Rajasthan

 Rajasthan unfolded before my eyes like a living painting — full of color, character, and timeless charm. With my camera ready and my heart open, I stepped into a land where every corner told a story.

Pushkar greeted me with its 18th-century traditional mela, a vibrant celebration of life itself. The fairgrounds were alive with colors, sounds, and the rhythm of commerce — horses being traded, goats bleating, reptiles on display, and camels gracefully parading through the dust. Amidst the lively chaos, I was touched by the sight of an animal ambulance, a reminder of compassion amid the crowd. The sacred Pushkar Lake shimmered under the Kartik Poornima moon, as pilgrims gathered to take a holy dip and offer prayers at the only Brahma Temple in the world. The divine aura of this small town — with its mix of spirituality and exotic beauty — made Pushkar truly live up to its name: Push Kar — a place that pushes your soul to feel more deeply.

The desert safari across golden dunes was brief but thrilling — the adrenaline of speed, the dance of sand, and the roar of the engine created perfect frames for my camera. Every shot was a story of motion, energy, and wonder.

In Ajmer, we paid our respects at the revered Dargah Sharif. The experience was both humbling and enlightening — a glimpse into deep faith and centuries-old traditions. Guided by locals’ wise words, we moved carefully through the crowd, completing our prayers and emerging with hearts full and pockets safe!

Jaipur, the Pink City, was a delightful blend of history and innovation. The Jantar Mantar, completed in 1734, stood as a testament to human curiosity and scientific precision. Its 19 astronomical instruments — crafted by visionary Rajput kings — reflected not just architectural brilliance, but a deep understanding of time and the cosmos.

The City Palace was a masterpiece in itself — every corner adorned with intricate details and rich symbolism. The twin flags fluttering atop its pole told a silent story: when both flew, the king was in residence. Walking through its galleries of old photographs and royal artifacts felt like stepping into a living museum of Rajasthani heritage.
The grandeur of Amer Fort (Ajmer Mahal) left me spellbound. The long uphill walk was rewarded by breathtaking architecture, panoramic views, and a sense of awe. The pathways leading up were lined with bustling bazaars, echoing with folk music and colourful crafts — a scene straight out of a Bollywood classic, as many films were shot there.
Our final stops — Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal — offered postcard-perfect views, blending architectural poetry with natural beauty. We wrapped up our journey with some indulgent shopping and a hearty lunch at the World Trade Park Mall before heading to the airport, our hearts and cameras filled with unforgettable memories.