Shuchin Prakash
The Journey of Shuchin Prakash: A Tale of Serendipity and Exploration
My name is Shuchin Prakash, and this is my story. I love to travel, but I didn't realize this passion until my first solo trip in 2016. The destination was Goa, and I was beyond excited. I meticulously planned everything, from tickets to hotel bookings, not knowing that this trip would change my life in unexpected ways. Little did I know, I was about to meet someone who would become my lifelong travel partner, but that story is for another time.
My first trip to Goa was nothing short of serendipitous. I had no specific expectations, just a desire to explore and enjoy the moment. College was ongoing, and coming from a middle-class family, I didn't have many resources to travel. I waited until I started earning to fulfill my travel dreams.
Fast forward to 2017, I graduated from college, got a job, and received my first paycheck. The joy of receiving that paycheck was unimaginable. The first thought that crossed my mind was, "Where next?" I picked up a map and randomly chose Rajasthan. Over the next nine months, I traveled through Rajasthan, one place at a time, starting from Jaipur.
In Jaipur, I explored the vibrant streets on a scooty, visited historical forts, and indulged in local delicacies. The adventure was exhilarating. Next, I traveled to Pushkar and Ajmer, where I experienced the spiritual aura of the Pushkar Lake and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Each place had its unique charm and stories to tell.
My journey continued to Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur. In Udaipur, I was mesmerized by the serene lakes and royal palaces. Jaisalmer's golden sands and Jodhpur's blue houses left me in awe. I immersed myself in the local culture, food, and dance, drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of Rajasthan.
Whenever I returned home, my backpack was always ready for the next adventure. Over the years, I explored North India, from the rugged terrains of Leh Ladakh to the southern tip of Kanyakumari. Throughout these journeys, my travel partner, whom I met in Goa, was always by my side.
Though my income was limited in the initial years, the travel bug inside me always motivated me to achieve and enjoy. Leh taught me that the path to peace and serenity is not easy; you have to work for it. Life will give you twists and turns, but you have to glide through them.
In Manali, I discovered my deep care for my family. Kasol showed me a different way of life, where people lived at a slow pace, content with what they had. They smiled together and shared their bread, a stark contrast to the shallow life in the city.
Amritsar was a trip that happened when I couldn't clear my Indian Army Exam. The Golden Temple calmed my inner sorrow and gave me time to think and find direction. There are many trips like these, but some are unforgettable.
1. Goa, 2016: I found the mother of my child.
2. Mumbai and Goa, 2021: I ran away from responsibilities and family pressure to get married. The solo tri