally means a lustrous or attractive quality that changes with the change in the angle of view. Metaphorically, why did you choose this title and no other?

Abhishek: Travel changes you.  It makes you look at things differently. In Iridescence, I have tried to voice and give vision to different junctures of my journey of self discovery and my discovery of the world. This book would mean different things to different people. It may make you reflect, introspect, awaken, love, invigorate and hope. It may make you look at the same poem differently as you read it at different points of your life. This is a book to tuck under your pillow on cold lonely nights and it is also a book to flip through on a fresh refreshing morning.

Your perspective will define what Iridescence ends up meaning to you. And thus, what better way to sum this photo-poetry book than to call it ‘Iridescence’?

 

Q3. How did the idea of juxtaposing photography and poetry in a single book come to your mind? 

Abhishek: I had been an avid writer since school. In my first year college I started doing photography. I was away to Africa for an internship around that time where sitting by the beach I was writing poetry. That’s when it struck me that it would be a great idea to combine photos and poetry in a book. It took me 3 years since then to materialise the book.

 

Q4. Most of your poems are an inspiration picked up directly from nature. Any story behind this you’d like to share with us? 

Abhishek:When I started with photography, I clicked nothing but flora, and then slowly started clicking landscapes. Nature inspires me the most, and I particularly write the most when I am travelling. I strongly believe that nature has the power to amaze you and has a lot of wisdom to impart to you about life.

 

Q5. What motivated you to travel and pen down your thoughts in the form of poetry? 

Abhishek:My primary motivation to travel was to get out of my comfort zone and to experience life and different ways of living beyond my confines. I wanted to breathe the air of new places and collect moments worth reliving. Photography was also one of the major reasons triggering all my travel.

Soon after, I discovered, Photo-poetry was the perfect medium to make a picture and moment eternal for myself and as well as for the readers. And then the camera didn’t stop clicking and the pen kept scribbling onto the pages of my travel journal.

 

Q6. Do you think poetry as a form of writing needs a new lease of life? What are your comments about the culture of poetry that we have in the country today?

Abhishek: I think we are at a very unique point in the history of literature where we are heading towards digitalisation and experimenting more than ever before. Poetry in India too needs innovation to enhance its market and appeal. It no longer needs to be about being free verse or sonnet or a haiku. It could be in different patterns, in various styles, lengths and on any particular theme.

I think the poetry scenario in India is reforming and broadening its horizons. There are slam poetry sessions every weekend, blogs and Instagram flooding with new budding Indian poets more than ever before and a wider acceptance of new forms of poetry. It is a privilege to witness such a rich growing poetry culture in our country.

 

Q7. Being a young author, you must have faced many unprecedented challenges and obstacles in the path of getting yourself published. Any anecdotes or important advice you wish to pass on to our young readers and aspiring authors?

Abhishek:Poetry is something that is very close to the writer, so I think the first obstacle is making peace with the fact that you are opening yourself to the entire world.  So don’t be afraid to opening yourself up to the world.

And then the second obstacle is apparently finding a publisher. So all I would say is that if you reach out to 50 publishers, only 5 would respond back and 1 will for sure accept your idea, and that is all that will make a difference.

 

Q8. In a collection of more than 30 poems, which poem is very close to you or has a special place among the plethora of experiences that helped you collate this book?

Abhishek:Each poem is very close to my heart, so it would be very unfair if I choose one. But if I have to choose, then it would be ‘Probably Exuberance’. Because that was the first photo-poetry I wrote, and that’s where Iridescence started.

 

Abhisheks book has been received very well and has also become a top-seller on Amazon in its genre. We wish Abhishek all the very best for all his future endeavours!  

 

Riya Chhibber

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Most colleges in the Delhi University are part of a rich historical tradition by the virtue of being part of the freedom movement and in setting tone for various cultural and intellectual developments post-independence. With a gamut of historical coordinates around the colleges, it becomes inevitable for one to visit them to better understand aesthetics of various colleges and the environment they create. Here is a list of five major historical sites worth visiting around DU colleges:

1. Khooni Jheel

The jheel gets its name for the war of independence in 1857 when, first, the fleeing British were murdered at the spot and, later, Indian mutineers and their horses were killed in the area. It is believed that corpses and carcasses made a bloody pool at the spot leaving a stench that drove anyone who tried coming close to the area.  In the present day, the spot has a pond which rejuvenates itself with rain water. Khooni Jheel is located in the Kamla Nehru Ridge which is adjacent to North Campus.

Image credits: flickr
Image credits: flickr

2. Flagstaff Tower

The structure, originally a single tower, marks an intersection in the Kamla Nehru Ridge and was built in 1828. It sheltered families of many British officials who housed in the adjoining Civil Lines area during the Siege of Delhi in 1857. The tower is one roomed and has been declared a ‘protected monument’ by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Image credits: flickr
Image credits: flickr

3. Delhi War Cemetry

The cemetery, controlled by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission was built in 1951 and has over 1000 graves of soldiers who died in the First and the Second World War. It is located near Airforce station Naraina and is accessible from Dhaula Kuan.

