MY HEAVEN ON EARTH

It was 9:30 AM when I took my seat, and after a 20-minute wait, my bus departed As I waved goodbye to them, my eyes welled up with tears. Every previous journey had been a magical experience with my family by my side, making this solo departure a bittersweet moment.

I still remember as a kid I used to wait for Durga Puja to arrive,as it was always a highly anticipated event in my childhood. Every year, during pooja, my family would embark on a road trip together to Tezpur, filling the car with the timeless melodies of Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, my little brother’s jokes would keep us entertained, and just like that the four-hour journey would pass by in a whirlwind of laughter and excitement.

However, this time, the journey felt eerily long and different, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate the value of independence, but at the same time, I found myself craving the comfort and security of my family’s presence. It’s a paradox that echoes the realities of life – we must all learn to be independent, embracing change and uncertainty, even when it feels daunting. But it’s in these moments of discomfort that we discover our inner strength, and the courage to keep moving forward.

The bus made a stop at Amoni, where I got off and bought some chocolates for my cousins. It was then that it hit me again – I was actually traveling alone, and that realization felt empowering. I had become an adult, and it felt amazing!

After a 40-minute journey, I arrived at Solung and hopped on a tom-tom(a local vehicle) to my grandma’s house. My grandparents were overjoyed to see me, especially my grandfather, who had no idea I was coming, let alone traveling alone. Both of them were beaming with happiness at my arrival.

I spent a wonderful week at my grandparents’ place. My grandma took great care to ensure I ate nutritious meals, preparing wholesome dishes with freshly harvested vegetables from their own fields. As a result, my appetite surged, and I found myself eating more than I normally would. The mornings in Solung are nothing but enchanting, as I walked barefoot on the dew-kissed grass, feeling the cooling sensation beneath my feet and breathing in the crisp, fresh air made me truly feel alive.

Following breakfast, I accompanied my grandfather to the grazing yard to tend to the cows. Every time I visit Solung, I’m struck by the warm and close-knit community. People greet each other with genuine smiles, engage in lively conversations, and share laughter, giving the impression that they’re all part of one big family. The sense of warmth and belonging I feel here is truly indescribable.

Having visited Solung since childhood, I’ve been touched by the fact that people still remember me, even after years of absence. Now, at 22 years old, I was amazed by how many people recognised me and asked about my life, showing genuine interest in my well-being. It’s clear why I hold this place so close to my heart – I adore everything about Solung!

Every time I visit here, I’m struck by the valuable lessons I learn from the people who live here. Despite their limited financial means, they’re rich in health, relationships, and a sense of peace that often eludes those living in bustling cities. Having grown up in a city myself, I’ve witnessed how people constantly rush and chase after material possessions, rarely taking the time to appreciate life and often ending up miserable.

In contrast, the people in Solung or any other village are refreshingly naive, grateful for what they have, and possess a profound faith that everything happens for a reason. They’ve taught me that whatever we have in life is enough, and that we should cherish it. I firmly believe that village life offers a unique perspective on how to truly appreciate and make the most of life.

In the evenings, I’d often head to the central marketplace with my cousins to grab a bite to eat. The area gets filled with stalls in the evening time serving a variety of cuisines. My cousins and I would indulge in local favourites like momos and chow Mein, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying each other’s company. We’d discuss our lives, exchange advice, and simply have fun together!

In the evenings, I’d also visit the Mathori, an elevated spot in Solung that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding farm fields, lake, and the entire village. Around 5 pm, I’d watch as people went about their daily routines, each immersed in their own little world. Some would be herding their cows back home, while women would be performing puja near the Tulsi plant, lighting lamps and offering prayers.

Children would be playing and laughing together, and the air would be filled with the sounds of conversation and joyful laughter. As I took in this serene scene, I couldn’t help but think about the beauty of it all.

As I stood at Mathori on my last day, gazing out at the fields and lake, I couldn’t help but tear up. I had been visiting this spot since I was nine years old, but this time, something felt different,perhaps it was because I was no longer a child, but a 22-year-old young adult.

The realization hit me that I had truly grown up. After a wonderful week spent with my cousins and grandparents, it was time for me to bid farewell and head back to Guwahati. My grandparents were visibly saddened by my departure, and they asked when I would return. I composed myself and reassured them that I would visit again soon.

As I sit in my hostel room in Guwahati, writing these words, my eyes well up with tears. I miss my grandparents, cousins, and the entire Solung experience dearly. Just the thought of reuniting with my loved ones and revisiting the serene landscapes of Solung brings me comfort and solace, but I’m reassuring myself that in autumn break I’ll be returning to my heaven on earth, Solung!

Kristi Flora Karki is a student of Journalism and Communication, Gauhati University

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