The weekend sun cast a warm glow through my window, stirring a sense of adventure. Unlike usual getaways, this time, I craved a different kind of escape – a photographic exploration of Kharar with my oldest friend, Vikas Arora. We, armed with cameras, a shared love for capturing moments, and a healthy dose of nostalgia, were ready to rediscover Kharar through the lens.
A Blast from the Past: Reuniting at Our Old School
Our journey began at the doorstep of our childhood haven – Special School, Bathinda. The familiar brick building, adorned with climbing vines, evoked a wave of memories. We strolled down the sun-dappled corridors, our laughter echoing through the empty classrooms. We snapped pictures – one recreating our awkward school photo poses from years ago, another capturing the worn-out basketball court where countless recess battles were fought and won. Each click was a portal to a simpler time, filled with youthful dreams and endless possibilities.
The Ever-Changing Face of Kharar: Capturing Modernity
Leaving the school behind, we ventured into the heart of Kharar. The city, once a quiet suburb, had morphed into a bustling hub. Gleaming glass-facade buildings now shared space with the old, red-bricked structures, creating a fascinating juxtaposition. We stopped at a newly built shopping mall, its modern architecture a stark contrast to the historical monuments we were about to explore. Vikas Arora, ever the creative one, captured a playful shot of us reflected in the wheat crop.
Unexpected Finds: Street Art and Smiles
As the day wore on, we took a detour down a narrow alleyway, drawn by a splash of color on a brick wall. To our surprise, we stumbled upon a street art haven – vibrant murals depicting social messages, whimsical creatures, and pop culture icons adorned the walls. We reveled in the unexpected discovery, capturing the artistic expressions against the backdrop of the weathered building. Vikas Arora, ever the people person, struck up a conversation with a local vendor setting up shop, their laughter and the warm exchange adding a heartwarming touch to our photo series.
A Bite to Remember: Local Delights
Our day wouldn’t be complete without indulging in Kharar’s culinary offerings. We stumbled upon a quaint street food stall, its aroma of freshly-made samosas and steaming chai pulling us in like a magnet. We devoured our plates, the delicious flavors and the shared experience adding another layer of joy to our photographic adventure. Vikas Arora captured a candid shot of me savoring a piping hot samosa, her own eyes reflecting the sheer delight on my face.
Ending the Day with a Click
As dusk descended, we decided to end the day on a high note. We headed towards a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city lights.
