Saniya Iyappan Instagram – 08.02.2022🦋 Scribblings from my First Solo Trip I always remember Delhi as a city with a jubilant mood. During my earlier visits, I’ve had the good fortune of exploring the streets of Delhi, and how life unfolds for its residents has always baffled me. This time, I felt like a feather suspended in the wind because it was my first solo trip — an exemplar milestone for every Indian girl. Shrugging away my inhibitions and reservations about solo travel, I decided to pack my bag for Kasol. I felt an air of freedom when I stood in the middle of the bustling bus stand in Delhi. The bus that was supposed to leave at 5 in the evening was four hours late. Somehow, I didn’t lose my joy. I relished the feeling of being with myself, in a city like Delhi, with a bunch of strangers. I could see the Delhi in front of me as a maze, perpetually proliferated by a swarm of people. There were many smiling faces, unforgettable and alluring. Slowly, I became a participant from being a ‘spectator of the streets’. When I boarded the bus to Kasol , I could very well feel that a part of Delhi, on that particular evening, would always remain in me. I wouldn’t say I ventured out without a plan but in the first day of my solo trip itself I realised my plans being hurled on air. The bus that was supposed to reach Bhuntar arrived late and access to Kasol is restricted after 10 PM. I found my way in by taking another bus from Bhuntar for over an hour. Undoubtedly, this was a unique experience which made me feel empowered. Travelling solo has made me sure of my life decisions. It has given me the courage to stay rooted and love life. There’s nothing more empowering than mastering the art of placing self-validation over everything else. :)