Letter #30 Raja, Rajputana & A Road trip

I can only note that the past is beautiful because one never realises an emotion at the time. It expands later, and thus we don't have complete emotions about the present, only about the past.

Dear Friend,

Last night, something extraordinary happened to me. I found myself in a state of restlessness, an urge to break away from the monotonous city life and embark on a journey with no plans or destination in mind. So, without a second thought, I started the engine of my car and hit the road, following an unknown highway that beckoned me.

To my surprise, I soon realized that I was on the Jaipur-Delhi highway. The thought of Jaipur ignited a peculiar feeling within me, as if there was a mysterious connection waiting to be discovered. Sitting at a roadside Dhaba, sipping my tea, I pondered over my impulsive decision. I could have gone anywhere, but I chose Jaipur. There's something enchanting about Jaipur and the entire state of Rajasthan, something that resonates deep within my being.

As I sat there lost in my thoughts, a memory surfaced. I recalled reading about the migration of many Rajput families to Varanasi. It made me wonder if my ancestors were a part of this migration. In that moment, I couldn't help but imagine how they might have looked, their demeanor, and the legacy they left behind.

After gathering my thoughts, I continued my journey, ensuring I had enough snacks to keep me company along the way. Eventually, I arrived at my first destination: Jal Mahal. There was an inexplicable charm to it—a palace nestled in the midst of water, surrounded by gentle hills. Witnessing the sunrise from there felt surreal, like witnessing history and nature merge in perfect harmony.

The city of Jaipur beckoned me with its rich history, and I decided to take a historical walk through its streets. As I strolled, a cigarette in hand, I couldn't help but notice how the city still retained so much of its past. Like all old cities, it spoke to me, sharing tales of bygone eras. Each step on the historical walk transported me back in time, particularly to the era of Sawai Jai Singh.

The architecture, the stories, and the lingering grandeur of the palaces left me in awe. It made me appreciate the legacy that the Rajputana and Rajasthan carry within them. Being a part of a conservative Rajput family, I felt a deep-rooted connection to the glory associated with our heritage.

I’ll write again, my friend.

Yours,

Bohemian Dialogue