NANDINI GUPTA, 23

Student

Whenever Nandini Gupta travelled in a group, she felt that though you enjoy the exotic beauty but it doesn’t allow you to become an observer. So her teacher, Harpreet Gill, inspired her to travel alone when she was 19. A student of Trinity College, UK, Gupta has so far travelled to Manali, Bangalore, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Rishikesh and Pondicherry. “I’ve observed that while travelling alone, you get to know yourself better because your wild instincts are at work and you are able to break the conditionings of your mind.” At such a young age, Gupta is crystal clear about the idea of travelling alone. “When you are travelling with someone, you engage in shallow pleasures. In the other scenario, you’re attracted to observe different sites and find beauty in temporary relationships when you bond with people from different walks of life.” Her first solo trip to Manali taught her innumerable values. Recalling a conversation she had with a waiter, she says, “His ordinary philosophy has made me see through the splendour in rudimentary life. Now I appreciate the diversity of our country, rising above the narrow prejudices of language and caste barrier.” After every trip, a part of Gupta is redefined though she’s never encouraged. “There is less appreciation for this idea in India. People have inhibitions of coming out of their comfort zones,” tells Gupta who considers solo travelling a wonderful experience for women.