Image credits: Common Wealth Graves Commission
Image credits: Common Wealth Graves Commission

4. Nizamuddin Basti

The area is one of the oldest in Delhi and houses the Nizamuddin Auliya dargah.  Humayun’s Tomb, Chausath Khamba, Mirza Galib’s tomb and Lal Mahal are other prominent structures in the area. The basti can be accessed from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium metro station on the violet line.

nizamuddin-basti
Image credits: So Delhi

5. Vice Chancellor’s Office

The erstwhile Vice-Regal Lodge, which was the residence of the Viceroy before the building of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, houses a huge ball room (now a convocation hall), legislative assembly building (Academic Council) and a museum. The lodge also has a chamber where Bhagat Singh was kept before being taken to the gallows in Lahore for hanging. The office is surrounded by the VC lawns and is located in the North Campus area.

The Hindu
The Hindu

Sidharth Yadav

[email protected]

 

 

Last week, we came out with an article which laid out the most common base technologies, whether hardware or software, that you’ll essentially require to make your DU experience smoother and more exciting. While that list catered to the necessities, this one, ‘Tech for Freshers- Part 2’ caters to all your temptations.

We begin by mentioning the loner in the hardware side:

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1. Bluetooth Speaker

This invention purposefully solves the problem of frequent requirement of loud music at a cheap cost. Whether you are on a department trip or a birthday party of one of your friends, a Bluetooth Speaker can ensure that you never go out of the supply of loud music. Oh and did we forget to mention? You can force your choice of music on others too.

Source: i.ytimg.com

And the better part of the software side:

1. For Dating Needs:

Tinder, Badoo, TrulyMadly, Lovoo – Gone are the days when love in college life meant love in the college campus. Like many other things, finding love or dating has changed for the 21st century. If you don’t find connections in your college, the tech cupid will help you find one using these apps.

dating_logo

Sources: Tinder icon: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tinder&hl=en
Badoo icon: https://badoo.com/
TrulyMadly icon: http://trulymadly.com/
Lovoo icon: http://www.appsforpc9.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/lovoo_logo.png

2. For Transportation Needs:

transportation_logo

Uber, Ola, Jugnu – Even though the Delhi Metro will serve as the main source of your transportation, there will be times when your actual destination won’t be a walking distance from your ‘nearest’ metro station or when you’re carrying luggage that you can’t drag in the metro, especially while visiting NCR. These apps will help you get around the city at affordable rates.

Sources:Uber icon: https://2q72xc49mze8bkcog2f01nlh-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/New-Logo-Vertical-Dark.jpg
Ola icon: https://naushad.me/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Ola_Cabs_Logo.png
Jugnoo icon: http://www.businessofapps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/jugnoo_app-copy.png

3. For Shopping Needs:

Flipkart, Amazon – Local markets are where you’ll do most of your shopping but at times, you’ll need stuff that’s just not available there. These apps will help you get that stuff right at your doorstep.
Paytm – As we get more technologically equipped, exchange of paper money moves towards obsolescence. Paytm wallet is the largest e-wallet in the country and has recently started to root its way into local markets. The day is not far when you’ll paytm the local paan wala for a cigarette or a chewing gum. Paytm also lets you transfer Paytm cash to your bank account for a small fee.

shopping_logo

Sources: Flipkart icon: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c9/Flipkart_logo.png
Amazon icon: http://cdn.wccftech.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/amazon.png
Paytm icon: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/42/Paytm_logo.png

4. For Event Needs:

bookmyshow

Bookmyshow – Cinema will have a very big space in your college life. Sitting in the canteen after bunking classes gets redundant and boring after a while. At one point you will want to move out of the college and go someplace else. This app will help you find the movie or play of your choice that you and your gang can go to.

Sources: Bookmyshow logo: https://in.bookmyshow.com/job-listings/wp-content/themes/bms-listings/images/logo.png

5. For Fashion and Styling Needs:

Wooplr & Roposo – The first impression you impart on your peers is made by the way you carry yourself and your clothes. There is no doubt that fashion and styles have their own social bonuses. These two apps will help you stay on top of all the latest trends and new ways to expand your wardrobe.

fashion_logo

Sources:
Wooplr logo:https://res.wooplr.com/image/upload/h_120/assets/website/icon/wooplr.png
Roposo logo: http://www.biifund.com/wp-content/uploads/roposo-transparent-500×250.png

6. For Food and Beverages Needs:

food_logo

Zomato and Swiggy – Someone has rightly said – You are what you eat”.
Don’t take it literally. It doesn’t mean that you’ll turn into a potato if you eat one. Food and choice of food can really define your personality. Also, in your journey as an undergraduate, you’ll encounter many moments where you’ll find yourself wanting to eat at places different from your regular ‘addas’. Zomato will help come in handy at that time. Swiggy is for times when you’re hungry and lazy, and want your food delivered to your doorstep which is not served by a fast food chain such as McDonalds or Pizza Hut.

