"Haldi kunku laughter and memory mix"

Haldi kunku laughter and memory mix"

My current India visit was like a medical mission for my mom, but who knew it'd turn into a cultural rollercoaster! Got roped into a 'haldi-kunku' fiesta at my cousin's - my SIL went all out and invited the whole 'Pawar cousins' squad. Ended up time-travelling through memories, with laughter as the tour guide! Web series, epic movies, and documentaries became the stars of our chat. Turns out, my binge-watching skills are genetic - the art of endless TV marathons runs in the family! It's practically a heritage thing now.!!

Once the chit-chat session wrapped up, it was time for the grand 'haldi kunku' spectacle! Picture this: married women trading haldi (like, turmeric, not stock market tips) and kunku (not a secret society, just vermilion powder). It's like a married status swap meet, wishing for husbands' longevity in style. Fun fact: the tradition's roots go way back to the Peshwa rule in Maharashtra. Back then, royal queens were basically the OG party hosts, welcoming pals with gifts. So, our 'haldi kunku' is just a modern twist on queens' royal generosity – minus the crowns, of course!

My cousin's place is like an art gallery , every wall adorned with exclusive pieces from their travels in India and abroad. The catch? This art palace sits in a building that rose from the redevelopment of their once-beautiful bungalow. Childhood flashbacks hit hard – for a Mumbai city gal like me, bungalow life was like spotting a unicorn! Yesterday's visit was basically me time-travelling through nostalgia, soaking up the roots and crafting future memories!

Rolling into the final chapter of my Pune escapade, and let me spill the beans - this trip has been the ultimate therapy session, like my personal meditative and healing journey, Pune-style! It's not just a visit; it's the deluxe package of zen with a dash of Puneri humour.!!!!

MKP

21/01/2024

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