Fareed Ur Rahman

Aditya Nigam

The world was slowly emerging from the cocoon of the first COVID-19 wave. Manali, once a bustling hill station, was now a quieter, almost ethereal place. The heavy silence was occasionally broken by the laughter of few visitors who, like you, had ventured out to find a sense of normalcy amidst the breathtaking landscapes. You had embarked on a motorcycle trip from Delhi, seeking solace in the solitude of the mountains. The plan was simple: a three-day adventure to escape the confines of city life and rediscover a bit of freedom. Little did you know that this trip would evolve into a transformative journey of the heart. Manali welcomed you with open arms, its crisp air and scenic beauty offering a balm to your weary soul. You were lost in the wonder of the mountains when fate intervened. Priya, a spirited young woman with a keen sense for both adventure and tranquility, was on a workcation. She had chosen Manali as her temporary haven, aiming to blend her professional life with a much-needed escape. The first time you saw Priya was on a sunlit morning, as she strolled along the River Beas, her laughter mingling with the soft murmur of the water. There was an immediate connection, a sense that your paths were destined to intertwine. What began as a brief encounter soon became an invitation to explore Manali together. The once fleeting three-day trip stretched into two months of shared experiences, laughter, and deep conversations. Days turned into weeks as you both navigated the meandering trails, discovered hidden cafes, and soaked in the charm of Manali. It was during these moments that you realized how seamlessly your lives were syncing. The mountains, once a backdrop, became a witness to the blossoming of a beautiful relationship. --- With Manali as the foundation of your relationship, you both were eager to continue exploring the world together. Your journeys became a series of adventures, each destination adding a new chapter to your story. Amritsar, From the sacred to the vibrant, your travels took you to Pushkar, where the colors of the desert seemed to echo the colors of your shared experiences. The annual Pushkar Fair, with its lively energy and cultural richness, was a celebration of both the festival and the newfound joy in your lives.The rugged terrains of **Lahaul-Spiti,Kashmir, with its enchanting beauty, was another gem in your journey.Ladakh, with its high-altitude beauty and rugged landscapes, was a grand adventure.International adventures beckoned next. Thailand offered a vibrant contrast to the mountainous regions you had explored. With every new destination, you were not just discovering new places but also uncovering more about each other. Your mutual love for exploration became a metaphor for your relationship—an endless journey of discovery and growth. And we decided to get married on 4th of may 2022 with lot many explorations in future and we are still exploring places together

Chirag Ghuman

Discovering Vietnam: A Journey of Military History, Growth, and Culture As a serving Army officer and an avid student of Military history, I am drawn to countries that reflect strength and transformation. Vietnam, with its illustrious past and ambitious future, captivates me. I am eager to immerse myself in its Military heritage, witness its growth, and savour its rich culinary traditions. Having spent time at Indonesia’s Akademi Militer, I now look forward to exploring Vietnam's Military establishments, including the National Defense Academy, to observe their training methodologies and leadership philosophies. The Vietnam War offers profound lessons in strategy, resilience, and the human spirit. Vietnam's transformation into a fast-growing economy is equally compelling. The government's focus on infrastructure, technology, and sustainability highlights its progress. I am eager to explore cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where modernity meets history. As a food lover, I cannot wait to indulge in Vietnam's cuisine, from Pho to spring rolls. Experiencing a country's culture through its food is essential, and Vietnam promises a gastronomic adventure. This journey to Vietnam is about learning, growth, and cultural exchange. I look forward to experiencing its Military legacy, modern achievements, and cultural treasures. Major Chirag Ghuman

Parveen

Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas alongside the sacred Ganges River, offers a mesmerizing backdrop for a travel love story inspired by nature. Once upon a time, two travelers, Mona and Me, found themselves drawn to Rishikesh. Mona, a nature enthusiast and aspiring photographer, sought the serene beauty of the mountains and the tranquility of the river. Me, a yoga practitioner and a lover of spirituality, came to Rishikesh in search of deeper meaning and connection. Our paths crossed on a crisp morning at the iconic Ram and Janki Jhula, a suspension bridge that swayed gently with the breeze. As Mona attempted to capture the perfect shot of the sunrise illuminating the peaks, Me deep in meditation, noticed her vibrant spirit. Intrigued, I approached her, and we began to converse about our passions and love for nature. As our days unfolded in Rishikesh, we explored the lush forests, visited serene ashrams, and participated in yoga sessions by the Ganges. The rhythmic sound of the river became a backdrop to our budding romance. We trekked to the breathtaking Neer Gaddu Waterfall, where we laughed and splashed water on one another, creating memories etched in our hearts. One evening, we attended the Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony where thousands of candles floated down the river, illuminated by the setting sun. Witnessing this magical moment together, We felt the connection between the divine and the love blossoming between them. As the chants echoed through the hills, Mona and Me found ourselves sitting closely, our fingers brushing against each other, igniting feelings we had never experienced before. With each passing day, our bond deepened. We shared dreams and secrets under the starlit sky, the cool evening breeze carrying the sweet scent of the Himalayan flora. Mona's camera captured not just the landscapes, but also the essence of our growing affection. As our journey in Rishikesh neared its end, Me took Mona to a secluded spot by the river, where the water danced playfully with the sunlight. With a heart full of emotion, I confessed her feelings, speaking of how this beautiful place had intertwined our destinies. Maya smiled, her eyes shimmering with joy, and we promised to carry the magic of Rishikesh in our hearts, no matter where their paths led. United by love and nature, Mona and Me left Rishikesh, forever changed by its beauty and the bond we had formed amidst the mountains and rivers. Our story became a beautiful testament to how the heart finds connection in the most serene of landscapes, and how travel can lead to love that transcends time and distance.