Sources: Zomato icon: http://logos-download.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Zomato_logo.png
Swiggy icon: https://2q72xc49mze8bkcog2f01nlh-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/pune/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2015/09/swiggy-logo.png

Therefore, with this, we wrap up our list of a general tech guide for all students stepping into the university. Since every student is different, there are some apps which are better suited for some than others. Also, since the needs of a student are ever expanding, new techs are always emerging, both, on the hardware and the software/application fronts. Do let us know if there are some other essential technologies that we’ve missed out on.

You can also check out some other apps in this article which would help you sail through your college life and make it much more memorable.

Image Credits: Featured image- natashascrazylife.blogspot.com
Others- As cited above, respectively.

Kavach chandra
[email protected]

Srivedant Kar
[email protected]

Life in a metropolitan city might give you a capitalistic luxury but it will seldom give you a natural satisfaction. Tall buildings build barriers in the mind, tricky roads keep us busy with worldly questions, and the smoke often rises up in our heads and blocks our tendency to feel.
Trees appear a grotesque brown at times, and sometimes we use them to fill the great lack of nature and its soothing properties. I think it’s primarily because a metro is so altered from the natural that we feel disconnected.
Hence, one must always take some time off to visit unaltered spaces. It refills and rejuvenates. The unaltered beauty of nature gives answers to your hopelessness. It makes you feel connected and provides you with a purpose or reaffirms the purpose you had been striving for.
One of the places to refill and rejuvenate is located at an altitude of about 3500m in Jammu and Kashmir’s region, Leh in Ladakh.
There are innumerable reasons why you must visit it, mentioned below are only a few:

1. The journey via Manali or via Srinagar

We all know how highways can be very fascinating. This one is ethereal. The vacation begins with the journey and you are in awe at every single moment. The journey is a bit adventurous because of the rough road at some places. Nevertheless it is absolutely worth it.
We often take a nap during long journeys. This one is about 12 hours (via Srinagar) and you won’t even blink your eye because every single minute has you struck by a wow moment.

2. You get to know that huge barren stones can be beautiful

On the top of Zojila ( Via Srinagar-Leh Highway) you actually see the landscapes changing from green to totally barren. Behind you are huge green mountains and when you see ahead, the mountains awe you in your mind with their naked beauty.

3. You see views that you have never seen before

While you might be thinking that this write-up is landing into clichés,you are probably wrong. Your journey towards Leh is very obviously and undoubtedly going to give you visions that you have never seen before. For instance, you get to see huge rocks shining under the sun besides mountain tops where the snow actually appears to be velvety.

4. Your geography book comes to life

All your “Weathering and Types of rocks” lessons come to life on your way to Leh. The different coloured rocks which you had only seen in print now appear huge and bold. Your are spellbound with huge mountains of stone with colours of blue, green, purple and hues of brown. While this might seem unreal, the beauty is in the fact that it is not.

5. Leh, the town

When you reach Leh you catch the flavour instantly. It is very typical and extremely beautiful. At almost every kilometer you find Buddhist prayer wheels. They are exquisite and intricate besides being very colourful. The architecture is different and fascinating. Old palaces and monasteries against the backdrop of boundless naked mountains appear aesthetic.  Predominantly the area is filled with Buddhists but it has a fair share of Muslims too. The main market of Leh is filled with shops which sell local or typically Ladakhi products. However you can also find western wear in the market. Adjacent are other street markets like Moti Market and Tibetan market.
If you have been to Majnu ka Tila in North Delhi, you would probably be leading your group like a guide. The market is very similar to MKT in a lot of ways.

6. Pangong Lake, Palaces, Monasteries and more

While you can google your senses off with the pictures of these places and introduce yourself to the heaven you can possibly visit, there are other good things about such destinations too. On your way to these destinations, you experience the surreal. The roads to these places are amidst and often above the mountains. Everything seems unaltered. You feel like a new born person and re-discover the meaning of life in these untouched places. Lakes like The Pangong are a treat to your eyes because of magnificent colors and shades.

In addition, The Gomphas or the Monasteries such as Thiskey Gompha and Hemmis Gompha (Monastery) are also aesthetically pleasing. They are rich with details of the Buddhist way of life. Shanti stupa, Leh Palace, Sheh palace are some other attractive places you could visit.

The above mentioned reasons seem plausible enough to get you packing your bags already. Do not fly to Leh.  Hit the road with a bus, a car, mountain cycles or yes; a motor bike. Keep your cameras handy, your face selfie ready and your mind prepared to get mesmerized!

It’s a high mountain desert; you might want to put those shades on it!

Picture Credits: Tooba Towfiq

Tooba Towfiq

[email protected]