India .... A charming Chaos!

So here we go, I finally decided to share my thoughts, opinions and experiences.

As a start, I said to myself, that I’d better write about something I really am passionate about, that took me by storm and in many ways left a huge footprint in my life.

Luckily enough, I am blessed with a job that often takes me around the world; being a big fan of discovering new places, meeting new people and experiencing new things; I almost always enjoy my trips.

But never had I thought that a business trip can become a life-changing experience.

In May 2012, I went for a seminar, to Chennai – India and was charmed by the people I have met and by this colorful country.

Though I only stayed for a week, I have enjoyed every single moment of my trip.

First, I was fortunate enough to meet interesting and amazing professionals from around the globe. 

But the experience encompasses also the Indian life itself. As behind the glory of this rapidly developing country and behind the articles of “The Times of India” praising the constant financial development, lays a true genuine country.

As I encountered people, my eyes and ears were open to the stories of marginal areas, poor communities and lack of basic services. I was deeply touched by seeing Indians literally living on the streets nevertheless, SMILING.

But what is it about India that is so charming?

Is it poor? Yes, more than I ever saw!

Is it dirty? Yes, more than anyone can imagine!

Is it safe? No! you can even be threatened by your own shadow…

So what is it? What is the secret ingredient?

These questions frustrated me and it took me quite a while to find the answer and words that best describe it (almost 6 months after my trip) and as one day, I was browsing the internet, I found an inspiring Ted Talk video on youtube where Dr. Brené Brown talks about courage, sense of worthiness and vulnerability.

Eureka! Answer found: “Living wholeheartedly”

It was all about being vulnerable and letting go…

This country is true to itself and people live unabashedly. They are generous enough to share their intimacy (some might disagree, that showering on the streets is due to poverty but I believe it is a pure cultural thing, a generous one!)

The people’s contentment along with their authenticity is contagious. In a way, you are reminded in India of what ‘human’ means, detached from all the ‘non-sense’ society standards!

India awakened the heart and soul in me (which have been in a coma for … forever!) and for that I will always be thankful.

I will be looking forward to going back to this country where people are busy living and everything else can wait!