Returning to My Roots: A Memorable Trip Back to India

After years of being away, my recent trip back to India wasn’t just about revisiting a place—it was about rediscovering connections, cherishing relationships, and reconnecting with the culture that has always been a part of me. Every visit to India carries its own unique memories, but this trip was special in so many ways. It was a time for reunions with friends, family, and colleagues, and it provided my children an opportunity to see firsthand where their father’s journey began.

Jet Lag and Family Time: Settling into the Rhythm of India:

The trip began with that familiar sensation of jet lag that often follows long flights. However, the tiredness quickly faded away as the excitement of reuniting with loved ones took over. The first few days were spent catching up with family and friends who eagerly awaited our arrival. Their warm welcomes reminded me of the beauty of Indian hospitality. It felt comforting to be in the presence of those who’ve known me since childhood.

Amid the flurry of visitors and gatherings, we also celebrated a small birthday for my son. Even though it was a modest affair, the happiness in his eyes as he cut the cake surrounded by family members was priceless. Moments like these reaffirm the importance of family—how they add meaning to life’s little celebrations and how distance, no matter how great, doesn’t diminish those bonds.

Connecting with My Teams in Pune & Chennai: From Screens to Real Life

As much as this trip was about personal reconnections, it also gave me the opportunity to meet my teams in Pune and Chennai, colleagues I had primarily interacted with through screens over the last few years. There’s something uniquely rewarding about meeting people in person, especially after having only known them through virtual meetings. The personal touch—the handshakes, the casual laughter over dinner, and the face-to-face conversations—really solidified our connection.

I took the teams out for drinks and dinner, where we engaged in light-hearted conversations beyond the pressures of deadlines and project timelines. It was refreshing to get to know them outside of work, to see their personalities shine in a relaxed environment. These interactions made me appreciate even more how valuable personal connections are in the workplace, and how they strengthen our professional relationships.

Showing My Kids the City of My Childhood: A Cultural and Historical Journey

One of the most meaningful experiences of the trip was taking my children around the city where I was born and raised. I wanted them to see the places that had shaped my early years—the schools I attended, the college I graduated from, and the homes we lived in as a family. It was a deeply emotional experience for me, as I shared the stories of my childhood, pointing out the streets where I played cricket with friends, the markets where I used to run errands for my parents, and the corners of the city that hold countless memories.

I also made it a point to take them to some of the city’s historic landmarks and temples. Not only did I want them to witness the beauty and history of these places, but I also hoped to instill in them a sense of pride in their cultural heritage. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch with one’s roots, but I want my children to remain connected to where they come from, to understand the richness of Indian culture, and to stay grounded in these traditions as they grow.

Village Visits: Rediscovering Simplicity and Tradition

In addition to exploring the city, we made a few trips to the nearby villages where my ancestors lived. Village life in India is so different from the hustle and bustle of the city, and it offered my kids a glimpse into a simpler, more grounded way of living. The air was fresher, the pace slower, and the people more deeply connected with nature and tradition. For me, these visits brought back vivid memories of summers spent in my grandparents’ village—chasing fireflies, playing in the fields, and enjoying the quiet serenity that only a village can offer.

Introducing my children to this part of our family’s story was important. They saw how traditions are preserved and how values are passed down through generations. The simplicity of village life, with its close-knit communities and deep respect for nature, offered them an alternative perspective to the fast-paced, modern life they’re accustomed to.

Family Gatherings: The Importance of Bonding and Relationships

Family has always been the cornerstone of our lives, and this trip reaffirmed just how important these connections are. We attended several family gatherings where my kids got to meet aunts, uncles, cousins, and even extended relatives they had never encountered before. These gatherings were filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of being surrounded by people who share your history and heritage.

For my children, these interactions were eye-opening. They began to understand the true meaning of family and the importance of staying connected with your roots. In a world where family dynamics are often fragmented by distance or time, these moments felt like a powerful reminder of how rich and fulfilling life can be when we prioritize relationships and make time for the people who matter.

A Nostalgic Reunion with School Friends: Reliving Old Memories

One of the most nostalgic parts of the trip was meeting up with my old school friends. Despite the years and the miles between us, we’ve remained close. The moment we sat down together, it was as if no time had passed. We laughed over stories from our school days, recalled the pranks we played, and reminisced about the trips we took together as carefree teenagers.

Reuniting with them was not just about reliving the past, but also about celebrating the friendships that have endured over the decades. It reminded me of the joy that comes from reconnecting with people who have known you through every phase of life and who continue to be part of your story.

My Father’s 75th Birthday: A Milestone Celebration

One of the most cherished moments of the trip was celebrating my father’s 75th birthday. For this special occasion, we planned a surprise party, inviting his friends and family for a memorable evening. My father has always been a pillar of strength and support, and this celebration was our way of showing him how much he means to us.

As a surprise gift, we presented him with a car—a gesture I had been planning for some time. The look of surprise and happiness on his face was priceless, and it was a beautiful moment for all of us. The evening was filled with laughter, love, and gratitude—a perfect tribute to a man who has done so much for us.

An Unexpected Hiccup: My Son’s Health Scare

Not everything went according to plan, though. Just before we were about to embark on our journey, my youngest son fell ill and had to be hospitalized. It was a nerve-wracking experience, and we had to postpone the trip for a few days to ensure he was healthy enough to travel. Thankfully, he made a full recovery, and we were able to proceed with our plans. This brief setback made us all the more grateful for the precious moments we were able to share on this trip.

Conclusion: The Power of Reconnection

This trip to India was more than just a vacation—it was a journey of reconnection. Reconnecting with family, friends, my roots, and even my younger self. It reminded me of the importance of staying close to those we love, of valuing our heritage, and of the deep sense of belonging that comes from being part of something bigger than ourselves.

In the end, it’s these connections that truly matter—whether it’s the warmth of family, the bond of old friendships, or the pride in sharing one’s culture with the next generation. This trip was a beautiful reminder of all those things, and I carry those memories with me as a source of joy and inspiration.