Channapatna Toys – The Wooden Toy Story

Channapatna dolls - the ones I bought

With one hand, he held the saw to rotate the spinning wheel. In his other hand, he fashioned a chisel. Securing a small part of the lathe with his foot, he began to work his magic. Within moments, the slab of rock transformed into a perfect mini globe that finally became a bobbing head of … Read more

A Cleaner, Greener Mussoorie – Thanks to the Nestle Hilldaari

The Wall of Hope - symbolizing how waste can be reused

It wasn’t my first visit to the Queen of Hills – Mussoorie. However, it did feel like my maiden visit. Thanks to the Hilldaari movement, one of the initiatives by Nestle India which I was invited to witness, this time I was looking at Mussoorie through a different lens. The Nestle India  Hilldaari showcased how … Read more

Traditions & Tales from the Sasak Village , Lombok

The Sasak Ende Village in Lombok

It is not just nature that makes Indonesia a desired destination for travelers. It is the classical fusion of natural beauty with its unique culture that attracts visitors to Indonesia. Over my last trip, I discovered the Balinese culture and how it had similarities to my own Indian culture. This time, I uncovered a different … Read more

Bikaner Miniature Paintings by Mahaveer Swami

Details in Bikaner Miniature Paintings

Every destination has a local tradition or craft or art form to share. Not only are they the source of their pride but also, form a part of their livelihood.  A lot of these have been practiced for years but are now fading into obscurity. Through my travels, I have come across various such stories … Read more