In 2016, when I moved to Bangalore, it was driven by an urge to explore life beyond the coziness of my hometown. Veering off the path of literature, I stumbled into library science – a shift so different but yet familiar. Just like how Bangalore was, far enough to excite and close to comfort.
My early days in
Bangalore were a whirlwind. It was the first time I was staying away from home,
staying alone for the first time, staying in a hostel. I placed by first order
via Zomato and Swiggy, booked a ride through Uber, and got my groceries via Big
Basket. A kaleidoscope of new experiences. The cosmopolitan city spoke tongues
that I couldn’t comprehend, often leaving me teary-eyed. But this pushed me to learn
Hindi and Kannada. I was navigating traffic, language, love and life.
By the time I decided
to pursue a PhD, my roots flourished in Bangalore. A city like no other. From a
halt, it evolved into a place where I belonged. It is not my second home; it is
my home. I am my truest self here, a version I cherish
and embrace And one day, I will return, for this is where I began, where I
grew, and where I’ll always belong.