After a long hiatus, I embarked on a journey back to my village in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh. This trip turned out to be a fantastic reunion filled with warmth, adventure, and a deep connection to my roots.
The Journey Begins
Eager to escape the city, I left the office early and started my journey to Hamirpur. Little did I know, the travel would not be as smooth as I had anticipated. Just 10 km from Nalagarh, our bus experienced a technical issue, leaving the passengers in a state of panic. Fortunately, HRTC bus services sent us a new bus in just 10 minutes, and we were back on the road.
Unforgettable Encounters
Despite the hot weather and dust clouds, I was in good spirits, sharing my seat with two lovely teenage girls. The journey took me through Una, where I switched buses and spent hours chatting with the driver, learning about his family and life as a driver in the region. The conversation made the long journey to Hamirpur fly by.
A Slice of Village Life
Arriving at my village, Sandhol, nestled near the Byas River and surrounded by the stunning Dhauladhar mountain range, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of my homeland. In this remote paradise, locals rely on farming, with many families serving in the army or other defense forces. The village is known for its delicious mangoes and diverse wildlife, including the revered but dangerous Himalayan leopard.
A Glimpse of Wildlife and Local Flora
Sandhol's landscape is home to various wildlife, including peacocks, hogs, wild rabbits, wild cocks, and numerous bird species. Among the main attractions is the Himalayan leopard, a dangerous yet respected animal among villagers. As human settlements expand, food for leopards and bears is dwindling, resulting in occasional attacks on humans.
Uncovering Local Treasures
On my way to Sandhol, I stopped at Sujanpur, famous for its ancient fort, Raja Sansarchand Fort, and the revered Nardeshwar Temple. The village boasts numerous natural water sources called "Boudee" or "Khatri," still used by locals for drinking and household purposes.
A Heartwarming Welcome and Birthday Celebrations
Upon reaching my village, I was greeted by relatives and friends who had gathered to welcome me home. The next day, my birthday, was filled with prayers, a traditional "Hawan" ceremony, and a "Preeti-Bhoj" - a food party where guests sit on the ground and enjoy a meal prepared by Brahmin cooks, served on leaf plates.Exploring the Village and Nalwari Mela
With my brother-in-law, I ventured out to explore the village and its surroundings. We visited ancient water resources and a nearby village situated along the Byas River. We also attended the 300-year-old Nalwari Mela, a tri-day fair where farmers from remote areas gather to sell their livestock, primarily oxen and cows.
Embracing Village Life
As I settled into village life, I enjoyed reconnecting with my cousins and other relatives. I took the opportunity to explore the area, learning about its history and the challenges faced by locals during the rainy season when poor roads and violent water flows would cut off the village from the outside world. Thankfully, improved infrastructure now keeps the village connected year-round.
As my trip came to an end, I bid farewell to my village and cherished the memories of my visit. The journey was a rejuvenating experience that allowed me to reconnect with my roots and appreciate the simple joys of life in a close-knit community, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
As I traveled back to Hamirpur and eventually returned to the city, I couldn't help but feel a longing to return to my village in the near future. For me, my village is not just a slice of heaven in the hills; it is heaven itself. It encapsulates everything that makes Himachal Pradesh so enchanting: snow-capped mountains, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich cultural heritage that includes fascinating traditions, festivals, and fairs.
This travelogue is a testament to the unforgettable journey I experienced, and I eagerly anticipate the day when I can return to my village and embrace the warm embrace of my homeland once more.
Until then, I'll hold on to these memories and cherish the time spent in my village, reminiscing about the beauty and tranquility that is uniquely Sandhol.
